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Q: I just purchased a new home with a pool. One of my neighbors mentioned that I will need to empty the skimmers ever...
If you measure your lawn in acres rather than square feet, then a zero-turn riding mower might be right for you. Unli...
Competition in the cordless products category gets tougher each year as consumers become more accustomed to untetheri...
Buying a new riding lawn mower has always come with a certain amount of homework. Before settling on a specific model...
Gorilla's multi-position ladder, the GLMPXA-22, combines stability, safety, and convenience into one impressive packa...
DeWalt is widely regarded as a top-tier brand in the tool industry due to its exceptional quality, durability, and pe...
True to its name, a pool filter catches and removes dirt, oils, and other debris out of the pool water. However, thes...
Pool time means playtime, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t still work to be done. To keep a sunny disposition and de...
Cordless vacuums for hardwood floors offer the convenience of cleaning up quick messes alongside the suction power to...
When it comes to quickly painting large surfaces, such as walls, or getting a professional-looking finish on contoure...
Get ready to supercharge your power tools with DeWalt's latest offering: PowerStack batteries. As an avid constructio...
A pool is a huge benefit when the weather is hot, but without proper care and maintenance, the water can become an un...
The meteoric rise of battery-powered tools and lawn mowers signals a paradigm shift. A growing departure from traditi...
Those who have never owned an air compressor for home garage use might not realize the flexible uses the tool can pro...
As an avid gardener, I'm always looking for tools that simplify my lawn-care routine without compromising effectivene...
Since 1983, Maytronics has been a leader in the pool industry, focusing on robotic pool cleaners and other accessorie...
Highlights Lawn mower repairs typically cost between $40 and $90, with the national average cost coming in at around...
Gardening is our way of connecting with nature, growing healthy produce, and cultivating beautiful landscapes. Howeve...
All lawns require nutrients to grow and thrive, but often there isn’t enough occurring naturally in the soil. The bes...
Whether you have a green thumb or are a beginning gardener just trying your hand at growing your own food or flowers,...
For something you can’t even see, a lot is riding on a toilet’s wax ring. These unsung heroes create a watertight gap...
Nothing beats a good pressure washer for blasting dirt and mud from sidewalks, driveways, and dirty cars. I've used s...
Maintaining a regular mowing schedule is vital to achieving lush and healthy turfgrass. However, a battery-powered la...
Pool skimmers are one of those tools no pool owner can do without. Even if the pool is regularly serviced by a mainte...
Most modern pool patches are easy to use, effective, and very low cost when compared with professional repair. They n...
Regardless of personal style, most of us appreciate the look of a well-tended landscape. A big part of that look is k...
Battery-powered lawn and garden tools have come a long way over the past couple of decades. Engineers worked on the p...
It’s possible to use just about any sander for hardwood floors, but some can involve a long, laborious, and uncomfort...
Welcome to The State of Rentals with Bob Vila, a series dedicated to showing both landlords and tenants the crucial s...
When did DeWalt start making lawn mowers? As manufacturers pour resources into building the best battery-powered lawn...
The Dyson brand is known for its sleek and powerful devices, and the V12 is no exception. The V12 Detect Slim cordles...
The most important difference between strong, healthy houseplants and weak, sickly ones is the care they receive. All...
We use the word “cheap” in different ways to convey different meanings. In many instances, cheap either equates to ro...
One of my favorite weed-control tools that lawn care articles often ignore is fire. Both mature weeds and weed seeds ...
At some point or other, most car owners will need to learn how to clean battery terminals if they don’t already know ...
WD-40 has earned its reputation as a jack-of-all-trades. Its top-secret ingredients list blends lubricants, anti-corr...
Typically, toilet fill valves last about 5 years without any issues, depending on the quality of the valve, hard wate...
Home appliances make our lives easier by washing our clothes, helping us cook meals, heating and cooling our homes, a...
Repairing or replacing broken-down appliances and home systems can be very expensive, which is why many homeowners el...
Owning a home in Texas can present some significant challenges when it comes to maintenance and upkeep due to the sta...
Heat stains are an enduring concern for both seasoned homeowners and those who have just made their first furniture p...
While siphoning gas is normally associated with nefarious activities, there are many aboveboard reasons to learn this...
A good sandblaster can make many tough jobs—including restoring antique cars, returning concrete to like-new conditio...
Lawn clippings, dead leaves, and other organic matter are important fuel for a yard, fertilizing it naturally and ens...
Step stools are handy for almost any task that involves reaching up high, from accessing the top cabinet in the kitch...
From fixing leaky pipes to unclogging a toilet, some DIY repairs can make you sweat bullets when they go wrong. And, ...
While just about any snow blower can remove snow from a paved driveway or sidewalk, not all are suitable for use on a...
When you move into an older home, it's not uncommon to find at least one window painted shut. Wood windows add plenty...
A standard rake will suffice for raking up autumn leaves, but collecting pine needles that have gathered on the groun...
Q: Our new home has a whole-house water softener installed. The previous owners only lived here for a few years and a...
While it’s great for setting the mood in a horror movie, the sound of a squeaking hinge can be downright irritating. ...
One of the most overlooked parts of a bathroom sink is the sink plug; this is because many people don’t understand th...
Whether you need to create a watertight seal between a bathtub and tile, seal a leak around a window, or give a finis...
Weeds spread rapidly across gardens, choking out desirable plants, sucking nutrients from the soil, and blocking the ...
It's August, which probably means that—depending where you live and whether you have air conditioning—you're spending...
Some turfgrass types wilt at the first sign of temperatures higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, drought, or salty sea...
Whether you already have an above-ground pool in your backyard or are looking to set one up soon, it’s important to k...
Most homeowners and DIYers like the idea of getting more than one use out of their tools. It can help them justify a ...
Large properties and big projects often call for machines that can handle heavy duties. Jobs like cutting acres of gr...
Lawn mowers have gone through numerous changes since the invention of manual push mowers, and larger, more powerful m...
While moths aren’t a dangerous creepy-crawly to find in a home, they can be destructive, so it’s worth preventing or ...
Most folks enjoy a well-manicured lawn with its deep green and lush texture. However, keeping a lawn looking that goo...
July’s longer days and warmer weather mean there's plenty of good reason to be outside, and no shortage of tasks to t...
Pushing a lawn mower can be great exercise, but not everyone wants to spend every Saturday morning mowing a large yar...
Nothing says summer like the sound of lawn mowers powering up. The long-standing ritual of keeping lawns neatly trimm...
While certain home repairs require a professional, many maintenance tasks can be handled on your own. Learning these basic skills will help you become a more self...
Q: I just moved into a new home with a pool in the backyard. I have never had my own pool and am new to all the neces...
Curb appeal matters when you’re selling your house, but it can also be a point of pride. The same is true of the cond...
While riding lawn mowers and walk-behind lawn mowers may make up the bulk of grass-cutting machines found in resident...
A common problem encountered by many homeowners is finding that their lawn mower engine won’t start when they try to ...
Sharpening a chainsaw once meant working on the chain’s individual teeth by hand. Today’s best chainsaw sharpeners ar...
For lawn-care professionals, commercial zero-turn mowers are essential pieces of heavy-duty equipment that can cut gr...
When you have a large yard, mowing the lawn can consume an outsize portion of a weekend. Push mowers and walk behinds...
When caring for a large property, it pays to become familiar with zero-turn mowers. In the old days, a lawn tractor w...
Every summer across the nation, homeowners vie for their neighborhood's lushest lawn, but it's no simple task. It req...
DIY projects can keep home maintenance costs low, but it’s important to only tackle jobs you have the knowledge, expe...
Although it is possible to use a brush and manual vacuum to clean your pool, it's not a task many pool owners have th...
When it comes to gluing rubber to rubber or a variety of diverse substrates, the project’s success depends on selecti...
Construction can be brutal on the body. Beyond the heavy lifting and repetitive motions involved, time spent kneeling...
Having a beautiful outdoor space is not just for looks—studies have shown that plants can provide big health benefits...
While you can bag those lawn clippings to create a clean-looking yard, a smarter option is to use a mulching lawn mow...
Pulling an errant dandelion here and there isn't a big deal, but when multiple weeds appear, they can quickly multipl...
Steel Wool, Still Going StrongA tool that’s now commonplace in the modern home, steel wool came about somewhat by acc...
Q: I am renovating most of my bathroom, but I’m not changing the shower tiles or bathtub. However, the caulk lines be...
In some homes, the water from the washing machine drains into a septic system that treats the wastewater. A septic-sa...
Q: We are a military family, and we are buying a new home. Our real estate agent has advised that a home warranty wou...
