Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 104)

A view of hardwood flooring samples.
Interior

How Much Does It Cost to Refinish Hardwood Floors?

When the time comes to refinish hardwood flooring, it pays to shop around for the best price. The cost to refinish hardwood floors ranges from $1,098 to $2,653, with the national average at $1,869.

A group of the Best Shower Tile Cleaners on a counter before testing.
Reviews

The Best Shower Tile Cleaner for a Sparkling Shower, Tested

An effective shower tile cleaner helps to provide a safe and enjoyable shower experience.

A view of a worker fixing an electrical component.
DIY

The U.S. Desperately Needs Skilled Workers

Fewer and fewer people are choosing to pursue careers in the skilled trades—but the demand for skilled labor is projected to increase in these 5 industries.

A group of the best quiet air compressors in front of a garage door before testing.
Reviews

The Best Quiet Air Compressors for Low-Volume Workspaces, Tested

Reduce noise levels and increase productivity with these powerful tools.

A worker crouching over an open toolbox in an empty room.
Reviews

4 of the Best Handyman Services in America, Vetted

When there’s no time to do it yourself, hire one of the best handyman services to get those jobs around the house done.

A wire brush inside a HVAC vent.
Reviews

The Best Air Duct Cleaning Services in America

Hiring one of the best air duct cleaning services can improve the efficiency of your HVAC system and the air quality in your home.

A group of the best pedestal fans in a home before testing.
Reviews

The Best Pedestal Fans for Staying Cool and Comfortable This Summer, Tested

A quality pedestal fan can be the perfect solution for cooling a warm room or ventilating a garage. Check out the best-performing models from our hands-on testing.

Two professional movers in blue uniforms move boxes and mattress into a truck.
Moving

5 Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring a Moving Company

Moving is stressful enough. Don’t make things worse by choosing the wrong company to transport your stuff.

Two new-construction two-story houses in a typical suburban neighborhood. One is blurred out and the other is not.
Exterior

How to Blur Your House on Google Maps—And Why You Should Do It ASAP

Blurring out your home on Google Maps takes only a few minutes, and it can shield your household from the prying eyes of stalkers and would-be criminals.

A worker builds a green roof.
Exterior

How Much Does a Green Roof Cost?

An eye-catching roof that serves an eco-friendly purpose might be the right home upgrade. Green roof costs range from $12,000 to $40,000, or about $22,000 on average.

Wall and baseboard of house showing damage.
Interior

5 Ways to Tell if You Have Termite Damage or Water Damage (or Both)

There’s no good choice between termite damage vs. water damage—and sometimes these problems go hand in hand. Knowing the signs of each can help you make a plan to restore your home.

A natural swimming pool in backyard with mountain view.
Exterior

This Unique Swimming Pool Stays Clean Naturally—But It’s Not Maintenance-Free

Learn what natural pools are and how they stay clean without chlorine, so you can decide if one of these back-to-basics backyard oases are right for your landscape.

A person in a hazmat suit uses a tool to spray a pest control solution in a kitchen.
Interior

How to Get a Pest Control License in Every U.S. State

Pest control can be a challenging and rewarding career path. Before opening a business, aspiring pest control professionals will need to know how to get a pest control license.

A close up of a hand painting a wooden fence.
Lawn & Garden

Fence Painting Cost: What to Expect and How Much You’ll Pay

A faded, flaky fence is a sign that it’s time to dress it up with a face-lift. On average, homeowners spend about $1,700 on fence painting costs, though it’s possible to spend between $750 and $4,250.

A bunch of the best light bulbs on a table before testing.
Interior

The Best Light Bulbs for All Your Home’s Lighting Needs, Tested

Whether you’re after a basic replacement bulb or a color-capable light bulb with smart features, you’re in the right place. We tested some of the best options on the market.

A light wood kitchen with a black cylindrical oven range hood.
Interior

27 Smokin’ Hot Range Hood Ideas for Your Kitchen

Range hoods are functional, but can also serve as focal points in your kitchen. Pro designers share some range hood trends that blow the others away.

Two workers replace a window inside a home.
Reviews

Renewal by Andersen Window Replacement: What To Know Before You Hire

Renewal by Andersen offers a one-stop shop for replacing windows and doors and backs jobs with a full, transferable warranty—but is it the right choice for your home?

A shovel filled with mulch is sitting in a leveled pile of mulch in a backyard.
Lawn & Garden

16 Types of Mulch for Landscaping and Gardening

If you plan to insulate your soil with mulch before the seasons change, first learn which type of material best meets your needs.

How Much Do Smart Locks Cost
Exterior

How Much Do Smart Locks Cost to Install?

Smart locks are the smart choice for secure remote access that’s convenient for everyone in the home. How much do smart locks cost? Homeowners spend between $250 and $400, or about $300 on average.

An open white porcelain toilet on teal tile being flushed.
Bathrooms

Can You Flush the Toilet When the Power Is Out?

While it seems completely counterintuitive, some toilets can’t be flushed when the electricity goes out—but why?