Tools
Choose the right tools for your next do-it-yourself (DIY) project with expert reviews, buying guides, and step-by-step instructions.
5 Best Snow Blowers (2025 Guide)
In this buyer’s guide, the This Old House Team takes a look at today’s best snow blowers. From electric shovels to self-driving machines, there’s something here to get you through any winter storm.
The Ultimate Tool for Paint: 17-in-1 Painter’s Tool
In this latest version of the 17-in-1 painter’s tool, the knife blade tackles more tasks than ever—and the handle gets put to use, too.
Buying Guide for Secondhand Tools
Buying secondhand tools can save you money if you know where to look. Learn expert tips on buying used tools that make it worth the hunt.
The Best Metal Cutting Tools
Read this guide to learn about the best metal-cutting tools to have on hand and the best ways to cut sheet metal, pipes, and more.
Circular Saw Guide: 3 Easy Methods for Straight Cuts
Here are three simple methods you can use to get perfectly straight lines with a circular saw. Your DIY projects will thank you.
How to Cut Multiples with a Miter Saw
Watch House One editor Jenn Largesse demonstrate three easy ways to make multiple cuts using a miter saw.
How To Choose a Woodworking Clamp
There are lots of different clamps at the store, but which ones are right for your projects? Read our handy guide to find out.
The Best Folding Multi-Tool
Emphasizing one-handed use, this new Leatherman stuffs 21 tools into its 4 1/4 -inch-long, stainless steel handles.
How to Make a DIY Circle Jig for a Router
A router and a simple DIY circle jig can make cutting perfect circles a piece of cake. Watch this video to learn how.
How To Use a Pneumatic Nailer
Are you interested in adding a pneumatic nailer to your toolbox? Here's everything you need to know about these handy tools.
How to Properly Use a Drill
A drill driver is one of the most widely used tools in DIY, so learning to use it properly is essential. Watch this video for a quick introduction and tips for using a drill by This Old House DIY Expert & House One Editor Jenn Largesse.
How To Choose a Finish Nailer | This Old House: Live
Need to know how to pick the right finish nailer? This Old House editor Chris Ermides shows us the differences between nailer types.
Father’s Day Gift Guide (2024)
Need that perfect gift for Dad? From grills to power tools to the latest smart tech, our Father's Day Gift Guide has something for everyone.
How To Cut a Perfect Circle With a Router
Learn how to make your own Ryobi router circle jig from House One maker Jenn Largesse with our step-by-step guide.
How to Remove Rust from Tools
Follow this step-by-step guide to get all of your tools from wrenches to power saws rust-free and keep them that way for years to come.
How To Use a Mobile CNC Router and the Benefits of Doing so
Ask This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert shows how to set up a mobile CNC router and explains the benefits.
How To Use a Band Saw
Band saws are great for a variety of wood- and metal-working projects. Follow this guide on how to purchase, install, and use one safely.
How To Use a Hole Saw
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains the basics of using a hole saw to make efficient circular cuts.
Everything You Need to Know to Choose a Masonry Trowel
There are many different types of masonry trowels out there, so which one should you buy? Learn more on each type from This Old House mason Mark McCullough.
All the Tools You Need for Building and Remodeling
Use this guide to build a collection of tools and equipment that can tackle a wide variety of indoor and outdoor home projects.
This Old Tool Belt
What do you keep in your old tool belt? Discover here what TOH's general contractor Tom Silva keeps in his tool belt.
Tips and Tricks for Using a Rafter Square
Custom post frame builder Kyle Stumpenhorst illustrates how versatile and useful a rafter square can be
How To Use a Table Saw Safely and Effectively for Your Projects
Master your table saw with these safety tips and cutting techniques for precise, professional, and safe results every time.
Testing New Stud Finders
Ask This Old House home technology expert Ross Trethewey tests out a new smart stud finder and explains how to use them effectively.
How To Choose and Use Pruners
Discover tips for choosing and using pruners, including the best types for your garden needs and how to apply precision in your pruning tasks.
Comparing Masonry Jointers
Ask This Old House mason Mark McCullough explains the uses for different types of masonry jointers along with other tips and tricks.
How and When To Use a Japanese Pull Saw
Ask This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert explains when and how to use a Japanese pull saw for precise woodworking and cutting tasks.
How To Clean Saw Blades and Keep Them in Tip-Top Shape
A saw will keep making reliably precise cuts as long as you keep it clean. Learn how to clean saw blades effectively with our three-step process.
How To Choose and Use Drill Bits for Your Home Projects
Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains the uses for different drill bits and gives expert insights for beginners and pros.
How To Build Sawhorses with Scrap Lumber, Step by Step
Ask This Old House carpenter Nathan Gilbert demonstrates how to build sawhorses using leftover materials from the job site.
Clever Ways to Use Oxi-Clean | Best of the Web
She might not be Billy Mays, but Melissa Maker of Clean My Space (a TOH "Best of the Web" top pick) can really sell the power of Oxi-Clean. Here, Melissa describes some of the surprising ways she uses Oxi-Clean as a pro cleaner
There’s Way More to a Carpenter’s Pencil Than You Think
What are the four ways to sharpen them and why aren’t they round? Master carpenter Matt Jackson has the answers.
