MAINTENANCE

Browse By Tag

  • How To (169)
  • Choose (124)
  • Cleaning (106)
  • Repair (100)
  • Seasonal (87)
  • Lawn (80)
  • Outdoor Tools (55)
  • DIY (46)
  • Bob Vila Radio (45)
  • Landscaping (38)
  • Plumbing (38)
  • Kitchen (37)
  • Pests (36)
  • Tools (35)
  • Hvac (33)
Tag icon article
How to Replace the Wax Ring on a Toilet
For something you can’t even see, a lot is riding on a toilet’s wax ring. These unsung heroes create a watertight gap...
Tag icon article
Is an Electric Pressure Washer Powerful? I Tested a Ryobi Pressure Washer to Find out!
Nothing beats a good pressure washer for blasting dirt and mud from sidewalks, driveways, and dirty cars. I've used s...
Tag icon article
We Tested the Makita XML03 Lawn Mower: Is This Battery Powered Mower Enough for Your Yard?
Maintaining a regular mowing schedule is vital to achieving lush and healthy turfgrass. However, a battery-powered la...
Tag icon article
The Best Pool Skimmers of 2023
Pool skimmers are one of those tools no pool owner can do without. Even if the pool is regularly serviced by a mainte...
Tag icon article
The Best Pool Patches of 2023
Most modern pool patches are easy to use, effective, and very low cost when compared with professional repair. They n...
Tag icon article
Is There Anything The Stihl Cordless Garden Shear Can’t Trim? I Tested It to Find Out.
Regardless of personal style, most of us appreciate the look of a well-tended landscape. A big part of that look is k...
Tag icon article
This Stihl Battery Trimmer Weighs Less and Works Harder Than Your String Trimmer
Battery-powered lawn and garden tools have come a long way over the past couple of decades. Engineers worked on the p...
Tag icon article
The Best Sanders for Hardwood Floors of 2023
It’s possible to use just about any sander for hardwood floors, but some can involve a long, laborious, and uncomfort...
Tag icon article
When to Call Your Landlord Immediately—And When to Solve the Problem Yourself
Welcome to The State of Rentals with Bob Vila, a series dedicated to showing both landlords and tenants the crucial s...
Tag icon article
Is the DeWalt Self-Propelled Electric Lawn Mower as Impressive as Its Power Tools? I Tested It to Find Out
When did DeWalt start making lawn mowers? As manufacturers pour resources into building the best battery-powered lawn...
Tag icon article
I Tested the Dyson V12 Detect Slim Cordless Vacuum: Is It Worth the Price?
The Dyson brand is known for its sleek and powerful devices, and the V12 is no exception. The V12 Detect Slim cordles...
Tag icon article
See What Happened when I Used Espoma Organic Indoor Plant Fertilizer on My Houseplants for a Month
The most important difference between strong, healthy houseplants and weak, sickly ones is the care they receive. All...
Tag icon article
The Best Cheap Lawn Mowers of 2023
We use the word “cheap” in different ways to convey different meanings. In many instances, cheap either equates to ro...
Tag icon article
Weeding Without Chemicals: Red Dragon Mini Weed Torch Tested & Reviewed
One of my favorite weed-control tools that lawn care articles often ignore is fire. Both mature weeds and weed seeds ...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Battery Terminals for At-Home Auto Maintenance
At some point or other, most car owners will need to learn how to clean battery terminals if they don’t already know ...
Tag icon article
8 Handy Substitutes for WD-40 Around the House
WD-40 has earned its reputation as a jack-of-all-trades. Its top-secret ingredients list blends lubricants, anti-corr...
Tag icon article
How to Replace a Toilet Fill Valve
Typically, toilet fill valves last about 5 years without any issues, depending on the quality of the valve, hard wate...
Tag icon article
Ego Snow Blower Review: Does the SNT2405 Deliver?
Ego Power+ has entered the electric snow blower market with a model designed to tackle big storms. In a side-by-side ...
Tag icon article
How to Make Every Appliance in Your Home Last Longer and Run More Efficiently
Home appliances make our lives easier by washing our clothes, helping us cook meals, heating and cooling our homes, a...
Tag icon article
Choice Home Warranty: A Relatively Affordable Choice With Stellar Customer Service—And a Few Drawbacks to Consider
Repairing or replacing broken-down appliances and home systems can be very expensive, which is why many homeowners el...
Tag icon article
The Best Home Warranty Companies in Texas of 2023
Owning a home in Texas can present some significant challenges when it comes to maintenance and upkeep due to the sta...
Tag icon article
How to Remove Heat Stains From Wood: 7 Methods That Work
Heat stains are an enduring concern for both seasoned homeowners and those who have just made their first furniture p...
Tag icon article
How to Siphon Gas From Outdoor Power Equipment for Seasonal Storage
While siphoning gas is normally associated with nefarious activities, there are many aboveboard reasons to learn this...
Tag icon article
The Best Sandblasters of 2023
A good sandblaster can make many tough jobs—including restoring antique cars, returning concrete to like-new conditio...
Tag icon article
The Best Dethatching Blades of 2023
Lawn clippings, dead leaves, and other organic matter are important fuel for a yard, fertilizing it naturally and ens...
Tag icon article
The Best Step Stools of 2023
Step stools are handy for almost any task that involves reaching up high, from accessing the top cabinet in the kitch...
Tag icon article
10 Simple Solutions for the Most Stressful DIY Projects
From fixing leaky pipes to unclogging a toilet, some DIY repairs can make you sweat bullets when they go wrong. And, ...
Tag icon article
The Best Snow Blowers for Gravel Driveways of 2023
While just about any snow blower can remove snow from a paved driveway or sidewalk, not all are suitable for use on a...
Tag icon article
How to Open Painted-Shut Windows
When you move into an older home, it's not uncommon to find at least one window painted shut. Wood windows add plenty...
Tag icon article
The Best Rakes for Pine Needles of 2023
A standard rake will suffice for raking up autumn leaves, but collecting pine needles that have gathered on the groun...
Tag icon article
Solved! How Long Do Water Softeners Last?
Q: Our new home has a whole-house water softener installed. The previous owners only lived here for a few years and a...
Tag icon article
The Best Lubricants for Door Hinges of 2023
While it’s great for setting the mood in a horror movie, the sound of a squeaking hinge can be downright irritating. ...
Tag icon article
How to Fix a Bathroom Sink Stopper
One of the most overlooked parts of a bathroom sink is the sink plug; this is because many people don’t understand th...
Tag icon article
10 Caulking Mistakes You're Making—and How To Fix Them
Whether you need to create a watertight seal between a bathtub and tile, seal a leak around a window, or give a finis...
Tag icon article
The Best Weed Killers for Flower Beds of 2023
Weeds spread rapidly across gardens, choking out desirable plants, sucking nutrients from the soil, and blocking the ...
Tag icon article
The Best Weed Killers for Bermuda Grass of 2023
Some turfgrass types wilt at the first sign of temperatures higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit, drought, or salty sea...
Tag icon article
7 Important Things to Know About Above-Ground Pool Maintenance
Whether you already have an above-ground pool in your backyard or are looking to set one up soon, it’s important to k...
Tag icon article
The Best Lawn Mower Snow Blower Combos of 2023
Most homeowners and DIYers like the idea of getting more than one use out of their tools. It can help them justify a ...
Tag icon article
The Best Garden Tractors of 2023
Large properties and big projects often call for machines that can handle heavy duties. Jobs like cutting acres of gr...
Tag icon article
The Best Riding Lawn Mowers for 2 Acres of 2023
Lawn mowers have gone through numerous changes since the invention of manual push mowers, and larger, more powerful m...
Tag icon article
The Best Moth Repellents of 2023
While moths aren’t a dangerous creepy-crawly to find in a home, they can be destructive, so it’s worth preventing or ...
Tag icon article
The Best Lawn Mower Blade Sharpeners of 2023
Most folks enjoy a well-manicured lawn with its deep green and lush texture. However, keeping a lawn looking that goo...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila’s “Must Do” Projects for July
July’s longer days and warmer weather mean there's plenty of good reason to be outside—and no shortage of tasks to ta...
Tag icon article
The Best John Deere Lawn Tractors of 2023
Pushing a lawn mower can be great exercise, but not everyone wants to spend every Saturday morning mowing a large yar...
Tag icon article
The Best Honda Lawn Mowers of 2023
Nothing says summer like the sound of lawn mowers powering up. The long-standing ritual of keeping lawns neatly trimm...
Tag icon slideshow
50 Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do
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...
Tag icon article
3 Ways Baking Soda Can Help Maintain Your Swimming Pool
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...
Tag icon article
Ugly Yard 911: 9 Ways to Make Over (or Hide) the Worst Parts of Your Property
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Stand-On Mowers of 2023
While riding lawn mowers and walk-behind lawn mowers may make up the bulk of grass-cutting machines found in resident...
Tag icon article
How to Clean a Lawn Mower Carburetor for Annual Maintenance
A common problem encountered by many homeowners is finding that their lawn mower engine won’t start when they try to ...
Tag icon article
The Best Chainsaw Sharpeners of 2023
Sharpening a chainsaw once meant working on the chain’s individual teeth by hand. Today’s best chainsaw sharpeners ar...
Tag icon article
The Best Commercial Zero-Turn Mowers of 2023
For lawn-care professionals, commercial zero-turn mowers are essential pieces of heavy-duty equipment that can cut gr...
Tag icon article
The Best Riding Lawn Mowers for 1 Acre of 2023
When you have a large yard, mowing the lawn can consume an outsize portion of a weekend. Push mowers and walk behinds...
Tag icon article
The Best Zero-Turn Mowers for 5 Acres of 2023
When caring for a large property, it pays to become familiar with zero-turn mowers. In the old days, a lawn tractor w...
Tag icon article
The Best Liquid Lawn Fertilizers of 2023
Every summer across the nation, homeowners vie for their neighborhood's lushest lawn, but it's no simple task. It req...
Tag icon article
DIY Disasters: 9 Homeowner "Fixes" That Can Mess Up Your House
DIY projects can keep home maintenance costs low, but it’s important to only tackle jobs you have the knowledge, expe...
Tag icon article
The Best Suction Pool Cleaners of 2023
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Glues for Rubber of 2023
When it comes to gluing rubber to rubber or a variety of diverse substrates, the project’s success depends on selecti...
Tag icon article
The Best Construction Knee Pads of 2023
Construction can be brutal on the body. Beyond the heavy lifting and repetitive motions involved, time spent kneeling...
