(guest post by Daniel Ray of LawnStarter.com) Some landscaping helps home value, and some doesn’t. One Virginia Cooperative Extension survey found that landscape expenditures — especially large ones — “significantly increase perceived home value.” That leads to a higher selling price than homes with minimal landscaping. Bigger landscaping spending means a bigger return, according to the study. The Appraisal Institute, America’s biggest association of real estate appraisers, advises homeowners that “improving their property’s landscaping can result in a significant return on investment when selling the home.” But not all landscaping investments are created equal. Consider these numbers from the 2018 Modeling Impact Report: Outdoor Features by the National Association of Realtors: - Lawn care services return 267% of the investment, That’s the No. 1 landscaping item, yielding the most money on the investment. - Landscape maintenance and tree care are a break-even proposition, returning 100% of the investment. - On the other hand, a new pool is far underwater when it comes to return on investment. According to NAR, it may bring joy, but recovers just 43% of the average $57,500 cost of installation. So when you have a limited budget for improving your exterior and want the most bang for your buck, which features do you choose? 10 Lawn, Landscape Features That Increase Home Value 1. A well-maintained lawn Leading the way among exterior improvements is a well-kept lawn. It’s a no-brainer: quick, relatively inexpensive, and returns the most on your investment. Lawns remain a favorite of homebuyers. According to real estate agents, a well-kept expanse of grass pleases buyers. It improves a property’s look, offers a play area for children, and gives the adults a sense that they will enjoy a relaxed lifestyle. 2. Shrubs and trees Almost anything you buy falls in value. Trees are an exception. Mature trees enhance property values. The mere presence of tall trees improves property values throughout a neighborhood by 3% to 15%, according to the University of Washington. Installing mature trees is costly. So if you’re looking for a tree that already has some size, but still fits in the back of a truck, go for a 15-gallon pot. It will hold a tree about 8 feet tall, for a reasonable price — $50-$150, depending on the variety. 3. Tidy garden Remove perennial weeds. For some buyers, they’re a red flag issue that signals problems. A tidy lawn leaves the buyer with the impression that they’re looking at a landscape that is easy to maintain. 4. Landscaped pathway If you have a prospective buyer, where are they certain to tread? Up the walkway to your front door. Pay attention to that pathway. Repair cracks that will spoil the first impression. Try designing a pathway that will create anticipation — ideally, have it winding with plants or a small hedge on each side. Use a pressure-washer to scrub away any built-up dirt or slime. 5. Lighting Outdoor lighting options are available within the limits of any homeowner’s budget. Buyers appreciate that a well-lit yard can provide a layer of security. Lighting hardware has changed in recent years, with solar-powered and LED lighting products adding alternatives to traditional hard-wired lighting. They show off your garden at night, silhouette your trees, keep everyone safe from tripping and keep burglars away. 6. Fresh mulch Need something that will turn a dull yard fresh, economically, and quickly? Go mulch. Adding fresh mulch is second only to routine lawn care at returning your expense at sale. Spending $340 on mulch recoups about 126% upon closing. Incorporating mulch around shrubs and garden plants to help reduce evaporation, inhibit weed growth, moderate soil temperature, and prevent erosion. Adding organic matter and aerating soil can improve its ability to hold water. 7. All-season deck/outdoor kitchen One of the trendiest items is one of the most expensive — a permanent, built-in deck for entertainment and cooking. In effect, it increases the usable square footage of the house. It returns an estimated 83% of the amount spent. That may sound like a losing proposition, but an outdoor kitchen space keeps your house on the shortlist of an expanding group buyers. Properly finish and weather-proof the space for your climate so it will last for years to come. That means building a fire pit for cold climes and making sure there is good shade and air circulation in warmer ones. 8. Pop of color through container plants, garden bed Even without spending thousands of dollars, a few hundred spent on an expanse of colorful flowers and eye-catching plants will return your investment. One increasingly popular option is to add potted plants. They’ll dress up your porch and other entryways where buyers are sure to see them. Flower beds define spaces and are a quick way to brighten up (or even cover up) areas where you’ve had less luck with other plants. Generally speaking, annual plants — which have one or (rarely) two growing seasons — will be the less expensive option. Perennials, which return every year, tend to cost more but grow in size to fill out your landscape. Your local garden center will guide you toward plants that suit your area. Opt for natives where possible. They require less maintenance because they’re naturally suited to your climate. 9. Automated irrigation system Many of today’s buyers love landscaping but don’t have the time or inclination to devote the time it traditionally takes to maintain it. Expect to pay at least $3,000 for a fully automated irrigation system, but buyers will love it. 10. Professional landscape design A professional landscape design will help your lawn climb beyond the competition in the market. There are several levels of help. If you know what you’re doing and just need to document it, there are many software options and apps. Beyond that, local garden centers often have experienced advisers who can offer a quick sketch. A step up from there is landscape designers, who can prepare a detailed plan and often can do the installation as well. 10 Lawn, Landscape Features That Hurt Home Value 1. Artificial grass Artificial grass offers the ultimate in low maintenance. Lay it down once and you can forget it until it wears out. But it frightens off many potential buyers, particularly those with children who want an area to play. With a replacement cost averaging $3.50 per square foot, many buyers prefer to avoid it. 2. Outdoor water features Large water features could pull down your property value by $2,500-$10,000, depending on the size and how it is “plumbed” into the garden. While they are great for attracting bees, birds, and butterflies, some buyers see water features as more work to maintain. 