Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 370)

Most of us take electricity for granted, fully expecting that the outlets, wiring, extension cords, and power strips in our homes will operate safely and reliably. But electricity can be dangerous when improperly handled, so it's important to understand how it works before starting a new DIY project. Accidental exposure to electricity can have serious consequences. According to the Centers for Disease Control, the most common injuries caused by contact with electrical energy are electric shock, burns, and falls. Stay safe at home and on the job by taking necessary precautions whenever you're engaging in any of these potentially risky activities.

Your home is a refuge from the dangers and anxieties of the outside world—or is it? Statistics indicate that Americans are more likely to be injured at home than just about anywhere else. According to the National Safety Council, 23.8 million preventable injuries occurred in homes in 2016, and most of these were caused by the injured party's own mistakes. Minimize your risk of injury around the house by avoiding these common—and in some cases, fatal—missteps.

A yard is more than grass that you have to mow, it's an extension of your living space. Homeowners who commit time and money toward landscaping their yard not only get a great return on their investment, but on average they’re happier with the results of their outdoor renovation than they are with indoor remodeling projects like redoing the kitchen or bathroom. Get a head start on revitalizing your yard by checking out the biggest landscaping trends of 2018, according to landscaping expert Missy Henriksen, spokesperson for the National Association of Landscape Professionals.

If you’re planning on selling your property, don’t let your house sit on the market any longer than necessary. Take a page from our book and avoid these 11 common mistakes before listing.

Learn which washing machine cleans best, costs less, and saves more time in the laundry room so you can choose the perfect appliance for your family.

Reality TV has kicked our collective enthusiasm for real estate and home renovation into high gear and made DIY an attainable lifestyle. Who doesn’t crib ideas from "Queer Eye," adore the remodel-and-decor duo of "Fixer Upper," and ply tricks picked up from the "Property Brothers—to mention just a few favorites. That said, we could probably all benefit from the savviest tips from the makeover show pros who give new meaning to the term “household names.” So, here you have it—the 19 best pieces of advice from popular home makeover shows that you can use for your next design or renovation project.

Making your own stained glass is easier than you thought.

From plain to pristal, glass block injects surprising style into interiors and exteriors alike. Check out these 10 glass block blockbusters.

With imagination and elbow grease, you can transform that old door into a one-of-a-kind piece that's both useful and beautiful.

These clever water games and activities will have everybody cooled down and perked up faster than you can say "cannonball!"

If you are saddled with a small bathroom, consider one or more of these space-enhancing products.

There's something rotten in America—and it's the trash! The average American creates 4 pounds of trash every day, and while that may not sound like a lot, it adds up to more than 200 million tons of waste every year (enough to fill the entire Busch Stadium two times a day, according to the EPA). All that trash poses an obvious problem: where to put it. And as the United States' trash is shipped to its southern states, and around the world, it's clear that the problem has yet to be solved. The best solution in the long term is to make less trash. Not only will making less trash keep our environment cleaner, but it can save the average American household thousands of dollars every year. Read on to learn some of the easiest things you can do to reduce your waste and simplify your life.

Bring natural beauty to any blank wall, indoors or out, with these plans to build a garden trellis.

You just moved into a new home—congratulations! Now that the moving truck is unloaded, you probably have a million things to do before getting settled. Prioritize your list by focusing on these timely tasks first.

Less than excited about installing plastic barricades between rooms to childproof your home? Custom-build a DIY baby gate that's good for your kids, pets, and style—all using little more than 1x2 lumber.

Flowering trees and shrubs deliver vibrant color to the yard, but most varieties bloom for only weeks at a time. If you want extended curb appeal, these 14 long-lasting stunners—a mix of annual and perennial plants—are your best bet. Not only do they bloom all summer long, they’re also easy to grow, versatile, and readily found at your favorite garden centers.

Create hip, functional home goods out of flanges, elbows, and other basic fittings. This article has been brought to you by SupplyHouse.com. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.

The term "tourist attraction" usually evokes visions of long lines, inflated prices, and man-made marvels. But for those who prefer to walk on the wild side, some of the best vacation destinations come courtesy of Mother Nature. America's vast and varied ecosystems are home to countless natural wonders that you can encounter along hikes, drives, or in a stroll through a botanic garden. Check out these incredible destinations that every plant lover should put on their bucket list.

Not everyone is lucky enough to have a sizable backyard, but here's some good news for those of us who lack square footage: Even the smallest outdoor space can be transformed into an inviting destination for entertaining and relaxing. Learn how to take advantage of every inch of your yard from those who know best—other homeowners who share your plight. Here are 7 ingenious ideas worth replicating in your own space.