Tag icon article
The Best Gardening Services of 2023
Having a beautiful outdoor space is not just for looks—studies have shown that plants can provide big health benefits...
Tag icon article
The Best Mulching Lawn Mowers of 2023
While you can bag those lawn clippings to create a clean-looking yard, a smarter option is to use a mulching lawn mow...
Tag icon article
The Best Weed Killers for Gravel of 2023
Pulling an errant dandelion here and there isn't a big deal, but when multiple weeds appear, they can quickly multipl...
Tag icon article
17 Surprising Ways to Use Steel Wool Around the House
Steel Wool, Still Going StrongA tool that’s now commonplace in the modern home, steel wool came about somewhat by acc...
Tag icon article
Solved! Can You Caulk Over Caulk?
Q: I am renovating most of my bathroom, but I’m not changing the shower tiles or bathtub. However, the caulk lines be...
Tag icon article
The Best Laundry Detergents for Septic Systems of 2023
In some homes, the water from the washing machine drains into a septic system that treats the wastewater. A septic-sa...
Tag icon article
Solved! Does USAA Offer a Home Warranty?
Q: We are a military family, and we are buying a new home. Our real estate agent has advised that a home warranty wou...
Tag icon article
The Best Dryer Vent Cleaning Kits of 2023
Dryer vent cleaning kits contain brushes, necks, or vacuum attachments that snake their way into the tight spaces of ...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Things Never to Keep in Your Garage
The garage is a convenient place to keep a lot of your clutter, but some household items are best stowed somewhere else.
Tag icon article
Solved! Can You Buy a Home Warranty After Closing on a House?
Q: We were encouraged to buy a home warranty during the home buying process, but we didn’t really understand how it w...
Tag icon article
Solved! Here’s How Much to Budget for a Home Maintenance Fund
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Sprinkler Valves of 2023
Despite the variety of options available, sprinkler valves serve one very simple purpose: They regulate water flow. S...
Tag icon article
Walmart Gets Into the Home Improvement Business With Angi Partnership
Walmart has officially partnered with Angi, which has a network of 250,000 professionals in nearly every ZIP code in ...
Tag icon article
Solved! Does a Home Warranty Cover HVAC Repair?
Q: We’re looking at a home with some older appliances, and the home inspector recommended we think about a home warra...
Tag icon article
Solved! How Long Do HVAC Systems Last?
Q: We thought we would have more time before our HVAC system needed to be replaced. On a recent annual service call, ...
Tag icon slideshow
50 Products for Quick Fixes Around the House
With these clever products on hand, DIYers can fix plumbing, carpentry, and a host of other household problems.
Tag icon slideshow
The Best DIY Home Projects for Every Month of 2022
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...
Tag icon article
How to Be Your Own Auto Mechanic
DIY automotive maintenance and repair is easier than you might think—and it will save you a bundle, to boot. Often th...
Tag icon article
2022 Outlook: This is How Inflation Will Affect the Prices of Home Improvement and Maintenance Services
Inflation—a steady uptick in prices for goods and services, and the corresponding dip of our purchasing power—is high...
Tag icon article
Leaving Town? Make Sure Your House Sitter Knows These 13 Things Before You Go
Whether you’ll be traveling for work or taking a fun vacation, hiring a house sitter is a good idea. House sitters ca...
Tag icon article
The Best Fertilizers for Indoor Plants Tested in 2023
Plants get nearly all the sustenance they need from water and sunlight, but since houseplants live in containers, the...
Tag icon article
The Best Lawn Mowers Tested in 2023
A good lawn mower is crucial for maintaining a lush, well-manicured lawn. With so many options and brands to choose f...
Tag icon article
The Best Lizard Repellents of 2023
While furry rodent invaders can strike pretty much anywhere, people living in warmer climates face another kind of th...
Tag icon article
I Tested the Raptor Gutter Guard: Is it Worth the Cost?
There probably aren’t too many folks who would choose to spend a beautiful autumn afternoon cleaning gutters. The nas...
Tag icon article
The Best Gutter Sealants of 2023
The main purpose of guttering is to channel rainwater away from the home and prevent it from damaging the foundation ...
Tag icon article
The Best Gas Lawn Mowers of 2023
Many homeowners hope to have a verdant, well-manicured lawn that makes them the envy of the neighborhood. While prope...
Tag icon article
6 Reasons Why Buying a Big House Could Be a Bad Idea
The pandemic caused most of us to spend more time at home than we ever have, and for some—especially those with young...
Tag icon article
How to Pick the Best Leaf Removal Service After Searching ‘Leaf Removal Near Me’
Homeowners envisioning the fall may picture swaths of crimson and gold against a blue sky, pumpkins, kids in Hallowee...
Tag icon article
12 Home Maintenance Services You Should Book ASAP, According to Experts
While the days are still long and the temps are soaring, preparing a home for the coming winter is the last thing on ...
Tag icon slideshow
Do These 12 Things Before a Home Appraisal
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 ...
Tag icon article
What NOT to Do When Cleaning Your Home's Rain Gutters
A home’s gutter system is designed to protect the roof, siding, and foundation from water damage and the accumulation...
Tag icon article
I Tested an Affordable Melnor Sprinkler - Did it Water My Lawn Efficiently?
On a hot summer day, lawn sprinklers are a common sight, dispersing water for grass to stay healthy and for children ...
Tag icon article
I Tried a Cordless Tire Inflator―Did It Work?
Whether it’s inflating a flat tire, bumping up the pressure on a mountain bike, or inflating a pool float, having a p...
Tag icon article
What Is a Home Warranty, and What Does a Home Warranty Cover?
Q: I’m house-hunting for the first time, and I’ve noticed that some listings note that they include a home warranty. ...
Tag icon article
Clean Your Gutters a Cinch with The Gutter Cleaning Tool
When it comes to protecting your home’s foundation and keeping your basement dry, gutters play a vital role. Gutters ...
Tag icon article
The Best Crawl Space Dehumidifiers of 2023
Crawl spaces are dark and dusty, and air quality isn’t always at its finest. If the humidity level climbs (which it o...
Tag icon article
5 Signs It’s Time to Call in a Professional
You might think of yourself as pretty handy around the house. You can build your own shed foundation, you’ve mastered...
Tag icon article
The 12 Best Lawn Mower Brands of 2023
Attaining a beautifully manicured lawn that impresses the neighbors is the dream of many property owners, but this ac...
Tag icon article
The Best Lawn Tractor Batteries to Keep Your Equipment Running Like New
A well-maintained lawn tractor can function reliably for many years, but its battery—the part responsible for startin...
Tag icon article
The Best Marble Sealers for a Smooth Finish
There’s nothing like the look of a marble shower in a bathroom or a marble countertop in a kitchen—unless, of course,...
Tag icon article
The Best Cordless Blowers of 2023
When it comes to blowing leaves and other yard debris, you need lots of air flow. While they excel in this category, ...
Tag icon article
The Best Cordless Lawn Mowers of 2023
When it comes to quiet, efficient, and zero-emission mowing, battery power is the name of the game. The best cordless...
Tag icon article
The Best Fertilizers for Centipede Grass of 2023
Slow growing and semi shade tolerant, centipede grass is known throughout the South as “the lazy man’s grass. ” Growi...
Tag icon article
The Best Soil Test Kits Tested in 2023
Plants need light, oxygen, water, and a growing medium that meets their nutritional needs. Commercial and natural fer...
Tag icon article
The Best Deck Resurfacers to Refinish Your Outdoor Space
There comes an unfortunate time in the life of a deck owner when it becomes apparent that a beloved backyard party sp...
Tag icon article
The Best Brushes for Polyurethane of 2023
The best polyurethane provides a durable, attractive finish that comes in several formulas, including oil-based, wate...
Tag icon article
The Best Concrete Crack Fillers of 2023
Concrete is an incredibly stable and durable material. While versions of cement are millennia old, modern hydraulic c...
Tag icon article
The Best Salt-Free Water Softeners of 2023
Whether on well water or city water, many households struggle with hard water—which can cause scaling and clogged wat...
Tag icon article
The Best Push Mowers of 2023
There’s something timeless about the sound of lawn mowers and the smell of fresh-cut grass on a Saturday morning. Wel...
Tag icon article
The Best Above-Ground Pool Vacuums of 2023
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Electric Tankless Water Heaters of 2023
While traditional water heaters remain the best choice for some, tankless models save space and can help reduce month...
Tag icon article
The Best Well Water Filtration Systems of 2023
Choosing the best well water filtration system for clean drinking water doesn’t have to be difficult. It’s easier whe...
Tag icon article
The Best Propane Tankless Water Heaters of 2023
Hot water is a basic requirement, but the range of tank-based and tankless systems now available can make choosing th...
Tag icon article
The Best Leaf Blowers Tested in 2023
Manually raking leaves is often a laborious chore. You can make it an easier and faster process by using a leaf blowe...
Tag icon article
How To: Use Muriatic Acid
Muriatic acid, a less-pure variant of hydrochloric acid, is available in high concentrations for use in a host of hom...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Clover
Stubborn weeds are the bane of a beautiful lawn. Yet, although it’s pretty stubborn, clover (aka Trifolium repens) is...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Home Maintenance Projects You Should Be Doing Every Month
Keep your home in top shape by tackling these tasks every month.
Tag icon article
How To: Make a Homemade Deck Cleaner That Works Like a Charm
An outdoor deck sees lots of traffic. Muddy shoes, spilled food, and wet dogs can leave it dirty, stained, and smelly...
Tag icon article
The Best Riding Lawn Mowers for Hills of 2023
Not everyone enjoys mowing the lawn. Riding lawn mowers reduce mow time, improve comfort, and offer an abundance of o...
Tag icon article
The Best Weed Torches Tested in 2023
Weed management is rarely at the top of anyone’s list of desirable to-dos. Bending over and pulling weeds is a lot of...
Tag icon article
The Best Electric Mowers Tested in 2023
Electric mowers are quickly becoming an eco-friendly and efficient alternative to their gas-powered counterparts. Not...
Tag icon article
The Best String Trimmers Tested in 2023
Mowing the lawn spruces up a yard, but it’s the finishing touches that take a lawn from fine to fantastic—and there a...
Tag icon article
How to Refinish Hardwood Floors
Hardwood floor refinishing and sanding is unforgiving work. Make a mistake, and it will show. However, a refinished f...
