Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 246)

What Do Termites Look Like
Pests

Solved! What Do Termites Look Like?

Not sure what termites look like? Here’s how to differentiate them from ants and make a plan to remedy termite damage in your home.

Gutter Replacement
Gutters

Gutter Replacement: Should You DIY or Hire a Professional?

Safety concerns, water damage inspection, and proper pitch measurements are just a few reasons why you’ll want to consider hiring a pro for your next gutter replacement.

The Best Smart Home Devices Option
Interior

29 Great Gadgets for a Smarter Home

From bluetooth-enabled thermostats to high-tech coffee makers, here's how to make your home smarter.

How to Get Rid of Frogs
Garden Pests

How To Get Rid of Frogs

Frogs are fun to find in your garden and helpfully eat flies, mosquitoes, and other pesky insects, but they can strike up a loud symphony of sound at night if too many take up residence. Here’s how to get rid of frogs humanely.

How to Get Rid of Scorpions
Pests

How to Get Rid of Scorpions

The intimidating stinger on a scorpion is an unwelcome sight anywhere near your home. Check out these ideas for how to get rid of scorpions.

How to Unclog a Dishwasher
Appliances

How To Unclog a Dishwasher

Dishwashers make everyday life easier—until you open the door and see a pan full of water. Here’s how to unclog a dishwasher or know when to hire help.

How to Get Rid of Pill Bugs
Garden Pests

How To Get Rid of Pill Bugs

Are you wondering how to get rid of pill bugs that are eating tender vegetable shoots and leaves? Protect your garden and home from pill bugs by knowing when to call for professional help.

Why Are There So Many Spiders In My House
Pests

Solved! Why Are There So Many Spiders in My House?

For many people, finding spiders in the home is an unpleasant experience. Learn why they’re in your home and how to prevent them from gaining access.

How to Get Rid of Possums
Garden Pests

How To Get Rid of Possums or Opossums in Your Home or Yard

While possums and opossums have beneficial purposes around the yard, the image of these rat-like creatures lurking around your property late at night may not always conjure positive thoughts. Here are helpful tips on how to get rid of possums, and signs when it's time to call for professional help.

How to Get Rid of Cicadas
Garden Pests

How to Get Rid of Cicadas

The cicada’s bright eyes, veiny wings, and constant hum are annual signs that warm weather has arrived—but nobody wants them floating in the pool or buzzing past (or worse, ON) the grill. Prevention and maintenance can keep these noisy critters at bay. If you're wondering how to get rid of cicadas, luckily, there are methods to turn to. When help is needed, an exterminator can take care of the issue for you.

Dryer Squeaking
Repair & Maintenance

Solved! Why Is My Dryer Squeaking?

A dryer squeaking can be cause for concern. These helpful troubleshooting tips can help determine what’s causing the noise and how to fix it.

Septic Tank Cost
Plumbing

How Much Does a Septic Tank Cost?

Septic tank costs are driven by a number of factors including house size, soil permeability, and preferred waste breakdown system. These helpful waste management systems typically cost between $3,109 and $9,677 to install.

Generac Portable Generator Review
Reviews

We Tested the Generac GB2000 Power Station: Is it Worth It?

Here come the big guns! I tested the heavyweight model in Generac’s new lineup of power stations—here’s what I discovered.

Maze Two-Stage Compost Tumbler Review
Reviews

RSI Maze Two-Stage Compost Tumbler: Is it Worth It?

This large dual-chamber composter comes with a convenient crank to make turning compost easier than ever.

DeWalt Compact Router Review
Reviews

Is DeWalt’s Cordless 20V MAX the Best Compact Router?

I tested DeWalt’s newest cordless compact router, the DCW600B. Find out where it excelled and what I think it could do better.

Briggs and Stratton Standby Generator Review
Reviews

Is a Briggs & Stratton Standby Generator a Worthwhile Investment?

We installed and tested the Briggs & Stratton 26kW standby generator. Find out all you need to know about the process, price, and whether it's a good investment for your home.

Paint Intro
Exterior

12 Exterior Paint Colors That’ll Help Sell Your House

When it's time to put your property on the market, maximizing curb appeal is crucial. These are the house paint colors that are most likely to win over potential buyers.

iStock-1134852269 egg prices raising chickens family at their house feeding chickens
Lawn & Garden

Some Homeowners Never Worry About Egg Prices—Here’s How They Do It

Nothing boosts self-sufficiency quite like raising your own chickens and no time is better than now, with supply problems and soaring prices for everyday eggs. These tips from experienced chicken owners will help you get started with raising your own backyard birds.

Whole-House Surge Protector Cost
Exterior

How Much Does a Whole-House Surge Protector Cost to Install?

Whole-house surge protectors prevent damage to the appliances and electronics in a home caused by power surges. Installation cost can range from $70 to $700, or $300 on average.

iStock-1353365157 ways to improve your life happy woman on couch daydreaming
DIY

Doing These 10 Simple Tasks Around the House Can Improve Your Life, According to Experts

Looking for easy life hacks to feel satisfied, more productive, or less stressed? Here are some quick wins around the home you can feel good about—and they require minimal effort on your part.