Issue 286 – Oct/Nov 2019

Masking tape and solvents are the key to a clean bead of sealant.

For cleaning up molding joints, a specialty woodcarving tool works better than a typical utility knife.

This homemade rack conveniently holds small workpieces when working up high.

Make a simple pocket for keeping several bits handy by wrapping a piece of a bicycle inner tube around the base of your cordless drill.

A drink cup beats a pile of rags if you need to temporarily plug a plumbing drain pipe when replacing a toilet.

A DIY extension handle works well for window cranks that can't be operated from the ground.

The combination waste and vent system is a simpler alternative to island fixture vents and air-admittance valves, and a recent code change may make it more popular.

The sturdy and powerful Grizzly G0870 10-in tablesaw is a workhorse on the job site.

Powertec's Drawer Front Installation Clamps make simple work of this often-frustrating task.

The Wagner Flexio 3000 spray rig is a good alternative to professional painting equipment when you want a faster, smoother job than you can get with a brush or roller.

The Makita XOB01Z 5-in. cordless random-orbit sander is well balanced and more convenient than its corded counterparts.

Oatey LiquiLock powder makes removing an old toilet less of a mess.

Unlike typical work boxes that have one connection method or another, Carlon's Zip Box Blue electrical boxes have a 3-in-1 mounting system so you don't ever have the wrong type for the job at hand.

Tstuds are a new energy-efficient framing product that look like vertical trusses made from two thin boards joined by a series of angled dowels.

Blum Expando T hinges have a unique pressure-fit mounting system that only requires 1/4-in. penetrations into cabinet doors and drawer faces.

SharkBite launches a professional series of plastic fittings that is claimed to speed up PEX-to-PEX rough plumbing jobs.

Lignia polymer-impregnated pine decking is an attractive new alternative to pressure-treated lumber.

A major remodel of the back of this 1890s brick home brings in more light and makes a better connection to an existing rooftop deck.

Creative framing and trim details straighten out the kinks during the remodel of a crooked old timber-frame farmhouse in Vermont.

Superinsulated walls make it challenging to install standard-size door jambs and sills. Energy-efficient-home designer Michael Maines offers some workable solutions.

When tradespeople transition into project-management roles, mastering record-keeping and communication skills is essential to success.

This aspiring furniture maker is taking advantage of every learning opportunity he can find to work towards his goal of owning his own woodworking studio someday.