Dryer vent cleaning kits contain brushes, necks, or vacuum attachments that snake their way into the tight spaces of ...
The garage is a convenient place to keep a lot of your clutter, but some household items are best stowed somewhere else.
Q: We were encouraged to buy a home warranty during the home buying process, but we didn’t really understand how it w...
Q: I’m so excited to be buying my first home, but I’ve watched friends run up huge credit card bills paying for expen...
Despite the variety of options available, sprinkler valves serve one very simple purpose: They regulate water flow. S...
Walmart has officially partnered with Angi, which has a network of 250,000 professionals in nearly every ZIP code in ...
Q: We’re looking at a home with some older appliances, and the home inspector recommended we think about a home warra...
Q: We thought we would have more time before our HVAC system needed to be replaced. On a recent annual service call, ...
With these clever products on hand, DIYers can fix plumbing, carpentry, and a host of other household problems.
Home maintenance is never ending. Instead of getting overwhelmed by all there is to do, use this handy guide for figuring out the best time of year to cross key t...
DIY automotive maintenance and repair is easier than you might think—and it will save you a bundle, to boot. Often th...
Inflation—a steady uptick in prices for goods and services, and the corresponding dip of our purchasing power—is high...
Whether you’ll be traveling for work or taking a fun vacation, hiring a house sitter is a good idea. House sitters ca...
Plants get nearly all the sustenance they need from water and sunlight, but since houseplants live in containers, the...
A good lawn mower is crucial for maintaining a lush, well-manicured lawn. With so many options and brands to choose f...
While furry rodent invaders can strike pretty much anywhere, people living in warmer climates face another kind of th...
There probably aren’t too many folks who would choose to spend a beautiful autumn afternoon cleaning gutters. The nas...
The main purpose of guttering is to channel rainwater away from the home and prevent it from damaging the foundation ...
Many homeowners hope to have a verdant, well-manicured lawn that makes them the envy of the neighborhood. While prope...
The pandemic caused most of us to spend more time at home than we ever have, and for some—especially those with young...
Homeowners envisioning the fall may picture swaths of crimson and gold against a blue sky, pumpkins, kids in Hallowee...
While the days are still long and the temps are soaring, preparing a home for the coming winter is the last thing on ...
Leaving the simplest around-the-house repairs undone can cost you big when the appraiser comes around. Here's how to show your home in the best light and score a ...
A home’s gutter system is designed to protect the roof, siding, and foundation from water damage and the accumulation...
On a hot summer day, lawn sprinklers are a common sight, dispersing water for grass to stay healthy and for children ...
Whether it’s inflating a flat tire, bumping up the pressure on a mountain bike, or inflating a pool float, having a p...
Q: I’m house-hunting for the first time, and I’ve noticed that some listings note that they include a home warranty. ...
When it comes to protecting your home’s foundation and keeping your basement dry, gutters play a vital role. Gutters ...
Crawl spaces are dark and dusty, and air quality isn’t always at its finest. If the humidity level climbs (which it o...
You might think of yourself as pretty handy around the house. You can build your own shed foundation, you’ve mastered...
Attaining a beautifully manicured lawn that impresses the neighbors is the dream of many property owners, but this ac...
A well-maintained lawn tractor can function reliably for many years, but its battery—the part responsible for startin...
There’s nothing like the look of a marble shower in a bathroom or a marble countertop in a kitchen—unless, of course,...
When it comes to blowing leaves and other yard debris, you need lots of airflow. While gas-powered blowers excel in t...
Lawn maintenance is a tough job, so having a reliable, low-maintenance lawn mower is a must-have. We recently tested ...
Slow growing and semi shade tolerant, centipede grass is known throughout the South as “the lazy man’s grass. ” Growi...
Plants need light, oxygen, water, and a growing medium that meets their nutritional needs. Commercial and natural fer...
There comes an unfortunate time in the life of a deck owner when it becomes apparent that a beloved backyard party sp...
The best polyurethane provides a durable, attractive finish that comes in several formulas, including oil-based, wate...
Concrete is an incredibly stable and durable material. While versions of cement are millennia old, modern hydraulic c...
Whether on well water or city water, many households struggle with hard water—which can cause scaling and clogged wat...
Over the last couple of years, we've tested more than 30 lawn mowers and found these eight push lawn mowers to be the...
Having a nice, cool pool to dive into on a hot day is a great benefit, but pool ownership comes with a list of mainte...
While traditional water heaters remain the best choice for some, tankless models save space and can help reduce month...
Choosing the best well water filtration system for clean drinking water doesn’t have to be difficult. It’s easier whe...
When it comes to truck or SUV maintenance, everything is bigger. Tires, brakes, suspension, and even oil filters are ...
Hot water is a basic requirement, but the range of tank-based and tankless systems now available can make choosing th...
Manually raking leaves is often a laborious chore. You can make it an easier and faster process by using a leaf blowe...
Muriatic acid, a less-pure variant of hydrochloric acid, is available in high concentrations for use in a host of hom...
Weeds and other invasive plants can wreak havoc on a yard or garden, but many people are understandably wary about tr...
Gas pressure washer models can be much more effective than their electric counterparts on tough stains, cleaning larg...
Stubborn weeds are the bane of a beautiful lawn. Yet, although it’s pretty stubborn, clover (aka Trifolium repens) is...
Keep your home in top shape by tackling these tasks every month.
An outdoor deck sees lots of traffic. Muddy shoes, spilled food, and wet dogs can leave it dirty, stained, and smelly...
Not everyone enjoys mowing the lawn. Riding lawn mowers reduce mow time, improve comfort, and offer an abundance of o...
Expanding foam is a flexible product with a wide range of applications, including waterproofing, fireproofing, and in...
Weed management is rarely at the top of anyone’s list of desirable to-dos. Bending over and pulling weeds is a lot of...
Electric mowers are quickly becoming an eco-friendly and efficient alternative to their gas-powered counterparts. Not...
Mowing the lawn spruces up a yard, but it’s the finishing touches that take a lawn from fine to fantastic—and there a...
Hardwood floor refinishing and sanding is unforgiving work. Make a mistake, and it will show. However, a refinished f...
Water leaks are incredibly common, with over 2. 5 million homeowners experiencing one yearly. Not only do water leaks...
Shoes, like many common clothing items, can range widely in price, durability, and purpose, but when you find a pair ...
Whether you’re switching from gas-powered to green or buying your first cordless electric mower, battery-powered lawn...
A version of this story originally appeared on The Drive. BobVila. com is partnering with The Drive to share syndicat...
Grease guns are used in a variety of applications—from automotive garages to household tool maintenance—to quickly an...
Gas snow blowers are heavy, loud, and difficult to maintain. Electric snow blowers offer a reprieve from the weight a...
Everything degrades over time; metal objects are usually the victims of rust. Fortunately, there are several ways to ...
While most homeowners spend the majority of their time maintaining the ground-level features of their homes, the roof...
Perhaps the least fun part of home ownership is facing unexpected repairs and expenses. Make sure you have the funds set aside to cover these common home fixes.
A crackling fire adds a certain coziness to a home, and ash cleanup is a necessary and typically unpleasant chore. Tr...
Whether you’re an amateur gardener, a flower enthusiast, or you’ve got a yard full of fruits and veggies, a pH meter ...
Beyond traditional mops, spin mops are designed to take the “ick” factor out of wet mopping, eliminating the chore of...
Windows seem to attract water spots, smudges, and smears, making the view outside look like a hazy mess. Immaculate w...
The look and durability of brass has made it popular for generations. It’s in everything from jewelry and ornaments t...
A cracked driveway can be unsightly, plus it can lead to more extensive damage if left untreated. Cracks allow moistu...
Over time, every home’s furniture, walls, and baseboards get nicks and cracks. But, wood fillers help hide the appear...
Mold and mildew growing and shingles peeling away from the roof: These issues are caused by a poorly ventilated attic...
Knife sharpeners are an efficiency multiplier, with the best electric knife sharpeners breathing new life into old kn...
From tucking away totes on top shelves in the closet to cutting in paint edges along the top of a wall, a step ladder...
Move over, duct tape, there’s another tape that has nearly as many uses. Double-sided tape can be used to adhere any ...
Granite is an investment. It’s costly, and, in fact, it may be the most expensive feature in the kitchen or bathroom....
Nowadays, the idea of converting the garage into a second living space or personal sanctuary (i. e. , guest bedroom, ...
Indoors and out, concrete lasts longer and performs better with some protection—which is what today’s concrete sealer...
Silicone spray is typically seen as a lubricant for noisy door hinges. But users can also use silicone spray on car h...
In the never-ending quest to keep kitchens clean and tidy, there’s a huge selection of cleansers on the market, inclu...