Tag icon article
The Best Water-Leak Detectors of 2023
Not only do water leaks elevate the water bill, but the damage that results can also cost thousands of dollars to rep...
Tag icon article
The Best Shoe Glues of 2023
Shoes, like many common clothing items, can range widely in price, durability, and purpose, but when you find a pair ...
Tag icon article
The Best Battery-Powered Lawn Mowers Tested in 2023
Whether you’re switching from gas-powered to green or buying your first cordless electric mower, battery-powered lawn...
Tag icon article
Following This Car Maintenance Routine Could Lengthen the Life of Your Car
A version of this story originally appeared on The Drive. BobVila. com is partnering with The Drive to share syndicat...
Tag icon article
The Best Grease Guns for Car Repairs
Grease guns are used in a variety of applications—from automotive garages to household tool maintenance—to quickly an...
Tag icon article
The Best Electric Snow Blowers Tested in 2023
Gas snow blowers are heavy, loud, and difficult to maintain. Electric snow blowers offer a reprieve from the weight a...
Tag icon article
The Best Rust Converters of 2023
Everything degrades over time; metal objects are usually the victims of rust. Fortunately, there are several ways to ...
Tag icon article
The Best Roof Cleaners of 2023
While most homeowners spend the majority of their time maintaining the ground-level features of their homes, the roof...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Things Your Home Repair Emergency Fund Should Be Able to Cover
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.
Tag icon article
The Best pH Meters for Home and Garden Use
Whether you’re an amateur gardener, a flower enthusiast, or you’ve got a yard full of fruits and veggies, a pH meter ...
Tag icon article
The Best Spin Mops Tested in 2023
Beyond traditional mops, spin mops are designed to take the “ick” factor out of wet mopping, eliminating the chore of...
Tag icon article
The Best Window Squeegees of 2023
Windows seem to attract water spots, smudges, and smears, making the view outside look like a hazy mess. Immaculate w...
Tag icon article
The Best Brass Cleaners for Wiping Away Tarnish
The look and durability of brass has made it popular for generations. It’s in everything from jewelry and ornaments t...
Tag icon article
The Best Stainable Wood Fillers of 2023
Over time, every home’s furniture, walls, and baseboards get nicks and cracks. But, wood fillers help hide the appear...
Tag icon article
The Best Roof Vents for the Home or Shed
Mold and mildew growing and shingles peeling away from the roof: These issues are caused by a poorly ventilated attic...
Tag icon article
The Best Electric Knife Sharpeners for Easy Maintenance
Knife sharpeners are an efficiency multiplier, with the best electric knife sharpeners breathing new life into old kn...
Tag icon article
The Best Step Ladders Tested in 2023
From tucking away totes on top shelves in the closet to cutting in paint edges along the top of a wall, a step ladder...
Tag icon article
The Best Double-Sided Tapes of 2023
Move over, duct tape, there’s another tape that has nearly as many uses. Double-sided tape can be used to adhere any ...
Tag icon article
The Best Granite Sealers of 2023
Granite is an investment. It’s costly, and, in fact, it may be the most expensive feature in the kitchen or bathroom....
Tag icon article
The Best Garage Door Insulation Kits Tested in 2023
Nowadays, the idea of converting the garage into a second living space or personal sanctuary (i. e. , guest bedroom, ...
Tag icon article
The Best Concrete Sealers Tested in 2023
Indoors and out, concrete lasts longer and performs better with some protection—which is what today’s concrete sealer...
Tag icon article
The Best Silicone Sprays of 2023
Silicone spray is typically seen as a lubricant for noisy door hinges. But users can also use silicone spray on car h...
Tag icon article
The Best Deer Repellents of 2023
Foraging deer can cause major damage to home gardens. These adorable woodland critters can ravage your yard by munchi...
Tag icon article
The Best Paver Sealers of 2023
The best paver sealers help lock stones in place, limit erosion inside joints, repel stains, and keep the pavers look...
Tag icon slideshow
The 26 Best Ways You Can Prepare for a Frigid Winter
Use these techniques to ready your home, garden, car, and family for whatever winter brings.
Tag icon article
The Best Leaf Mulchers Tested in 2023
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Pool Pumps of 2023
A pool pump circulates chemicals through pool water and filters out impurities and cloudiness. With a quality pool pu...
Tag icon slideshow
20 Cheap Home Repairs That Could Save You Thousands
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Preserve a Carved Pumpkin
No amount of candy corn can make up for the moment you realize that your carefully carved pumpkin’s smile has turned ...
Tag icon article
The Best Battery Backup Sump Pumps of 2023
Basements are subject to flooding because they’re below grade. If water trickles in, it has no place to go. Many base...
Tag icon slideshow
19 Home Maintenance Mistakes That Only Take a Minute to Fix
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...
Tag icon slideshow
40 Tasks All Homeowners Should Finish Before the First Frost
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 ...
Tag icon article
The Best Tire Inflators Tested in 2023
Most drivers have looked down at their dashboard and noticed a warning light indicating a tire with low pressure. If ...
Tag icon article
The Best Riding Lawn Mowers of 2023
For yards larger than a half acre, a push lawn mower just doesn’t cut it. Walk-behind lawn mowers are simply too smal...
Tag icon article
The Best Rat Poisons of 2023
For homeowners, DIYers, and renters concerned about rat infestations or prevention, the best rat poison can take care...
Tag icon article
The Best Gutter Cleaners Tested in 2023
If you don’t have gutter guards to prevent clogs from fallen leaves, cleaning your gutters is a necessary (and messy)...
Tag icon article
The Best Sump Pumps of 2023
A good sump pump is invaluable in times of flooding or to prevent mildew. Sump pumps reside in a pit below the baseme...
Tag icon slideshow
12 Reasons Your Home Isn't Worth as Much as You Think
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Robot Lawn Mowers Tested in 2023
Improvements in rechargeable battery tech and intelligent software have dramatically changed the way we live. Smart t...
Tag icon article
The Best Battery-Powered Leaf Blowers of 2023
While the striking colors of turning leaves may look nice, after the leaves drop, they make a mess in your yard. Inst...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Tips to Clean Your Gutters Without Breaking a Sweat
Cleaning the gutters just got easier with these simple tips to cut down on the work and remove debris faster.
Tag icon article
The Best Knee Pads of 2023
Anyone who has ever knelt on a hard surface will likely know the sheer discomfort and the extreme awkwardness of mane...
Tag icon article
The Best Battery Trimmers Tested in 2023
Handy outdoor power tools make quick work of tackling overgrown weeds and grass, giving the yard a tidy look and trim...
Tag icon article
The Best Brush Cutters of 2023
Brush cutters easily grind through tall, overgrown fields, up steep hillsides, and into deep ditches where regular la...
Tag icon article
The Best Insect Repellents to Keep the Bugs Away
From swatting mosquitoes around the campfire to batting away blackflies on the lake, insects can really put a damper ...
Tag icon article
The Best Pool Vacuums of 2023
Pool ownership is a popular dream, but pools can be tough to maintain. Fortunately, aquatics aficionados can keep the...
Tag icon article
The Best Drill Bit Sharpeners of 2023
Drill bits aren't cheap, but they do seem to dull quickly. Whether you're drilling through dense hardwood or hardened...
Tag icon slideshow
Slash Your Electric Bill with 11 Savvy Hacks
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 No-Contact Ways to Shop for Home Improvement Supplies
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Self-Propelled Lawn Mowers of 2023
No one wants their lawn to appear uneven or their back to hurt, and a self-propelled lawn mower may be the right tool...
Tag icon article
The Best Termite Treatments of 2023
Termites are elusive pests that can quickly form colonies in a home before showing significant signs of infestation. ...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Ticking Time Bombs in Your House—and How to Deal With Them
Ignore these maintenance issues that need immediate attention and you may have a bigger, and more expensive, problem on your hands.
Tag icon article
The Best Bed Bug Sprays of 2023
Bed bugs (cimex lectularius) are tiny insects that feed on human blood, hiding in blankets, sheets, mattresses, and m...
Tag icon article
The Best Septic Tank Treatments of 2023
Septic tanks bring wastewater from the home into a tank, where active bacteria dissolves and consumes waste, effectiv...
Tag icon article
The Best Snake Repellents of 2023
Some people handle sudden and unexpected encounters with serpents surprisingly well, while others not so much. Most h...
Tag icon article
The Best Water Softeners of 2023
Water-softener systems prevent common problems with water, including chalky deposits of calcium carbonate, called lim...
Tag icon article
The Best Fly Traps of 2023
Controlling flies can seem like an impossible battle. They reproduce quickly, and they’re unbelievably challenging to...
Tag icon article
The Best Weed Eater Strings of 2023
The string in your weed trimmer head can have a big impact on weekly yard work. Using the wrong string causes constan...
Tag icon article
The Best Sprinkler Controllers for Lawn Care
When life gets busy, lawn maintenance is just one more thing on the laundry list of to-dos we often struggle to squee...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Little Signs Your House Has a Big Problem
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Tips on How to (Safely) Arrange for Home Repairs During a Pandemic
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Mulching Blades of 2023
Unlike standard mower blades, mulching lawn mower blades are designed to push grass clippings into the bagger with mo...
Tag icon article
Zero Turn vs. Lawn Tractor: The Right Mower for Large Yards
Lawns over half an acre give you plenty of space to play and lounge in the great outdoors. However, when it’s time to...
Tag icon slideshow
13 DIY Projects You Can Do with Supplies You Already Have
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...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Pros Every Homeowner Needs to Keep on Speed Dial
Be prepared for the unexpected by keeping these important professionals in your contacts. You never know when you're going to need them!
Tag icon article
The Best Weed and Feed Products of 2023
Keeping a lawn looking great means weeding frequently and fertilizing at the right times of the year. If the lawn loo...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Projects You Should Always Take Outside
Keep yourself and your home safe and looking great by moving these projects outside.
Tag icon slideshow
10 Things You Didn't Know Windex Can Do
You already know Windex is great for cleaning windows, now learn the 10 other ways you can use the blue spray cleaner around the house.
Tag icon article
The High Cost of a Small Leak—and How to Prevent It
“Don’t go looking for trouble” is an adage most homeowners can relate to, particularly when it comes to plumbing. Aft...
Tag icon article
The Dos and Don’ts of Sealing the Deck
A backyard deck can be the perfect platform for good times, but a wooden surface needs a proper sealant to protect it...
Tag icon slideshow
Top Tips for Keeping Countertops Like New
Maintaining your countertops may require more than a simple cleaning. Here are top tips for maintaining every material.
