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Latest by V. Sparks

Front door view

Keys vs. keyless: Which front door entry system is safer?

You want to keep your family safe while they're at home and keep your home safe when you're away. Here's how to tell which type of door lock will do that best.
Tall grass with good lawn maintenance

Manage your overgrown lawn in 8 easy steps

These are the best ways to cut long grass and ensure your lawn never looks bad again.
Person wearing foot aerators

How to aerate a lawn without a ton of expensive equipment

Lawn aeration doesn't have to be a big production. Here's how to aerate your lawn without breaking the bank.
Bathroom with orange walls

These are the best plants to put in your shower for a nature-inspired sanctuary

Adding a plant to your shower provides design and health benefits. These are the best shower plants.
which pests are likely to take over your summer garden and how control removing

Organic pest control options to curb the intruders taking over your garden

Pests in your plants? Don't panic - these organic pest control solutions will work wonders.
how to clean pool tiles

Get rid of gross buildup: How to clean pool tiles for summer swimming

This is how to clean pool tiles so guests (and you) will actually want to go in your pool.
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How to install a security light with a motion sensor in 3 easy steps

Make your home safer. Here's your guide for installing security lights in your yard.
Outdoor inground pool with white two story home

Gas vs heat pump pool water heaters: Which one makes sense for your pool?

Choosing the right pool water heater can be tough. We compare two of the most popular styles: Gas vs. Heat Pump Water Heaters.
built in closet with drawings and hanging white tshirts

How to maximize closet space: Our 9 best tips and tricks

Is your closet overstuffed, disorganized, and overcluttered? Here's how to organize your closet to maximize your space.
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Forget the plumber: How to replace a toilet yourself (and save some money)

Yes, you can replace a toilet yourself. Follow this handy guide.
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DIY 101: Repair concrete gaps and instantly enhance your home’s curb appeal

Concrete gaps aren't just unsightly — they're a serious tripping hazard. Here's how to fill large gaps in concrete (and small ones, too).
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The pros and cons of ductless heating and cooling systems you need to know about

Is a ductless heating and cooling system right for your home? This is your guide to the pros and cons of going ductless.
how to clean a smelly dishwasher shutterstock 1673974375

Smelly dishwasher problems solved: How to get a fresh, clean kitchen

Don't let a smelly dishwasher ruin your kitchen. This is how to clean it properly.
side view of prayer plant in white planter

How to propagate prayer plants for a flourishing indoor garden

Prayer plants are great for your home's decor. Here's how to propagate them the right way so that the new plants flourish.
Man using Shark cordless vacuum

Prime Day deals: Why you need the Shark cordless vacuum for easy house cleaning

This affordable alternative to a Dyson cordless vacuum had dropped down to $200 at Best Buy.
Desk lamp next to bed with gray and purple bedding

Save on smart light bulbs: Get 2 for $10 on Prime Day

Save money and light up your home for less with this smart light bulb Prime Day deal giving you two smart light bulbs for $10.
Nest Thermostat on wall with wood paneling

The Nest Thermostat is $50 off for Prime Day!

With this Nest thermostat Prime Day deal, you can save $50 on the Google Nest Learning Thermostat to help you fill out your smart home for less.
White Instant Pot Solo Coffee Maker with red coffee mug

This amazing Instant Pot coffee maker is almost half off for Prime Day 2022

Buying this Instant Pot Solo Prime Day deal will ensure you get a delicious cup of coffee just how you like it every day.
Person walking by Shark IQ self emptying robot vacuum on docking station

Prime Day deal alert: Save 56% on Shark’s self-emptying robot vacuum

This Shark robot vacuum Prime Day deal from Walmart will let you enjoy the convenience of a self-emptying feature for just $265, following a $334 discount.
Chef using KitchenAid Stand Mixer to make heart-shaped cookies

Prime Day: Save $60 on the beloved KitchenAid Stand Mixer

Right now, Walmart is offering an incredible KitchenAid Mixer Prime Day deal and you can save $60.
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Know the different types of paint: The ultimate guide for painting your walls

Don't use the wrong type of paint for your next project. This is what you need to know.
Indoor plant in wicker container

How to repot a houseplant without killing it in the process

Repotting your houseplants is no longer nerve-wracking. Make sure you do it the right way with our repotting how-to guide.
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Eyesore alert: How to fix patchy grass for a lush green lawn

Don't let patchy grass get you down. Use this guide to get a breathtaking lawn everyone will envy.
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How to clean laminate floors: The do’s and don’ts to help them last forever