Leather is one of the most durable fabrics around, so it’s often found in both car interiors and home furnishings. Le...
Foraging deer can cause major damage to home gardens. These adorable woodland critters can ravage your yard by munchi...
The best paver sealers help lock stones in place, limit erosion inside joints, repel stains, and keep the pavers look...
Use these techniques to ready your home, garden, car, and family for whatever winter brings.
Few sights are as lovely as the red and gold hues of falling leaves, but when you must rake them and bag them—often m...
A pool pump circulates chemicals through pool water and filters out impurities and cloudiness. With a quality pool pu...
If your house could talk, it would tell you that spending a little money now on small repairs could save you big bucks down the road. We’ve put together 20 of the...
No amount of candy corn can make up for the moment you realize that your carefully carved pumpkin’s smile has turned ...
Basements are subject to flooding because they’re below grade. If water trickles in, it has no place to go. Many base...
While some home repairs certainly require a pro, these home hiccups can be resolved on your own. Easy to do and only requiring a few minutes of your time, knock o...
When shopping for a new vacuum cleaner, the range of products from just one brand like Shark can be staggering, so we...
An electric pressure washer is an excellent piece of equipment because it produces dramatic cleaning results. It can ...
From closing down the deck and garden to making sure your heating system is working, there’s plenty to be done in the autumn months. Which tasks will you take on ...
Most drivers have looked down at their dashboard and noticed a warning light indicating a tire with low pressure. If ...
For yards larger than a half acre, a push lawn mower just doesn’t cut it. Walk-behind lawn mowers are simply too smal...
For homeowners, DIYers, and renters concerned about rat infestations or prevention, the best rat poison can take care...
If you don’t have gutter guards to prevent clogs from fallen leaves, cleaning your gutters is a necessary (and messy)...
A good sump pump is invaluable in times of flooding or to prevent mildew. Sump pumps reside in a pit below the baseme...
Think you know how much your house is worth? Before being disappointed with low offers, make sure your house is in tip-top shape. Scroll through to see what parts...
Improvements in rechargeable battery tech and intelligent software have dramatically changed the way we live. Smart t...
While the striking colors of turning leaves may look nice, after the leaves drop, they make a mess in your yard. Inst...
Anyone who has ever knelt on a hard surface will likely know the sheer discomfort and the extreme awkwardness of mane...
Handy outdoor power tools make quick work of tackling overgrown weeds and grass, giving the yard a tidy look and trim...
Brush cutters easily grind through tall, overgrown fields; up steep hillsides; and into deep ditches where regular la...
From swatting mosquitoes around the campfire to batting away blackflies on the lake, insects can really put a damper ...
Pool ownership is a popular dream, but pools can be tough to maintain. Fortunately, aquatics aficionados can keep the...
Drill bits aren't cheap, but they do seem to dull quickly. Whether you're drilling through dense hardwood or hardened...
How much do you pay for electricity each month? Whatever the answer, you probably wouldn't mind having a lower electric bill. The good news is, there are many sim...
Protect your health while buying DIY project materials with these no-contact shopping strategies. Whether or not you live in an area that’s been hit hard by Covid...
We have mowed dozens of acres of grass with more than 30 lawn mowers, including self-propelled mowers, so we've seen ...
Termites are elusive pests that can quickly form colonies in a home before showing significant signs of infestation. ...
Ignore these maintenance issues that need immediate attention and you may have a bigger, and more expensive, problem on your hands.
Bed bugs (cimex lectularius) are tiny insects that feed on human blood, hiding in blankets, sheets, mattresses, and m...
Septic tanks bring wastewater from the home into a tank, where active bacteria dissolves and consumes waste, effectiv...
Some people handle sudden and unexpected encounters with serpents surprisingly well, while others—not so much. Most h...
Water softening systems prevent common problems with water, including chalky deposits of calcium carbonate, called li...
Controlling flies may seem like an impossible battle. They reproduce quickly, and they’re extremely challenging to el...
The string in your weed trimmer head can have a big impact on weekly yard work. Using the wrong string causes constan...
When life gets busy, lawn maintenance is just one more thing on the laundry list of to-dos we often struggle to squee...
Small home annoyances are sometimes indicators of a bigger structural problem. Learn to recognize the signs of these maintenance issues that need to get addressed...
The last thing any homeowner (or renter) wants is to come home to a kitchen floor flooded by a leaking dishwasher, or a house that's sweltering because the AC sto...
Unlike standard mower blades, mulching lawn mower blades are designed to push grass clippings into the bagger with mo...
Lawns over half an acre give you plenty of space to play and lounge in the great outdoors. However, when it’s time to...
Getting your house shipshape doesn’t always mean running to the home improvement center to load up on supplies. Many DIY maintenance tasks, home repairs, and othe...
Be prepared for the unexpected by keeping these important professionals in your contacts. You never know when you're going to need them!
Keeping a lawn looking great means weeding frequently and fertilizing at the right times of the year. If the lawn loo...
Keep yourself and your home safe and looking great by moving these projects outside.
“Don’t go looking for trouble” is an adage most homeowners can relate to, particularly when it comes to plumbing. Aft...
A backyard deck can be the perfect platform for good times, but a wooden surface needs a proper sealant to protect it...
When the weather is great and cookout fans are calling, the last thing you may want to worry about is whether your gr...
Maintaining your countertops may require more than a simple cleaning. Here are top tips for maintaining every material.
A typical yard rake is a sturdy, long-handled tool with a triangular fan-shaped head that’s split into multiple tines...
Landscapers and lumberjacks, whether pros or DIYers, need reliable chainsaws for maintenance, cleanup, and cutting fi...
Basic as they are, screwdrivers are not a one-size-fits-all tool, nor does one type of screwdriver fit all situations...
Whether your yard is large or small, minimally landscaped or filled with flower beds, one of the easiest ways to tame...
Even when the sun is shining, you may not get the maximum amount of natural light in your home if your windows are co...
Harmful bacteria can multiply in the home at an alarming rate, which may place family members at a higher risk of ill...
In order to stay healthy and look their best, trees need occasional pruning to remove broken branches and to thin out...
Whether they crop up on your lawn, in a flower bed, in gravel areas, or between cracks in paved pathways, weeds are t...
Compost is like a multivitamin for your soil. Made of thoroughly decayed organic material used as a fertilizer, it en...
Though broadly related to leaf blowers, leaf vacuums operate in the opposite direction. While leaf blowers disperse l...
Several decades ago, you had two options when it came to mowing your lawn: a manual reel-type mower that took major m...
Upholding basic sanitary practices to ensure the health of your home calls for regular toilet bowl cleaning. While th...
Don't procrastinate any longer. The annoying house problems you live with are easier to fix than you realize. After you cross these repairs off your to-do list yo...
The phrase “septic system” in a home listing is notorious for scaring away potential buyers. Some home buyers may see...
To do a thorough job of spring home maintenance and cleaning, follow these easy and smart routines.
If you’re like many homeowners, your house is your single largest financial investment, so it’s only natural to protect that investment and hope it gains in value...
Every industry has jargon that is known to the pros and Greek to everyone else. If you're embarking on a renovation, though, you should take a little time to pick...
Fierce winds, low temps, and heavy snow spells trouble for your house. Learn how winter weather negatively impacts your home and what you can do to minimize the d...
With many of today's tools running on powerful, long-lasting batteries, DIYers aren't limited by the length of a cord...
Hedges establish boundaries in landscaping, add privacy, and benefit curb appeal, but to look their best, they need s...
Many homeowners jump at the chance to do their own home maintenance and repairs—after all, who doesn’t want to save money? While plenty of projects are DIY-friend...
Think twice before sending anything down your garbage disposal.
Quiet in operation, simple to maintain, and largely affordable, reel lawn mowers can be smart options for yard mainte...
Plumbing is one of those things that we don’t really think about—until, of course, it starts to fail. Although some plumbing mishaps are out of our control, other...
Applying a high-quality, long-lasting grout sealer is one of the best ways to protect tile installations from water, ...
Hardwood flooring gets acclaim for its natural beauty, but it requires varying degrees of attention to maintain its g...
Owning a home is usually a good investment, but buying one can be a huge financial risk if you're not prepared for the costs that come with ownership—costs that r...
Winter is no time for hibernating from chores. In fact, there are plenty of important maintenance tasks that all homeowners need to take care of to keep their hou...
Even animal lovers should take active steps to get rid of mice because they can carry bacteria, which in turn can inf...
When I lived in a New York City apartment building, I never thought about shoveling snow. We had a wonderful superint...
Now that winter's nearly here, it's time for a pop quiz: You wake up in the morning and there's ice on the dog's wate...
