Author: curtis@greatseneca.net

  • 7 Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

    7 Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

    Whether you’re a homeowner or just getting into DIY projects, having the right tools makes all the difference.

    With a solid set of basic tools, you can handle:

    • Most household repairs
    • Small remodeling projects
    • Ongoing home maintenance

    After 25+ years as a carpenter and remodeler, these are the 7 tools I consider essential. Start with these, buy quality, and they’ll last you a lifetime.

    📏 1. Measuring Tape (Accuracy Starts Here)

    If your measurements are off, everything else will be too.

    A good tape measure:

    • Stays rigid when extended
    • Has clear, easy-to-read markings
    • Can handle jobsite abuse

    👉 My pick: Stanley FatMax
    It’s durable, reliable, and holds up over time.

    🔩 2. Cordless Drill (Your Most Used Tool)

    If you only buy one power tool—this is it.

    A cordless drill can:

    • Drill holes (from tiny to large)
    • Drive screws, bolts, and fasteners
    • Handle most everyday projects

    Modern drills are incredibly powerful thanks to battery improvements.

    👉 My preference: Makita
    But most major brands make solid drills now.

    🔨 3. Hammer (Simple but Essential)

    Every tool kit needs a good hammer—but not all are the same.

    👉 I prefer a straight claw hammer over curved:

    • Easier to pull nails
    • Better for light demo work
    • More versatile overall

    👉 My pick: Estwing (solid, durable, built to last)

    📐 4. Speed Square (Underrated but Powerful)

    Every tool kit needs a good hammer—but not all are the same.

    👉 I prefer a straight claw hammer over curved:

    • Easier to pull nails
    • Better for light demo work
    • More versatile overall

    👉 My pick: Estwing (solid, durable, built to last)

    🔧 5. Multi-Bit Screwdriver (All-in-One Convenience)

    Instead of carrying multiple screwdrivers, this gives you everything in one.

    Why it’s useful:

    • Multiple bit types in one tool
    • Less clutter
    • Easy to carry

    👉 My go-to: Klein Tools
    Reliable and built for daily use.

    🔩 6. Channel Locks (Adjustable Grip Power)

    These are essential for:

    • Plumbing repairs
    • Grabbing pipes
    • Turning nuts and bolts

    A good pair can handle up to 2” pipe and will save you constantly.

    🪚 7. Circular Saw (The Workhorse)

    This is the most versatile cutting tool you can own.

    It can handle:

    • Cutting 2x4s
    • Breaking down plywood
    • Making straight cuts on most materials

    👉 My preference: Milwaukee
    Great balance of power and ergonomics.

    🧠 Pro Tip: Buy Quality Once

    Cheap tools seem like a good deal—but they usually aren’t.

    Better tools:

    • Last longer
    • Work better
    • Make projects easier

    👉 Buy quality, take care of them, and you won’t have to replace them.

    💰 Where to Buy These Tools

    Most of these tools are available at:

    • Home Depot
    • Lowe’s

    But in many cases…

    👉 Amazon will have the best price (especially if you’re not in a rush)

    You can also save money by buying used tools if you know what to look for.

    📥 Want a Complete Tool Setup Guide?

    If you’re just getting started and want a full system:

    👉 Check out the Tool Tutor guides
    👉 Or ask the chatbot what tools you need for your specific project

    🔗 Related Articles (Build Your Tool Kit)

    • How to Choose the Right Drill
    • Should You Buy Used Tools?
    • Best Tools for Bathroom Remodeling
  • 🏠 Lowe’s vs Home Depot: Which Is Better for Homeowners and Contractors? (2026 Guide)

    🏠 Lowe’s vs Home Depot: Which Is Better for Homeowners and Contractors? (2026 Guide)

    If you’ve ever walked into both Lowe’s and Home Depot and wondered which one is better—you’re not alone.

    After spending 25+ years as a carpenter and remodeler, I’ve worked out of both stores constantly. The truth is…there’s no one-size-fits-all answer.

    Both stores are excellent—but they serve slightly different purposes.

    Here’s how they really compare.

    🔨 The Short Answer

    • Home Depot → Better for contractors and raw building materials
    • Lowe’s → More homeowner-friendly and design-focused

    But that’s just the surface.

    🧱 Home Depot: Built for Contractors

    Home Depot lumber asile

    Home Depot tends to lean more toward professional use and jobsite needs.

