Walls
How to Treat Stains on Plaster and Drywall
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains the best way to get rid of water stains on ceilings and walls.
When and How to Use Cement Backerboard
Cement backerboard is a durable and reliable building material option. In this guide, we breakdown when and how to use it.
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Understanding Vapor and Moisture Barriers for the Home
Moisture is one of the home’s worst enemies. It can lurk in almost any area, especially in bathrooms, kitchens, crawl spaces, attics, walls, and basements. Vapor and moisture barriers are a way to control moisture and keep mold and corrosion at bay.
How to Remove Different Types of Wallpaper
Paint expert Mauro Henrique shows host Kevin O’Connor some methods for removing different types of wallpaper, and Kevin’s shocked at the results.
The 5 Best Poster Frames (2023 Review)
Posters are popular wall decorations in bedrooms, living rooms, basements, and other spaces. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the five best poster frames on Amazon to help you find the one that’s right for you. The products included in this article are available at various retail stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon.
Modern Ways to Use Wood Paneling
Forget Grandma’s rumpus room with the floor-to-ceiling faux wood, circa 1970. While today’s version of wood paneling takes a cue from the decade that made it famous, there’s much more to it than just wood grain and knots. This guide to modern wood paneling will shine some light on this once-taboo DIY topic.
Understanding Antique Wallpaper Restoration
Kevin O’Connor heads to the Franklin Pierce home in New Hampshire to learn what it takes to restore antique wallpaper.
How to Build an Indoor DIY Rock Climbing Wall
Thrill your kids with this easy-to-build, fully customizable rock climbing wall suitable for all ages. Climbing together as a family builds strength, increases flexibility, and improves coordination for everyone–from toddlers to adults. And it’s a fantastic way to stay active while having fun. Add one to your playroom, family room, attic, or home gym, and your home will be the most popular in the neighborhood.
Guide to Creating a Living Plant Wall
Learn the basics of this burgeoning botanical trend and install a vertical garden for décor and more, indoors or out.
How to Mount a Flat Screen TV
In this DIY Smarts project, This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert walks host Kevin O’Connor through everything he needs to know about mounting a TV.
How to Soundproof a Room
Learn how to soundproof a room from floor to ceiling using both simple and advanced methods.
How Build a DIY Faux Brick Wall
It’s hard not to love the look of exposed brick, but not everyone is lucky enough to have it in their home. Don’t worry; you can mimic the look with these tips.
The 5 Best Wallpapers (2023 Review)
If you’re looking to change up the look of the rooms in your home, there’s no easier way than adding wallpaper. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the five best wallpapers on Amazon to help you find the product that’s right for you. The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon.
Best Peel and Stick Wallpapers (2023 Guide)
Removable wallpaper is a temporary way to decorate your space affordably. Read our guide to the best peel and stick wallpapers.
How to Install Floating Shelves and Mantel
Jeff Sweenor and Kevin O’Connor install floating white oak shelves and a floating mantle
How to Frame a Shed
General contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O’Connor and mason Mark McCullough how to frame walls while rebuilding Mark’s chicken coop shed.
How to Frame a Corner
When framing wall corners, try this alternative approach that uses less material and is more energy-efficient.
Amazing Shiplap Wall Ideas
Give your home a little more rustic character with these creative ways to add shiplap to your home.
How to Hang a TV on Brick Wall
Can you mount a TV on a brick wall? Absolutely. But mounting a TV on brick does take more preparation, knowledge, and tools than installing one on drywall. This guide will show you how to hang a TV on a brick wall so you can make the most of your wall space and elevate your entertainment.
How To Remove Wallpaper Border
Do you have an outdated wallpaper border that you want to remove? Read this step-by-step guide to learn how to easily remove wallpaper borders from your walls.
How to Identify and Remove a Load Bearing Wall
Tom Silva explains what load bearing walls are, how to identify them, and what needs to be done in order to safely remove them.
How to Remove Mold on Drywall
If you notice mold on a drywall surface in your home, try not to panic. The truth is that mold can happen anywhere and in any home. All it needs to grow is a source of moisture and an organic food source, and drywall can be an all-you-can-eat buffet. Read these steps on how to safely remove mold from your drywall.
How to Caulk Baseboards
This step-by-step guide will explain how to caulk baseboards in a way that creates neat edges and joints. There are also some tips for keeping things clean as you work. These steps apply to both paint and stain-grade baseboards installed against a painted surface.
How To Cut Drywall
Read this DIY guide to learn how to cut drywall.
Common Drywall Texture Types and Finishes
Looking to go beyond plain-old smooth drywall? With a bit of effort, you can achieve a distinctive, textured look for your walls and ceilings that’s eye-catching, mood-setting, and personalized to your decorating tastes.
How to Clean Painted Walls
Scuffs, marks, and stains on your walls can make even the cleanest room look shabby. The good news is that you don’t have to go out and buy a special cleaner or any tools for this job. Here’s how to clean painted walls easily.
How to Build a Wall-Sized Frame for a Fabric Print
Do you love the look of wall murals, but are too hesitant to commit to the permanence of paint or wallpaper? This project will give you the look of a mural, without the commitment.
How to Paint Over Wallpaper
Do you want to change the look and feel of your room with paint, but are faced with the challenge of wallpaper? You don’t always need to remove wallpaper first. Read this guide to learn when and how to paint over wallpaper.
Pony Walls: What Are They and How to Build Them
A pony wall is nothing more than a short wall, and the term is often used interchangeably with "knee wall" or "cripple wall." Read this guide to learn what pony walls are and how to build one yourself.
How to Choose the Right Grout for Any Tile Job
All grout formulas fall into just two basic categories: traditional cement-based ones or newer resin-based types. Use this guide to help you decide which type is the best for your project, your budget, and your skills.
Creating a Secure Enclosure for the Cottage on the Cape
Learn how ZIP System’s integrated panel and tape system for roof and wall assemblies kept the This Old House Idea House on Cape Cod construction moving swiftly and efficiently—and how it will continue to help the home achieve higher efficiency and protection for years to come.
DIY Ombre Wall Inspiration
Add style and a pop of color to any room with a beautiful accent wall featuring an easy DIY ombre effect.