Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 260)

Picking out a perfect tree isn't all about looks: A tree's scent, strength of branches, and needle retention all matter, too. Learn which evergreens make the best Christmas tree types, and why.

Learn why your neighbors are burning candles for all to see, and get intel on the meaning behind a candle in the window.

Instead of letting a smile be your umbrella, let a smile-inducing schefflera with whorls of shiny foliage be your umbrella tree.

Little pitchers that grow on plants have big mouths rather than big ears—for digesting insects!

A 50-gallon gas water heater is the optimal size for most homes. Read on to see how we chose the best in both performance and economy.

Looking for houseplants that don’t make a watery mess? Try a plant that doesn’t require a pot with drainage.

Most of us don't give much thought to the carpet, hardwood, or tile beneath our feet until something is wrong with it. Rather than sweeping your flooring issues under the rug, learn what you can do to fix them. 

If you're deciding between prefinished hardwood flooring or unfinished wood floors, consider these nine key differences to make an informed choice.

Don’t let the variety of options floor you! Find out which wood surface will look best and wear longest underfoot—at a price you can afford!

Hidden doors and bookcases aren’t just for superheroes and spies. Before installing one in your home, here's what you need to know about budget, permitting, and a host of other issues.

Do you know the difference between a Shotgun and a Saltbox, a Cape and a Craftsman? Learn how to identify the most popular house styles in the U.S.—and the advantages and disadvantages of living in each.

Follow these tips to ensure your Thanksgiving cactus thrives throughout the holiday season and beyond.

When you’re shopping for blinds, these online retailers offer a huge range of style and budget options.

Say goodbye to grime on brick walls, fireplaces, and pavers with these safe, effective cleaning techniques.

Control the heating and cooling of your home the smart way—and save money—with a high-tech thermostat that suits your space, style, and budget.

From water damage to structural issues, ceiling repair is a common home repair project. The national average ceiling repair cost is $884, falling within a typical range of $419 to $1,359.

Subfloors support the flooring in a home and can become loose or warped over time. The cost to replace subfloors ranges from $428 to $2,978, or $572 on average.

The national average cost to convert a fireplace to gas is $3,000, though the final price depends on several factors. The typical range for this project is $500 to $5,500.

Spend less time cleaning dirt, debris, and pet hair off your floors with the programmable features and hands-free cleaning of a robot vacuum.