    What they do well:

    • Larger selection of raw building materials
    • Better stock of contractor essentials (framing, drywall, fasteners)
    • Strong tool inventory (especially pro-grade brands)
    • Faster in-and-out for jobsite runs

    👉 In my experience, when I need something quickly for a job, Home Depot usually has it.

    🏡 Lowe’s: Designed for Homeowners

    Lowe’s feels different the moment you walk in.

    It’s more geared toward:

    • Home improvement projects
    • Design and finishes
    • Outdoor living

    What they do well:

    • Better lighting, flooring, and kitchen displays
    • More polished showroom layouts
    • Easier for homeowners to browse and plan projects
    • Strong selection of décor and finishing materials

    👉 If you’re planning a remodel or picking finishes, Lowe’s often feels easier to navigate.

    ⚖️ Pricing: They’re Basically the Same

    Both stores are highly competitive.

    • Prices are usually very close
    • They often run competing sales
    • Many items are price-matched

    👉 For big purchases, it’s always worth checking both.

    ⚠️ The Truth About Customer Service

    This is where things get real.

    Customer service varies more by location than brand.

    I’ve personally worked with:

    • Excellent Home Depot stores
    • Terrible Home Depot stores
    • Great Lowe’s stores
    • Poorly run Lowe’s stores

    👉 It often comes down to:

    • Store management
    • Staff experience
    • Local demand

    Example from my experience:
    I have two Home Depots near me—one is fantastic, the other is one of the worst stores I’ve ever been in.

    🧠 My Real-World Contractor Take

    Here’s how I actually use them:

    • Home Depot → Jobsite materials, quick runs, tools
    • Lowe’s → Finishes, browsing, homeowner projects

    If I had to pick one overall?

    👉 I personally spend more time at Home Depot because they tend to have what I need when I need it.

    💰 Best Place to Buy Tools (Hint: It’s Neither)

    Here’s something most people don’t realize:

    👉 Amazon usually beats both stores on tool pricing.

    Why?

    • More sellers competing
    • Lower overhead
    • Easy price comparisons

    If you’re not in a rush, you can almost always save money buying tools online.

    🔧 Final Verdict

    There’s no clear winner—just different strengths.

    Choose Home Depot if you:

    • Need materials fast
    • Work in the trades
    • Want better access to contractor supplies

    Choose Lowe’s if you:

    • Are planning a project
    • Want design inspiration
    • Prefer a more polished shopping experience

    📥 Need Help Planning Your Project?

    If you’re not sure what materials or tools you actually need:

    👉 Check out the Tool Tutor guides
    👉 Or ask the chatbot for step-by-step help

    🔗 Coming Next

    • Best Tools for DIY Homeowners
    • Bathroom Remodeling Starter Guide
    • How to Avoid Expensive Remodeling Mistakes
  • 🔧 5 Best Places to Buy Tools (Contractor Picks for the Best Deals in 2026)

    🔧 5 Best Places to Buy Tools (Contractor Picks for the Best Deals in 2026)

    If you’ve been around tools long enough, you’ve probably made a few bad purchases.

    I know I have.

    Early in my career, I once spent $2,800 on a truck full of tools from a traveling salesman. Sounded like a deal at the time…until I realized I had just bought a pile of low-quality specialty automotive tools I didn’t even need.

    Lesson learned.

    Since then, I’ve spent 25+ years buying tools the right way—finding the best deals, avoiding junk, and figuring out where to actually spend your money.

    If you’re a homeowner, DIYer, or contractor, here are the 5 best places to buy tools (and when to use each one).

    🛠️ 1. Amazon (Best Overall for Price & Convenience)

    For most people, this is going to be your go-to.

    Why it works:

    • Consistently low prices
    • Huge selection (almost every brand available)
    • Fast shipping (often free)
    • Easy returns

    Because multiple sellers are competing on the same platform, you can usually find the lowest price in the country in minutes.

    👉 Pro Tip:
    Don’t just buy the first listing—check multiple sellers and look for “sold by + fulfilled by” combinations for better deals.

    🔨 2. eBay (Best for Deals on New & Used Tools)

    eBay is still one of the best places to find deals—especially if you know what you’re looking for.

    Best for:

    • Discontinued tools
    • Lightly used professional tools
    • Bulk deals

    Watch out for:

    • Seller ratings
    • Return policies
    • Tools that look “too cheap”

    👉 If you’re patient, you can score serious deals on high-end tools here.

