Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 313)

tim allen and richard karn from Home Improvement
Design

3 Good Reasons to Watch Tim Allen and Richard Karn’s New Show

Remember what happened the first time these two teamed up?

cats-meeting-picture-id1208665438
Lawn & Garden

How To: Keep Cats Out of Your Yard

Whether it’s a friendly feral cat or your own pet, felines can wreak havoc on your outdoor space. Learn the tips and tricks that will keep cats from doing their business in your garden, and scaring birds and other wildlife away.

Solved! What is Microfiber?
Interior

Solved! What is Microfiber?

Microfiber is a relatively new and rapidly-growing textiles construction. Microfiber is used in myriad products, including cleaning cloths, mops, faux leather, upholstery fabrics, bed and bath fashions, clothing, and sporting goods. Here are some pros and cons of thoroughly modern microfiber.

The 3 Key Steps to Painting Concrete Floors
DIY

3 Key Steps to a Concrete Floor Refresh

A fresh coat of color solves everything! And it's easy when you can rely on strong, innovative tools that take the heavy lifting out of painting even a large floor.

Expansion Tank Diagram
Interior

Expansion Tanks: What Are They and Why Are They Important?

When water is heated, it expands, increasing the pressure in closed heating systems. Over time, these pressure fluctuations can damage the system's components. An expansion tank is designed to alleviate this pressure and extend the life of your system. Here's how it works.

All You Need to Know About Working with PEX Pipe
Interior

All You Need to Know About PEX Pipe

Find out why this colorful tubing is the up-and-coming plumbing trend that has DIYers excited.

6 Things to Know Before Buying Kitchen Cabinets
Interior

6 Things to Know Before Buying Kitchen Cabinets

Kitchen cabinets are one of the most important parts of your kitchen renovation, so choose wisely! We can help you get started.

How to Fix a Hole in the Wall
DIY

3 Fixes for a Hole in the Wall

Sure, you can go out and buy some spackle and a wire mesh patch to repair a hole in the wall—or you can use what you happen to have lying around at home with these 3 creative fixes guaranteed to leave your wall looking smooth again.

repointing brick
Exterior

How To: Repoint Brick Walls

Repointing brick walls and chimneys with new mortar will not only enhance their beauty, but ensure that they remain secure, stable, and sound for years to come.

How to Fix and Prevent Wallpaper Peeling
DIY

Solved! How to Fix and Prevent Wallpaper Peeling

Repair peeling or bubbling wallpaper yourself with a few simple supplies and these pro techniques.

How to Change a Furnace Filter
Interior

Change Filters Frequently to Optimize Furnace Efficiency

Find out how to keep your air clean, your appliances running efficiently, and your energy bills down all in one go.

10 Tips to Improve Your Garage Lighting
Exterior

10 Ways to Improve Your Garage Lighting

Rethink your garage lighting plan with these bright ideas.

How Often You Should Clean Your Air Vents
Interior

5 Things to Know Before Cleaning Your Home’s Air Ducts

Find out if cleaning the ducts that keep dust at bay will actually improve the air quality inside your home—or if the job may do more harm than good.

The Ideal Light Switch Height, Solved!
DIY

Solved! How High to Install a Light Switch

Before you get to wiring and mounting a light switch in a newly added or recently converted space without a wall outlet, learn how high to install the light switch for easy access and mounting.

Too Hot Upstairs, Too Cold Downstairs? Here’s What to Do
Interior

Too Hot Upstairs, Too Cold Downstairs? Here’s What to Do

Do you dream of even, all-encompassing warmth throughout your house? If so, maybe it's time to turn to a highly efficient system that can keep your family toasty warm all winter long, no matter where in the house they happen to be.

How to Remove a Doorknob - With Hidden Screws
DIY

How To: Remove and Replace a Doorknob

Hidden screws may make this task seem mysterious. The right tools—and this guide—turn it into a simple matter.

How to Paint Laminate Countertops - Outdated Kitchen
DIY

How to Paint Laminate Countertops

Restore your work surface and give your kitchen or bathroom a whole new look with this simple paint project.

9 Types of Electrical Outlets You Can Have in the Home
Interior

9 Types of Electrical Outlets You Can Have in the Home

Different types of electrical outlets are good for different use cases. Learn if you have the right ones installed at home.

5 Types of Plumbing Pipes Found in Old and New Homes
Interior

5 Types of Plumbing Pipes You’ll Find in Homes

Get expert insight into the types of plumbing pipes that have been used in homes over the years and find out how their uses vary.

5 Things to Know Before Installing a Shower Drain
DIY

5 Things to Know Before Installing a Shower Drain

"Be prepared" isn't just a motto for Scouts—plumbers know all too well that it pays to have a plan for every worst-case scenario. Before you begin what may seem like a simple drain replacement, brush up on the possible challenges and equip yourself appropriately so you won't be left without a working shower for more than an afternoon.