When weather stations predict frigid temperatures and record snowfall, concerns rise that roofs may not make it the f...
To avoid maintenance misfortunes, it's important that you prep your house for winter. Certain spots might be obvious—like cleaning the gutters—but chances are you...
There are a lot of steps you can take to improve your home’s energy efficiency, and there is a lot you can do to damage it too. Make the most of your energy spend...
Fall brings football games, hot apple cider, pumpkin carving, and other seasonal delights. But for homeowners with de...
Here's how to tell whether a strange odor inside your home is hazardous to your health, or an easy fix.
Q: My wife and I recently bought a fixer-upper home, and are doing a lot of the repairs ourselves. Some of the projec...
Every year, fall reintroduces us to a raft of pleasures like no other season—hot apple cider, pumpkin carving, and so...
Wood furniture is beautiful, but it’s not impervious to the wear and tear of everyday life. To retain their looks, ne...
Dust bunnies are multiplying, dog hair is piling up, and allergies are worsening—oh my, it must be the furnace filter...
As days get shorter and the weather gets colder, we retreat indoors to the warmth of our homes and hearths. If you ha...
End-of-summer chores at the shore aren’t much fun, but will prevent leaks, smells, and pests in the long run. Follow our checklist for what needs to be done befor...
Your under-sink workhorse doesn't need strict maintenance to continue out its duties—only sensible care. You probably...
Find the right pro for every household chore—big, small, majorly messy, or just plain pesky! This content is paid advertising created in partnership with Thu...
Q: Lately, I notice a musty smell whenever I go into my basement. What’s causing the odor and most how do I get rid o...
Hardly anyone’s home looks magazine-worthy all the time, but if you’ve noticed that your home is looking a little dingy or rough around the edges, it may be time ...
Building materials and water don’t mix. Insulation, wood studs, plywood sheathing, and subflooring can all degrade, rot, or develop mold when they’re repeatedly s...
Are you moving into a new place and need help getting things done? Or maybe you’re ready for a design refresh, but you’re not sure where to start? These 10 compan...
Summertime, and the livin’ is easy! But don't let the days just drift by. Now that the sun is shining, home improvement projects beckon. How many of these tasks a...
It’s a truth universally acknowledged that a homeowner who wants to get a home project done will inevitably encounter storm clouds and rainy days. But just becaus...
Your home should be your refuge from the world—the place where you can feel the most safe and secure. Unfortunately, almost half of all accidental injuries happen...
Gutters, those unsung heroes of home exteriors, collect rainwater from the roof and divert it away from the house, thereby staving off water damage to the structu...
Your home’s exterior should be beautiful and inviting, not constantly in need of repairs. As well, your time spent outdoors should be relaxing, not full of weeken...
On television, home improvement projects go from start to finish in 60 minutes or less. The good news is, you don’t need to spend a lot of time to spruce up your ...
Durable, easy to clean, and available in many colors and shapes, it's easy to see why tile is such a popular option for kitchen backsplashes, bathroom walls, and ...
Show of hands: Which one of you has just poured bacon grease right out of the pan down into the sink? Or dumped a pot’s worth of used coffee grounds down the drai...
Plumbing problems can run the gamut from very minor and fixable to major and costly, and at times it can be tough to tell the difference. Sometimes you may not ev...
For many of us, area rugs are a significant investment in decor. They warm up and add color to our rooms. They provid...
Gleaming and shiny, stainless steel brings a bright and polished air to any kitchen. Keeping that brilliant sheen, ho...
Paint prep is a necessary but sometimes tedious step, and some types of paint prep are easier than others. On a piece...
You don’t have to spend a fortune to make your home look great. If you think it's time for a few improvements but you’re not prepared to pay thousands of dollars ...
Keep the cold out, the heat in, and your energy bill down with these cost-effective tips for winterizing your home.
Most Americans think of water as basically “wet” and don’t consider its other attributes. But many residential water users have had to confront one of water's les...
When it comes to basic home improvement projects, the key concerns for many homeowners are time and budget. Well, here are 10 simple repairs that keep both effort...
More things trouble homeowners than what goes “bump in the night.” Here are eight dangerous problems you'll want to avoid—or swiftly remedy.
As the days grow shorter and your thoughts turn to tailgating and football games, it’s easy to forget that your home needs a little TLC before Old Man Winter come...
Are you spending more money than necessary to maintain and run your car? We're compiled a list of 14 common auto maintenance practices that are real money-wasters...
Steel wool, now commonplace in the modern home, came about somewhat by accident. It is believed that 19th-century mechanics used to gather up the metal waste shav...
Wondering why your water smells funny, tastes bad, or stains your plumbing fixtures, cookware, dishes and laundry? Read on!
Nearly every room in the house provides an opportunity to save money—if you know what to do. Check out our favorite cost-saving tips for your home, ranging from c...
Most folks don’t give their home’s driveway apron a second thought unless they’re installing a new driveway or repair...
Things with “French” in the title are usually fancy, right? Poodles, perfume, pastries. But a French drain is nothing...
Q: I have a gas lawn mower and a gas generator, and I worry that the gas in those tanks has been in there too long. D...
Preserve one of your biggest kitchen investments—those luxurious-looking countertops—by following the advice from the pros who put them in. This post has bee...
The seemingly endless cycle of summer yard maintenance often motivates homeowners to think about buying a new lawn mo...
Most of us take electricity for granted, fully expecting that the outlets, wiring, extension cords, and power strips in our homes will operate safely and reliably...
Is there any experience more satisfying than finding a good deal? With the cost of living on the increase, getting a good bargain is more important than ever. Whi...
Nothing spoils a lazy Saturday like a list full of chores. The only way to avoid a weekend cleaning spree is to space out the work and tidy up throughout the week...
With warmer temperatures finally on their way, we all want to kick back and have fun. But between heavy-duty spring cleaning inside the house and all the accumula...
So, you think your house is clean? Well… you might have to think again! If you’re like most people, there are areas that you never even think about cleaning, unli...
Plagued by excess moisture and lack of ventilation, bathrooms are especially susceptible to mildew. The fungus typically appears on walls, tile, or grout, and it ...
Q: Recently, I’ve noticed a vague sulfur smell in my house. It comes and goes, and I’m not sure where it’s coming fro...
Don’t wait until spring has actually sprung to get ready for the change of seasons. As milder weather approaches and you await the return to outdoor living, there...
Stopped-up drain? Overflowing toilet? For these and many more plumbing repairs, homeowners reach for the plunger—a tr...
Is it OK to burn charcoal indoors? Does it matter what kind of wood you throw on the fire? Read on to learn which materials have no place in your fireplace.
Leaving these items in a cold car could ruin them—or your car's interior.
Perhaps the most important work surface in the home, the kitchen countertop is built to withstand food preparation, regular cleaning, pesky stains, and more. But ...
Americans may think they know all there is to know about cars—after all, the automobile is deeply ingrained in our culture—but when it comes to conserving fuel, m...
Everyone makes mistakes—especially in the course of owning and maintaining a home: One wrong turn and a seeming straightforward job can turn into a money pit proj...
While some home improvement and maintenance projects require professional help, others are easy enough to do yourself. But most homeowners can’t get through a DIY...
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “the United States enjoys one of the world's most reliable and safest supplies of drinking water.” Occasionally,...
‘Ever wonder how long your water heater will last? Well, that depends on quite a few factors. CM_BVNOTES-1802-4Listen...
While homeownership undeniably comes with plenty of expenses, there’s no reason to spend more than you have to. If your home seems more like a money pit than an a...
What's on your home improvement or maintenance to-do list for 2018? Rather than rushing to complete your projects all at once, try taking on a handful each season...
Preventive maintenance is key to keeping your car working well, but it's important to do it right. Here are 7 common car care mistakes you’re probably making and ...
The average freezer lasts 10 to 15 years before you need to replace it. If yours is only a few years old and still no...
At first, the idea of cleaning a dishwasher, an appliance that fills with suds and water on an almost daily basis, ma...
A roll of duct tape can be found in almost every toolbox in the world, thanks to its versatility, accessibility, and ...
You can probably recite your home’s square footage, your property's acreage, and your community's school district—but do you know your neighborhood's noise policy...
We all know the feeling. You spend time, money, and energy choosing just the right sofa. And then—what’s that spot?! Here are seven surprising ways you may be dam...
Winter is coming. That means ice, snow, and cold mornings that make you want to never get out of bed. Are you ready?...
Q: I’m replacing the heating element in my electric water heater. The wires running to the element are black and whit...
Out of sight, out of mind: If your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system has recently been operating well...
The month of October is full of autumnal joys like rust-colored leaves, Halloween preparations, and crisp, cool air. ...
