
Tools
Choose the right tools for your next do-it-yourself (DIY) project with expert reviews, buying guides, and step-by-step instructions.
Navigation
TOH Tested: Reciprocating Saws
These cordless reciprocating saws, with lightweight 18-volt batteries, compact designs, and smart features, keep the debris—and the fun—flying
Top 20 Essential Tools From the This Old House Pros
When tackling home improvement or repair projects, having the right tools can make all the difference.
Tool Test: Impact Drivers
TOH readers put six selectable-speed impact drivers and 11 single-speed ones to the test
How to Use a Chainsaw Safely
Learn chainsaw basics with This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook
How to Use a Table Saw Safely for Your Next Project
Take advice and tips from This Old House general contractor Tom Silva for cutting safely and effectively with a table saw.
How To Choose an Eco-Friendly Lawn Mower
This Old House landscape contractor Roger Cook discusses options and features of non-gasoline-powered mowers.
Tool Test: Mini Reciprocating Saws
With their rapid back-and-forth sawing motion, reciprocating saws chew through nearly anything. Check out this new breed that can be used one-handed to reach tight spots
Tool Test: Battery-Powered Brad Nailers
Here's what This Old House readers had to say about the latest hose-free nailer models
How To Change a Circular Saw Blade
This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows the correct, safe way to install a new blade on your portable circular saw.
The Best Tools for Your Home Tool Kit (2025 Review)
A well-stocked home tool kit will help you handle everything from day-to-day fixes to major home improvement projects. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the best tools for your home tool kit on the web to help you find the products that are right for you.
Tool Review: Cordless Combo Kits
Start a budding DIYer off on the right foot with the gift of an all-in-one battery-powered tool kit
Tool Test: 12-Volt Drill/Drivers
Finding the right 12 volt drill/driver is a balance between power, run time and comfort. Here's how today's newest tools stack up
Tool Test: Compact Utility Vacs
A pro contractor puts four 4- to 5-gallon vacuums models to the test
Choosing & Using Random Orbit Sanders
Random orbital sanders are both versatile and effective. Learn more about buying and using them from the This Old House experts.
Circular Saws
What style is right for you, what features to look for, and how to use it safely
Claw Hammers
Here's a look at what's new with the world's oldest tool—the claw hammer.
Levels
From the basic bubble model to high-tech laser gadgets, here's what you need to know to get your projects straight and plumb.
Everything You Need to Cast Plaster Details
How to make custom molds to reproduce plaster period details throughout your home
Our Favorite Measuring Tools
Here are our top picks for basic household measuring, plus a few specialized tools for extra-big and super-small jobs.
22 Best Table Saws
A look at the best table saws—including portable, hybrid, and cabinet models—to consider for your workshop.
Great Moments in Squeegee History
More about the one tool window cleaners can't live without
Tool Test: Multi-Function Detail Sanders
These oscillating tools sand, scrape, saw—and more. We had a pro put five models through their paces.
5-Inch Orbital Sanders
When wood needs sanding, random-orbit sanders finish the job—smoothly and without swirl marks, if used properly—in a fraction of the time it takes to sand by hand.
Tool Test: Cordless Jigsaws
These handy curve-cutting saws are going cordless. This Old House readers tried out four of the latest 18-volt lithium-ion versions. Here's what they found
The Best Ladder Safety Accessories to Help You Work Securely
This guide breaks down some of the best ladder accessories available to help you finish your next project safely and securely.
How To Set Up a Ladder Safely: A Comprehensive Guide
Accidents happen on ladders all the time. Setting up a ladder correctly is vital—here's what proper ladder placement looks like.
How To Work Safely on a Ladder
Working on a ladder is dangerous, so it's important to know tips and safety precautions to prevent accidents.
Norm's Notebook: How To Use a Handsaw
Essential advice from This Old House master carpenter Norm Abram
Handsaws: A Guide To Choosing and Using These Tools
Read our guide on handsaws to learn which handsaw is best for your project, how to properly use it, and how to maintain it for years to come.
Stop Tool Rust in Its Tracks
Handy products that will help keep your tools corrosion-free
How To Dispose of Old Rechargeable Batteries
Discover eco-friendly ways to recycle old rechargeable batteries. Learn about recycling options and why proper disposal is necessary.
Tools That Make Us Drool
International Builders' Show power- and hand-tool debuts that we'll be adding to our toolboxes this year