Faster screwdriving: 4-Volt MAX* Cordless Screwdriver
This 1/2-pound, 4-volt power screwdriver’s handle hides a rechargeable battery that turns screws up to 300 rpm, four times faster than hand cranking. A rocker switch controls the rotation; LEDs light the way. Comes with 19 bits, but the hex shank will fit any you already own. $40; craftsman.com
Fiber-cement face-lift: Hardie Architectural Collection Panels
Fiber-cement siding, which holds paint well, resists rot, and has a high fire rating, now comes in textured panels, one of which mimics the look of stucco. In fine sand, grooved fine sand, mounded sand, or brushed seagrass finishes, the 48-inch-wide panels come in lengths from 96 to 144 inches, to be installed horizontally or vertically. From about $3.50 per square foot; jameshardie.com
Cordless snow cannon: Power+ Auger- Propelled Snow Blower
Leery of battery-powered snow throwers? This one just might convert you. Running off a pair of 56-volt, 71/2-amp-hour batteries, it has enough muscle to clear 8 inches of snow from an average-size driveway. The new auger design plows a 21-inch-wide path while pulling the machine forward, making it easier to use, too. $999; egopowerplus.com
Energized entryway: M-Pwr Smart Door
This sleek entry door comes with an array of LEDs that cast light over the entire entry, once they are wired to your home’s electrical supply. A Ring video doorbell and a Yale smart lock complete the package. A backup battery supply means everything will keep working if the power goes out. From $8,000; masonite.com
Clutter buster: Base Cabinet Pullout with Knife Block and Utensil Bins
Rummaging in a drawer for a loose knife isn’t good for you or the knife. This base cabinet pullout holds up to two knife blocks made of hundreds of plastic fingers that conform to any blade. It also comes with four flexible cutting boards and up to two containers for kitchen tools. From $663; rev-a-shelf.com
Convenient dust collection: Wireless Dust Control Adapter and Remote Kit
This two-part system adds some smarts to your “dumb” shop vac or dust collector. Plug it into the kit’s adapter and then into an outlet; use the wireless fob to turn the dust sucker on or off from up to 100 feet away. Comes in handy to power the holiday lights while you lounge on the sofa, too. $119; milwaukeetool.com
Open sesame: Encode Plus Smart WiFi Deadbolt
Working with Apple HomeKit and the Schlage Home app, this lock lets you open your door with a swipe on your iPhone or Apple Watch. Have friends visiting? They can let themselves in with a numeric code, or you can ask Siri to unlock the door when they arrive. Works with a key as well. $330; schlage.com
Easier caulking Pro Rodless Caulk Gun 10 Ounce 7:1 Thrust Ratio
So long, awkward metal rod: This caulk gun uses a steel belt—similar to a tape measure’s blade—to push caulks and glues out of the tube. It’s easier to use in tight spots, too, especially with a fresh tube. $40; oxtoolsusa.com
Innovative modular boards: Hardwood Herringbone Flooring
Replacing a single damaged floorboard just got easier. This floating floor system, joined with rigid PVC clips, enables just that. If a board gets scratched or dinged, you can pull it out with a suction-cup device, repair the plank, and put it back—or replace it. Available in several hardwood species, the planks come prefinished on all sides. Install them yourself, or call a pro. About $14 per square foot; floorsbysteller.com
A saw that saves fingers: Compact Table Saw
Within 5 milliseconds of detecting flesh, this portable saw’s sensor stops its blade and retracts it below the table surface, saving your precious digits. But it’s also a feature-rich saw with a 10-inch blade, a rack-and-pinion fence, and microbevel adjustment. From $899; sawstop.com
