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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 368)

HVAC

I Installed the New Ecobee Smart Thermostat in My Old House—Here’s What Happened

My only regret is that I didn’t do this simple upgrade sooner.

Repair & Maintenance

Done With Winter? 12 Things You Can Do Now to Prep for Spring

Don’t wait until spring has actually sprung to get ready for the change of seasons. As milder weather approaches and you await the return to outdoor living, there’s more to do around your home—both indoors and out—than just spring cleaning. Here are 12 tasks to tackle now to make springtime safer, easier, and more enjoyable.

Bedrooms

21 Ways to Make a Small Bedroom Big

Do you covet a larger master bedroom, kids' room, or guest room but are stuck with a small space that won't stretch to fit? Use these 21 DIY bedroom ideas to turn your pint-size bedrooms into palatial quarters with panache.

Foundations

Thinking About Gutting Your House? 11 Things to Know First

Gutting your house for a full-home renovation is absolutely doable for experienced DIYers, but make sure you know what you’re getting yourself into.

Reviews

Bye-Bye, Bulky Pitchers! My Under-Sink Water Filter is Here to Stay

Having easy access to filtered water can improve your health and make preparing meals so much easier.

Tools

The First Power Saw New DIYers Should Buy, According to Experts

Purchasing your first power saw is a big step. These pro tips will make it a lot easier.

Paint Needs

The Best Fabric Spray Paint for Your DIY Projects

Create one-of-a-kind clothing items, add pizzazz to canvas shoes, update faded upholstery, or stencil designs on throw rugs—the best fabric spray paints offer abundant opportunities for creative expression.

Fences

5 Tips for Soundproofing Your Outdoor Spaces

If noise from traffic, construction, or neighbors makes you feel less than relaxed, check out these sound-reducing remedies to bring peace and tranquility to your outdoor spaces.

Tools & Materials

The Best Saw Blade for Cutting Laminate Flooring

Cut through laminate flooring in a hurry with a miter saw, jigsaw, or a circular saw blade that’s been designed for clean cuts and minimal chipping.

Gardening

How to Cultivate the Perfect Soil for Your Vegetable Garden

Want a more productive vegetable garden this year? The secret’s in the soil.

DIY

12 Practical Ways to Make Your DIY Projects More Environmentally Friendly

Have fun, save money, and be sustainably sound.

Architecture

10 Charming Cape Cod Houses—From the East Coast and Beyond

Nothing says classic like Cape Cod architecture. From suburban cottages to rural retreats, find your favorite interpretation of this perennial style.

Cleaning & Organizing

How To: Clean a Microfiber Suede Sofa

Microfiber suede sofas are beautiful additions to any home, but their tiny fibers can make cleaning a real pain. Follow these easy steps to freshen your favorite piece of furniture, leaving it with a like-new look.

Heating

9 Furnace Troubleshooting Tips from the Pros

The next time your gas furnace stops pumping out the heat, before you call in the pros, try to troubleshoot the problem yourself using this handy checklist.

Tubs & Showers

All You Need to Know About Walk-in Showers

Get the answers to all your questions and concerns about this trendy bathroom remodel.

Fireplaces & Chimneys

How To: Use a Fireplace

Add ambience and save on heating costs by utilizing your fireplace this winter. Here's all you need to know about the proper technique and safety precautions.

Walls & Ceilings

Here’s What Cracks in the Ceiling Really Mean

Do you have cracks in your ceiling? Find out if the cause is simply cosmetic, of if you're facing a structural issue that needs immediate attention.

Fireplaces & Chimneys

So, You Want to… Reface Your Fireplace

Tearing out a fireplace can be both terribly messy and expensive—not to mention unnecessary. Read on about a more cost-efficient (and DIY!) alternative for your next room refresh.

Gardening

How to Plant a Vegetable Garden

Planting a vegetable garden doesn't have to be complicated and can even be a wonderful learning adventure for the whole family.

Appliances & Cookware

The Best Silver Polish for Restoring Shine

Restore the luster to your jewelry, flatware, and antiques with one of these quality silver polishes.