Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 304)

Best Combination Lock
Safety & Security

The Best Combination Locks

A quality combination lock can mean the difference between years of durable security and a lesser device getting picked—and you getting robbed. Zero in here on the right way to protect your valuables, on the go and at home.

Olight Flashlight Review
Tools & Materials

The OLIGHT Tactical Flashlight Is Worth Every Penny—Find Out Why

Small, lightweight, and rugged, today’s tactical flashlights offer a range of illuminating options. Find out how one of the most popular models fared in our hands-on testing.

Types of fans
Heating & Cooling

7 Types of Fans You Might Need in Your House

Not all fans are meant to keep you cool in the summertime—some remove pollutants, prevent mold, or circulate fresh air throughout a space. Following are types of fans that may come in handy at your home, and how they're used.

Best Bathroom Sinks
Bath Fixtures & Fittings

The Best Bathroom Sinks

Whether for a full bathroom renovation or just a simple refresh, a carefully chosen sink is crucial to a bathroom’s character and functionality.

The Best Deck Screws for Your Outdoor Build
Tools & Materials

The Best Deck Screws

Find the right screws to secure your deck, dock, or porch decking, and to achieve a professional appearance.

The Best Forstner Bit Set Option
Tools & Materials

The Best Forstner Bit Sets

Start with the right Forstner bits, and you can drill smooth-sided, flat-bottomed holes for a variety of DIY and carpentry tasks.

Types of maple trees
Landscaping

6 Types of Maple Trees You Might Find on Your Property (Including One You Definitely Don’t Want)

Add shade, structure, and brilliant fall foliage to your yard with these easy-to-grow maple trees.

buying land to build a house
Buying

5 Things to Know Before Buying Land to Build a House

Building a custom home is a dream for many, but before construction can commence, you have to purchase the land. Our tips on buying land to build a house can simplify the process and eliminate unwanted surprises.

Easy DIY Thanksgiving Decorations
Holidays & Celebrations

10 Easy DIY Thanksgiving Decorations

With a minimum of time and expense, it’s simple to whip up some DIY decorations that are sure to brighten and beautify your Thanksgiving celebration.

FSC Certified Wood
Green Building & Remodeling

What Is FSC-Certified Wood, and Should I Buy It?

You’ve seen the label and symbol, but what does the "FSC-certified" designation mean? Is the certification just an added expense, or does it really make a difference? Find out here.

types of squash
Gardening

12 Types of Squash All Home Gardeners Should Know

Here are some of the best squash varieties to grow throughout the year.

types of squirrels
Garden Pests

7 Types of Squirrels Everyone with a Backyard Should Know

You’ve watched them for years, but what do you really know about the squirrels outside your window?

cleaning hvac ducts
Cleaning

The Great Debate on How Often HVAC Ducts Should Be Cleaned

Is it really important to have HVAC ducts professionally cleaned every few years, or is that just what the pros want you to think?

These Kitchen Cabinets Prove Gray is Still a Go-To Neutral
Cabinets

These Kitchen Cabinets Prove Gray is Still a Go-To Neutral

Gray is versatile, neutral, trendy, and very easy to style.

pressure treated wood
Building & Installing

7 Important Things to Know About Pressure-Treated Wood

Uneasy about using treated lumber for your outdoor projects? Learning a few important facts about this type of wood will help you use it wisely.

arrowhead plant care 101 - how to grow arrowhead plant indoors
House Plants

This Arrowhead Plant Care Routine Yields Vibrant, Easy-Growing Foliage

Fast growing and easy to care for, these beauties can make anyone a successful gardener.

how to hang plants from ceiling
House Plants

How to Hang Plants From the Ceiling

Raise the ornamental greenery in your home to new heights by installing a swag hook.

cesspool
Pools & Water Features

What is a Cesspool, and Should I Buy a House That has One?

Before deciding on a house with a cesspool, it’s important to understand exactly how this system works and the costs associated with it.

types of fire extinguishers
Home Safety

6 Types of Fire Extinguishers Every Homeowner Should Know

Understanding which type to use is crucial to safely extinguishing a fire. 

air layering
Gardening

Air Layering Makes Propagating Your Favorite Plants a Cinch—Here’s How

Do you have a plant that is too leggy to love or that is threatening to raise the roof? Air layer it!