Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 381)

10 Things You Didn’t Know a Sponge Can Do
Interior

10 Things You Didn’t Know a Sponge Can Do

Think you know how to use a sponge? Well, think again! These colorful little squares of cellulose can be used for a lot more household tasks than just wiping down the kitchen counters. They can quickly and easily do double-duty as paint applicators, wallpaper removers, fridge fresheners, and a whole host of other common chores.

9 Things You Didn’t Know Coca-Cola Can Do
DIY

9 Things You Didn’t Know Coca-Cola Can Do

Sugary drinks aren't allowed in some households these days, but even the most health-conscious of folks can find a few reasons to keep a can of Coke around the house. Did you know Coke can help you do the dishes? How about cleaning your laundry with cola? Would you try Coke to clean your car battery? These are only a few alternative uses for Coca-Cola. If you need more excuses to stock this classic soda in your home, read on!

fix-tear-in-linoleum-floor
Interior

Bob Vila Radio: Use a Hairdryer to Fix Torn Vinyl Flooring

Resilient though it may be, vinyl flooring isn't invincible. Fortunately, you don't always need to replace the installation if it gets damaged. Plenty of homeowners have fixed unsightly, trip-triggering tears with this clever, inexpensive trick.

Leveling a Concrete Floor
Interior

So, You Want to… Level a Concrete Floor

You don't have to live with an irregular or uneven concrete floor. In fact, if you're planning to install new flooring over the slab, then you shouldn't. To get the smooth, level surface you need, a leveling compound may be just the ticket—and we've got the basics for you right here.

Painting Prep Infographic DAP
DIY

INFOGRAPHIC: Your Everything Guide to Painting Prep

Nothing refreshes a home like a new paint job. Read on for helpful tips, tools, and prep ideas to help you make the most of your next painting project.

How to Fix Sunken Pavers
Exterior

Bob Vila Radio: Raising Sunken Pavers

Over time, some pavers in your installation might sink to a level beneath that of the surrounding patio or driveway. When that happens, it can be an eyesore as well as a safety hazard.

Install Drip Irrigation - Diagram
Lawn & Garden

Ditch the Hose with a Drip Irrigation System

Conserve water in the garden with the installation of a time-saving drip irrigation system.

So, Who Are Master Gardeners and What Can They Do for You?
Lawn & Garden

So, Who Are Master Gardeners and What Can They Do for You?

Chair Rails
Interior

Bob Vila Radio: The Right Height for Chair Rails

Chair rails remain a popular option for dressing up interior walls, but while their installation can be straightforward, homeowners need to know where on the wall this type of molding looks best.

Measurers1-measuring-tools-for-any-job
DIY

7 Essential Measuring Tools for Any Job

Refrigerator Organization
Interior

Buy or DIY: 5 Ways to Fit More in Your Fridge & Freezer

To buy or DIY: It's one of life's great dilemmas. Whichever route you choose, if you have a fridge that fills up fast, organization accessories can be super helpful, enabling you to pack more food into cold storage.

The Most Popular Home Renovation Projects in America—And How Much They Cost
DIY

The Most Popular Home Renovation Projects in America—And How Much They Cost

When you own a home, there's always another project to tackle. The question is, which do you take on next? Maybe your living room looks like a time capsule from the 1980s, or you desperately need to add a bathroom, or perhaps you're just looking for inspiration for your next project. Well, get started by looking through this list of the most popular renovation projects in America, and how much they cost.

How to Remove Oil Stains from Concrete
DIY

Bob Vila Radio: Homemade Remedies for Driveway Oil Spots

The next time your car drips oil onto your otherwise pristine asphalt driveway, try one of these reportedly effective cleaning methods—unlikely though they may sound.

INFOGRAPHIC: Sober Uses for Beer & Booze Around the House
DIY

INFOGRAPHIC: Sober Uses for Beer & Booze Around the House

These boozy alternatives can easily stand in for store-bought cleaning supplies. So rather than let that bottle linger for years in the back of your liquor cabinet, put it to "sober use" in your home today.

Epoxy Floor Painting
DIY

How To: Apply Epoxy Floor Paint

Give your dingy old garage floor a gleaming, long-lasting finish with epoxy paint.

Vermiculture
Lawn & Garden

Why Every Gardener Needs a Worm Bin

Save money at the garden supply store by making your own high-quality organic fertilizer through vermicomposting—the easy and rewarding process of composting with worms.

Photo: Homeandgardenideas.com
Reviews

Should You Buy a Used Riding Mower?

Porch Style
Exterior

Porch Style

Whether you’re building or remodeling this highly coveted spot, you’ll gain valuable living space and serious curb appeal.

How to Paint Stripes on a Wall
DIY

How To: Paint Stripes on a Wall

Depending on the colors and pattern you choose, walls with painted stripes can be playful, formal, or cheerful—but whatever their decorative effect, they're an inexpensive and not-too-difficult way to add character to a room. Here's how.

how to tile a backsplash
Interior

How to Tile a Backsplash

Looking to liven up a dreary kitchen? Consider re-tiling the backsplash—and doing the job yourself.