Laminate flooring has been a popular floor choice since its invention in the late ’70s. With a typical lifespan of 15...
Does your yard contain slopes, dips, and inclines? Then you likely have a retaining wall somewhere on your property. ...
Q: I just noticed a crack in my ceiling, but I’m not sure how long it’s been there. Is it a normal symptom of an agin...
Do you spend countless happy hours on your wood deck every summer? Then why not give it the same love and attention y...
Characterized by its showy, star-shaped foliage, English ivy (Hedera helix) might seem a fine choice for landscaping ...
From laminate flooring to your HVAC system, many big-ticket home items are backed by warranties. These guarantees offer peace of mind to consumers making a large ...
Q: I recently noticed some water stains on the ceiling of my living room. I'm not sure where they came from, but the ...
Though often overlooked, air conditioner filters are responsible for a mighty important job: keeping dust, dirt, and ...
The naturally distressed patina of brick adds to its desirability indoors and out, but too much dirt accumulation can...
These quick upgrades don't require expert-level skills (or a big bankroll) to complete, but they can make a big impact on your home's potential—and your quality o...
This article has been brought to you by DRYLOK. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. As homeowners, we a...
Some people hate their floors and long for a new look. Others love theirs but can't abide their minor imperfections: a scratch, dent, or loose tile. Whatever your...
From powering vehicles and generators to garden tools, gasoline makes our world go around. But unused remnants of the...
You may notice condensation on the inside of your windows and figure it's nothing worry to about. Believe it or not, ...
Flexible and versatile, this inexpensive material can prevent more expensive home issues down the road.
Whether you promptly take care of all household chores or (like the rest of us!) tend to let certain tasks slide, you probably dread particular duties that requir...
You’ve got your home care routine down—but a few of your go-tos might be doing more harm than good, losing you money and even damaging your possessions. Here are ...
Clogs, squeaks, leaks, and other minor disasters strike even the most well-maintained homes. But you don’t necessarily need a professional handyman to cure what a...
Winter storms sometimes have a way of sneaking up on us. If that happens, and you get another surprise—no ice melt on...
Keeping up with the Joneses can be a frustrating and fruitless pursuit…but what if those enviable neighbors are saving money, supporting a cleaner environment, an...
It’s a law of nature and of home-owning: whatever can go wrong, eventually will. With a bit of preparedness and forethought, though, damage from household mishaps...
Some of the most gorgeous, long-lasting pieces of furniture, cabinetry, and trim work are crafted from wood, the worl...
When the cold weather kicks in, many homeowners find themselves snowed under by a host of holiday to-dos. Whether you...
It’s entirely possible to remove paint from tile, whether you’re simply hoping to banish some accidental splatters or...
Is autumn your favorite time of year? If you said yes, that's probably because you relish the beauty of boldly colored foliage and the invigorating energy of cris...
Concrete is tough stuff but over time, environmental exposure and wear-and-tear almost inevitably lead to cracks and ...
As the days grow shorter and the heat of summer eases into autumn, it’s tempting to just kick back, relax, and enjoy ...
Q: My windows consistently gather condensation on the inside. I wipe them down, but the moisture keeps coming back. H...
Fall means many things to many people. Some look forward to football season. Others relish apples and pumpkins and all the other autumn harvest delights. However,...
Day after day, largely unnoticed, gutters perform a critically important role by channeling storm water and snowmelt a safe distance away from your home. At least...
While you were on summer vacation, your home was hard at work battling the elements. After enduring intense heat or s...
The next time you're making a grocery list, be sure to add cleaners to your must-buys. Only on this trip to the store, you'll never have to set foot in the commer...
How much does it cost to create a happy home? If your answer is thousands or even hundreds, think again. Each of these 20 DIY projects can transform your humble h...
Over the course of millennia, builders have used everything from animal horns to whiskey in the making of stucco—an a...
With Labor Day behind us, fall will be here sooner than we know—and with it will come chilly temperatures and harsh, blustery winds. Is your home ready for the ch...
The do-it-yourself ethos is one we heartily applaud. Most services provided by home maintenance pros aren't cheap, so taking care of small fixes on your own can s...
Quartz. Quartzite. The names sound alike. But although both of these popular countertop materials are derived from th...
Q: I’ve noticed a rotten smell coming from my bathroom lately and can’t figure out the source. Do you have any idea w...
Why does it seem like the times you really need a plumber are late at night, early in the morning, or on weekends, when fees can cost twice as much as normal. Cha...
For construction professionals and homeowners alike, concrete offers many appealing qualities, but there may be none ...
Summertime is here! Yet while school is out for the kids, for their home-owning parents, the seasonal job of maintain...
Humans have long harnessed the power of machines to help us work better, faster, and smarter. Many of these technologies work in the background of our home, heati...
June ushers in the season of outdoor fun and backyard BBQs—which means it's the perfect time to build a new deck or pest-proof the patio. Yet, as tempting as it m...
Unless the plan is to install a swimming pool in the basement, you probably cringe at the idea of water trickling ben...
Spring may have arrived, but in cold-weather climates, wicked winter isn’t likely to have vanished without a trace. Those frigid temperatures and severe storms ta...
Spring brings blooming flowers and budding trees, but it also brings a long list of home improvement chores that accu...
It's May, which means lawn and garden season is here. As the temps heat up, you may be tempted to pick up a trowel and head outdoors. Before you do, take a look a...
No homeowner wants to be confronted with ripped-up wall coverings as a day-in, day-out reminder of a job not yet fini...
Common knowledge, neighborly advice, old wives’ tales, and “the way my parents did it” all share one important characteristic: Sometimes they're just plain wrong....
How you choose to eradicate weeds depends on your patience, physical abilities, and environmental ethics. You could g...
Lawn care can be tedious, but once the grass starts growing in the spring, mowing becomes a fact of life in most neig...
The pungent odor of mothballs is the very smell of storage. Made from either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, thes...
With cold weather finally on the way out, April offers the opportunity to return to outdoor living. Prep your space for spring and summer by maintaining the home ...
No matter how beneficial massaging hydrotherapy is for your health, a jetted tub can be only as restorative and relax...
Despite its reputation as one of the most rugged building materials ever conceived, even concrete has a sensitive sid...
When most homeowners refer to a "waterbug," they're actually employing a delicate colloquialism for an insect whose m...
It’s not surprising that the couch is the focal point of most living rooms. It’s often one of the largest pieces of furniture, and family and friends alike make a...
You probably don’t think much about the durability of your roof until you absolutely need to. But waiting until a lea...
They enter your home in a myriad of ways: hitching rides on cut flowers, clothing, or pets, or simply flying in throu...
Whether in the form of a windowpane, shower wall, or tabletop, glass serves as a durable and glamorous surface almost...
Even if you’re not an avid cultivator of prized begonias or caretaker of an expensive golf course like Bill Murray’s ...
When faced with the conundrum of how to unclog a garbage disposal, most people would say that the easiest solution is...
Q: Help! We have multiple lights flickering in our house. As far as I know my house isn’t haunted, but I can’t help w...
There’s nothing quite like a steamy shower to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit after a good night’s sleep or a ...
No matter how hard you work to keep your kitchen and bathroom clean, they'll always look dingy if they're plagued by ...
February's here—and that means at least 6 more weeks of winter. That means that now's the time to take care of some end-of-the-season indoor projects. If you're l...
If you are your household's designated bathroom cleaner (or if you pay attention to your surroundings when you're in ...
Cost-conscious, savvy homeowners know that doing the grunt work of home improvement projects cuts spending. It also results in a more beautiful and functional hou...
Even if you keep your bathroom tiles clean, dirty grout lines can really detract from the look of your tiled floors a...
This post has been brought to you by SupplyHouse. com. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Homeowners w...
In preparation for an evening of fun, food, and merriment with family and friends, you’ve planned and cooked and clea...
Starting or ending a long day with a weak shower is pretty unsatisfying, if not downright frustrating. When other aro...
When your sink or shower drain gets clogged, it's pretty easy to figure out the cause. The perp is usually a disgusti...
You know the story: After cooking a big meal—especially after doing so several times a week, for months—splattered gr...
The final month of the year is also one of the busiest. Between winter prep, holiday festivities, and end of year organizing, there's much to be done. This list o...
Did you know the average American family washes eight loads of laundry a week? That translates to more than 400 loads...
Though you don't live in the tropics, the most humid days might make you feel like you do. That dampness is not only ...
Holiday entertaining is getting underway, and gracious hosts everywhere are busy cleaning, shopping, decorating, craf...
You set out a drop cloth and meticulously lined the wall trim with painter’s tape, but you still ended up with a litt...