    💰 3. Local Pawn Shops (Most Underrated Option)

    This is where experience pays off.

    Pawn shops can be a goldmine—but you have to know what you’re looking at.

    Why I like them:

    • Deep discounts on quality tools
    • Negotiation is often possible
    • Inventory changes constantly

    What to check:

    • Tool condition (obviously)
    • Battery life (for cordless tools)
    • Brand quality (stick with pro-grade brands)

    👉 I’ve picked up some of my best tools this way—but it takes patience and a sharp eye.

    🏠 4. Home Depot (Best for Convenience + Hidden Deals)

    Home Depot is the most reliable in-person option.

    But here’s what most people don’t know…

    👉 Every store usually has a “returned / reconditioned” section hidden somewhere.

    If you find it at the right time, you can get:

    • 30–50% off tools
    • Barely used or open-box items
    • Name-brand tools at a big discount

    Downside:

    • You have to get lucky
    • Good deals go fast
    • Employees sometimes grab the best stuff first

    Still, it’s worth checking if you’re already in the store.

    🧰 5. Lowe’s (Best Alternative to Home Depot)

    Lowe’s is very similar to Home Depot, and sometimes even better depending on the deal.

    Why it makes the list:

    • Competitive pricing
    • Good in-store availability
    • Easy returns
    • Frequent promotions

    👉 Tip:
    Compare Lowe’s and Home Depot for big purchases—they often price match or run competing sales.

    ⚠️ Where NOT to Buy Tools (Learn From My Mistake)

    Avoid:

    • Random traveling tool sellers
    • Unknown brands with “too good to be true” pricing
    • Bulk deals you don’t fully understand

    If a deal feels off… it probably is.

    🔥 Pro Contractor Buying Strategy (This Is What I Actually Do)

    Here’s the simple system I use:

    • Amazon → quick purchases, best pricing
    • eBay → hunting for deals
    • Pawn shops → opportunistic buys
    • Home Depot / Lowe’s → when I need something TODAY

    This gives you the best mix of:
    ✔ price
    ✔ availability
    ✔ quality

    📥 Want Help Choosing the Right Tools?

    If you’re not sure what tools you actually need (or don’t want to waste money like I did early on):

    👉 Check out the Tool Tutor guides
    👉 Or use the chatbot to ask specific questions

     

    🔧 Coming Next

    • Best Power Tools for Homeowners
    • Must-Have Tools for Bathroom Remodeling
    • Tool Buying Mistakes to Avoid
  • Best laser level for construction

    Best laser level for construction

    Construction work requires precision, and accuracy is crucial. Whether you’re building a new home or remodeling an existing one, or even just hanging a picture a laser level can be an invaluable tool to ensure that your project is level and square. Here are some of the best laser levels for construction work:

    Bosch GCL100-40G Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser Level: This laser level is easy to use and produces bright and clear lines. It can project both vertical and horizontal lines, making it perfect for a range of construction tasks.

    DEWALT DW088K Cross Line Laser: This laser level is compact and lightweight, making it easy to transport from job site to job site. It features a locking pendulum to ensure accuracy, and it can project both vertical and horizontal lines.

    Klein Tools Rechargeable Self-Leveling Green Planar Laser Level: This laser level is a great choice for outdoor construction work, as it produces bright green lines that are easy to see in bright sunlight. It’s also self-leveling, which means you don’t need to adjust it manually.

    Laser Cube Compact Laser Level: This laser level is affordable and easy to use. It features a locking mechanism to ensure accuracy, and it can project both vertical and horizontal lines.

    Milwaukee M12 12-Volt Lithium-Ion Cordless Green 250 ft. 3-Plane Laser Level Kit with One 4.0 Ah Battery: This laser level is durable and can withstand heavy use. It produces bright lines that are easy to see, and it can project both vertical and horizontal lines.

    When choosing a laser level for construction work, it’s important to consider factors such as accuracy, ease of use, and durability. The laser levels listed above are all great choices and are sure to help you complete your construction project with precision and accuracy.

  • Hand Planes: The Essential carpentry Woodworking Tool

    Hand Planes: The Essential carpentry Woodworking Tool

     

    In the world of carpentry and woodworking, hand planes are an essential tool that has been used for centuries. Hand planes are used to smooth and shape wood, and they are versatile enough to be used for a variety of different woodworking projects. From creating a perfectly flat surface to shaping intricate designs, a hand plane can do it all.

