Tools Videos

We love our “What Is It?” segments, and it’s not just because we’re featuring a new tool or material. We also love hearing what our crew comes up with. When heating and plumbing expert Richard Trethewey brought small, gray, rubber puck-like objects to the shop, the team’s ideas started to flow.

New homeowners are often equally as overwhelmed as they are excited about their new purchase. Not knowing where to start, their home maintenance tasks feel like too much to tackle. Carpenter Nathan Gilbert helps a homeowner make sense of her home maintenance with a thorough checklist, as well as a set of tools to get the job done.

Every contractor or builder has their favorite trade-specific tool. Host Kevin O’Connor brought master carpenter Nathan Gilbert, mason Mark McCullough, and landscape contractor Lee Gilliam together back at the shop to talk about theirs.

Host Kevin O’Connor discusses some of the most useful apps that our favorite tradespeople rely on. Join us as we discuss them with master electrician Heath Eastman, landscape contractor Lee Gilliam, and home technology expert Ross Trethewey.

When general contractor Tom Silva brought a double-ended, springy, pointy tool to the shop, he wanted to see if the team knew what it was. After a few colorful guesses, Tom tells them the truth.

Carpenter Nathan Gilbert knows the importance of sturdy, reliable ladders. He helps host Kevin O’Connor understand the different types of ladders, materials, and accessories that homeowners, DIYers, and pros should know about.

Learn how to use a combination square with This Old House general contractor Tom Silva, then see our picks for the best tools available.

When general contractor Tom Silva brings one of his unique tools to the shop, the crew makes a few guesses at what it might be. Here’s how it went.

Host Kevin O’Connor meets most of the crew back at the shop to talk about their new favorite tools that they’ve recently discovered.

General contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O’Connor everything he needs to know about choosing the right level for the task at hand.

General contractor Tom Silva shows host Kevin O’Connor the features and techniques required to stay safe when using a table saw.

This Old House landscape contractor Jenn Nawada stumps the guys with a contraption they’ve never seen before—even after celebrating 20 years of "What Is It?"

Track saws combine the precision of a table saw with the portability of a circular saw. Learn how to correctly use one in our step-by-step guide.

Everything you need to know about the different types of hammers and how to choose one for your next home improvement project.

Learn all about miter saw blade types, components, and more in this guide to choose the best blade for your next DIY project.

Learn all about different saw blade types, components, and characteristics in this guide to choose the right blade for your next DIY project.

Looking to set up a small workshop? Watch as This Old House general contractor Tom Silva helps a young woodworker set up her first workshop.

Does your next DIY project require a drill and some pilot holes? Here's everything you need to know about how to use a drill.

Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shares why he loves sanding and what goes into a good sanding job.

Here are three simple methods you can use to get perfectly straight lines with a circular saw. Your DIY projects will thank you.

A router and a simple DIY circle jig can make cutting perfect circles a piece of cake. Watch this video to learn how.

Are you interested in adding a pneumatic nailer to your toolbox? Here's everything you need to know about these handy tools.

Need to know how to pick the right finish nailer? This Old House editor Chris Ermides shows us the differences between nailer types.

Learn how to make your own Ryobi router circle jig from House One maker Jenn Largesse with our step-by-step guide.

Ask This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert shows how to set up a mobile CNC router and explains the benefits.

This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains the basics of using a hole saw to make efficient circular cuts.

Master your table saw with these safety tips and cutting techniques for precise, professional, and safe results every time.

Ask This Old House home technology expert Ross Trethewey tests out a new smart stud finder and explains how to use them effectively.

Discover tips for choosing and using pruners, including the best types for your garden needs and how to apply precision in your pruning tasks.

Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough explains the uses for different types of masonry jointers along with other tips and tricks.

Ask This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert explains when and how to use a Japanese pull saw for precise woodworking and cutting tasks.