This is how to clean laminate floors the right way, so you can have a gleaming, gorgeous home.
costco deli comfort meals homemade ground beef meatloaf with ketchup and spices

These incredible Costco deli meals will make your dinner prep so much easier

These delicious Costco comfort meals are the perfect pick for those exhausting nights when you just don't feel like cooking.
Friends making a toast to celebrate 4th of July holiday

Make your 4th of July party stellar with these 9 amazing tips

We've rounded up our top tips and 4th of July party ideas that will make your Independence Day gathering one to remember.
Parent and child doing laundry

Yes, you do need to separate your laundry — these 5 steps make it easier

Our laundry guide will keep your clothes looking bright and new. This is what you need to know about sorting and separating your laundry.
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How to clean baseboards: The easiest method ever for this super annoying task

Dirty, dusty baseboards ruin the look of any room. Here's the easiest and most effective way to clean these hard to reach spots.
Hand painting wood paneling outdoors

How to paint the exterior of your house so it looks like you hired a pro

Follow these tips to paint the exterior of your home.

How to paint a ceiling without also painting yourself

Painting a ceiling can be a messy job. Here's how to do it right.
man and woman painting a room

Remedy your painting mistakes with these 4 quick and easy fixes

Does your paint job look like an amateur did it? Fix these common painting mistakes in a few simple steps.
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Homeownership 101: How to program your garage door opener

A garage door opener is a convenience most homeowners love. This is how to program yours.
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DIY more closet space today: How to build a wooden clothing rack

This is how to build a wooden clothing rack and instantly double your available closet space.
Lucky bamboo plant on a wooden table

Can you grow bamboo from seeds? Yes — if you follow this handy guide

Want to grow a bamboo plant from scratch? We discuss how to grow bamboo seeds into flourishing plants with the right care and conditions.
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10 effective ways to get rid of standing water in your yard

Don't let your yard get soggy with every rainfall. This is what you need to do to eliminate standing water and have a healthy yard.
how to grow parlor palm indoors in a pot

The absolute best parlor palm care tips for a healthy, thriving plant

Parlor palms are beautiful and resilient plants. This is your guide for growing a thriving parlor palm inside.
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How to install window sensors (and why you need them to keep your home safe)

Window sensors are an important part of your home security detail. This is how to install window alarm sensors.
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How to fix a garbage disposal just like the pros

Is your garbage disposal humming and just not working right? This is how to fix it.
cement block retaining wall with vining plants

How to build a retaining wall for a gorgeous backyard design

Retaining walls are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. These are the do's and don'ts for creating a fantastic space. Learn how to build a retaining wall.
how to plant flowers shutterstock 57091351

How to plant flowers in 6 simple steps for a vibrant, colorful garden

If you're new to gardening, this is the only guide you'll ever need for how to plant flowers.
electric vehicle connected to charger on brick wall

We know how much EVs will raise your electricity bill

Wondering how much an EV charger will raise your electricity bill? This is what you can expect when charging an electric car at home.
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Avoid surprise repairs: 77% of new homeowners face these unexpected costs

There are a lot more first-time homebuyers taking the plunge these days. These are the lessons you should learn before you join them.
Deck with railing overlooking woods

Get ready for backyard get-togethers: Expert advice to build the perfect deck

A backyard deck elevates your space and is the perfect spot for entertaining. Follow this expert advice.
brass handles on teal cabinet doors

How to bring dull, neglected brass hardware back to life

Whether it's your doorknobs or cabinet handles, brass hardware can become dull. Here's how to make it look like new again.
how to clean concrete shutterstock 719378830

Give your outdoor space an easy makeover: How to clean concrete

This spring, revive your driveway and patio by cleaning your concrete.
roof replacement guide shutterstock 1844186038

10 essential things the experts say you should know about replacing a roof

We talked to the experts and found out everything you need to know about roof replacement.
handyman with a yellow tool belt

6 essential questions to ask a handyman before you hire them

A great handyman is someone every homeowner needs. Use these tips to find one.
purple bike and couch against white brick wall

No space for your bike? Practical storage solutions for even the tiniest home

Don't let a lack of space keep you from biking when the weather gets better. Try these bike storage ideas.
pink and white tulips in a clear vase

Add a pop of color to your home this April with these 8 gorgeous, vibrant blooms

Your home could do with a pop of color. These beautiful blooms fit the bill.
spring tulips in front of a white house

Make spring cleanup easy: The only home maintenance checklist you’ll ever need

Make sure you check these to-do items off your list for a well-maintained home this spring.