Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 341)

Painting vs Staining a Deck: The Better Finish for Your Structure
DIY

What’s the Difference? Painting vs. Staining the Deck

Find out what distinguishes two popular finishes, paint vs. stain, to get the right protection for your deck.

How to Stop a Door from Slamming
DIY

Solved! How to Prevent Doors from Slamming

Discover why doors slam on their own (it’s nothing spooky!) and how to stop the loud annoyance via several simple methods.

6 Key Tips for Painting Bathroom Tile
DIY

6 Things to Know Before Painting Bathroom Tile

Brush up on all the details surrounding this bargain bathroom rehab option.

Gas or Oil Furnace - Which Is Better?
Interior

Gas vs. Oil: Which Furnace Is Better?

21 Brilliant Hacks for Everyday Home Repairs
DIY

21 Brilliant Hacks for Everyday Home Repairs

From clearing clogged drains to filling nail holes, maintaining your home can seem like a MacGyver-esque challenge—but it doesn't have to be this way. Make light work of these and other common repairs with our collection of 21 invaluable home hacks.

Roof Leak Repair
Exterior

4 Tips for Repairing a Leaky Roof

When you have asphalt shingles overhead, roof repair is a simple matter of locating the leak and correctly sealing it. Follow these four steps to wrap up this repair without even needing to call in the pros.

Repairing a Driveway? The Right Solution for Every Surface
Exterior

Repairing a Driveway? The Right Solution for Every Surface

Find the right repair technique for asphalt, concrete, and gravel driveways to restore your home’s curb appeal.

The Big Bathroom Remodeling Design Decision: Tub vs. Shower
Interior

The Big Bathroom Remodeling Design Decision: Tub vs. Shower

Compare the pros and cons of two key fixtures to help you make the right decision for your bathroom makeover.

All You Need to Know About Doorless Showers
Interior

All You Need to Know About Doorless Showers

Get must-know info about doorless showers—including size, material, and cost considerations—to find out if one will work in your bathroom.

Clearing a Clogged Sink - Do's and Don'ts
DIY

The Dos and Don’ts of Clearing a Clogged Sink

Unclogging your kitchen or bathroom sink doesn’t have to be a job for the professionals. Before you try breaking up the blockage yourself, consider these best practices to prevent damaging your pipelines.

2ndfloorliving-how-to-paint-trim-moldings
Interior

How To: Paint Trim

Heat Pump vs. Furnace: Which Is Right for Your Home?
Interior

What’s the Difference? Heat Pump vs. Furnace

Keep your home’s interior at the ideal temperature with the right type of heating device for your climate and budget.

3 Basement Drains for a Dry Downstairs Living Space
Interior

All You Need to Know About Basement Drains

Keep your basement dry and everything in it free from water damage with just a few key drainage systems and strategies.

Be Your Own General Contractor
DIY

Being Your Own General Contractor

You may have some sleepless nights, but being your own general contractor can help ensure you get exactly what you want.

The Best Wood Stain for Furniture, Cabinets, Trim, and More
Reviews

The Best Wood Stains for DIYers and Pros

Choose the right stain to enhance the look and durability of your wood projects, indoors and out.

Achieve a Unique Burnt Wood Finish with Shou Sugi Ban
DIY

The Appeal of a Burnt Wood Finish

The hottest trend in design—which is also an ancient Japanese technique—offers surprising benefits for siding, furniture, and more.

Low-Flow Faucets and Fixtures
Interior

5 Things to Know About Low-Flow Faucets and Fixtures

Get the lowdown on low flow so you can find the best water-saving technology for your bathroom.

How Much It Costs to Hire a Handyman
DIY

Here’s Exactly What You Can Expect to Pay a Handyman

If you hire the right help—for the right price—you may finally be able to check all those long-delayed home projects off your to-do list.

Liquid vs. Powder Detergent: Which Cleans Laundry Better?
Interior

Which Cleans Better? Liquid vs. Powder Detergent

Find out which detergent reigns supreme in getting your clothes clean an keeping your appliances running smoothly.

Miter Saw vs. Table Saw: 9 Key Differences to Know
DIY

What’s the Difference? Miter Saw vs. Table Saw

Learn about the pros and cons of these popular power tools to decide what’s best for your woodworking projects and level of carpentry skill.