Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 277)

The 8 Worst Houseplants for People with Allergies
Lawn & Garden

The 8 Worst Houseplants for People with Allergies

If your houseplants are making you sneeze, read on to discover which ones are most likely to cause allergies.

How to Clean Window Tracks
Exterior

How To: Clean Window Tracks

Don't let a dirty, dusty frame detract from your view. Clear the grime from your window tracks quickly with this helpful how-to.

21 Clever Tricks to Make Your Home Look Bigger and Brighter
DIY

21 Clever Tricks to Make Your Home Look Bigger and Brighter

Some spaces feel tinier and more constricted than they have to, whether due to poorly placed windows or a lack of square footage. Luckily, short of knocking down walls, there are a few tricks you can use to make spaces light, bright, and airy with minimal time and effort. Try these tips to help brighten up any room in the house, from basement bedrooms to cramped living quarters.

Peat Moss
Lawn & Garden

This Organic Gardening Supply Is Stirring Up Controversy—Should You Stop Using It?

Starting plants and amending soil can be easy with peat moss, but is it the most sustainable way to grow vegetable and flower seeds?

how to arrange flowers
DIY

How to Arrange Flowers Like a Floral Designer

Check out these easy-to-follow guidelines that will teach you how to arrange flowers at home with just a few simple tools. 

9 Signs You Need to Replace Your Fridge
Interior

9 Signs You Need to Replace Your Fridge

The refrigerator is a major investment and an absolute necessity. If you splurge for a high-quality model, this household staple can last as many as 10 to 15 years, but eventually every fridge will reach the end of its life span. Learn the warning signs of a dying fridge so you can be ready when it needs to be replaced, potentially saving yourself from spoiled milk, rotten leftovers, and the stress of making a rushed purchase. Here are 9 signs it’s time to replace your refrigerator.

7 Signs You Need a New Roof
Exterior

7 Signs You Need a New Roof

Most people don’t really think about the roof over their heads…until it springs a leak! Don’t wait until water is pouring through the ceiling and you have to break out the buckets to pay attention to your roof. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association, homeowners should perform a regular roof inspection twice a year, in the spring and fall. This year, a spring roof inspection is particularly critical, in the wake of the severe snow and ice accumulation this past winter. Homeowners should remove debris from rooftops, drains, gutters and downspouts, and at the same time, check for signs of damage. Here are a few things to look for that might indicate it is time for a new roof.

The Worst Money Mistakes Homeowners Ever Make
Real Estate

The Worst Money Mistakes Homeowners Ever Make

While homeownership undeniably comes with plenty of expenses, there’s no reason to spend more than you have to. If your home seems more like a money pit than an asset, it could be that you are making one of these 12 common money mistakes.

9 Times You Should Replace Rather Than Repair Home Appliances
Interior

9 Times You Should Replace Rather Than Repair Home Appliances

While it can be tempting to avoid replacing appliances for as long as possible, there are some instances when it’s smarter to start shopping for replacements instead of having them serviced.

basement bathroom plumbing
Interior

Thinking About Installing a Basement Bathroom? Here’s What You Need to Know

Building a new bathroom below grade presents all kinds of challenges, from low ceilings to a lack of natural light. Learn why basement bathroom plumbing is usually the biggest obstacle of all, and what you can do to ensure a smooth renovation.

how to dispose of knives
DIY

How to Dispose of Knives Properly: 3 Safe Solutions

Not all knives last forever, but there are safe ways to recycle, donate, or discard them.

Women Who Are Changing the Home Improvement/Construction Industry
Design

12 Women Who Are Changing the Home Improvement Industry

These women are building better futures in the construction trades—and creating opportunities for others to follow.

The Pros and Cons of Dutch Doors
Exterior

Dutch Doors: An Open-and-Shut Way to Instantly Boost Curb Appeal

Old-fashioned, farm-style Dutch doors are making a comeback for interior and exterior applications. From cost and installation to safety concerns, here's all you need to know about these country classics.

The Best Utility Knife Options
Reviews

The Best Utility Knives, Tested and Reviewed

Find the safe and sturdy utility knife that's right for your needs with our top tips and roundup of favorites.

rabbit resistant plants
Lawn & Garden

12 Rabbit-Resistant Plants for Your Home Landscape

Keep hungry bunnies away by planting these rabbit-proof plants.

The Best Dryer Vent Option
Reviews

The Best Dryer Vents

A top-quality dryer vent will keep your dryer working at peak efficiency—and keep bugs, rodents, and cold air out of your home.

The Best Flea Spray
Reviews

The Best Flea Sprays

Fleas and other pests can be troublesome, but the right product can help you eliminate them and prevent future infestations.

The Best Convection Oven Option
Reviews

The Best Convection Ovens

Convection ovens offer fast, even cooking and use less energy than conventional ovens. The following list of convection ovens will help you crisp, air fry, roast—even dehydrate—food to perfection.

A builder using a DeWalt circular saw to cut a sheet of plywood.
DIY

How to Change a Circular Saw Blade

Changing a circular saw blade is one of the simplest tool-maintenance tasks—here’s how to do it in quick order.

how to dispose of a tv
DIY

How to Properly Dispose of a TV

Identify acceptable methods to dispose of an old, broken, or still-functioning TV.