Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 282)

How Long Does a Water Heater Last
Interior

Solved! This is How Long a Water Heater Actually Lasts

Enjoy lower energy bills—as well as uninterrupted access to hot showers—by keeping tabs on your hot water heater's age and condition so you'll know when to replace it. 

annuals vs perennials
Lawn & Garden

Annuals vs. Perennials: 8 Important Considerations Every Home Gardener Should Know

When choosing annuals vs. perennials, know that annuals live for only one growing season while perennials return for several years. Find out the advantages of growing both.

Side by side image of a cultivator and a tiller.
Lawn & Garden

Cultivator vs. Tiller: Which Is Best for Your Garden?

If you dig gardens, it's important to get the machine that's right for the job.

slime mold - how to get rid of dog vomit slime mold
Interior

How to Get Rid of Dog Vomit Slime Mold

Learn the necessary steps and tools you’ll need to clear your yard of “dog vomit fungus” and other slime molds.

steam cleaner uses
DIY

11 Things You Didn’t Know Your Steam Cleaner Could Sanitize

Steam cleaners are versatile appliances for sprucing up many surfaces throughout the home, indoors and out. Here are just a few little-known uses for this handy gadget.

How to Choose a Place to Live
Real Estate

Relocating? 10 Factors to Consider as You Choose a New Place to Live

Thinking of moving, but can't decide where to start anew? These 10 considerations will help you decide on the right town for you and your family.

how to tell if you have hard water
Interior

Solved! How to Tell if You Have Hard Water

Find out why your laundry, glassware, and even your skin won’t get clean—and how to remedy the situation.

Childproofing Checklist
Interior

Childproofing Checklist

Take these simple and inexpensive childproofing steps around the house to elmiinate any risks to the safety of your little one.

outdoor fireplace ideas
Lawn & Garden

10 Outdoor Fireplace Ideas You’ll Want to Copy in Your Backyard

Warm up to one of these fireplace inspirations—in a range of styles, sizes, shapes, and materials—and perfect the centerpiece of your outside entertaining area.

what is scandinavian design
Design

7 Important Things to Know About Scandinavian Design

Scandi style is more than just Swedish furniture. It’s a way of looking at design from a minimalist perspective with a respect for functionality and beauty. 

Black mold growing on wall in the basement.
Interior

How to Get Rid of Mold in the Basement ASAP

Free the dampest space in your home of mold and mildew with these straightforward steps.

bird of paradise plant care 101 - how to grow bird of paradise indoors
Lawn & Garden

Master Indoor Bird of Paradise Plant Care and Your Green Thumb Will Soar

Although it boasts exotic “fine-feathered” blooms, you’ll need to learn the tricks of growing the often-obstinate bird of paradise plant to avoid it becoming Paradise Lost!

top of fridge storage
Interior

12 Things You Should Never Store on Top of the Refrigerator

That dead space above your fridge seems like an excellent spot for storage, but keeping the wrong items in this area can have unintended, and sometimes hazardous, consequences.

how to get rid of black mold
DIY

How to Get Rid of Black Mold in Your Home

Don't let an infestation of black mold damage your home and health. With a few natural ingredients, you can eliminate the harmful substance without the help of a professional.

retaining wall ideas
Lawn & Garden

11 Retaining Wall Ideas That Work Hard While Looking Good

Get inspired by these great ideas for retaining walls that hold back the soil on hilly yards while adding visual appeal.

how-to-sharpen-a-chisel
DIY

Top Tips for Sharpening Chisels

A dull blade is a dangerous blade, which is why you need to keep tools sharp. Follow these steps to sharpen your chisels.

lumber-grades-and-numbers
DIY

Lumber Grades and Numbers

Go into your local lumber yard with confidence once you understand the basics of lumber grades and numbers.

fall-home-maintenance-checklist
DIY

Fall Home Maintenance Checklist

Use this handy home maintenance checklist to keep your house—and property—in peak condition this winter.

7 Ways to Live with Carpet When You Can’t Rip It Out
Interior

7 Ways to Live with Carpet When You Can’t Rip It Out

If you don't have the budget to rip out and replace your old carpet, or if you're limited by your rental agreement, consider one of these creative ways to breathe new life into your floors.

10 Things to Do Now for a Better Garden Next Year
Lawn & Garden

10 Things to Do Now for a Better Garden Next Year

By the time colder weather rolls in, most people are ready to call it quits in the garden. But before you hang up your trowel for the winter, there are several things you should do to ensure your garden gets off to a great start next spring.