Tag icon article
The Best Leaf Rakes Tested in 2023
A typical yard rake is a sturdy, long-handled tool with a triangular fan-shaped head that’s split into multiple tines...
Tag icon article
The Best Screwdriver Sets Tested in 2023
Basic as they are, screwdrivers are not a one-size-fits-all tool, nor does one type of screwdriver fit all situations...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Windows
Even when the sun is shining, you may not get the maximum amount of natural light in your home if your windows are co...
Tag icon article
The Best Pole Saws Tested in 2023
In order to stay healthy and look their best, trees need occasional pruning to remove broken branches and to thin out...
Tag icon article
The Best Weed Killers of 2023
Whether they crop up on your lawn, in a flower bed, in gravel areas, or between cracks in paved pathways, weeds are t...
Tag icon article
The Best Compost Bins Tested in 2023
Compost is like a multivitamin for your soil. Made of thoroughly decayed organic material used as a fertilizer, it en...
Tag icon article
The Best Leaf Vacuums Tested in 2023
Though broadly related to leaf blowers, leaf vacuums operate in the opposite direction. While leaf blowers disperse l...
Tag icon article
What's the Difference? Gas vs. Electric Lawn Mowers
Several decades ago, you had two options when it came to mowing your lawn: a manual reel-type mower that took major m...
Tag icon article
The Best Toilet Bowl Cleaners Tested in 2023
Upholding basic sanitary practices to ensure the health of your home calls for regular toilet bowl cleaning. While th...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Easy DIY Fixes for Annoying House Problems 
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...
Tag icon article
The 5 Biggest Questions Home Buyers Have About Septic Systems
The phrase “septic system” in a home listing is notorious for scaring away potential buyers. Some home buyers may see...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Spring Home Maintenance Musts
To do a thorough job of spring home maintenance and cleaning, follow these easy and smart routines.
Tag icon slideshow
13 Signs Your Home Is Losing Value
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...
Tag icon slideshow
Decoding Shop Talk: Here's What Your Contractor Is Actually Saying
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...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Ways Winter Weather Damages Your Home
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Cordless Drills Tested in 2023
With many of today's tools running on powerful, long-lasting batteries, DIYers aren't limited by the length of a cord...
Tag icon article
The Best Power Hedge Trimmers of 2023
Hedges establish boundaries in landscaping, add privacy, and benefit curb appeal, but to look their best, they must b...
Tag icon slideshow
13 Maintenance Mistakes That Will Cost You the Most Money
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...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Things Never to Put Down Your Garbage Disposal
Think twice before sending anything down your garbage disposal.
Tag icon article
The Best Reel Mowers Tested in 2023
Quiet in operation, simple to maintain, and largely affordable, reel lawn mowers can be smart options for yard mainte...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Things That Are Ruining Your Home's Plumbing
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Grout Sealers of 2023
Applying a high-quality, long-lasting grout sealer is one of the best ways to protect tile installations from water, ...
Tag icon slideshow
10 (Major) Costs Every Homeowner Needs to Be Prepared For
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...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Mistakes Homeowners Make Every Winter
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...
Tag icon article
The Best Mouse Traps of 2023
Even animal lovers should take active steps to get rid of mice because they can carry bacteria, which in turn can inf...
Tag icon article
Rock Salt vs. Sand to Prevent Slips
When I lived in a New York City apartment building, I never thought about shoveling snow. We had a wonderful superint...
Tag icon article
9 Furnace Troubleshooting Tips from the Pros
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...
Tag icon article
How Much Snow Can a Roof Hold?
When weather stations predict frigid temperatures and record snowfall, concerns rise that roofs may not make it the f...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Places You’re Forgetting to Winter-Proof
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Home Heating Mistakes That Spike Your Bills
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...
Tag icon article
The Simplest Strategy for Raking Leaves
Fall brings football games, hot apple cider, pumpkin carving, and other seasonal delights. But for homeowners with de...
Tag icon slideshow
If Your Home Smells Funny, Check These 12 Problem Areas
Here's how to tell whether a strange odor inside your home is hazardous to your health, or an easy fix.
Tag icon article
Solved! What Is Trisodium Phosphate, and Is it Safe to Use?
Q: My wife and I recently bought a fixer-upper home, and are doing a lot of the repairs ourselves. Some of the projec...
Tag icon article
Mulching Leaves: Why Mowing Leaves is Better Than Raking Them
Every year, fall reintroduces us to a raft of pleasures like no other season—hot apple cider, pumpkin carving, and so...
Tag icon article
How to Remove Water Stains From Wood
Wood furniture is beautiful, but it’s not impervious to the wear and tear of everyday life. To retain their looks, ne...
Tag icon article
Change Filters Frequently to Optimize Furnace Efficiency
Dust bunnies are multiplying, dog hair is piling up, and allergies are worsening—oh my, it must be the furnace filter...
Tag icon article
5 Fireplace Maintenance Tasks to Complete Every Fall
As days get shorter and the weather gets colder, we retreat indoors to the warmth of our homes and hearths. If you ha...
Tag icon slideshow
How to Close a Summer Home
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...
Tag icon article
9 Tips for Keeping Your Garbage Disposal in Top Shape
Your under-sink workhorse doesn't need strict maintenance to continue out its duties—only sensible care. You probably...
Tag icon slideshow
12 Dreaded Home Maintenance Tasks You Never Thought to Hire Out
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...
Tag icon article
Solved! What’s Up with the Musty Smell in My Basement?
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...
Tag icon slideshow
The Cheapest Ways to Make Your Home Look Brand-New Again
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Places Water Damage May Be Hiding in Your Home
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...
Tag icon slideshow
These Companies Want to Make Your Home Improvement Projects Easier
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...
Tag icon slideshow
The Most Important Outdoor Tasks You Can Complete This Summer
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...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Unusual Tips for Your Cleanest Windows Ever
Washing the windows can be a dreaded chore. If you're using conventional cleaning products, removing those stubborn streaks from the interior and exterior of clea...
Tag icon slideshow
10 House Projects You Can Still Complete on a Rainy Day
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...
Tag icon slideshow
How Safe is Your Home? 12 Spots to Doublecheck This Month
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Reasons to Mind Your Gutters Year-Round
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...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Ways to Get a (Nearly!) Maintenance-Free Home Exterior
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...
Tag icon slideshow
25 Insanely Easy 60-Minute Home Improvements
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
Here Are All The Ways You’re Accidentally Ruining Your Tile
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
The 10 Biggest Mistakes You Could Make at Your Kitchen Sink
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Ways Your Home Is Telling You to Call a Plumber
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean an Area Rug
For many of us, area rugs are a significant investment in decor. They warm up and add color to our rooms. They provid...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean Stainless Steel
Gleaming and shiny, stainless steel brings a bright and polished air to any kitchen. Keeping that brilliant sheen, ho...
Tag icon article
The Best Paint Strippers Tested in 2023
Paint prep is a necessary but sometimes tedious step, and some types of paint prep are easier than others. On a piece...
Tag icon slideshow
19 Budget-Friendly Home Upgrades to Make in 2019
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Ways to Winterize Your Home on a Budget
Keep the cold out, the heat in, and your energy bill down with these cost-effective tips for winterizing your home.
Tag icon slideshow
7 Signs Your Home Needs a Water Softener
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...
Tag icon slideshow
The Cheapest, Fastest Fixes for 10 Everyday Home Headaches
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...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Home Hazards—and How to Mitigate Them
More things trouble homeowners than what goes “bump in the night.” Here are eight dangerous problems you'll want to avoid—or swiftly remedy.
Tag icon slideshow
14 Mistakes Homeowners Make Every Fall
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...
Tag icon slideshow
14 Ways You’re Wasting Money on Your Car
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...
Tag icon slideshow
13 Clever Alternative Uses for Steel Wool
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...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Common Water Problems—and Their Cures
Wondering why your water smells funny, tastes bad, or stains your plumbing fixtures, cookware, dishes and laundry? Read on!
Tag icon slideshow
14 Ways to Cut Costs in Every Corner of Your Home
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...
Tag icon article
All You Need to Know About the Driveway Apron
Most folks don’t give their home’s driveway apron a second thought unless they’re installing a new driveway or repair...
Tag icon article
French Drains 101: How Well-Placed Trenches and Pipes Can Keep Your Property Dry
Things with “French” in the title are usually fancy, right? Poodles, perfume, pastries. But a French drain is nothing...
Tag icon article
Solved! How Long Does Gas Last?
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...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Pro Tips for Extending the Life of Your Countertops
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...
Tag icon article
The 5 Things to Know Before Buying a Battery Mower
The seemingly endless cycle of summer yard maintenance often motivates homeowners to think about buying a new lawn mo...
Tag icon slideshow
These Electrical Safety Tips Could Save Your Life
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Amazing Things You Can Buy for a Dollar
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...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Products You Will Love If You Hate Cleaning
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...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Easy Ways to Save Time on Your Spring To-Do List
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...
Tag icon slideshow
The Dirty Dozen: 12 Places You Probably Never Clean But Definitely Should
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...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Ways to Mildew-Proof Your Bathroom
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 ...
Tag icon article
Solved! What to Do About a Sulfur Smell in the House
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...
Tag icon slideshow
Done With Winter? 12 Things You Can Do Now to Prep for Spring
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: The Right Plunger for Your Plumbing Repair
Stopped-up drain? Overflowing toilet? For these and many more plumbing repairs, homeowners reach for the plunger—a tr...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Things You Should Never Burn in the Fireplace
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.
Tag icon slideshow
15 Things Never to Leave in a Cold Car
Leaving these items in a cold car could ruin them—or your car's interior.
Tag icon slideshow
10 Ways You're Accidentally Ruining Your Countertops
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
12 Tricks to Getting the Best Gas Mileage
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...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Homeowners Admit to Their All-Time Biggest Screw-Ups
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...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Things Your Contractor Won’t Tell You for Free
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...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Signs Your Tap Water Might Be Contaminated
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, “the United States enjoys one of the world's most reliable and safest supplies of drinking water.” Occasionally,...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: This Is When You'll Need to Replace Your Water Heater
‘Ever wonder how long your water heater will last? Well, that depends on quite a few factors. CM_BVNOTES-1802-4Listen...
Tag icon slideshow
The Worst Money Mistakes Homeowners Ever Make
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...
Tag icon slideshow
The Home Improvement Projects to Tackle Each Month in 2018
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...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Ways You're Ruining Your Car
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 ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Freezer on the Fritz?
