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Read the latest articles from Bob Vila (Page 386)

Energy & Power

5 Things to Know Before Installing Storm Windows

Brand-new windows are always nice, but they can be a huge expense. You may be able to get much of the energy savings of new windows at a fraction of the cost by installing storm windows.

Cleaning & Organizing

How To: Remove Spray Paint

Use these techniques to remove unwanted aerosol paint from concrete, metal—even skin—quickly and easily.

Doors

What to Do When Your Doorbell Stops Working

Don't miss another important delivery or cherished guest! Troubleshoot these common problems to get your doorbell back to working condition.

Building & Installing

Top Priorities and Tips for Adding an In-Law Suite

With the number of multigenerational households increasing, an in-law suite can be one way to accommodate the change. But creating one takes planning and understanding.

Painting & Finishing

How To: Paint a Bathtub

Renew your loo by putting a fresh, clean coat on your worn-out old tub.

Painting & Finishing

How To: Paint a Popcorn Ceiling

Give that tired textured surface a fresh new coat with these steps.

Building & Installing

How To: Connect PEX to Copper or PVC

Are you looking to repair, replace, or expand your home's existing plumbing with PEX? It's easy enough to connect different types of pipes if you equip yourself with the right fittings and tools for the job.

Walls & Ceilings

6 Things to Know Before Installing Interior Trim

Give your project a finished look by learning about some of the finer points of finish carpentry.

Garden Pests

The Bug Behind Your Patchy, Brown Grass

Learn about the pests that are killing your lawn and send them packing—permanently!

Walls & Ceilings

Solved! The Right Height for Wainscoting

There’s an art to getting this architectural feature in perfect proportion with the rest of the room. Follow this advice and your wainscoting will stand out for all the right reasons.

Countertops

What’s the Difference? Quartz vs. Quartzite

Understand the key discrepancies between these two often mixed-up materials to make an informed choice for your new countertop.

Curb Appeal

All You Need to Know About Tuckpointing

Do you want to upgrade the appearance of an interior or exterior brick structure? Get the lowdown on tuckpoining, and learn some tips for proper installation.

Easy DIY Projects

How To: Dye Carpet

Give your plush a fresh, clean, stain-free reboot with the guidance here. But keep in mind, it will be permanent, so be sure you can commit before you proceed.

Home Safety

4 Important Tools for Detecting a Gas Leak

Homeowners and professionals alike can benefit from this collection of tools that help with pinpointing the source of a gas leak in the home.

Repair & Maintenance

Replace Dated Popcorn Ceilings with This New Texture

Removing a popcorn ceiling can be messy and time-consuming, but the right techniques and tools can help you make quick work of this otherwise tedious task.

Countertops

All You Need to Know About Quartz Countertops

Wondering whether this fashionable material is perfect for your kitchen or bathroom project? Get all of your research done right here.

Curb Appeal

All You Need to Know About German Smear

Are you looking for a way to update your home’s dated bricks without painting over them? Check out one of today’s hottest design trends: German smear.

Curb Appeal

All You Need to Know About Limewashed Brick

This white coating promises to refresh worn-down brick exteriors and protect them from the elements—but it's not for every homeowner. Think your home could use an update? Consider the pros and cons of this DIY treatment, and follow the easy steps outlined here.

Doors

All You Need to Know About Doorway Casing

As few as three pieces of trim can greatly improve a room's style and sense of architecture. Before you set out to dress up any interior door or doorway, get the lowdown on buying and installing the decorative casing.

Interior

Top Tips for Insulating Crawl Space

Read expert recommendations on insulating crawl space to bring this often understood area of many American homes into the 21st century.