    What is a Hand Plane?

    A hand plane is a carpentry woodworking tool that is used to shave thin, uniform layers of wood from a workpiece. It is made up of a blade, also known as an iron, that is held in place by a wedge. The blade protrudes from the bottom of the plane, and when the plane is pushed across the surface of the wood, the blade shaves off a thin layer of wood, leaving a smooth surface behind.

    There are many different types of hand planes, each with its own unique purpose. The most common types of hand planes are bench planes, which are used for flattening and smoothing large surfaces, and block planes, which are smaller and are used for trimming and shaping small pieces of wood.

    Why Use a Hand Plane?

    There are several benefits to using a hand plane in your woodworking projects. Firstly, hand planes are incredibly versatile, and can be used for a wide range of different tasks, from smoothing rough lumber to shaping intricate details. They are also relatively easy to use once you have mastered the technique, and require no electricity or batteries to operate, making them a great tool for working in remote locations or on the go.

    Using a hand plane can also help you achieve a higher level of precision and accuracy in your woodworking projects. By shaving off thin, uniform layers of wood, you can create a perfectly flat and smooth surface, which is essential for many woodworking projects. Hand planes can also be used to create intricate details and shapes that are difficult to achieve with power tools.

    How to Use a Hand Plane

    Using a hand plane takes practice and patience, but with a little bit of time and effort, anyone can master the technique. The first step is to prepare your workpiece by making sure it is flat and free from any major imperfections. Then, select the appropriate hand plane for the task at hand, and adjust the blade to the desired depth.

    To use the hand plane, hold it with both hands, with one hand on the front knob and the other on the back handle. Place the blade on the surface of the wood, with the bevel facing down, and push the plane forward in a smooth motion, applying gentle downward pressure. As you move the plane across the surface of the wood, you should be able to feel the blade shaving off thin layers of wood.

    Conclusion

    Hand planes are an essential tool for any woodworker, whether you are a beginner or an experienced craftsman. They are versatile, precise, and require no electricity to operate, making them a great addition to any workshop. If you are looking to take your woodworking to the next level, consider adding a hand plane to your toolkit. With a little bit of practice and patience, you can achieve amazing results with this essential carpentry woodworking tool.

  • Repairing cracked corners in drywall

    Drywall is a popular and affordable material used for walls and ceilings in modern construction. However, even with careful installation, drywall is prone to cracking and damage, particularly in corners where two walls meet. One effective method for repairing a cracked corner in drywall is to use flexible corner tape. In this article, we will discuss how to use flexible corner tape to repair a cracked corner in drywall.

    Step 1: Prepare the area

    Before beginning the repair process, it’s important to prepare the area around the cracked corner. First, remove any loose or damaged drywall from the area. Next, sand the surface of the wall around the crack to create a rough surface for the joint compound to adhere to. Finally, clean the area with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris.

    Step 2: Cut the flexible corner tape to size

    Flexible corner tape is available in different widths, so measure the width of the corner and cut the tape to the appropriate size. Be sure to cut the tape long enough to cover the entire crack, with a few inches of extra tape on either side of the corner.

    Step 3: Apply joint compound

    Using a putty knife or trowel, apply a thin layer of joint compound to the area where the tape will be applied. Make sure the joint compound covers the area completely, with a little bit of excess around the edges.

    Step 4: Apply the flexible corner tape

    Carefully apply the flexible corner tape to the area, making sure that it is centered over the crack. Smooth out any wrinkles or air bubbles in the tape by using a putty knife or trowel to press the tape firmly into the joint compound. Make sure the tape is flush against both walls and the ceiling.

    Step 5: Apply a second layer of joint compound

    After the tape is applied and smoothed out, apply a second layer of joint compound over the tape. Use the putty knife or trowel to spread the joint compound evenly, making sure to cover the entire tape. Let the joint compound dry completely, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

    Step 6: Sand and paint

    Once the joint compound is completely dry, sand the surface smooth with a sanding block or sandpaper. Be sure to sand the area gently to avoid damaging the tape. After sanding, wipe the area with a damp cloth to remove any dust or debris. Then use PVA drywall primer to prime the freshly sanded drywall. Finally, paint the area to match the surrounding walls and ceiling.