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...
Tag icon article
How to Clean a Dishwasher
At first, the idea of cleaning a dishwasher, an appliance that fills with suds and water on an almost daily basis, ma...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Duct Tape Residue
A roll of duct tape can be found in almost every toolbox in the world, thanks to its versatility, accessibility, and ...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Things You Need to Know About Your Home
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...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Ways You May Be Ruining All Your Furniture
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...
Tag icon article
Video: How to Keep Your Home Warm This Winter
 Winter is coming. That means ice, snow, and cold mornings that make you want to never get out of bed. Are you ready?...
Tag icon article
Solved! What 12 Different Electrical Wire Colors Actually Mean
Q: I’m replacing the heating element in my electric water heater. The wires running to the element are black and whit...
Tag icon article
7 Important Reasons Never to Skip Your HVAC’s Yearly Checkup
Out of sight, out of mind: If your heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning system has recently been operating well...
Tag icon article
Video: The Top 10 Home Projects for October
The month of October is full of autumnal joys like rust-colored leaves, Halloween preparations, and crisp, cool air. ...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Laminate Flooring
Laminate flooring has been a popular floor choice since its invention in the late ’70s. With a typical lifespan of 15...
Tag icon article
All You Need to Know About Retaining Walls
Does your yard contain slopes, dips, and inclines? Then you likely have a retaining wall somewhere on your property. ...
Tag icon article
Solved! What Cracks in the Ceiling Really Mean
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: 3-Step Deck Maintenance Anyone Can Do
Do you spend countless happy hours on your wood deck every summer? Then why not give it the same love and attention y...
Tag icon article
How To: Kill Ivy
Characterized by its showy, star-shaped foliage, English ivy (Hedera helix) might seem a fine choice for landscaping ...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Surprising Ways You Can Void a Warranty
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 ...
Tag icon article
Solved! What to Do About Water Stains on the Ceiling
Q: I recently noticed some water stains on the ceiling of my living room. I'm not sure where they came from, but the ...
Tag icon article
How to Clean an Air Conditioner Filter in 4 Easy Steps
Though often overlooked, air conditioner filters are responsible for a mighty important job: keeping dust, dirt, and ...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Brick, Indoors and Out
The naturally distressed patina of brick adds to its desirability indoors and out, but too much dirt accumulation can...
Tag icon slideshow
The 25 Smartest and Smallest DIYs You Can Do for Your Home
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...
Tag icon article
Waterproofing Basement Walls: Saving MY Damp, Dingy Furnace Room
This article has been brought to you by DRYLOK. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. As homeowners, we a...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Sneaky Ways to Get New Floors for Under $50
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...
Tag icon article
How to Dispose of Gasoline
From powering vehicles and generators to garden tools, gasoline makes our world go around. But unused remnants of the...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Conquering Window Condensation
You may notice condensation on the inside of your windows and figure it's nothing worry to about. Believe it or not, ...
Tag icon slideshow
15 Problems You Can Solve With Caulk
Flexible and versatile, this inexpensive material can prevent more expensive home issues down the road.
Tag icon slideshow
11 Secret Weapons to Keep in Your Cleaning Caddy
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Products You've Been Using Wrong All Along
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
Get Your Fix: 20 Easy DIY Repairs for Every Part of Your Home
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Melt Driveway Ice the DIY Way
Winter storms sometimes have a way of sneaking up on us. If that happens, and you get another surprise—no ice melt on...
Tag icon slideshow
14 Secrets of People with Low Energy Bills
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Emergencies Every Homeowner Should Know How to Handle
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...
Tag icon article
3 Ways to Waterproof Wood
Some of the most gorgeous, long-lasting pieces of furniture, cabinetry, and trim work are crafted from wood, the worl...
Tag icon article
The Essential Guide to Winter Home Improvement
When the cold weather kicks in, many homeowners find themselves snowed under by a host of holiday to-dos. Whether you...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Paint from Tile
It’s entirely possible to remove paint from tile, whether you’re simply hoping to banish some accidental splatters or...
Tag icon slideshow
Don't Make These 7 Mistakes Prepping Your Home for Winter
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Concrete Needs TLC Too
Concrete is tough stuff but over time, environmental exposure and wear-and-tear almost inevitably lead to cracks and ...
Tag icon article
How To: Forget About Your Gutters for Good
As the days grow shorter and the heat of summer eases into autumn, it’s tempting to just kick back, relax, and enjoy ...
Tag icon article
Solved! What to Do About Condensation on Windows
Q: My windows consistently gather condensation on the inside. I wipe them down, but the moisture keeps coming back. H...
Tag icon slideshow
6 Key Repairs That Can’t Wait Till Next Year
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,...
Tag icon slideshow
5 Pests That May Be Living in Your Gutters—And What You Can Do About It
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...
Tag icon article
The Essential Guide to Fall Home Improvement
While you were on summer vacation, your home was hard at work battling the elements. After enduring intense heat or s...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Home Hacks You Can Do with a Bag of Groceries
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...
Tag icon slideshow
20 Best Ways to Spend $20 on Your Home
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Maintain Stucco
Over the course of millennia, builders have used everything from animal horns to whiskey in the making of stucco—an a...
Tag icon slideshow
Back to Cool: 10 Ways to Prep Your Home for Lower Temps
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Times Doing It Yourself Doesn’t Save You Money
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean Quartz Countertops
Quartz. Quartzite. The names sound alike. But although both of these popular countertop materials are derived from th...
Tag icon article
Solved! What to Do About a Sewage Smell in the Bathroom
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...
Tag icon slideshow
12 Things Your Plumber Wishes You Knew
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Repair Concrete Steps
For construction professionals and homeowners alike, concrete offers many appealing qualities, but there may be none ...
Tag icon article
The Essential Guide to Summer Home Improvement
Summertime is here! Yet while school is out for the kids, for their home-owning parents, the seasonal job of maintain...
Tag icon slideshow
12 Inventions That Do All Your Chores
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...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 June "Must Do" Projects
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...
Tag icon article
Basement Waterproofing: Here's How to Dry Out a Wet Basement—And How Much It Costs
Unless the plan is to install a swimming pool in the basement, you probably cringe at the idea of water trickling ben...
Tag icon slideshow
6 Rapid Repairs for a Shipshape Spring Home Exterior
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...
Tag icon article
The Essential Guide to Spring Home Improvement
Spring brings blooming flowers and budding trees, but it also brings a long list of home improvement chores that accu...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 May "Must Do" Projects
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Wallpaper
No homeowner wants to be confronted with ripped-up wall coverings as a day-in, day-out reminder of a job not yet fini...
Tag icon slideshow
10 DIY Fixes That Do More Harm Than Good
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....
Tag icon article
Quick Tip: Control Weeds Using a Propane Torch
How you choose to eradicate weeds depends on your patience, physical abilities, and environmental ethics. You could g...
Tag icon article
9 Fixes For When Your Lawn Mower Won’t Start
Lawn care can be tedious, but once the grass starts growing in the spring, mowing becomes a fact of life in most neig...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Mothball Smell
The pungent odor of mothballs is the very smell of storage. Made from either naphthalene or paradichlorobenzene, thes...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 April "Must Do" Projects
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 ...
Tag icon article
How to Clean a Jacuzzi
No matter how beneficial massaging hydrotherapy is for your health, a jetted tub can be only as restorative and relax...
Tag icon article
3 Fixes for Cracked Concrete
Despite its reputation as one of the most rugged building materials ever conceived, even concrete has a sensitive sid...
Tag icon article
How To Get Rid of Waterbugs
When most homeowners refer to a "waterbug," they're actually employing a delicate colloquialism for an insect whose m...
Tag icon slideshow
Sofa, So Good: 10 Creative Ways to Revive a Tired Old Couch
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...
Tag icon article
All You Need to Know About Roofing Materials
You probably don’t think much about the durability of your roof until you absolutely need to. But waiting until a lea...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Carpet Beetles
They enter your home in a myriad of ways: hitching rides on cut flowers, clothing, or pets, or simply flying in throu...
Tag icon article
3 Fixes for Scratched Glass
Whether in the form of a windowpane, shower wall, or tabletop, glass serves as a durable and glamorous surface almost...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Gophers
Even if you’re not an avid cultivator of prized begonias or caretaker of an expensive golf course like Bill Murray’s ...
Tag icon article
How to Unclog a Garbage Disposal
When faced with the conundrum of how to unclog a garbage disposal, most people would say that the easiest solution is...
Tag icon article
Solved! How to Fix Flickering Lights in Your Home
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...
Tag icon article
How to Caulk a Shower or Tub
There’s nothing quite like a steamy shower to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit after a good night’s sleep or a ...
Tag icon article
How To: Make Your Own Grout Cleaner
No matter how hard you work to keep your kitchen and bathroom clean, they'll always look dingy if they're plagued by ...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 February "Must Do" Projects
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...
Tag icon article
How to Remove Soap Scum From Tubs and Showers
If you are your household's designated bathroom cleaner (or if you pay attention to your surroundings when you're in ...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Worth-Every-Penny Upgrades for the Hardworking Parts of Your Home
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...
Tag icon article
How to Seal Grout
Even if you keep your bathroom tiles clean, dirty grout lines can really detract from the look of your tiled floors a...
Tag icon article
Heat Tape: A Fast and Low-Cost Way to Prevent Frozen Pipes
This post has been brought to you by SupplyHouse. com. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Homeowners w...
Tag icon article
3 Easy Fixes for Carpet Dents
In preparation for an evening of fun, food, and merriment with family and friends, you’ve planned and cooked and clea...
Tag icon article
8 Steps You Can Take to Increase Water Pressure in Your Home
Starting or ending a long day with a weak shower is pretty unsatisfying, if not downright frustrating. When other aro...
Tag icon article
How To: Make Your Own Drain Cleaner
When your sink or shower drain gets clogged, it's pretty easy to figure out the cause. The perp is usually a disgusti...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Oven Glass
You know the story: After cooking a big meal—especially after doing so several times a week, for months—splattered gr...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 Must Do's for December
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Troubleshoot a Leaky Washing Machine
Did you know the average American family washes eight loads of laundry a week? That translates to more than 400 loads...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Dealing with a Damp Basement
Though you don't live in the tropics, the most humid days might make you feel like you do. That dampness is not only ...
