Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 312)

How Much Tile Do I Need? Solved!
Building & Installing

How Much Tile Do I Need? Solved!

Follow these easy steps to make sure that you stock enough material for your next tile project.

Peeling Paint - What to Do About It
Painting & Finishing

Solved! What to Do About Peeling Paint

When your bathroom paint begins to crackle and peel, any number of factors may be at play. Read up to learn what can spell trouble for painted walls and how to rescue your failing paint job.

How High to Hang Curtains, Solved!
Interior Design

Solved! How High to Hang Curtains

While how far up the wall you mount your window treatment might seem arbitrary, it's far from it. The placement you choose has the power to visually stretch—or dwarf—a room, so stick to these tips to achieve the best results.

The Difference Between Porcelain and Ceramic Tiles
Kitchen Design

Porcelain or Ceramic: Which Tile Type Is Right for You?

Discover the similarities and key differences between porcelain and ceramic tiles so that you pick the right one for your next project. Once you've come to a decision, read on for how to keep your chosen material looking like new for years to come.

Heat Tape Freeze Protection
Plumbing

Heat Tape: A Fast and Low-Cost Way to Prevent Frozen Pipes

This winter, invest some time and money in installing a product that can protect your home from the inconvenience and potential damage of frozen pipes.

gas-fireplaces-101
Fireplaces & Chimneys

Gas Fireplaces 101

In the market for a gas fireplace? Here's all the info you need to choose the right model for your home.

cats-meeting-picture-id1208665438
Garden Pests

How To: Keep Cats Out of Your Yard

Whether it’s a friendly feral cat or your own pet, felines can wreak havoc on your outdoor space. Learn the tips and tricks that will keep cats from doing their business in your garden, and scaring birds and other wildlife away.

Solved! What is Microfiber?
Cleaning

Solved! What is Microfiber?

Microfiber is a relatively new and rapidly-growing textiles construction. Microfiber is used in myriad products, including cleaning cloths, mops, faux leather, upholstery fabrics, bed and bath fashions, clothing, and sporting goods. Here are some pros and cons of thoroughly modern microfiber.

The 3 Key Steps to Painting Concrete Floors
Repair & Maintenance

3 Key Steps to a Concrete Floor Refresh

A fresh coat of color solves everything! And it's easy when you can rely on strong, innovative tools that take the heavy lifting out of painting even a large floor.

Expansion Tank Diagram
Heating

Expansion Tanks: What Are They and Why Are They Important?

When water is heated, it expands, increasing the pressure in closed heating systems. Over time, these pressure fluctuations can damage the system's components. An expansion tank is designed to alleviate this pressure and extend the life of your system. Here's how it works.

6 Things to Know Before Buying Kitchen Cabinets
Interior

6 Things to Know Before Buying Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets are one of the most important parts of your kitchen renovation, so choose wisely! We can help you get started.

How to Fix a Hole in the Wall
Repair & Maintenance

3 Fixes for a Hole in the Wall

Sure, you can go out and buy some spackle and a wire mesh patch to repair a hole in the wall—or you can use what you happen to have lying around at home with these 3 creative fixes guaranteed to leave your wall looking smooth again.

repointing brick
Siding

How To: Repoint Brick Walls

Repointing brick walls and chimneys with new mortar will not only enhance their beauty, but ensure that they remain secure, stable, and sound for years to come.

How to Fix and Prevent Wallpaper Peeling
Easy DIY Projects

Solved! How to Fix and Prevent Wallpaper Peeling

Repair peeling or bubbling wallpaper yourself with a few simple supplies and these pro techniques.

How to Change a Furnace Filter
Heating & Cooling

Change Filters Frequently to Optimize Furnace Efficiency

Find out how to keep your air clean, your appliances running efficiently, and your energy bills down all in one go.

10 Tips to Improve Your Garage Lighting
Energy & Power

10 Ways to Improve Your Garage Lighting

Rethink your garage lighting plan with these bright ideas.

How Often You Should Clean Your Air Vents
Heating & Cooling

5 Things to Know Before Cleaning Your Home’s Air Ducts

Find out if cleaning the ducts that keep dust at bay will actually improve the air quality inside your home—or if the job may do more harm than good.

The Ideal Light Switch Height, Solved!
Building & Installing

Solved! How High to Install a Light Switch

Before you get to wiring and mounting a light switch in a newly added or recently converted space without a wall outlet, learn how high to install the light switch for easy access and mounting.

Too Hot Upstairs, Too Cold Downstairs? Here’s What to Do
Cooling

Too Hot Upstairs, Too Cold Downstairs? Here’s What to Do

Do you dream of even, all-encompassing warmth throughout your house? If so, maybe it's time to turn to a highly efficient system that can keep your family toasty warm all winter long, no matter where in the house they happen to be.

How to Remove a Doorknob - With Hidden Screws
Skills & Techniques

How To: Remove and Replace a Doorknob

Hidden screws may make this task seem mysterious. The right tools—and this guide—turn it into a simple matter.