Tools
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.
Drill/Driver 101: How to Use a Keyless Chuck
Pro tips on properly positioning a bit in the head of a drill
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.
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
The Best Trim Routers (2024 Guide)
Whether you're fluting a fence post or rounding built-in shelves, these one-handed wood detailers make a big impression
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.