Read the latest articles from Bob Vila

A carpenter with eye protection and grey hat uses a sander on outdoor decking.
Deck, Patio & Porch

How to Sand a Deck the Right Way

A professional deck builder shares basic steps (and a few secrets) for sanding a wood deck to renew its surface.

Home Depot Is Clearing Out This Bob Vila-Tested DeWalt Oscillating Multi-Tool—Save 54%
Power Tools

Home Depot Is Clearing Out This Bob Vila-Tested DeWalt Oscillating Multi-Tool—Save 54%

One of our go-to oscillating multi-tools is temporarily priced at over half off, making it a good time to buy if you’re into remodeling or repair work.

Woman handing a plate to a young girl through a large pass through window in her house.
Deck, Patio & Porch

4 Ways to Embrace Biophilic Living at Home Beyond Buying More Plants

Blur the lines between inside and outside by adding these features to your home.

A sink faucet with low water pressure.
Plumbing

What Causes Low Water Pressure In Your House?

Low water pressure in your home can be caused by things like clogged pipes, valve issues, even municipal supply problems. Learn why your water is trickling, and what you can do to fix it.

Cottage garden with various flowers in a circular shape.
Gardening

Want a Cottage Garden That Looks Like This? Do What This Influencer Does.

The contrast of sculptured shrubs with meandering pathways and beds bursting with color paints an alluring picture. Here’s how you can pull this off yourself.

DeWalt Drops 3 New Brushless Ratchets, Including Its Fastest 20V MAX Model Yet
Tools

DeWalt Drops 3 New Brushless Ratchets, Including Its Fastest 20V MAX Model Yet

The updated lineup adds a sealed-head XR ratchet with interchangeable drives and two compact Atomic 1/4-inch models – including a long-neck version built for tight engine bays and equipment work.

The Kitchen and Bath Upgrades Everyone Will Be Talking About This Year
Kitchen Design

The Kitchen and Bath Upgrades Everyone Will Be Talking About This Year

The best kitchen and bath products of 2026 are smarter, quieter, and more space-saving than ever.

Lowe's Dropped Kobalt Power Tools to Clearance-Level Pricing Ahead of Spring—Save Up to 45% on Drills, Saws, Batteries, and More
Power Tools

Lowe’s Dropped Kobalt Power Tools to Clearance-Level Pricing Ahead of Spring—Save Up to 45% on Drills, Saws, Batteries, and More

If you’re already on Kobalt’s 24V system, Lowe’s has rare $79 pricing on core add-ons, including batteries and an impact wrench, plus more tool kits under $100.

A chop saw and miter saw side by side.
DIY

Chop Saw vs. Miter Saw: What’s the Difference?

Chop saws and miter saws are often confused for the same tool, but there are important differences every DIYer should know.

A side by side image of two different men using a miter saw and table saw.
Building & Installing

Miter Saw vs. Table Saw: What’s the Difference? 

Which mighty power saw is best for your woodworking projects and skill level—or do you need both?

miter saw vs circular saw
DIY

Miter Saw vs. Circular Saw: Which Tool Is Right for Your Project?

Both saws have round blades, but have very different functions.

The Best Miter Saw Stands Options
Tools & Materials

The Best Miter Saw Stands for Your Workshop

Don’t settle for making cuts on an old workbench. Pick up a miter saw stand to improve the speed and accuracy of your DIY projects.

Table filled with the best paint primers tested and reviewed.
Paint Needs

The Best Paint Primers for Every Surface and Project

Paint primer helps paint adhere better on slippery surfaces and is a must for a paint color change. After testing a variety of paint primers, we found a favorite that offers low odor and works on all surfaces.

A woman using a drill to drill a piece of wood into a brick wall.
Skills & Techniques

How to Drill Into Brick

Are you planning to hang a garden hose reel or artwork on a brick wall in your home, and don't know where to start? Choose the right tool, drill bit, and technique, and you can bore holes in brick walls—indoors and out—in mere minutes.

Black Vinyl Coated Chainlink Fence
Curb Appeal

Landscape Designers Say These Yard Features Are Killing Your Curb Appeal

Watch out for excess water, certain hardscaping choices, and more that can cheapen your home's exterior.

A close up of a drill being used to drill into concrete.
Workshop

How to Drill Into Concrete

Drill a hole through masonry or concrete like a pro with a rotary hammer or hammer drill.

Best Seed Starting Trays close-up
Lawn, Garden & Pool

The Best Seed Starting Trays for Faster, Healthier Plant Growth

Sow your own seeds indoors using the right seed starting tray.

The Home Depot is Clearing Out Hand Tools Ahead of Spring Projects–Save Up to 60% Off Milwaukee, DeWalt, and More
Hand Tools

Home Depot is Clearing Out Hand Tools Ahead of Spring Projects–Save Up to 60% Off Milwaukee, DeWalt, and More

Major price cuts on tape measures, socket sets, layout tools, and everyday garage staples from top brands. See our favorite deals.

An arid backyard in New Mexico with a large block fence in a clay color.
Fences

What Do You Think of My New Fence Color?

It might not be for everyone, but I would do it again in a heartbeat.

Sliding glass doors installed in a living room with a couch inside and a view of a small outdoor area.
Home Security

How Secure Is Your Sliding Glass Door?

Sliders let in glorious light and create an open, airy feeling—and can be an invitation to intruders if they are not properly secured.