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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 371)

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.

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.

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.

Energy & Power

10 Ways to Improve Your Garage Lighting

Rethink your garage lighting plan with these bright ideas.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Painting & Finishing

How to Paint Laminate Countertops

Restore your work surface and give your kitchen or bathroom a whole new look with this simple paint project.

Lighting & Electrical

9 Types of Electrical Outlets You Can Have in the Home

Different types of electrical outlets are good for different use cases. Learn if you have the right ones installed at home.

Building & Installing

5 Things to Know Before Installing a Shower Drain

"Be prepared" isn't just a motto for Scouts—plumbers know all too well that it pays to have a plan for every worst-case scenario. Before you begin what may seem like a simple drain replacement, brush up on the possible challenges and equip yourself appropriately so you won't be left without a working shower for more than an afternoon.

Walls & Ceilings

How To: Texture a Ceiling

Things are looking up if you hope to add new character to a room. You can easily bring visual interest by texturing your ceilings, where DIY options abound.

Heating

Radiant Floor Heating 101

Radiant floor heating, popular in new construction, has become a viable retrofit option.

Painting & Finishing

Solved! The Rules for Painting Over Oil-Based Paint

Use these tips to avoid cracking and peeling when you paint over oil-based paint.

Cleaning

15 Ways to Clean Your House Like a Pro

It’s Saturday morning and you’re in a hurry to finish the cleaning chores so you can get on with your weekend. Pro cleaning techniques will help get your house sparkling clean in short order—freeing up time for other activities.

Pools & Water Features

11 Ways to Make a Small Pool Work in Your Backyard

Get inspired and transform your outdoor space with one of these perfectly proportioned water features.

Gardening

What Is the No-Dig Gardening Method, and Why You Should Try it This Spring

Create a beautiful, productive garden without blisters and back pain.

Workshop

15 Safety Essentials That Most Homes Are Missing

Take preventative measures and be prepared for worst-case scenarios with these home safety essentials.

Furniture & Design

Stop and Read This Before You Dress Up Furnishings with Spray Foam

This popular foam sealant gives furnishings a trendy, bubbly look, but take care when using it to freshen up household décor items.

Heating

How To: Choose a New Boiler

If you're looking to update your boiler before winter sets in, make sure you take into consideration your boiler's size, efficiency, and venting requirements.