Read the latest articles from Bob Vila

The Best Chlorine Tablets Option
Reviews

These Chlorine Tablets Will Keep Your Pool Clear of Bacteria, Algae, and Insects All Summer

Regularly treat your pool with the high-quality chlorine tablets to keep bacteria at bay and prevent algae blooms.

Several black ants crawling on tiled flooring.
DIY

These Are the Best (and Cheapest) Ways to Banish Ants From Your Property

Finding ants inside or outside your home can be alarming, but it’s not the end of the world. Try these simple DIY solutions to get rid of them and stop them from returning.

A man adjusting the Best Pool Vacuum Option in preparation for putting into a pool
Reviews

Say Goodbye to Manual Scrubbing—Our Top Pool Vacuum Does All the Work for You

Don’t let pool maintenance leave you feeling all wet. Take a bit of the workload off yourself with these pool vacuums.

Man in flip flops cleaning the swimming pool with a net.
Exterior

The Dos and Don’ts of Swimming Pool Maintenance

For a safe and healthy summer in your own backyard oasis, take these steps before you take the plunge.

Young couple talking to manual worker about housing design plans at construction site.
DIY

If You Install a Shed or Pool, Don’t Forget to Check Out These Local Regulations

Before building a new shed or planning an extension for the home, it’s important to understand setbacks and how they might impact your plans.

A man uses a security pad to close his garage door.
Exterior

8 Garage Door Security Tips Every Homeowner Should Know

A few smart moves—and e pair of scissors—can make your garage way more secure.

Style Well Patio Umbrella 60% off deal at The Home Depot
Reviews

My Favorite Patio Essential is Now 60% Off at The Home Depot for July 4th

This backyard staple is my favorite patio upgrade. Marked down to 60% off, it's sure to sell out.

Ego Lawn Mower and free battery deal at Lowe's
Reviews

Last Chance: Lowe’s Is Giving Away Free Ego Batteries

For a limited time, the 21-inch self-propelled Ego mower is down to $599 (from $749) and comes with a bonus 5Ah battery, valued at $249.

The Home Depot 4th of July Power Tool Deals and Free Tools
Reviews

The Home Depot Offering Deep Discounts and Free Power Tools for Its 4th of July Savings Event

Save big on top power tool brands like Milwaukee, DeWalt, and Ryobi during The Home Depot’s 4th of July Savings event.

A house with the best garage door screens option closed over the garage doors
Reviews

Keep Bugs Out of Your Garage Year-Round with One of These Inexpensive Screens

Create a bug-free work space in your garage without having to close the door with one of these top garage door screens.

Three types of bird feeders on a pole outdoors
Lawn & Garden

12 Types of Bird Feeders Every Backyard Birder Should Know

To attract certain types of birds, choose the right bird feeder and learn how to take care of it properly.

A newly clean dryer vent hose with a small pile of dryer lint in front of the hose.
Interior

How to Clean a Dryer Vent

A dryer vent that's clogged with lint doesn't just reduce the appliance's efficiency—it is a potential fire hazard. Here’s how to get your vent clean and keep it that way.

brad nailer vs finish nailer
DIY

Brad Nailer vs. Finish Nailer: Which Power Tool Is Best for Your Project?

Brad nailers and finish nailers look similar, but they're used for different sorts of projects. How can you tell the difference between the tools, and which one is best for your next project?

A DIYer using a stud finder to find studs in a wall with a graphic overlay that says Tool Tutorial.
DIY

How to Use a Stud Finder

Master this tool and technique, and you can rest assured that whatever you mount to the wall—mirror, television, or shelves—will stay in place.

Many types of drywall anchors laid out against a brown background.
Interior

7 Types of Drywall Anchors Every Homeowner Should Know

Drywall anchors are used to hold everything from lightweight pictures to heavy cabinets, but which one is right for which job?

Smiling couple paints a wall green in their home.
DIY

Young Homeowners Are DIY-ing More, According to a New Survey

A new generation is busting myths about age and home improvement projects.

Deals of the Week June 2025
Reviews

Get Ready for July 4th With Our Favorite Deals This Week

Each week, we bring you the hottest deals in Bob Vila-favorite categories like power tools, hand tools, home essentials, and more.

A closeup image of a man painting baseboards with an angled brush.
DIY

How to Paint Baseboards

If you don’t have time to paint an entire room, a fresh coat of paint on your baseboards can be transformative.

Best peel and stick backsplashes hero
Reviews

Fast, Easy, and Surprisingly Stylish: These Peel-and-Stick Backsplashes Impressed Us

Transform your kitchen or bath with these peel-and-stick backsplashes that mimic tile—no grout, stress, or installer necessary.

Tick walking on a piece of grass being held by a human hand.
DIY

Tick Populations Are Booming Across the U.S. And Displaying ‘Alarming’ New Behavior

Protecting yourself is paramount.