Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 351)

This Is Where to Store Your Stuff When You Run Out of Closet Space
Interior

This Is Where to Store Your Stuff When You Run Out of Closet Space

Closet bursting at the seams? Give it some relief—and improved organization—with these ideas for alternative storage solutions.

8 Laundry Room Sink Ideas
Interior

8 Tips for Setting Up a Stylish and Functional Laundry Room Sink

Follow this advice for a laundry area sink sure to make wash day duties easier and help you handle other cleanup chores as well.

All You Need to Know About Granny Pods
Exterior

All You Need to Know About Granny Pods

Find out if an accessory dwelling unit in your backyard will be the perfect place for the elder loved ones in your life.

All You Need to Know About Coffered Ceilings
Design

All You Need to Know About Coffered Ceilings

This architectural style stands the test of time as one that delivers drama, elegance, and an emphasis on spaciousness.

Bleaching Wood - 11 Do's and Don'ts
DIY

The Dos and Don’ts of Bleaching Wood

Follow these best and worst practices of working with bleach to bring new, lighter life to old wood furniture.

Renew Wood Finishes with Mineral Spirits
Interior

Quick Tip: Renew Dull Wood Finishes with Mineral Spirits

Wood worse for wear? Even if you someday plan on refinishing tired furniture or trim, right now you can revitalize the material, quickly and easily, simply by using mineral spirits.

Sunken Living Rooms 101: Can the Old Fad Make a Comeback?
Design

All You Need to Know About Sunken Living Rooms

Get hip to recessed living areas and see what it takes to construct one in a new pad or scrap one from an existing house.

7 Sturdy Types of Wood Joints to Know
DIY

7 Strong Types of Wood Joints Worth Knowing

Understand essential wood joinery applications and get pro tips for crafting them seamlessly and securely.

Here’s How Often You Should Launder Every Item in Your Home
Interior

Here’s How Often You Should Launder Every Item in Your Home

You already have a routine for washing dirty clothes—just toss them in the hamper and run a load when enough have accumulated. You may not, however, have a routine for laundering other items in your home. Towels, tablecloths, sheets, and even shower curtains need the occasional wash. Read on to find out how often you should launder non-clothing items to protect and maintain them and to help keep your home fresh and clean.

MDF vs Plywood: Which Is Better for Your Project?
DIY

What’s the Difference? MDF vs. Plywood

Though they may be side-by-side in the same aisle at your home improvement store, they aren't interchangeable. Determine which works better in your project by weighing these key differences.

Painted Plywood Floors
DIY

How To: Paint Plywood Floors

For projects where hardwood, tile, carpeting, or other flooring options just won't do, let a few simple coats of paint come to the rescue.

Polyurethane vs Varnish - What Wood Finish to Choose
Interior

Is Varnish or Polyurethane the Right Finish for You?

Learn the pros and cons of polyurethane and varnish—and which of these popular finishes can best preserve your next woodwork of art.

How to Make a DIY Floating Nightstand
DIY

DIY Lite: A Narrow Nightstand that Fits into Any Bedroom Layout

Build this DIY floating nightstand and you'll always have a place for your book or phone within reach of the bed. (Bonus: It won't crowd a small bedroom.)

Best Paint for Trim, Solved!
Reviews

Solved! The Best Paint for Trim

Learn what products are perfectly suited to refresh baseboards, moldings, and soffits—and how to save money on your paint purchase.

Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets
DIY

Solved! The Best Paint for Kitchen Cabinets

Giving your kitchen a refresh? Follow this guide to choosing the best paint for cabinets.

Plywood vs OSB Subfloors
Interior

What’s the Difference? Plywood vs. OSB

Protect an unfinished home from the elements—and a finished home from the consequences of plumbing disasters—by starting with a durable subfloor built from the right materials.

Drywall vs Plaster - A Guide to Understanding the Differences
Interior

What’s the Difference? Drywall vs. Plaster

Both drywall and plaster make for solid, long-lasting wall coverings. Consider these factors when choosing between the two for your next home improvement project.

Top Tips for Gluing PVC Pipe
DIY

The Dos and Don’ts of Gluing PVC Pipe

Speed and accuracy count when gluing PVC pipe, so avoid mishaps with this guide to creating an airtight connection with fast-acting cement.

how-long-does-paint-last
DIY

Solved! Here’s How Long Paint Actually Lasts

We all have at least one old gallon of paint in the garage. But should you hold onto a can that's only half-full? And will it spoil if you leave it in storage? Here's how to know if you should crack open that can or if you'll have to make another trip to the store.

All You Need to Know About Vaulted Ceilings
Design

All You Need to Know About Vaulted Ceilings

Currently the height of fashion, vaulted ceilings bring a sense of openness, even grandeur, to a home. But a higher ceiling may mean higher construction and energy costs. Find out why—and if it’s worth it.