    In conclusion, repairing a cracked corner in drywall using flexible corner tape is a simple and effective solution. By following these steps, you can easily repair cracks and damage in your drywall, ensuring that it remains in good condition for years to come.

  • Low-cost home improvements

    Improving your home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. With a little creativity and effort, you can make significant changes to your living space without breaking the bank. Here are some low-cost home improvement projects that can give your home a fresh new look:

    Paint a Room: One of the most cost-effective ways to change the look of a room is by painting it. You can transform a dull, outdated room into a vibrant and stylish space with a fresh coat of paint. Plus, painting is a fun and easy DIY project that can be done in a weekend.

      Update Cabinet Hardware: Upgrading the hardware on your cabinets can give your kitchen or bathroom a whole new look. Swapping out old, outdated handles and knobs for new, modern ones can make a big impact for a relatively small cost.

      Add a Backsplash: A tile backsplash can add style and personality to your kitchen or bathroom. It’s a relatively inexpensive project that you can do yourself with some basic tools and supplies.

      Refinish Furniture: Instead of buying new furniture, consider refinishing or repainting your existing pieces. This can save you money and give your furniture a fresh new look. You can even add new hardware or fabric to give it a custom touch.

      Create a Gallery Wall: A gallery wall is a great way to add interest and personality to any room. You can create one with family photos, artwork, or a mix of both. All you need is some picture frames and a little creativity.

      Update Light Fixtures: Changing out old light fixtures for new ones can make a big difference in the look and feel of a room. You can find affordable options at your local hardware store or online.

      Install New Window Treatments: Swapping out old curtains or blinds for new ones can freshen up any room. You can find affordable options at discount stores or online.

        These low-cost home improvement projects can make a big difference in the look and feel of your home without breaking the bank. They are easy to do and can be completed in a weekend or less. With a little effort, you can transform your living space into a stylish and inviting home.

      1. Best Screw Anchors

        Choosing the Best Screw Anchor for your job and installing it properly can be a challenge, with such a large variety of screw anchors and toggle bolts available. Choosing the correct anchor for the job can be quite confusing and somewhat intimidating. There are anchors are for drywall, anchors for concrete and brick, and some anchors are for both. With some general information and basic instruction you will be able to install Drywall Anchors and Masonry Anchors like a pro.
        Screw Anchors can be used to install a variety of materials in drywall or masonry products. Materials such as:

        • Mirrors
        • Curtain Rods
        • Art work
        • Framed Photos
        • Towel Bars
        • Small Shelves
        • And more…

        Here are some of the best screw anchors that are available for drywall installations:

        • Self tapping twist and lock drywall anchor
        • Ribbed expanding screw anchor
        • Standard ribbed screw anchor
        • Winged Toggle bolt 

        Here are some anchors available for concrete, block and brick installation.

        • Standard ribbed screw anchor
        • Lag Shields
        • Wedge anchors
        • Hammer set nail drive concrete anchors

        The major difference between screw anchors in the drywall category is the strength and ease of installation.  Each anchor is rated for different weight loads and have a slightly different installation processes.

        Installing Self Tapping Drywall Anchors:

        • Determine location for anchor to be placed. (Anchors can not easily be shifted. So be sure the location you choose is correct before beginning installation)
        • Start by poking a small hole in the drywall. The hole should be approximately the size of the screw that is included with the anchor. Use a small drill bit or a awl to make the hole. 
        • Now, gently hammer the anchor into the hole. Stop when you get to the threads. 
        • Using a screwdriver turn the anchor into the drywall using gentle pressure. Ensure that the threads are catching the drywall and spinning in evenly. If the drywall begins to protrude out as you spin in the anchor more pressure may be required. 
        • The drywall anchor should be twisted until it is flush with the wall.
        • Finally, drive the screw into the drywall anchor (using a screw gun or drill with a Phillips head tip is preferred) drive the screw until The head barely touches the anchor. Then carefully back it out to desired depth.
        • Our choice for the best screw anchor for drywall 

        Installing Standard Ribbed Screw Anchor:

        • Determine location for anchor to be placed. (Anchors can not easily be shifted. So be sure the location you choose is correct before beginning installation)
        • Start by poking a small hole in the drywall. The hole should be approximately the size of the tip of the anchor. Use a small drill bit or a awl to make the hole. 
        • Now, gently hammer the anchor into the hole. Stop when the anchor head reached the wall. 
        • Finally, screw in the drywall anchor (using a screw gun or drill with a Phillips head tip is preferred) drive the screw to the desired depth and stop, do not over tighten.

