Tools Videos
These This Old House videos showcase all of our tools projects, how-tos, and designs.
A Track Saw Designed for Framing (Festool HK 55)
Builders need to make quick, accurate cross-cuts for framing and many other carpentry projects. In some ways, the Festool HK 55 Carpentry Saw is like a circular saw with a built-in speed square. In this episode of Tool School, expert Brian Sedgeley and builder Jeff Sweenor use the saw to cut the rafters for an 8-pitch roof
A Jigsaw That’s As Precise as It Is Versatile (Festool Carvex)
Like many builders and woodworkers, Jeff Sweenor often uses a large band saw to make curved cuts. But in this episode of Tool School, Brian Sedgeley from Festool shows Jeff how to achieve the same level of precision with a portable Carvex jigsaw
The Rotex Sander: Multiple Sanders in One (Festool Rotex RO 150)
Not all random orbit sanders are created equal. In this episode of Tool School, Festool expert Brian Sedgeley shows Tom Silva how the two different sanding modes and dust extraction capability of the Rotex RO 150 can achieve great results
Exploring the Features of a High-End Track Saw (Festool TS 55 REQ)
Track saws are more popular than ever on jobsites and in workshops. In this episode of Tool School, Festool trainer Brian Sedgeley and Tom Silva demonstrate how to use several features of the TS 55 track saw to get accurate, splinter-free cuts
How to Sharpen a Chainsaw
Watch as Ask This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook demonstrates the right way to sharpen a chainsaw yourself.
Getting Started With a Chisel
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains various types of chisels and techniques to help you get the job done right.
How to Build a Homemade Track Saw
Track saws are useful but can be pricey. In this guide and video, we'll share an easy way to make a track for any circular saw.
How To Choose a Straight Edge for a Circular Saw
Struggling to get a straight cut with your circular saw? Tom Silva demonstrates techniques for cutting straight edges with a circular saw.
Viewer Tip | Never Lose a Tape Measure
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shares a viewer tip about a good way to never lose a tape measure again.
Generation Next | Building a First Toolbox
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva teaches a young fan how to build her first toolbox to store her tools.
Future House | 3D Scanning Tool for Tablets
Ask This Old House home technology expert Ross Trethewey tests out a 3D scanning tool that attaches to tablets and can quickly measure rooms
A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing and Using a Jigsaw
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows the best uses for a jigsaw and how to choose the right one for the job.
How To Choose Handsaws for Your Next Home Project
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva walks through the various types of handsaws and gives tips on how to use them.
Testing New Table Saw Technology
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O’Connor look at new type of table saw with smartphone technology.
How to Choose a Circular Saw
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O’Connor discuss how to choose and use a circular saw.
How to Use and Carry a Speed Square
Learn how to use a speed square—expert Tom Silva's favorite tool—and make your own holster to carry it with you on the job.
How To Choose and Use Pliers and Wrenches
Learn how to pick the right plier or wrench for your DIY job with Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey.
How to Use a Battery-Powered Chainsaw
This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook explains how to use a battery-powered chainsaw.
How To Select and Use a Drill/Driver
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva teaches you how to pick and use a drill/driver for any project.
How To Choose and Use a Blowtorch
Ask This Old House heating and plumbing expert Richard Trethewey explains how to get the most out of each type of blowtorch.
Ask Kevin: How To Select the Right Power Tool Batteries
This Old House host Kevin O'Connor explains the different kinds of batteries and shares a few tips for getting the most out of your cordless tools.
How To Choose the Right Ladder and Use it Safely
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor show the proper techniques for using all types of ladders,
Chainsaw Safety Basics
This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook explains how to use a chainsaw safely
How To Choose and Use a Hammer
Choosing the right hammer and mastering the proper technique are essential skills for any DIY enthusiast or professional.
How to Choose and Use a Circular Saw
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains the basic parts, uses, and cuts, of cicular saws
How To Choose and Use an Air Compressor
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows you what to look for when buying an air compressor, plus shares tips for operating one.
How To Coil an Extension Cord
Tips and tricks for keeping cords untangled from This Old House general contractor Tom Silva.
How to Make a Circular Saw Guide
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva and host Kevin O'Connor show how to make precise and perfectly straight cuts with a portable circular saw.
How to Choose and Use Pliers
This Old House plumbing and heating expert, Richard Trethewey, shows off his favorite tools for gripping, twisting, cutting, and pulling.
How to Maintain Small Engine Gas-Powered Yard Tools
This Old House contractor Roger Cook explains the basics of small engines and how to take care of your gas-powered yard equipment
How To Use a Wheelbarrow
This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook shares tips for loading and lifting a wheelbarrow and keeping the tires in top shape.
How to Use a Chainsaw Safely
This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook and chainsaw expert Tim Ard show you safe and efficient chainsaw cutting techniques