Tag icon article
8 Smart Solutions for an On-the-Fritz Fridge
Holiday entertaining is getting underway, and gracious hosts everywhere are busy cleaning, shopping, decorating, craf...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Paint from Glass
You set out a drop cloth and meticulously lined the wall trim with painter’s tape, but you still ended up with a litt...
Tag icon slideshow
Time's Up: 9 Things to Repair in Your Home Before It's Too Late
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...
Tag icon slideshow
14 Easy Ways to Fix a Squeaky Bed
Does your bed squeak every time you toss or turn? Learn how to bring peace back to your bedroom and improve the quality of your sleep.
Tag icon slideshow
16 Improvements Most Homeowners Get Wrong
Don't do what these homeowners did! Learn how to avoid costly mistakes and design disasters before you begin your next DIY renovation.
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Silverfish
Don't let the name fool you: Silverfish are nothing like the goldfish you nurtured as pets in your childhood bedroom....
Tag icon article
3 Fixes for a Streaky Mirror
Streaky mirrors are common problems for even the most conscientious housekeeper. Sometimes, no matter how carefully y...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Bad Habits That Are Killing Your Appliances
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 ...
Tag icon article
Genius! Clean Your Gutters without a Ladder
We all start autumn bright-eyed and optimistic, eager to pick apples, gaze at the stars, or watch the leaves change c...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Is a Mossy Roof Cause for Concern?
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...
Tag icon article
The Easy Way to Waterproof Masonry Surfaces
This article has been brought to you by UGL. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. For the last 50 years ...
Tag icon slideshow
The 12 Fall Home Maintenance Tasks You Can't Ignore
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...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Signs Your House Needs New Siding
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Be a Pro at Patching Stucco
Stucco is a wonderfully versatile wall treatment—durable, weather-resistant, and attractive. It's been used in countl...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" October Projects
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 ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Sharpening Your Hedge Trimmer
Powered hedge trimmers are a tremendous time-saver for any homeowner who prefers to handle his own landscaping. But i...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Things First-Time Homeowners Don't Know to Do
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...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Fall Fix-Ups to Do for a Winter-Ready Home
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...
Tag icon article
How to Unclog a Shower Drain
Hopping into a hot and steamy shower only to notice that the water is pooling around your feet makes for a rough way ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: TLC for Your Window AC
Window air conditioners: We turn to them in the dog days of summer, turn them off when the weather cools down, and fo...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" September Projects
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
Finish Strong: 7 Things to Do Before Summer Ends
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Be Good to Your Garage Door
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 ...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Moss from the Roof
A green, moss-covered roof may make you think you’ve wandered into a fairy tale, complete with a quaint little woodcu...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Rust from Hand Tools
Has it been a while since your last home improvement project? If your do-it-yourself skills are a little rusty, chanc...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" August Projects
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...
Tag icon article
Boost Your Curb Appeal with 4 Doable DIY Projects
When it comes to putting your house on the market, you spend much of your time considering how to stage your rooms to...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Give Your Mower a Tune-Up
With the summer season nearing its peak, chances are that your lawn mower would benefit from a bit of mid-season TLC....
Tag icon article
When the Clothes on Your Back Are a Tool for the Task
Look at any flat roof and, along the edges, you're likely to see a special type of flashing—the drip edge. Though not...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Things New Homeowners Waste Money On
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" July Projects
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Woodpeckers
As pretty as woodpeckers are to observe in your backyard or garden, these noisy birds can cause major damage to your ...
Tag icon slideshow
6 Mistakes Homeowners Make Every Summer
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Why Is the Tap Water Brown?
Does the water coming out of your faucet look a bit like the Mississippi River after a rainstorm? There are at least ...
Tag icon article
So, You Want to... Level a Concrete Floor
There's no disagreement here: Concrete ranks among the most durable, longest-lasting of all building materials. That ...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean Wood Siding
Think your wood siding needs a fresh coat of paint? Maybe. Or it could be that your wood clapboard, lap, or shingle s...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Problem Areas You’re Overlooking—But Shouldn’t
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...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Projects Perfect for a Lazy Summer Day
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
6 Ways You’re Accidentally Damaging Your Home
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...
Tag icon article
Lawn Mower Pit Stop: 5 Maintenance Musts
Your lawn mower has more in common with a race car than you might think. To stay in top working order, both require t...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Paint from Metal
"Just paint it!" That's the motto for many DIYers when they're unhappy with the lamp, dresser, doors, hardware. . . y...
Tag icon slideshow
5 Simple Steps to Renew Your Concrete Driveway
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Give Your Gas Grill a Tune-Up
Grilling season is back, and not a minute too soon! To avoid any unpleasant surprises on your inaugural cookout, give...
Tag icon article
How To: Sharpen Scissors
Used for cutting paper, cardboard, fabric, string, price tags, plastic packaging—that list goes on—those scissors in ...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for May
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...
Tag icon slideshow
6 Simple Steps to a Refreshed Deck
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Easy Repairs Never to Pay Someone Else For
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 ...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Outdoor Cushions 
Because they remain outdoors for a good portion of the year, patio cushions weather plenty of dirt and debris. Bird d...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Raising Sunken Pavers
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Replace a Worn-Out Window Screen
Replacing a screen on a wooden window frame? It's a straightforward job. To get it done right, and with a minimum of ...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Caulk
Though caulk often lasts for years, it doesn't stick around forever. If yours has become discolored, has developed cr...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" April Projects
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Sump Pumps Need Maintenance, Too
With melting snow and spring rains just around the corner, now is the most important time of year for sump pump maint...
Tag icon article
Quick Tip: Renew Dull Wood Finishes with Mineral Spirits
As you go about your spring cleaning routine, take a few minutes to inspect the condition of your wood furniture and ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Restoring Rattan
Vintage rattan furniture is getting harder to come by, so if you happen to run across a nice piece at a garage sale, ...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Paint from Brick
If you've ever tried to remove paint from brick, you know that it can be a painstaking process. Depending on the scop...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Shush Your Slamming Doors
Is a slamming door driving you nuts? Have you had noise complaints from neighbors? Here are a few simple and inexpens...
Tag icon article
How To: Patch Carpet
Carpeting inevitably undergoes wear and tear, whether from foot traffic or the accidents of everyday life. If those f...
Tag icon article
How to Remove Tile From Floors, Backsplashes, and Other Surfaces
A lot of DIY demolition and renovation can be fun. It provides stress relief, excitement, and fast results. One of th...
Tag icon slideshow
9 Amazing Things You Can Do with Sugru
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Mold from Wood
Wood, which naturally soaks up and retains water, makes an ideal environment for mold and mildew. If you're dealing w...
Tag icon slideshow
Small Miracles: 9 Amazing Home Repair Products
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Fleas in Your Home
Fleas are irritating—not only for pets but also for people. If you have fleas in the house, you can usually expect so...
Tag icon slideshow
How To: Remove Paint from EVERYTHING
Nothing brightens up a room like a fresh coat of paint—but the unfortunate side effects of many painting projects are spills and splatters. Even the most careful ...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Wallpaper Glue
Removing wallpaper is, in a word, laborious. The process takes a great deal of energy and time. And lo and behold, ev...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" February Projects
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...
Tag icon slideshow
7 House Sounds You Never Want to Ignore
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 ...
Tag icon article
Show Love to Your Leather Furniture with Homemade Conditioner
When the skin of our hands gets dry and starts to crack a bit, we quickly reach for moisturizing lotion. The same log...
Tag icon article
A Contractor's Tips for a Long-Lasting Front Door
If there were one rule in home exterior maintenance, it might be this: Don't skip the door. With their frequent daily...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: 2 Quick Fixes for a Slow Kitchen Drain
Chances are that, somewhere along the line, you've had to deal with a clog in your kitchen drain. Even if you make a ...
Tag icon slideshow
Worth It: 8 Renovations That Pay You Back
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Why Is the Smoke Alarm Chirping?
Why do you do when there's a smoke alarm chirping in your home, seemingly without provocation? How can you keep that ...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" January Projects
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.
Tag icon slideshow
The Most Frequently Asked Questions of 2014
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Season Cast Iron
Cast iron, properly cared for, can last a lifetime at least in the kitchen. Apart from cleaning your pan or skillet a...
Tag icon slideshow
8 Quick Tips for Solving Winter Woes
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 ...
Tag icon article
Never Shovel Snow Again After This One Improvement
Though winter's worst storms are likely yet to come, many homeowners around the country have already had ample opport...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Is There a Leak in Your Gas Fireplace?
Gas fireplaces have been showing up in more and more homes the past few years. They're clean, easy to use, and add a ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Troubleshooting Tips for Motion Sensor Lights
Motion sensor lights are a must for any home security system, but sometimes they get out of whack, turning on and off...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Every 2 Years, Flush Your Water Heater
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...
Tag icon slideshow
The Gear You Need to Fight the Worst of Winter
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...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for December
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...
Tag icon slideshow
Winterize Your Home in 7 Simple Steps
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...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Quick Fixes for a More Refreshing Shower
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 ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Are You Making a Big Mistake with Your Storm Windows?
This winter, before you shut your storm windows, make sure that at the bottom of each one, the weep hole is clear.  A...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for November
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....
Tag icon slideshow
Don't Try This at Home: The 7 Most Dangerous DIYs
Owning a home can be very expensive, which is why many savvy homeowners learn to do minor maintenance and repair work themselves, rather than hire a professional....
Tag icon article
How To: Prevent or Eliminate Closet Moths
Tineola bisselliella, the common clothes moth, wreaks havoc on wardrobes, destroying shirts and socks, pants and swea...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Bats—and Keep Them Away for Good
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...
Tag icon article
Noisy Radiator? Here's How to Shush It
There's a simple reason why builders relied on steam radiators for decades and decades—they work! But every technolog...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Things to Do Right Now for a Warmer Winter
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Make and Apply Your Own Homemade Furniture Polish
Wood furniture is no small investment. In covering the expense, we are comforted knowing that what we are buying can ...
Tag icon article
4 Crucial Furnace Cleaning and Maintenance Tasks to Complete Before Winter
Don’t wait until temperatures plummet: Now is the absolute best time to perform basic furnace cleaning and maintenanc...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for October
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Poison Ivy from Your Yard
Homeowners know too well that not all greenery contributes to the beauty of a garden. Weeds, for instance, are a chie...
Tag icon article
How to Remove Vinyl Flooring
Let's be clear: It's no fun to remove vinyl flooring. Peeling up the material itself is no picnic, but the real trial...
