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Colonial Revival Architecture

Recalling the Good Old Days
A wooden gazebo surrounded by grass and plantlife.

Everything You Need to Know to Build the Perfect Gazebo

Whether custom-designed or built from a kit, a backyard pavilion provides a perfect place to unwind. Learn how to build one from our experts.
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How To Cover Paneling Seams

You can have perfectly hidden paneling seams in your home by following these tips and tricks. Find out more here.
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Benefits of Vinyl Siding: Costs and Options

Vinyl siding is a popular option amongst homeowners, and it's easy to see why. Learn about costs, styles, and more here.
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How To Hang a Porch Swing: A Complete Guide

Installing a porch swing can be a rewarding home improvement project. This guide shows you how to safely install and maintain yours.
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The Art of Graining

For his next trick: master refinisher John Dee transforms MDF into wood.
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How to Build a Deck: Step by Step Instructions & Video

Watch as This Old House general contractor Tom Silva demonstrates how to build a professional-looking on-grade home deck.
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The Winchester House

Healthy but tired, the 1920's Colonial Revival in Winchester got an improved kitchen and master suite, an updated heating plant, and a cosmetic freshening inside and out.
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How to Make Sense of Zoning

Local codes can be complicated, and running afoul of them costly. Here are ways homeowners can protect themselves from zoning hassles.
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How To Install a Toilet

This Old House's recommended method for installing a new toilet or replacing an old one quickly and safely.
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How GFCI Receptacles Keep You Safe

Two-thirds of all electrocutions in U.S. homes could be prevented if people installed GFCI receptacles. Here's how to do it.
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The Right Brush

For the perfect paint job, invest in the best.
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Landscaping a Sloped Lot

Retaining walls, decks, and native plants give the finishing touch to a timeless home.
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What to Know About Repointing Brick

Touching up like a pro means using the right mortar. Lime-based putties take longer to set but they won't break bricks.
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Renovating a '60s Split Level Without Divorcing It From Its Roots

The update of a '60s-era kitchen increases the room's efficiency while retaining its period flavor
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How Whole House Vacuums Work

Wondering if installing a central vacuum system is worth it? Here’s everything you need to know about them.
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All About Clear Coats for Home Improvement

Clear coats are a great way to improve the look and durability of wood, metal, and concrete surfaces in your home. Read this guide for ideas.
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The Silent Treatment

Taking the squeak out of wood floors
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How to Fix Squeaky Stairs

Tired of squeaky steps? Identify the source of the sound and learn how to fix it to get quiet stairs.
This Old House contractor Tom Silva posting in a construction site where new flooring will be laid soon.

Picking the Perfect Floor

Learn which type of flooring is best for the rooms in your home. Our guide covers popular choices and their pros and cons.
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Spring Flood Watch

Learn how to keep your basement dry and your yard puddle-free
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How To Install Beadboard Wainscoting

This Old House contractor Tom Silva shows us how to install beadboard wainscoting step by step in this guide.
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How to Install Ceramic Tile Flooring in 9 Simple Steps

Here are simple installation tips on bathroom flooring and floor tile that’ll keep what’s underneath your feet solid and long lasting.
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How To Install a Pedestal Sink

Plumbing expert Richard Trethewey shows you how to install a pedestal sink to save space in small bathrooms.
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6 Great Looks for Your Ceiling To Spruce up a Room

Try one of these new ceiling treatments to improve the space overhead. Most homeowners can get these projects done in a weekend.