Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 308)

8 Ways to Save Your Deck From Sun Damage
Exterior

8 Ways to Save Your Deck From Sun Damage

Maintain your deck’s appearance and prevent graying by using one—or more—of these tried and true methods.

Best Time To Buy Patio Furniture
Design

Solved! This Is the Best Time to Buy Patio Furniture

If you’re ready to upgrade your patio furniture, these are the best times to score a bargain.

dishwasher vs hand washing
Interior

Dishwasher vs. Hand Washing: When to Use Each Cleaning Method

While both of these cleaning methods have pros and cons, we’re here to explain which option is best in a range of scenarios. 

Best Chalkboard Paint
Reviews

The Best Chalkboard Paints for Your Projects

Whether you want a dramatic chalkboard wall on which your kids can doodle or a small space to write the weekly grocery list, choosing the best chalkboard paint is the first step.

wet room bathroom
Interior

The Pros and Cons of Wet Room Bathrooms

Wet rooms can be luxurious, spa-like bathrooms that are a good return on investment, if you plan carefully.

9 Things Home Makeover Shows Never Tell You
Real Estate

9 Things Home Makeover Shows Never Tell You

It was recently disclosed that some of the homeowners on the popular HGTV series "Fixer Upper" had already purchased their home before the show started filming—shocker! But there's good reason for the deception: If you’re buying a new home, you can’t expect to tour it, bid, and close in time for next week's episode! Behind the quick turnaround and flashy reveal lie a sea of paperwork, stressful waiting, and unexpected costs that would make a true-to-life television series a real flop. So, if you're you're considering an as-seen-on-HGTV-style renovation, keep in mind these 10 things that home makeover shows never tell you.

closeup of a young caucasian man painting an old wooden table with a brush
DIY

Lumber-Cost Lunacy: Clever Ways to Save Money on Wood for Your DIY Projects

Lumber and other wood products are expensive, and sometimes hard to come by. Here’s how you can complete your DIY projects without breaking the bank.

A lot of blooming dandelion flowers in green grass. Directly above shot. Nature background.
Lawn & Garden

3 Surprisingly Good Reasons to Let Dandelions Grow in Your Yard

Here’s why it might be a good idea to keep those fluffy, yellow flowers around.

how to start a charcoal grill
Reviews

The Best Charcoal Chimney to Start Your Grill Naturally

Take the frustration out of lighting your charcoal grill with the best charcoal chimney starter.

10 Ways to Make Your Garden More Bee-Friendly
Lawn & Garden

10 Ways to Make Your Garden More Bee-Friendly

Create a welcoming environment for bees and other pollinators by following these helpful tips.

If You Can’t Find the House You Want, Should You Just Build It?
Real Estate

If You Can’t Find the House You Want, Should You Just Build It?

We’re in a seller’s market and houses are in short supply. But before you contact a builder, consider these 7 factors first.   

hugelkultur
Lawn & Garden

7 Things to Know About Hugelkultur Gardening

Move over, raised beds, and make room for hugelkultur. This time-honored German gardening technique amplifies surface area and maximizes soil quality, while using materials that might otherwise go to waste.

food forest - how to plant a food forest at home
Lawn & Garden

How To: Plant a Food Forest for Foraging at Home

Create a self-sustaining, eco-friendly forest garden on your property by following these steps. 

10 Tips for a Money-Making, Hassle-Free Yard Sale
DIY

10 Tips for a Money-Making, Hassle-Free Yard Sale

When it comes to yard sales, it's easy to make a wrong turn: setting prices too high, forgetting to advertise, or shadowing buyers are all simple mistakes sellers make. But a well-planned yard sale will leave your wallet fatter and your home decluttered. Proper planning, skillful organization, and a sense of humor will save the day—and your sanity. Here are 10 tips to ensure success.

10 Fast-Growing Plants for (Almost) Instant Curb Appeal
Exterior

10 Fast-Growing Plants for (Almost) Instant Curb Appeal

Bright flowers and colorful foliage are the easiest ways to amp up your curb appeal. If you're in a rush to get things growing, try one of these fast-blooming varieties to add instant charm to your facade.

Rain Chain
Lawn & Garden

Solved! What is a Rain Chain?

Alternatives to downspouts, rain chains guide water down from the gutter—with a lot more charm.

landscaping-in-green-home-garden-landscape-design-with-plants-and-at-picture-id1196211272
Lawn & Garden

7 Types of Pine Trees That are Great for Home Landscapes

While deciduous trees shed their leaves in fall, these trees keep their foliage all year long.

Residential backyard deck overlooking lawn and lake
Exterior

Decking Mistakes You Cannot Afford to Make

As outdoor relaxation season heats up, be sure to check your deck and take care of any necessary repairs. Here’s what to look for.

Portrait of man and woman customer in mattress store
Interior

Solved! Exactly How Often You Should Replace Your Mattress

The mattress industry says you should replace your mattress every 7 to 10 years, but the real answer is a bit more complicated and depends on many variables. Read on to find out which factors have the greatest impact on the lifespan of your mattress.

10 Gazebo Kits You Can Buy and Build Yourself
Exterior

10 Gazebo Kits You Can Buy and Build Yourself

Relax in the yard while enjoying privacy and protection from the sun with these cool, ready-to-assemble gazebo kits.