Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 85)

Balcony deck with patio furniture and metal railings.
Deck, Patio & Porch

Deck Railing Height and Code Requirements

Planning to build a deck? Here’s what you need to know about deck guards and railing height codes before starting the project.

Dewalt corded hammer drill being used on concrete
Power Tools

The Highest Performing Corded Hammer Drill Is the Best Pick for Both Pros and DIYers

After doing a deep dive into the market’s latest corded hammer drills, we also found a range of models to suit all demands.

A man in jeans walks along a lawn using a string trimmer.
Lawn Care & Gardening

String Trimmer vs. Lawn Edger: What All DIY Landscapers Should Know

They may look similar, but these tools serve very different purposes when it comes to maintaining your yard.

The Best Salt Spreader Options
Reviews

I De-Iced My Driveway in Record Time With the Scott’s Elite Spreader

Salt spreaders make applying granular and rock salt quicker and easier. See which tested options distribute salt evenly to keep surfaces clear of ice and snow.

Person's hand turns the handle on the toilet shut-off valve.
Toilets

How to Replace a Toilet Shut-Off Valve

When that old shut-off valve behind the toilet finally gives up, don’t call a plumber. This step-by-step guide will show you how to DIY the repair yourself.

A DIYer installing drywall in a home basement with bathroom.
Walls & Ceilings

These Are the Types of Drywall Every DIYer Should Know

Use this guide to learn which type of drywall you need to use for your bathrooms, bedrooms, ceilings, and hallways.

Happy man installing artificial lawn at home
Lawn Care & Gardening

How to Lay Artificial Grass

Laying an artificial grass lawn is a DIY you can do in a weekend. The payoff? A lush, green lawn that’s virtually maintenance free and doesn't have to be watered.

Electric humidity meter held up near window with condensation measures moisture in air.
Heating & Cooling

This Is Your Home’s Ideal Indoor Humidity Level 

Keeping your home's humidity levels in the 30 to 50 percent range protects your family’s health and comfort, and even the structural integrity of your house.

Collage of four of the Best Touchless Kitchen Faucet installed in homes
Reviews

This Simple Kitchen Upgrade Helps Keep Germs From Spreading

Keep your hands free with these stylish, motion-activated kitchen faucets — even better, our favorite tested model is a breeze to install.

A man in a brown coat works to fix a snowblower on a snowy day.
Repair & Maintenance

Snow Blower Won’t Start? Try These Troubleshooting Tips

Spark plugs, safety keys, and an oil change can be the difference between a snow blower that starts up and one that doesn't.

The Best Salt Free Water Softener Options
Plumbing Supplies

Prevent Damaging Scale Buildup in Your Home’s Pipes With This 15-Minute Upgrade

With their ease of installation and low maintenance, salt-free water softeners offer a user-friendly alternative to traditional water softeners.

Best Wire Cutters Options
Tools & Materials

This Simple Tool Is a Must-Have for Electrical Projects

Wire cutters allow you to cut, strip, crimp, and grab wires safely and easily. After researching various cutters, we chose our favorite 8 options, including one that we've tested.

Person chalk painting wooden chair leg with white paint, pink chair cushion and brass nail heads visible.
Painting & Finishing

How to Use Chalk Paint

A "shabby chic" finish that requires almost no paint prep? It's no wonder chalk paint is the veneer of choice for upcycled furniture and decor DIYs.

A group of the 8 best voltage testers together on a workbench before testing.
Reviews

The Best Voltage Testers, According to Our Tests

This tool can help you stay safe by quickly checking electrical outlets and wires. Our favorite offers a self-testing feature to ensure accuracy.

Faceless woman pointing to holes in her pink and gray sweater.
Laundry

What’s Making Holes in My Clothes?

These five culprits might be causing those pesky holes in your clothes.

A homeowner inspecting a section of flooring that appears to have mold growth.
Mold & Mildew

Has That Mold Always Been There? A Guide to Recognizing Stains

The color, texture, and odor of mold can change over time. Learn how to identify whether you’re dealing with old or new mold so you can come up with the best plan to get rid of it.

The Best Water Heater Blanket US energy Products 2
Plumbing Supplies

Our Favorite Water Heater Blanket Offers Superior Insulation

Save money on utility bills and reduce overall energy consumption with the best water heater blanket for your tank, home, and budget.

A group of the best snow shovel options leaning against a trailer in the snow before testing.
Tools & Materials

We Tested the Best Snow Shovels, and Our Favorite Makes Lifting Heavy Snow Easier on Everyone

Clear your driveway of snow and ice and stay injury-free with the right shovel for winter’s worst wallops.

Winter Emergency Supplies Options
Garages

16 Winter Emergency Supplies You Should Always Keep in Your Car

When you're driving on the coldest, most blustery days of winter, stow these items in your car and you'll be ready for just about any problems the weather may bring.

The Best Moisture Meters, Tested
Tools & Materials

The Best Moisture Meters, Tested and Reviewed

If you need to know what’s going on below the surface of your hardwoods or drywall, these moisture meters can clue you in.