Tag icon slideshow
Shhh! 11 DIYs for a Soundproofed Home
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...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Ways to Get Rid of Mice
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...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must-Do" Projects for September
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Mower Air Filters
With all the turf you've been trimming this summer, now's a good time to give your mower some well-deserved TLC. That...
Tag icon article
Transform and Protect Your Deck in a Single Coat
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...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Moles Effectively and Humanely
Although you may scratch your head over what animal is digging holes in your yard, there’s no mistaking when that ani...
Tag icon article
How to Plunge a Toilet
People go weeks, months, and even years without giving the toilet a second thought. The instant it clogs, however, th...
Tag icon article
How To: Defrost a Freezer
Have you got a freezer full of frost? That'll happen. Fortunately, defrosting a freezer isn't as big a deal as people...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for August
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 ...
Tag icon article
How To: Polish Silver
Gleaming silver exudes refined charm, yet over time that lustrous beauty gradually fades with the accumulation of tar...
Tag icon article
In the War Against Wet, A New Weapon
In the war against wet, homeowners have a new weapon: It's called NeverWet. Designed to repel water and keep surfaces...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Repointing Brick
Brick is very low maintenance, but age and weather still take their toll. As a result, brick requires occasional repo...
Tag icon article
How To Prevent Rust on Your Outdoor Furniture and Railings
Enter the yard of many homes in America and somewhere among the trees, shrubs, and grass, you’re bound to find metal....
Tag icon article
How To: Sharpen a Chain Saw
Like any other tool in your arsenal, a chain saw must be properly and consistently maintained in order to perform eff...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Wasps: Say "Goodbye!" in 5 Easy Steps
Spring and summer are lovely times of the year, but they do usher in a host of seasonal hazards, perhaps none more fe...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for July
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 ...
Tag icon article
Regain Your Footing: Top Tips for Common Wood Floor Repairs
This article has been brought to you by Lumber Liquidators. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Few thi...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean a Grill
For some of us, summer doesn't mean sunbathing on the beach or hiking along a mountain trail—it means grilling burger...
Tag icon article
How to Get Rid of Cockroaches
You’re not alone in wanting to get rid of roaches. These creepy-crawly insects are a major problem around the country...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Leather Furniture
With its sumptuous texture and supple feel, leather furniture provides an element of luxury to your room decor. Fortu...
Tag icon article
How To: Get Rid of Fruit Flies
A terrific way to maintain good health is to stick to a diet chock-full of fruits and vegetables. But few things spoi...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Baseboards
Even if you spend hours washing the floor, dusting furniture, and vacuuming the nooks and crannies around your home, ...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for May
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 ...
Tag icon slideshow
7 Tips to Keep Your Mower in Working Order
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...
Tag icon article
5 Home Repairs That Can Break the Bank—and How to Avoid Them
A home is like a relationship—it requires a little bit of money and attention to keep it going strong. Neglect some e...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Fire Extinguisher Inspection
You know you should test your smoke alarm twice a year, but what about your fire extinguisher? If yours is at the bac...
Tag icon article
Spring Home Maintenance? Don't Overlook Your Gutters
Spring has officially arrived, and that means a whole host of outdoor chores for homeowners. One of the most importan...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for April
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 ...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Paint from Wood
It can be a mighty labor-intensive and time-consuming process to remove paint, which is why many DIYers dread or even...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean Wood Furniture
Homeowners have long relished the beauty, versatility, and toughness of wood furniture—and above all, they've appreci...
Tag icon article
5 Home Maintenance Tips for Spring
Nothing renews that feeling of pride of ownership more than attending to annual home maintenance tasks (especially on...
Tag icon slideshow
11 Tried-and-True Ways to Care for Hardwood Floors
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. ...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? Cleaning Air Ducts
I am moving into a new home. The previous owners had a dog. I am wondering if cleaning the air ducts is worthwhile. A...
Tag icon article
When in Doubt, Revive Your Grout! Top Tips for Regrouting Tile
Tile has always been a popular choice for floors, walls, and other surfaces due to its durability and long life. In f...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Rust
Learning how to remove rust from metal isn't rocket science, and in homeowners' ongoing fight to maintain outdoor too...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? Preventing Window Condensation
It's winter and I keep getting condensation on the inside of my windows. What's the solution?When moist, warm air mak...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Planning After President's Day
I know it’s still winter here in the Northeast, but I start thinking about spring the minute Presidents’ Day weekend ...
Tag icon slideshow
New & Notable: 10 High-Tech Gadgets to Make Housework Less Work
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...
Tag icon article
How to Caulk a Bathtub
What can I use to remove caulk from around the bathtub? Also, what is the correct product to use when I caulk the tub...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for February
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove and Replace Grout
Several years after you complete a bathroom or kitchen renovation, it inevitably starts to show some wear. One culpri...
Tag icon article
5 Ticking Time Bombs Every Homeowner Should Know About
There are some maintenance and repair issues that homeowners just hate to deal with—either because they take time, or...
Tag icon article
Quick Tip: Treating Termites and Preventing Rodents
 Termites and other pests can cause expensive damage. Here's what to look for.  The sawdust-like accumulations of fra...
Tag icon slideshow
Bob Vila's 10 "Must Do" Projects for January
'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 ...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? Draining a Water Heater
I just drained my water heater for the first time since it was installed back in '89. . . 24 years ago! The water cam...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean Porcelain Tile
Porcelain tile consistently ranks as a preferred flooring choice among homeowners, partly due to its beauty—the mater...
Tag icon article
How To: Detect Termite Damage
 Here's how you can tell if your house has termite damage. First, examine obvious areas of wood rot for termites. Som...
Tag icon article
How To: Paint Aluminum Siding
Aluminum siding first became popular in the wake of World War II, when this metal, which had been so crucial to the w...
Tag icon article
5 Things Every Homeowner Should Know How to Do
While many of us would be fearful of repairing a roof or installing an electrical outlet, there are plenty of things ...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Gutters: The 5 Best Ways to Get the Job Done
Of all the necessary evils that make up a comprehensive fall yard maintenance routine, cleaning the gutters may be th...
Tag icon article
Quick Tip: Mold Prevention
 Because today's new houses are built to allow less air infiltration than older homes, mold growth has become a conce...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Raking Tips
This time of year, those of us who are lucky enough to have trees that provide summer shade have to pay for that priv...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean Gutters with a Wet/Dry Vac
 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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila's 5 "Must-Do" October Projects
October is a month filled with simple pleasures: cooler temperatures, yard sales, leaf-peeping, apple-picking, and ev...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila's Guide to Kitchen Appliance Care
Your kitchen contains more appliances than any other room in the house. When the units are in good condition, there's...
Tag icon article
How To: Refinish Rusty Patio Furniture
 Don't throw out that rusty garden furniture. Restoring it can be a great weekend project. Use a wire brush or sandpa...
Tag icon article
How To: Protect and Beautify a Wood Deck
This post has been brought to you by Thompson's WaterSeal.  Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila. com. Choose ...
Tag icon article
How to Remove Carpet
Even with regular vacuuming, carpeting accumulates a great deal of dust, dirt, and debris. When you finally decide to...
Tag icon article
Low Water Pressure in the House? Here's What's Wrong and How to Fix It
Low water pressure in the house can be a real annoyance—the shower subsides to a trickle, the washing machine takes e...
Tag icon article
How To: Close a Pool for the Winter
Of all homeowner responsibilities, few so clearly indicate the end of summer as closing the swimming pool. Properly d...
Tag icon article
INFOGRAPHIC: DIY Pest Prevention
Fighting pests at home? The best offense is a clean, dry, and air-tight defense. The importance of sanitation cannot ...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? How to Paint Raw Wood, Cure Pet Odors, and Remove Grout Haze
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...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? Rusty Bolts, Non-Slip Tubs, and House Wrap
1. RUSTY BOLT REMOVAL I have an old bench outside with rotting old seat boards. The nuts and bolts holding the wood t...
Tag icon article
How To: Repoint Brick Walls
Brick houses are hard to damage. Anyone familiar with The Three Little Pigs knows that. Inevitably, however, there co...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? Ceiling Options, Window Cleaning, and Sewer Odor Control
1. LIVING ROOM CEILING OPTIONSI recently purchased a 'fixer upper' in the DC area and am starting to decorate. In my ...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? Wallpaper, Vinyl Siding, and Asbestos
1. HANGING WALLPAPER IN THE BATHROOMPainting is easy and the result is resilient, but I can't help thinking that pain...
Tag icon article
Countertop Care 101
Perhaps never before have there been so many enticing countertop options to fit every budget, décor, and culinary nee...
Tag icon article
How To: Care for Your Grill
Summertime! The living is easy and—more often than not—the food is grilled. From burgers, dogs, and steaks to chicken...
Tag icon article
Some Sharpening Shortcuts
As the saying goes, sharp tools are safer tools. So here are a couple of hints for keeping your cutting tools sharp. ...
Tag icon article
Basic Grinding 101
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 ...
Tag icon article
The Bench Grinder
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 ...
Tag icon article
Saw Blade Sharpening
A good handsaw, when properly treated, is a tool that can be passed with pride from one generation to the next. Essen...
Tag icon article
Making Plane Adjustments
Using woodworking planes whose cutters are out of adjustment is like driving a car in the wrong gear: You may be able...
Tag icon article
Top Tips for Sharpening Chisels
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Fight Off Termites
Preventing and treating termite infestations is a top priority for many homeowners. Termite control is not a do-it-yo...
Tag icon article
Care and Repair of Outdoor Furniture
When choosing outdoor furniture for a garden room, outdoor kitchen, or multi-level deck, some consumers prefer qualit...
Tag icon article
How To: Rodent-Proof Your Home
While Ratatouille might have been a runaway blockbuster film, no one wants rats in the house — or mice or squirrels o...
Tag icon article
Keep Garage Doors in Top Shape
The garage door is the single largest moving part in your home, and should be inspected and maintained every year. Wh...
Tag icon article
60-Minute DIY Projects
On television, home improvement projects go from start to finish in 60 minutes or less. You’ve probably thought while...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? Faucet Replacement, Plug Conversion, and Tile
1. FAULTY FAUCET REPLACEMENTWhen I turn on the water in the bathtub and pull the plunger so that water redirects to t...
Tag icon article
Care and Cleaning Keep Wicker Wonderful
Wicker furniture and accessories are very popular choices for living spaces both outdoors and in.  Comfortable, sturd...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? Groundwater, Exterior Painting, and Porch Spiders
1. GROUNDWATER LEAKING INTO BASEMENTI have a water supply pipe to the house that enters through the basement wall. Th...
Tag icon article
Weekend Projects: 5 Ways to Prep for a Backyard Bash
Among the true joys of summer is the opportunity to spend more time outside relaxing, entertaining, and playing. But ...
