Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 314)

How to Whitewash Brick
Walls & Ceilings

How To: Whitewash Brick

Lighten and brighten surfaces in your living spaces with this easy-to-master painting technique that mutes the dark tones of red brick walls or fireplaces.

Deck Maintenance - Backyard Wooden Deck
Deck, Patio & Porch

The Dos and Don’ts of Deck Maintenance

Heed these best (and worst) practices when it comes to cleaning up and caring for your wooden deck, and you'll be able to enjoy your outdoor living room for seasons to come.

How to Lay a Stone Path
Driveways & Walkways

How To: Lay a Stone Garden Path

Create a simple stone path to enhance your yard and set a distinctive walkway.

Sold house sign in Midwest suburban setting. Focus on sign.
Buying

7 Signs You’re About to Buy the Wrong House

Avoid unnecessary grief by paying attention to these warnings.

15 Hot Tub Deck Ideas for a Relaxing Backyard
Exterior

15 Hot Tub Deck Ideas for a Relaxing Backyard

Find inspiration for your backyard oasis with these hot tub deck ideas fit for royalty.

You’re Probably Harvesting Your Herbs Wrong—Here’s How to Do it Correctly for Maximum Yield
Gardening

You’re Probably Harvesting Your Herbs Wrong—Here’s How to Do it Correctly for Maximum Yield

Learn the cut-and-come-again technique for more productive, bountiful herbs.

painted brick exterior of house
Exterior

Painted Brick: Why This Common Reno Project Is So Controversial

Natural brick or painted brick? That’s the question, but not everyone agrees on the answer.

king vs queen bed
Bedrooms

What’s the Difference? King vs. Queen Bed

Seeking the perfect slumber solution? The size of your bed—a king versus a queen—can make a big difference in the amount of shut-eye you get.

7 Unusual Tricks for Your Cleanest Floors Ever
Cleaning

7 Unusual Tricks for Your Cleanest Floors Ever

There’s no way around it. Whether you’ve got hardwood, tile, or carpet, all floors must be cleaned of dirt and debris tracked in from outside. But this traditional chore doesn't need to be so...boring. Check out our favorite unconventional tricks that will help you get them cleaner than ever.

13 Small Living Room Ideas That Make a Big Impact
Interior

13 Small Living Room Ideas That Make a Big Impact

Using wall space to your advantage and swapping out decor that makes the room feel small can go a long way to opening up a tiny living room.

How To Make Homemade Furniture Polish
Cleaning & Organizing

How To: Make and Apply Your Own Homemade Furniture Polish

A coat of polish adds shine to furniture, restoring luster you didn't even know was lost, while preventing the wood from drying out and becoming brittle. Here's how to save money and make your own polish.

The Best Things You Can Do for Your Garden Soil
Gardening

The Best Things You Can Do for Your Garden Soil

A beautiful garden requires a solid foundation, but achieving healthy, nutrient-dense soil takes time and effort. Here are 10 smart practices for making your garden soil the best it can be.

15 Things You Should Have at the Ready in Case the Power Goes Out
Generators

15 Things You Should Have at the Ready in Case the Power Goes Out

Prepare for an outage with these essential devices.

10 Mistakes Not to Make with a Home Generator
Generators

10 Mistakes Not to Make with a Home Generator

Following the right steps for home generator use and maintenance helps make sure there is safe, reliable, and consistent power for the long haul.

bissell crosswave product review
Cleaning Supplies

I Tried the Bissell CrossWave Wet/Dry Vacuum—Here’s the Dirt

A cordless floor-cleaning tool that can vacuum, mop, and freshen up area rugs? Yes, please!

Fit 50-ish woman preparing to unload a kayak from the top of her vehicle.
Skills & Techniques

10 Types of Knots All DIYers Should Know

Is your knot knowledge holding you back? Tie up those loose ends by learning about these 10 knots that are ideal for DIYers.

15 Old House Features We Were Wrong to Abandon
Design

15 Old House Features We Were Wrong to Abandon

We were probably right to leave behind many hallmarks of yesterday's home, but it's time to reconsider these 15 once-popular details, not for their novelty, but for their practicality.

The Best Storm Windows Options
HVAC

The Best Storm Windows for Added Insulation

Insulate older windows and add a layer of defense against cold outdoor temperatures by installing the best storm windows for your home.

14 of the Fastest-Growing Houseplants for a Nearly Instant Indoor Garden
House Plants

14 of the Fastest-Growing Houseplants for a Nearly Instant Indoor Garden

Do you want your houseplants to grow like a house afire? Try a few of these old reliables known for flourishing fast.

Before & After: Two Tiny Bedrooms Become a Spacious Open Kitchen and Dining Room
Kitchen Remodeling

Before & After: Two Tiny Bedrooms Become a Spacious Open Kitchen and Dining Room

With a little design inspiration and a lot of DIY demolition, two adjacent 9-by-12 bedrooms became an open-plan 18-by-12 kitchen and dining room.