Time never seems to be on our side, and it can especially work against us in the case of certain home repairs. A suspicious water spot on the ceiling, a slight cr...
Don't do what these homeowners did! Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and design disasters before you begin your next DIY renovation.
Don't let the name fool you: Silverfish are nothing like the goldfish you nurtured as pets in your childhood bedroom....
Streaky mirrors are common problems for even the most conscientious housekeeper. Sometimes, no matter how carefully y...
All major appliances are subject to general wear and tear, and that means they will eventually break down and need to be replaced. But we don’t have to help them ...
We all start autumn bright-eyed and optimistic, eager to pick apples, gaze at the stars, or watch the leaves change c...
You might like the look of moss on your roof, thinking the soft, green fuzz adds a bit of rustic charm to your curb a...
This article has been brought to you by UGL. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. For the last 50 years ...
The dog days of summer are long gone, and fall is finally here. Although the season's crisp temperatures and colorful leaves are enjoyable, they are also a signal...
It's a cruel fact: Those factors that make home exterior siding so crucial are the same ones that undermine its performance over the long term. In other words, in...
Stucco is a wonderfully versatile wall treatment—durable, weather-resistant, and attractive. It's been used in countl...
October brings cooler temperatures to much of the country, which makes it a busy time of year for weekend warriors. There's much to do, from winterizing the yard ...
Powered hedge trimmers are a tremendous time-saver for any homeowner who prefers to handle his own landscaping. But i...
Congratulations, you’re officially a homeowner! But along with the new address comes a new set of responsibilities, including some you may not even know about. Th...
After a long and hot summer, many homeowners are enjoying the cooler temperatures of autumn. While it may be a welcome relief, the chill in the air carries a sobe...
Hopping into a hot and steamy shower only to notice that the water is pooling around your feet makes for a rough way ...
Window air conditioners: We turn to them in the dog days of summer, turn them off when the weather cools down, and fo...
With summer winding down and autumn on the horizon, September is the perfect month to perform crucial maintenance tasks, keep the yard in order, and kick clutter ...
All good things must come to an end, and that goes for summer too. On a blistering August afternoon, cold weather may seem like an almost inconceivably remote pro...
No matter whether you use muscle or a motor to open and shut your garage door, it's going to need TLC every so often ...
A green, moss-covered roof may make you think you’ve wandered into a fairy tale, complete with a quaint little woodcu...
Has it been a while since your last home improvement project? If your do-it-yourself skills are a little rusty, chanc...
We're well into the dog days of summer, and as temperatures (and energy bills) soar, there are plenty of household chores to tackle—both indoors and out. This mon...
When it comes to putting your house on the market, you spend much of your time considering how to stage your rooms to...
With the summer season nearing its peak, chances are that your lawn mower would benefit from a bit of mid-season TLC....
Look at any flat roof and, along the edges, you're likely to see a special type of flashing—the drip edge. Though not...
Even the most experienced homeowners can get sucked into spending a lot of money on maintenance costs or home improvements that just don’t deliver. For those who ...
Longer days and warmer weather mean there's so much more to enjoy. But you may also find there's more to do around the house at this time of year. Help yourself t...
As pretty as woodpeckers are to observe in your backyard or garden, these noisy birds can cause major damage to your ...
Dreams of the summer season tend to focus on long, lazy days spent reading the latest bestsellers, napping in the rope hammock, or watching white clouds drift acr...
Does the water coming out of your faucet look a bit like the Mississippi River after a rainstorm? There are at least ...
There's no disagreement here: Concrete ranks among the most durable, longest-lasting of all building materials. That ...
Think your wood siding needs a fresh coat of paint? Maybe. Or it could be that your wood clapboard, lap, or shingle s...
When you're trying to maintain a home, there's just too much to keep track of. Something always needs cleaning, replacing, or updating, making it easy to forget t...
Looking forward to a staycation, or a blissfully commitment-free Sunday? The backyard hammock or patio lounger may be calling your name. But if you want to add a ...
Everyone makes mistakes, even when it comes to the responsibilities of homeownership. No matter how conscientious you are, you may be leaving your home vulnerable...
Your lawn mower has more in common with a race car than you might think. To stay in top working order, both require t...
"Just paint it!" That's the motto for many DIYers when they're unhappy with the lamp, dresser, doors, hardware. . . y...
In an alternative universe—in a world with neither vehicles nor inclement weather—your concrete driveway might never lose its pristine, freshly poured look. But i...
Grilling season is back, and not a minute too soon! To avoid any unpleasant surprises on your inaugural cookout, give...
Used for cutting paper, cardboard, fabric, string, price tags, plastic packaging—that list goes on—those scissors in ...
May is a practically perfect month for home improvement. Across much of the country, the mild weather makes it just as feasible to work on the outside of your hom...
Winters put backyard decks to the test. If yours emerged from the ravages of the season worse for wear, take heart. Today, the floorboards may be weathered and th...
The joys of homeownership are many—as are the little everyday challenges. The occasional leak or break is bound to happen, but there's no reason why these minor ...
Because they remain outdoors for a good portion of the year, patio cushions weather plenty of dirt and debris. Bird d...
If a few of the pavers in your patio or driveway have begun to sag, don't fret—there’s an easy, DIY-friendly fix. Her...
Replacing a screen on a wooden window frame? It's a straightforward job. To get it done right, and with a minimum of ...
Though caulk often lasts for years, it doesn't stick around forever. If yours has become discolored, has developed cr...
Spring is here—and with it, a flowering of seasonal responsibilities. It's time to repair any fences, lawns, or furniture that winter battered and bruised. And wh...
With melting snow and spring rains just around the corner, now is the most important time of year for sump pump maint...
As you go about your spring cleaning routine, take a few minutes to inspect the condition of your wood furniture and ...
Vintage rattan furniture is getting harder to come by, so if you happen to run across a nice piece at a garage sale, ...
If you've ever tried to remove paint from brick, you know that it can be a painstaking process. Depending on the scop...
Is a slamming door driving you nuts? Have you had noise complaints from neighbors? Here are a few simple and inexpens...
Carpeting inevitably undergoes wear and tear, whether from foot traffic or the accidents of everyday life. If those f...
A lot of DIY demolition and renovation can be fun. It provides stress relief, excitement, and fast results. One of th...
Do you Sugru? If you have not yet experimented with this endlessly versatile product, you may be missing out on one of the most useful and fun-to-use tools now av...
Home maintenance is a constant reality for homeowners and renters alike, but it doesn’t have to be painful. If you keep the right products on hand, you can fix ju...
Fleas are irritating—not only for pets but also for people. If you have fleas in the house, you can usually expect so...
Removing wallpaper is, in a word, laborious. The process takes a great deal of energy and time. And lo and behold, ev...
It's the shortest month of the year, but that doesn't mean there's not a lot to be done. Tackle your home projects systematically by identifying your home's needs...
Homes make strange noises on a regular basis, from groaning and creaking to popping and scratching. As a homeowner, you should be able to tell whether that noise ...
When the skin of our hands gets dry and starts to crack a bit, we quickly reach for moisturizing lotion. The same log...
If there were one rule in home exterior maintenance, it might be this: Don't skip the door. With their frequent daily...
Chances are that, somewhere along the line, you've had to deal with a clog in your kitchen drain. Even if you make a ...
Conventional wisdom holds that upgrades and improvements will enhance a home’s value. But some improvements are better—and more cost-effective—investments than ot...
Why do you do when there's a smoke alarm chirping in your home, seemingly without provocation? How can you keep that ...
It's a new year—and the perfect chance to start fresh! Here are 10 projects that will help you restart, reorganize, and reinvigorate your home this month.
Does home improvement leave you scratching your head? We compiled a list of the most commonly asked questions at BobVila.com—along with the answers. Click through...
Cast iron, properly cared for, can last a lifetime at least in the kitchen. Apart from cleaning your pan or skillet a...
Winter brings snowmen, sledding, and toasty evenings by the fire. It also brings a special set of maintenance issues that require a homeowner's attention. Proper ...
Though winter's worst storms are likely yet to come, many homeowners around the country have already had ample opport...
Gas fireplaces have been showing up in more and more homes the past few years. They're clean, easy to use, and add a ...
Motion sensor lights are a must for any home security system, but sometimes they get out of whack, turning on and off...
If you want to make sure you'll have hot water whenever you need it, it's a good idea to flush your water heater ever...
There are plenty of ways — short of moving to Miami — that you can keep ice and snow under control this winter. For a stress-free season, rely on some improved pr...
December is a busy month, packed with festivity preparation and the typical winter maintenance. Get it all done and still have time to lounge inside by the fire b...