        Installing Ribbed Expanding Screw Anchor:

        • Determine location for anchor to be placed. (Anchors can not easily be shifted. So be sure the location you choose is correct before beginning installation)
        • Start by poking a small hole in the drywall. The hole should be approximately the size of the tip of the anchor. Use a small drill bit or a awl to make the hole. 
        • Now, gently hammer the anchor into the hole. Stop when the anchor head reached the wall. 
        • Finally, drive the screw into the drywall anchor (using a screw gun or drill with a Phillips head tip is preferred) drive the screw until The head barely touches the anchor. Then carefully back it out to desired depth. 

        Installing a Winged Toggle Bolt:

        • Determine location for anchor to be placed. (Anchors can not easily be shifted. So be sure the location you choose is correct before beginning installation)
        • Start by poking a small hole in the drywall. The hole should be approximately the size of the tip of the wing when closed. Use a small drill bit to make the hole. 
        • Now, gently hammer the anchor into the hole. Stop when the anchor head reached the wall. 
        • Finally, drive the screw into the drywall anchor (using a screw gun or drill with a Phillips head tip is preferred) drive the screw until The head barely touches the anchor. Then carefully back it out to desired depth. 
        • Insert the bolts through the material to be mounted. Winged Toggle Bolt
          weight capacity: 75 lb to 125 lb depending upon size
        • Now, place the wing on the bolt making an “arrow” pointing away from the bolt head. Thread the wing to approximately 1/8 inch from the end of the bolt. 
        • Close the wing and inserted through the hole in the drywall.
        • Push the wing through until it opens and pull it back into the drywall so the sharp edges slightly dig into the inside of the wall. 
        • Keeping tension on the bolt pulled tightly against the inside of the wall. Now start driving the screw with a Phillips head screwdriver or drill/screw gun.
        • Tighten screw until it fits snugly against the wall then give a couple extra turns with a hand screwdriver

        Best Screw Anchors For Masonry

        When Installing screw anchors in masonry products, it is imperative to choose the correct anchor. Each screw anchor has a specific use depending upon the material you are attaching to the masonry.

        Standard Ribbed Screw Anchor:

        • Determine the location for installing the anchor. (As with drywall, anchors cannot easily be shifted. So choosing the correct location is important.)
        • Select a masonry drill bit to make a hole in the wall. The drill bit should be the same size as the circumference of the flares on the anchor. 
        • Drill the hole at least as deep as the anchor is long +1/8 inch. 
        • Insert the anchor into the hole until the head of the anchor is flush with the wall. 
        • Finally, drive the screw into the anchor using light pressure to desired depth. Use either a Phillips head screwdriver or drill/screw gun to drive the screw..

        Lag Shield:

        • Determine the location for installing the anchor. (As with drywall, anchors cannot easily be shifted. So choosing the correct location is important.)
        • Select a masonry drill bit to make a hole in the wall. The drill bit should be the same size as the circumference of  the anchor. 
        • Drill the hole at least as deep as the anchor is long +1/8 inch. 
        • Insert the anchor into the hole until the head of the anchor is flush with the wall. 
        • Finally, drive the lag screw into the anchor using force to desired depth. Use a drill/screw gun to drive the screw.

        Wedge Anchor:

        • Determine the location for installing the anchor. (As with drywall, anchors cannot easily be shifted. So choosing the correct location is important.)
        • Select a masonry drill bit to make a hole in the wall. The drill bit should be the same size as the circumference of expandable sleeve on the anchor. 
        • Drill the hole at least as deep as the anchor is long +1/8 inch. 
        • Insert the anchor into the hole until the washer is tight to the wall. 
        • Drive the nut onto the anchor using a wrench or socket. Tighten until the fastener is secure and does not move.
        • Remove nut and washer
        • Place the material to be fastened over the bolt and re-attach the washer and nut.

