Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 331)

Used in most homes before being banned in the late 1970s, lead paint still exists undetected in many places. Before digging into any renovations on an old home, run this important test to protect your health.

Victims of burglaries suffer some $4.7 billion in property losses a year, according to the latest FBI statistics. You may already be protecting yourself with a deadbolt lock on your front door and a high-tech alarm system, but to go the extra mile in security, think like a thief! Here’s crucial information the bad guys wish we wouldn’t share.

Choosing paint shades for your bedroom is an extremely important task. Not only does color contribute the overall design of the room, it also affects your mood and emotions. Ensure your bedroom is a space of rest and relaxation by steering clear of these seven paint colors – all of which may prevent you from catching some much-needed shut-eye.

When it comes to predicting the most popular paint colors of 2018, industry experts are seeing red—and blue, and black, and gold. Strong, saturated shades are poised to dominate interior design schemes in the New Year. "People today have a growing sense of adventure and it's making its way into even the coziest corners of our homes," reports Sue Wadden, director of color marketing at Sherwin-Williams. "We are craving colors that remind us of bright folklore and expeditions across continents." If your own style leans more towards softer shades, don't despair: A sprinkling of creamy neutrals has also made its way into the mix. Whether you're planning a complete color overhaul in your home, or simply looking to refresh a single room, consider these 18 inspirational hues.

Perhaps the most important work surface in the home, the kitchen countertop is built to withstand food preparation, regular cleaning, pesky stains, and more. But despite their durability, countertops can suffer from costly damage whether they're made of laminate, marble, granite, or any other material. Here are 10 common ways homeowners unintentionally ruin their countertops, with tips on how to keep yours in tip-top shape for years to come.

Create a comfy zone that lets you stay warm while gazing at the outside world.

Stay safe, comfortable—and within your budget—by picking the perfect surface to surround your swimming pool.

With this primer and a willingness to get your hands dirty, you can incorporate a retaining wall into your landscaping—and, with it, both visual interest and necessary support for a sloped yard.

High pile is back in style! So keep yours fresh with these simple steps.

Sleek, shiny, and easy to maintain, polished concrete is a great flooring choice, particularly for modern interiors. If you'd like to create this look in your own home, here are the basics on the polishing process.

A zoned heating system allows greater control over heat distribution in the house. You can turn up the heat just where you need it, just when you need it—resulting in significant savings on your utility bills. Need some convincing? Read on to learn more about the benefits of zoned heating.

Big, bare, and beautiful, these architectural elements demand attention. Find out if exposed beams can make a striking statement in your new home construction or renovation project.

Get the facts and then go on to gorgeous DIY results with this inexpensive alternative to hardwood.

Blistered paint, damage to your ceilings, roof, and walls, and structural issues—these are just some of the potentially disastrous effects of ice dams. Learn how to take action now, before you get caught by surprise.

This winter, bring warmth to your coldest rooms by installing space-smart heaters that will make their presence felt—though not necessarily seen.

Don't let a lengthy dry time get you down: Tend to these six problem zones to remedy what might be slowing down your appliance—and your schedule.

Eliminate all smells, stains, and general dinginess with this DIY deep-clean routine for your area and accent rugs.

Do you hate your current carpet so much that you’re ready and willing to tear it out? Before you get in over your head, stop to consider everything that carpet removal and replacement entails. Then you might understand why it could be a good idea to leave the job to the pros. This post has been brought to you by Sears Home Services. Its facts and opinions are consistent with those of BobVila.com.

Spruce up your front or backyard in a jiffy by planting one of these sets of fast-growing evergreens.