Tag icon article
What Would Bob Do? Counters, Flooding, and Decks
1. STAINED MARBLE COUNTERTOPSI have a beautiful marble countertop on my cooking island. It was never sealed properly ...
Tag icon article
Top Tips for Maintaining a Chainsaw
To safely and productively operate a chain saw, you must commit to maintaining it. Keep your chain saw in tip-top sha...
Tag icon article
Helpful Hints for Cleaning Bathtubs
There's nothing like a long, leisurely soak in a hot bath to soothe away the stresses of the day—that is, unless the ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Spring Fence Routine
A wooden fence is a beautiful accent on any home, but it takes some maintenance to keep it looking neat and trim. Spr...
Tag icon article
An All-Natural Guide to Apartment Pest Control and Prevention
Living in the city has its perks. But it also has its pests. From mice to roaches to bed bugs, dreaded pests can and ...
Tag icon article
Termite Infestation: Top Tips for Prevention
The advent of spring is generally welcome, but warmer temperatures also bring out unwanted pests, namely termites. Of...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean Vinyl Siding
Vinyl siding is a durable, versatile, and resilient building material, but it does require some routine care and clea...
Tag icon article
How To: Strip Wallpaper
How strong is your relationship with your spouse? Do you want to test it? Spend a weekend stripping wallpaper togethe...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Brass and Restore Its Lustrous Shine
Brass brings a warm, burnished glow to household items—everything from switch plates and door knockers to bathroom fi...
Tag icon article
How to Clean Vinyl Flooring Without Damaging It
Vinyl tile and laminate flooring is attractive, durable, and long-lasting, even under a home's highest-traffic condit...
Tag icon article
How To: Remove Varnish and Other Wood Finishes
Varnish, lacquer, shellac and other clear coats are applied to protect wood furniture and flooring from scratches, sc...
Tag icon article
Is It Time to Replace Your Furnace?
Baby, its cold outside—and the last thing you want to do is return home to a frosty house. The smart time to examine ...
Tag icon slideshow
10 Ways to Give Your House a Valentine
To celebrate Cupid's holiday this year, we count off ten ways to show your house that you care.
Tag icon article
How to Clean Concrete Floors and Driveways
Before You BeginThe first thing to know about cleaning concrete? You don’t need to be delicate. After all, it’s one o...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Window Drafts
If your house has drafty windows, your heating and cooling systems may be working harder than they need to. Taking a ...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean Slate
I have a slate fireplace surround that makes my living room feel really warm and earthy, even if the fire is not lit....
Tag icon article
Rx for Hardwood Floors
Special problems need special solutions—and that's particularly true of wood flooring.  When accidents happen, first ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Rust Removal
Reviving rusty metal tools or furniture is a great indoor winter project, and there are three ways to remove rust. Li...
Tag icon article
How To: Prevent Frost on Windows
I remember waking up as a kid on wintry mornings to find frost on my bedroom window obscuring the trees and yard. Tho...
Tag icon article
How To: Maintain a Snow Blower for Peak Performance
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Carpet Wrinkles
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Winterize Your Lawn
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Fall Equipment Prep
As the weather gets colder, it’s a good idea to do some fall maintenance on your outdoor equipment and put it to bed ...
Tag icon article
Everything You Need to Know About Winterizing Pipes
As you ready your house for the colder months ahead, don’t forget about your water system. When water freezes, it exp...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Protecting Floors
Home improvement projects are messy business: Whether you’re painting, re-tiling, or just moving furniture, you want ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Fall AC Care
Now that the summer scorchers are over, it’s time to bring in your window air conditioning units. Listen to BOB VILA ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Fall Checklist
While you were having fun in the sun this summer, it was no vacation for your house. A fall checklist will tip you of...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Loud Pipes
If you hear banging or knocking when you turn the tap on and off in your home, you could be straining pipes and coppe...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Tub Caulking
Even tiny gaps between your tub and the wall tiles can let enough water in to damage your walls and host mold. Since ...
Tag icon article
How To: Clean Painted Walls
Cleaning painted walls may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually quite simple, albeit somewhat time-consuming....
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Garbage Disposal Care
While they’ll grind and send most kitchen scraps down the drain in small batches with a good strong flow of cold wate...
Tag icon article
How To: Dispose of Household Hazardous Waste
Recycling is more than sorting out plastic bottles and composting leftovers. Proper disposal of household objects is ...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Cleaning Your Dryer Vents
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Dishwasher Care
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Bee & Wasp Control
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...
Tag icon article
What You Might Not Know About HVAC Filters
Everyone agrees that you should change your HVAC filter on a regular basis, but not everyone agrees on the type of fi...
Tag icon article
What You Need to Know Before Buying a Sump Pump
I’ve been lucky with basements. Having purchased five houses in my life, not one has had serious basement moisture is...
Tag icon article
Mower Maintenance: 5 Ways to Keep Your Machine Up and Running
This summer, to ensure you’re spending more time enjoying your weekend and not struggling to get your mower to start,...
Tag icon article
How to Clean and Care for Your Gardening Tools
A quality garden starts with quality care—and that doesn’t just mean keeping up with your weeding. Maintaining your g...
Tag icon article
Quick Tip: Winterize Your Home
Don't miss 11 Ways to Winterize Your Home on a Budget!Eliminate Winter SurprisesWhile you were having fun in the sun ...
Tag icon article
Quick Tip: Cleaning Your Gutters
While it’s a job many of us would love to ignore, gutter cleaning is an important twice-a-year ritual all homeowners ...
Tag icon article
How To: Avoid Ice Dams and Water Damage
What Are Ice Dams?Many homeowners in the northern United States are all too familiar with ice dams. These are thick a...
Tag icon article
Replacing Air Conditioner Pipe Insulation for Maximum Energy Efficiency
An imperative “rite of spring” in our house is checking our two central air conditioning systems to make sure they ar...
Tag icon article
Quick Tip: Windows Can Beat the Summer Heat
Weather Stripping: Not Just for Winter Before you add to your electric bill trying to keep cool this summer, add some...
Tag icon article
How to Refinish a Wood Table
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...
Tag icon article
How To: Seal a Driveway
Sealing your driveway may seem like a bothersome chore, but its benefits are significant. First, a regular coat of se...
Tag icon article
How To: Stain a Wood Deck
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...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Window AC Checklist
Before you pull your window air conditioner out of storage, consider its age. Efficiencies have improved so much that...
Tag icon article
Bob Vila Radio: Maintenance Checklist
Bob Vila Radio is a newly launched daily radio spot carried on more than 60 stations around the country (and growing)...
Tag icon article
How To: Keep a Christmas Tree Fresh
It’s the time of year when Christmas tree lots start appearing around your community, bringing with them a difficult ...
Tag icon article
Top 10 Ways to Deal with Bees
Bob Vila recently contacted me because he had a bee infestation in his attic. I've made several visits to his house s...
Tag icon article
How To: Determine If Your Carpenter's Square Is True
To determine whether a carpenter's square is true, all you need is a straight line. Sound too simple? First you lay t...
Tag icon slideshow
Project Guide: Refinishing Hardwood Floors
Few do-it-yourself projects deliver the "wow" factor as potently as refinishing hardwood floors.
Tag icon article
How To: Protect Your Home from Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants damage wood by hollowing it out for nesting. Unlike termites, wood damaged by carpenter ants does not ...
Tag icon article
DIY Kitchen Countertop Makeover: Resurface Your Laminate Countertops with Rust-Oleum Transformations
At one time or another most of us have considered remodeling the kitchen. It’s the one room in the house that sees th...
Tag icon article
Spring Home Maintenance Checklist
This year, many parts of the country have enjoyed such a mild winter that even in the Northeast, spring weather seems...
Tag icon article
Laminate Countertop Renewal
Our laminate countertop looked fine, but the protective coating was pretty much gone. Coffee, tea, wine, juice, sauce...
Tag icon article
Winter Preparation Checklist
Give your home a once-over and tend to winter preparation tasks and repairs before the year’s first frost. “Getting t...
Tag icon article
Quick Tip: Tool Maintenance
Tool Maintenance. Whatever your storage arrangements, keep your tools clean. After use, remove any sap or resins from...
Tag icon article
Everything You Need to Know About How to Sharpen a Spade Bit
Spade bits, it seems, are always encountering nails, at least in the kinds of rough drilling chores that renovation w...
Tag icon article
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist
Fall is just around the corner: time to get your house in shape for the cooler months ahead. Although autumn can be o...
Tag icon article
How To: Unclog a Clogged Drain
Some friends of mine moved into a new house and had a couple of issues with their bathroom. The sink drain was a litt...
Tag icon article
Black Roof Stains? Check for Algae
It’s not mold. It’s probably not soot. The black spots discoloring your asphalt roof are more than likely the pervasi...
Tag icon article
Winterize Your Home on a Budget
Securing your home against winter is always a prime consideration for homeowners, no matter where you live. Regardles...
Tag icon article
Home Maintenance Checklist
1. Roof: Check the roof and around vents, skylights, and chimneys for leaks. Repair as necessary. 2. Attic: If there ...
Tag icon article
This Old Flagpole
Summer folks on the New England shore have a long-standing tradition of flying the flag from Memorial Day to Labor Da...
Tag icon video
Fixing Squeaky Floors
Bob talks with a floor expert about how to fix squeaky floors.
Tag icon video
Interior Sandblasting and Installing the Plywood Subfloor
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...
Tag icon video
Interior Layout and Exterior Brickwork
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...
Tag icon video
Antique Brick Work at the Burtch-Udall House and Sumner Mansion
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...
Tag icon video
Installing Rain Gutters
Bob and roofer Paul Morris demonstrate gutter installation techniques, including the on-site assembly of special features, such as corners and trim.
Tag icon video
Power-Washing the Exterior
Painter Kip Wanamaker power-washes the exterior of the Naples project house.
Tag icon video
Removing Old Paint
Brick worker Dan Webb explains how the brick façade is power-washed to remove several layers of ugly paint.
Radio banner a
Driveway Aprons 101 More clips
Get the Adobe Flash Player to listen to this audio file.
Follow banner a
Newsletter icon Flipboard glossy Facebook Twitter Pinterest Youtube Rss icon