With winter fast approaching, you'll want to make sure you've taken some critical steps to keep your house warm and safe through the colder months. Here are seven...
Nothing kills the mood of a refreshing bath after a long day (or for that matter, an energizing shower to start one) faster than the sight of mold. Or a delay in ...
This winter, before you shut your storm windows, make sure that at the bottom of each one, the weep hole is clear. A...
The Halloween decorations are packed up and Thanksgiving is on the way. November's cooler weather makes it a great month to spend indoors with friends and family....
Tineola bisselliella, the common clothes moth, wreaks havoc on wardrobes, destroying shirts and socks, pants and swea...
The good news: Bats are not aggressive. The bad news: If there are bats in your house, it’s only a matter of time bef...
There's a simple reason why builders relied on steam radiators for decades and decades—they work! But every technolog...
The crisp snap of autumn weather is a reminder that even colder days lie ahead. Get ready for them by performing a few simple chores now that will keep you toasty...
Wood furniture is no small investment. In covering the expense, we are comforted knowing that what we are buying can ...
Don’t wait until temperatures plummet: Now is the absolute best time to perform basic furnace cleaning and maintenanc...
Summer's gone and autumn's knocking at the door. The month of October brings colorful leaves, cool breezes, and Halloween trick-or-treaters. It's also the perfect...
Homeowners know too well that not all greenery contributes to the beauty of a garden. Weeds, for instance, are a chie...
Let's be clear: It's no fun to remove vinyl flooring. Peeling up the material itself is no picnic, but the real trial...
No matter where you live, be it city, suburb, or country, noise is just about everywhere. Even the quietest of neighborhoods regularly experience some level of no...
Say goodbye to Stuart Little! A mouse infestation can be enough to make anyone skittish. Those pesky critters can carry a plethora of dangerous diseases and cause...
September marks the official beginning of autumn, which means there are leaves to be raked and cold weather preparations to be made. But this month is more than j...
With all the turf you've been trimming this summer, now's a good time to give your mower some well-deserved TLC. That...
Your deck was no small investment: If you haven't been taking good care of it, now's the time to give your deck the c...
Although you may scratch your head over what animal is digging holes in your yard, there’s no mistaking when that ani...
People go weeks, months, and even years without giving the toilet a second thought. The instant it clogs, however, th...
Have you got a freezer full of frost? That'll happen. Fortunately, defrosting a freezer isn't as big a deal as people...
By the time August hits, the end of summer is on the horizon, regretfully, but don't despair—there's still plenty of time left before fall. Make the most of this ...
Gleaming silver exudes refined charm, yet over time that lustrous beauty gradually fades with the accumulation of tar...
In the war against wet, homeowners have a new weapon: It's called NeverWet. Designed to repel water and keep surfaces...
Brick is very low maintenance, but age and weather still take their toll. As a result, brick requires occasional repo...
Enter the yard of many homes in America and somewhere among the trees, shrubs, and grass, you’re bound to find metal....
Like any other tool in your arsenal, a chain saw must be properly and consistently maintained in order to perform eff...
Spring and summer are lovely times of the year, but they do usher in a host of seasonal hazards, perhaps none more fe...
July ushers in the start of summer, which translates into outdoor living, grilling, and staying cool. But this month, like any other, there are things you can do ...
This article has been brought to you by Lumber Liquidators. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Few thi...
For some of us, summer doesn't mean sunbathing on the beach or hiking along a mountain trail—it means grilling burger...
You’re not alone in wanting to get rid of roaches. These creepy-crawly insects are a major problem around the country...
With its sumptuous texture and supple feel, leather furniture provides an element of luxury to your room decor. Fortu...
Even if you spend hours washing the floor, dusting furniture, and vacuuming the nooks and crannies around your home, ...
May is a month worth celebrating. Those April showers have gone, leaving in their wake beautiful spring flowers, and the heat of summer has yet to arrive. As the ...
You know how to care for your lawn, but how about your mower? Mowers need some TLC after sitting in a cold shed or garage all winter long. Before grass-growing se...
A home is like a relationship—it requires a little bit of money and attention to keep it going strong. Neglect some e...
You know you should test your smoke alarm twice a year, but what about your fire extinguisher? If yours is at the bac...
Spring has officially arrived, and that means a whole host of outdoor chores for homeowners. One of the most importan...
Spring has sprung! While cool temperatures may not be completely behind us, it's certain that April will usher in warmer days, making it the perfect month to get ...
It can be a mighty labor-intensive and time-consuming process to remove paint, which is why many DIYers dread or even...
Homeowners have long relished the beauty, versatility, and toughness of wood furniture—and above all, they've appreci...
Nothing renews that feeling of pride of ownership more than attending to annual home maintenance tasks (especially on...
By design, our floors will see some of the most wear and tear of any of the fixtures in our home. Even if you’re normally careful with your floors, life happens. ...
I am moving into a new home. The previous owners had a dog. I am wondering if cleaning the air ducts is worthwhile. A...
Tile has always been a popular choice for floors, walls, and other surfaces due to its durability and long life. In f...
Learning how to remove rust from metal isn't rocket science, and in homeowners' ongoing fight to maintain outdoor too...
It's winter and I keep getting condensation on the inside of my windows. What's the solution?When moist, warm air mak...
I know it’s still winter here in the Northeast, but I start thinking about spring the minute Presidents’ Day weekend ...
Remember Rosie, the congenial (and often hysterical) robot that flitted around the Jetsons' apartment in the sky, keeping things neat and tidy? When the cartoon f...
What can I use to remove caulk from around the bathtub? Also, what is the correct product to use when I caulk the tub...
Sure, February's a short month, but it's jam-packed with chores and planning. It's time to turn attention indoors, spiffing up bathroom grout and kitchen cabinets...
Several years after you complete a bathroom or kitchen renovation, it inevitably starts to show some wear. One culpri...
There are some maintenance and repair issues that homeowners just hate to deal with—either because they take time, or...
Termites and other pests can cause expensive damage. Here's what to look for. The sawdust-like accumulations of fra...
'Tis the season for resolutions—and have we got some good ones for you! Follow our lead, and come next December, your house will be more energy efficient, better ...
I just drained my water heater for the first time since it was installed back in '89. . . 24 years ago! The water cam...
Porcelain tile consistently ranks as a preferred flooring choice among homeowners, partly due to its beauty—the mater...
Here's how you can tell if your house has termite damage. First, examine obvious areas of wood rot for termites. Som...
Aluminum siding first became popular in the wake of World War II, when this metal, which had been so crucial to the w...
While many of us would be fearful of repairing a roof or installing an electrical outlet, there are plenty of things ...
Of all the necessary evils that make up a comprehensive fall yard maintenance routine, cleaning the gutters may be th...
Because today's new houses are built to allow less air infiltration than older homes, mold growth has become a conce...
This time of year, those of us who are lucky enough to have trees that provide summer shade have to pay for that priv...
A wet-dry vac is a great tool to have—and not just for cleaning up the workshop. They come in handy for those tediou...
October is a month filled with simple pleasures: cooler temperatures, yard sales, leaf-peeping, apple-picking, and ev...
Your kitchen contains more appliances than any other room in the house. When the units are in good condition, there's...
Don't throw out that rusty garden furniture. Restoring it can be a great weekend project. Use a wire brush or sandpa...
This post has been brought to you by Thompson's WaterSeal. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Choose ...
Even with regular vacuuming, carpeting accumulates a great deal of dust, dirt, and debris. When you finally decide to...
Low water pressure in the house can be a real annoyance—the shower subsides to a trickle, the washing machine takes e...
Of all homeowner responsibilities, few so clearly indicate the end of summer as closing the swimming pool. Properly d...
Fighting pests at home? The best offense is a clean, dry, and air-tight defense. The importance of sanitation cannot ...
Q: I'm painting a bunk bed from IKEA that's solid pine and unfinished. Do I still need to sand and prime if it is unf...
1. RUSTY BOLT REMOVAL I have an old bench outside with rotting old seat boards. The nuts and bolts holding the wood t...
Brick houses are hard to damage. Anyone familiar with The Three Little Pigs knows that. Inevitably, however, there co...
1. LIVING ROOM CEILING OPTIONSI recently purchased a 'fixer upper' in the DC area and am starting to decorate. In my ...
1. HANGING WALLPAPER IN THE BATHROOMPainting is easy and the result is resilient, but I can't help thinking that pain...
Perhaps never before have there been so many enticing countertop options to fit every budget, décor, and culinary nee...
Summertime! The living is easy and—more often than not—the food is grilled. From burgers, dogs, and steaks to chicken...
As the saying goes, sharp tools are safer tools. So here are a couple of hints for keeping your cutting tools sharp. ...
