Tools
Choose the right tools for your next do-it-yourself (DIY) project with expert reviews, buying guides, and step-by-step instructions.
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
All About Clamps
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva explains different types of clamps and the scenarios in which they work best.
Laser Level Reviews
Looking for the best laser level? Our experts tested out 5 types of laser levels and share their favorites with you.
TOH Tested: Portable Table Saws
These rolling workhorses with 10-inch blades have the power to rip plywood and the finesse to cut miters and dadoes. Here are five of the latest models, ranging from high-end pro to bargain DIY.
TOH Tested: Sliding Compound Miter Saws
These souped-up chop saws ride on rails, giving you the ability to plow through wide stock—we're talking 2×12s!—with ridiculous ease
Pay Less for Home Remodel Supplies
Save big on your next DIY home remodeling project with insider tips and smart shopping strategies for material and supplies.
Reciprocating Saw 101: When to Use Specialty Saws
We break down some pro tips on choosing the right reciprocating saw and when to use specialty saws with this guide and video.
Reciprocating Saw 101: When to Use an Orbital-Action Setting
A reciprocating saw's orbital action setting can improve its cutting performance. Read how to properly use this feature in our step-by-step guide.
Jigsaw 101: How to Use the Shoe to Cut a Beveled Curve
Pro tips on cutting curved scribe lines at an angle
What You Need to Know to Make a Plunge Cut Using a Jigsaw
Jigsaws let you cut in the middle of a board—no pilot holes required. Learn how to make plunge cuts safely with expert Mark Clement.
Jigsaw 101: How To Cut Shapes
Jigsaws are valuable for a variety of woodworking projects. Follow these expert tips and step-by-step advice for the best techniques.
How To Use the Speed Setting on a Jigsaw Effectively
Learning how to use your jigsaw's speed setting and controls gives you better results and smoother cuts. Here's everything you need to know.
Jigsaw 101: How to Use the Orbital-Action Setting
Pro tips on setting the blade to cut through different materials
Impact Driver 101: How To Choose Between Standard and Slim Batteries
Pro tips on knowing what jobs a driver battery can handle and when you should choose standard or slim batteries.
Impact Driver 101: How to Use the Socket-Drive Adapter
Use your impact driver to drive lag bolts or take on automotive work with this guide to socket drive adapters.
Impact Driver 101: How to Use the Power Selection Switch
Pro tips on matching the power level to the fastener
Impact Driver 101: How to Use the Quick-Change Hex Chuck
Learn how to get the most out of your impact driver's quick-change hex chuck with this guide to swapping out bits.
Impact Driver 101: When To Use an Impact Driver
Learn the differences between impact drivers and cordless drills—and the best uses and applications for both.
Circular Saw 101: How to Make a Straightedge
Need to make straight cuts with a circular saw? See these pro tips on making a board to guide long rip cuts with the grain of wood.
How to Make Perfect Angle Cuts With a Circular Saw
Using a circular saw to make an angular cut is great for tasks such as framing, trimming, and creating custom pieces. The first time can be tough, though. Read our guide to learn how to cut correctly.
Circular Saw 101: How To Use Sightlines for Accurate Cuts
Correctly using a circular saw's sightlines will help you to make accurate cuts. Learn how to properly use this tool in our step-by-step guide.
How to Square a Circular Saw Blade in 10 Simple Steps
Need to square your circular saw blade? See these pro tips on checking the accuracy of your circular saw blade angle.
Circular Saw 101: How To Adjust the Blade Depth
Learn how to adjust the blade depth on a circular saw for safer, cleaner cuts, and longer tool life with these simple steps and expert tips.
Drill Driver 101: How to Set a Screw Properly and Safely
Follow these professional tips on how to set a screw properly with your power drill and make every job easier.
Drill/Driver 101: How To Use a Variable-Speed Trigger
Follow these pro tips on using a variable-speed trigger to better control your drilling and screw driving in your construction projects.
Drill/Driver 101: How to Use the Clutch for Efficient Work
Learn how to adjust the clutch on your drill/driver to get the proper torque for efficient drilling and perfect screw driving.
Drill/Driver 101: How to Use a Transmission Switch
Learn how to choose the right speed for properly sinking screws and drilling holes with drills and drivers in this video and guide.
TOH Tested: Chain Saws and How to Cut Down Trees
Weekend lumberjacks need to look no further. Dealing with trees is no problem with our five favorite chain saws
Secret Potions for Tackling Tricky Cleaning Jobs
Not all secret potions are bad! The TOH editors swear by these not-so-toxic concoctions for cleaning and upgrading your house
How To Effectively Use Your Own Steam Cleaner
Steam cleaning can remove dirt and bacteria without the use of harsh chemicals. Learn the benefits of steam cleaning, how to properly use a cleaner, and which surfaces are best for use.
TOH Tested: Pressure Washers
For tough cleaning tasks, like removing stains from concrete, or monster ones, like washing an entire house, elbow grease goes only so far. This range of pressure washers gets the job done faster—and better—than you and your brush.