        Hammer Set Nail Drive Concrete Anchor:

        • Determine the location for installing the anchor. (These anchors can not be moved once installed. So choosing the correct location is very important.)
        • Select a masonry drill bit to make a hole in the wall. The drill bit should be the same size as the circumference of the anchor sleeve. 
        • Drill the hole at least as deep as the anchor is long +1/8 inch. 
        • Insert the anchor into the hole until the head of the anchor is tight to the wall.
        • Finally, place the anchor through the material to be fastened and firmly hammer the nail into the sleeve until flush with the anchor head.

        Pros and Cons

        Drywall:

        Self tapping twist and lock drywall anchor

        • In most cases this is the best screw anchor for drywall
        • Easy to install
        • Strong

        Ribbed expanding screw anchor

        • Can be tricky to install
        • Strong 
        • good for narrow profile installations

        Standard ribbed screw anchor

        • Most cost efficient
        • Readily available 
        • good for narrow profile installations

        Winged toggle bolt

        • Most difficult to install
        • Not for all applications
        • Very strong  

        Masonry:

        Standard ribbed screw anchor

        • Most cost efficient
        • Readily available 
        • good for narrow profile installations
        • Quite strong when installed in masonry
        • Typically used for hanging  medium to light materials

        Lag Shields

        • Used for anchoring large diameter lag screws
        • Strong, especially when used with epoxy 

        Wedge anchors

        • My preferred anchor for masonry
        • Very strong
        • Easy to install 
        • works for many types of installations

        Hammer set nail drive concrete anchors

        • Easy to install
        • Very strong 
        • Not much room for error

        To install screw anchors like a pro, measure twice and poke holes once. Take your time and do not rush. Select the BEST SCREW ANCHOR for the job and use the proper tools. Doing this and you should have great results with your project installation.

      2. 4 Ways to stop a water stain

        Stain blocking primer
        Spray shellac

        Blocking a reoccurring water stain
         

        There are several ways to block a water stain on drywall or trim. Here are three possible methods:

        Use a Stain-Blocking Primer: One of the easiest ways to block a water stain on drywall or trim is by using a stain-blocking primer. These types of primers are specifically designed to block stubborn stains such as water stains, smoke stains, and crayon marks. Before applying the primer, make sure the surface is clean and dry. Apply the primer with a brush or roller, and let it dry completely before painting over it.

        Try using spray on shellac: this is the secret ingredient in many stain blocking primers. It goes on clear and does a great job of blocking most stains. In addition, it dries VERY fast.

        Bleach and Water Solution: Another method to block water stains on drywall or trim is to use a bleach and water solution. Mix one part bleach with three parts water, and apply the solution to the stained area using a sponge or brush. Let the solution sit for about 10-15 minutes, then rinse it off with water. Once the surface is dry, apply a coat of primer and let it dry before painting over it.

        Replace the Damaged Section: or in the worst case scenario you may just need to replace it. If the water stain is severe, and the drywall or trim is damaged, you may need to replace the affected section. Use a utility knife to cut out the damaged area, making sure to cut along the edges of the drywall or trim. Cut a replacement piece of drywall or trim to fit the hole, and attach it using drywall screws or nails. Once the replacement piece is in place, use joint compound to fill in any gaps or seams. Sand the surface smooth, then apply a coat of primer before painting over it.

      3. What Are “Carbon Brushes”?

        Why should I buy tools that have “Carbon Brushes”?
         
         
        You can tell a lot about a tool’s condition by just looking at the brushes. What are Carbon Brushes? They are spring-loaded pieces of soft metal that conduct electricity.
         “A brush is a device which conducts current between stationary wires and moving parts, most commonly in a rotating shaft. Typical applications include electric motors, alternators and electric generators.”  …Wikipedia Carbon Brushes
        The advantage to having brushes in your tools is that they will absorb any stress put on the motor. The soft metal will grind away instead of expensive motor parts. By removing a tool’s brushes you will be able to determine how much stress the motor has been put through by the amount of wear on the soft metal block on the brush.
         
        Removing the Brushes
         
        Removing the brushes from your tools is very easy. Simply take a large flat head screwdriver and unscrew the plastic head. Then carefully remove the exposed brass plate; the whole thing should pop right out for cleaning and inspection.
         

        Often saw dust will collect in the brush socket and cause the tool to not work properly. Many times just cleaning and replacing the brushes will give a whole new life to the tool. The brushes can be replaced if they are broken or very worn. Amazon.com is a great resource for replacement brushes and any electric motor parts. To increase the life of your heavily used tools, periodically remove and clean the brushes.