I've never seen the guy so angry: His wife used a favorite chisel to open a paint can and my friend Dominick took it ...
The bench grinder is to the workshop as the trainer is to the team. It doesn't run out on the field when a tool goes ...
A good handsaw, when properly treated, is a tool that can be passed with pride from one generation to the next. Essen...
Using woodworking planes whose cutters are out of adjustment is like driving a car in the wrong gear: You may be able...
I know you've heard it before, but it's true: sharp tools are safer tools. The chisel is a perfect case in point. A d...
Preventing and treating termite infestations is a top priority for many homeowners. Termite control is not a do-it-yo...
When choosing outdoor furniture for a garden room, outdoor kitchen, or multi-level deck, some consumers prefer qualit...
While Ratatouille might have been a runaway blockbuster film, no one wants rats in the house — or mice or squirrels o...
The garage door is the single largest moving part in your home, and should be inspected and maintained every year. Wh...
On television, home improvement projects go from start to finish in 60 minutes or less. You’ve probably thought while...
1. FAULTY FAUCET REPLACEMENTWhen I turn on the water in the bathtub and pull the plunger so that water redirects to t...
Wicker furniture and accessories are very popular choices for living spaces both outdoors and in. Comfortable, sturd...
1. GROUNDWATER LEAKING INTO BASEMENTI have a water supply pipe to the house that enters through the basement wall. Th...
Among the true joys of summer is the opportunity to spend more time outside relaxing, entertaining, and playing. But ...
1. STAINED MARBLE COUNTERTOPSI have a beautiful marble countertop on my cooking island. It was never sealed properly ...
To safely and productively operate a chain saw, you must commit to maintaining it. Keep your chain saw in tip-top sha...
There’s nothing like a long, leisurely soak in a hot bath to soothe away the stresses of the day—that is, unless the ...
A wooden fence is a beautiful accent on any home, but it takes some maintenance to keep it looking neat and trim. Spr...
Living in the city has its perks. But it also has its pests. From mice to roaches to bed bugs, dreaded pests can and ...
The advent of spring is generally welcome, but warmer temperatures also bring out unwanted pests, namely termites. Of...
Vinyl siding is a durable, versatile, and resilient building material, but it does require some routine care and clea...
How strong is your relationship with your spouse? Do you want to test it? Spend a weekend stripping wallpaper togethe...
Vinyl tile and laminate flooring is attractive, durable, and long-lasting, even under a home's highest-traffic condit...
Varnish, lacquer, shellac and other clear coats are applied to protect wood furniture and flooring from scratches, sc...
Baby, its cold outside—and the last thing you want to do is return home to a frosty house. The smart time to examine ...
To celebrate Cupid's holiday this year, we count off ten ways to show your house that you care.
The first thing to know about cleaning concrete? You don’t need to go easy on it. After all, it’s one of the most dur...
If your house has drafty windows, your heating and cooling systems may be working harder than they need to. Taking a ...
I have a slate fireplace surround that makes my living room feel really warm and earthy, even if the fire is not lit....
Special problems need special solutions—and that's particularly true of wood flooring. When accidents happen, first ...
Reviving rusty metal tools or furniture is a great indoor winter project, and there are three ways to remove rust. Li...
I remember waking up as a kid on wintry mornings to find frost on my bedroom window obscuring the trees and yard. Tho...
There is a definite chill in the air, and the first snow flurries are flying… that means it’s time to get the snow bl...
Wrinkles in wall-to-wall carpet don't just look bad, they can be a tripping hazard. They'll also wear out first, so t...
If you haven’t done it already, this is the time to winterize your yard! Make a list of the things you need to do to...
As the weather gets colder, it’s a good idea to do some fall maintenance on your outdoor equipment and put it to bed ...
As you ready your house for the colder months ahead, don’t forget about your water system. When water freezes, it exp...
Home improvement projects are messy business: Whether you’re painting, re-tiling, or just moving furniture, you want ...
Now that the summer scorchers are over, it’s time to bring in your window air conditioning units. Listen to BOB VILA ...
While you were having fun in the sun this summer, it was no vacation for your house. A fall checklist will tip you of...
If you hear banging or knocking when you turn the tap on and off in your home, you could be straining pipes and coppe...
Even tiny gaps between your tub and the wall tiles can let enough water in to damage your walls and host mold. Since ...
Cleaning painted walls may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple, albeit somewhat time-consuming....
While they’ll grind and send most kitchen scraps down the drain in small batches with a good strong flow of cold wate...
Recycling is more than sorting out plastic bottles and composting leftovers. Proper disposal of household objects is ...
Here’s a job you can do in the cool basement to beat the summer heat, and you should add it to your twice a year to-d...
Your dishwasher does a lot to make your life easier; here are a couple things you can do to make its life longer!CM_B...
Late summer’s when you see ‘em, but now’s not actually the best time to mess with a bee or wasp nest. The queen esta...
Everyone agrees that you should change your HVAC filter on a regular basis, but not everyone agrees on the type of fi...
I’ve been lucky with basements. Having purchased five houses in my life, not one has had serious basement moisture is...
This summer, to ensure you’re spending more time enjoying your weekend and not struggling to get your mower to start,...
A quality garden starts with quality care—and that doesn’t just mean keeping up with your weeding. Maintaining your g...
Don't miss 11 Ways to Winterize Your Home on a Budget!Eliminate Winter SurprisesWhile you were having fun in the sun ...
While it’s a job many of us would love to ignore, gutter cleaning is an important twice-a-year ritual all homeowners ...
What Are Ice Dams?Many homeowners in the northern United States are all too familiar with ice dams. These are thick a...
An imperative “rite of spring” in our house is checking our two central air conditioning systems to make sure they ar...
Weather Stripping: Not Just for Winter Before you add to your electric bill trying to keep cool this summer, add some...
Let’s face it, the easiest way to transform an old piece of furniture is to paint it. But if the piece is well constr...
Sealing your driveway may seem like a bothersome chore, but its benefits are significant. First, a regular coat of se...
A wood deck is certainly a thing of beauty, but only if it is well maintained from year to year. If your deck is show...
Before you pull your window air conditioner out of storage, consider its age. Efficiencies have improved so much that...
Bob Vila Radio is a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 60 stations around the country (and growing)...
It’s the time of year when Christmas tree lots start appearing around your community, bringing with them a difficult ...
Bob Vila recently contacted me because he had a bee infestation in his attic. I've made several visits to his house s...
To determine whether a carpenter's square is true, all you need is a straight line. Sound too simple? First you lay t...
Few do-it-yourself projects deliver the "wow" factor as potently as refinishing hardwood floors.
Carpenter ants damage wood by hollowing it out for nesting. Unlike termites, wood damaged by carpenter ants does not ...
At one time or another most of us have considered remodeling the kitchen. It’s the one room in the house that sees th...
This year, many parts of the country have enjoyed such a mild winter that even in the Northeast, spring weather seems...
Our laminate countertop looked fine, but the protective coating was pretty much gone. Coffee, tea, wine, juice, sauce...
Give your home a once-over and tend to winter preparation tasks and repairs before the year’s first frost. “Getting t...
Tool Maintenance. Whatever your storage arrangements, keep your tools clean. After use, remove any sap or resins from...
Spade bits, it seems, are always encountering nails, at least in the kinds of rough drilling chores that renovation w...
Fall is just around the corner: time to get your house in shape for the cooler months ahead. Although autumn can be o...
Some friends of mine moved into a new house and had a couple of issues with their bathroom. The sink drain was a litt...
It’s not mold. It’s probably not soot. The black spots discoloring your asphalt roof are more than likely the pervasi...
Securing your home against winter is always a prime consideration for homeowners, no matter where you live. Regardles...
1. Roof: Check the roof and around vents, skylights, and chimneys for leaks. Repair as necessary. 2. Attic: If there ...
Summer folks on the New England shore have a long-standing tradition of flying the flag from Memorial Day to Labor Da...
Interior beams, walls, and ceilings have been sandblasted, exposing raw surfaces that will become an integral part of the interior design. Reggie Ray of Georgia-P...
Bob reviews some of the new steel framing that's gone up and has a look at the newly sandblasted beams. Bob also summarizes the brickwork that needs to be done on...
Bob and Professor Tom Visser (UVM) visit the Burtch-Udall house in Quechee, VT, and the nearby Sumner Mansion-- suitable locales for a running discussion on prope...
Bob and roofer Paul Morris demonstrate gutter installation techniques, including the on-site assembly of special features, such as corners and trim.
Painter Kip Wanamaker power-washes the exterior of the Naples project house.
Brick worker Dan Webb explains how the brick façade is power-washed to remove several layers of ugly paint.