3. Unkempt garden An untended garden that hasn’t been given any TLC could knock 1 to 2% off your asking price. And go big: According to the Virginia Extension survey, a big and showy garden has the most return, while putting in a couple of scrawny plants actually hurts home value. 4. Broken fence panels, cracked walls Good fences offer privacy and seclusion. They’re also pricey to build, repair, or replace, which is why most house-hunters look for a property with an unbroken fence. In fact, research has shown that broken fence panels or cracked walls can remove $1,000 from the value of your house. 5. Swimming pools, hot tubs No matter how many great summer days you spent around a pool, many buyers see only maintenance headaches, additional insurance requirements, and constant worry about safety. Many buyers won’t even look at a home with a pool. Overall, the return on pools is also quite low at 43%. 6. Sports court Custom building a tennis or basketball court may suit your needs and your child’s, but it’s unlikely to enhance your property’s value. 7. Big concrete patio A little concrete is good. But a lot feels more industrial than homey. A broad expanse of concrete creates a parking-lot type of yard where rain collects in puddles. It can look unsightly, become a heat producer, while also posing a safety hazard to friends and family. 8. Fruit trees They attract insects, need constant pruning, and highly productive trees give you an extra chore: How do you get rid of all that fruit? Many potential homebuyers would rather prowl the farmers market than prune the tree. 9. Outdated garden decor, furniture An old picnic table rotting in the backyard could put a splinter in your home’s value. According to Housebeautiful.com, it costs about $4,000 to upgrade outdated garden decor and furniture, and you’re unlikely to recoup the cost at the time of sale. A worthwhile compromise: Do your best to spruce up what you have. You can often refresh garden furniture by giving the fabric coverings a good washdown, and adding a lick of paint or stain to the wooden areas. 10. Highly personalized niche landscape design We get it. You love gnomes. But homebuyers are a more cold-hearted lot. Too-personal touches are a turnoff. New York City real estate professional told GoBankringRates.com he advises against “too-personal touches.” Methodology: For this meta-analysis, LawnStarter gathered all available data from the past two years from reputable studies and websites showing the relative value of various lawn and landscape improvements, analyzing whether the helped or detracted from home value. Read an expanded version of this article HERE. #lawn #landscape #lawncare #landscaping #realestate #homevalue #propertyvalue #homeimprovement #returnoninvestment #ROI #homeowner #homebuyer #remodel #remodeling #outdoorliving #DIY #doityourself #howto #hirpub #lawnstarter

Do you have a door that binds against the top corner of the jamb? Or maybe a large gap at the top of the door makes it difficult to seal when closed? This is a common problem because the weight of a door is supported by the top hinge. Over time, the door can sag away from the top hinge and bind at the opposite corner. Here's a simple DIY trick to correct this problem. Remove the hinge pins from the top two hinges. You can unseat the pins by driving an 8d nail into the hole at the bottom of the hinge. Once the top pin is removed, the door will be precariously attached by only the bottom hinge, so keep the door closed where its weight will be supported by the jamb. If you open the door using only the bottom hinge, the top-heavy door can fall, bend the hinge, and tear out of the jamb. Insert shims as needed between the jamb and the door to create clearance so the door does not bind. It might also help to use shims at the bottom to help close the top gap and achieve a consistent gap around the door. A "side effect" of adjusting the door's alignment with shims is that the knuckles of the top hinge will become misaligned. This might also happen to the middle hinge to a lesser degree. Adjust a Crescent wrench to fit snugly around the hinge knuckles, then carefully bend the three jamb knuckles so they align with the knuckles on the door. To complete the repair, apply lubricant to the hinge pins and then reinsert them through the hinge knuckles. The door should now swing freely and have a more narrow air gap around its perimeter. #doors #doorsandwindows #tipsandtricks #diy #doityourself #homeimprovement #homerepair #doorhinge #doorjamb #howto #construction #remodeling #exteriordoor #interiordoor #tooltrick #homehack

(guest post by Andrew Wynn, Director of Hippo Home Care) The first half of 2020 has been a strange time to buy a home. With travel limited by shelter-at-home orders, home sales initially stalled at the start of the year. But as people adjust to the new normal, sales may soon pick up again—although the process will change considerably. Many people are now buying homes “based solely on photos, video, and FaceTime,” according to the Wall Street Journal, never setting foot inside their new homes until closing. For obvious reasons, buying a home sight-unseen has generally been rare. In 2019, only 3.5% of American buyers bought a home without seeing it first, according to the National Association of Realtors’ (NAR) 2019 Profile of Home Buyers and Sellers. But by April 2020, that number had increased dramatically. A recent survey of NAR agents found that 31% had worked with at least one buyer who put in a contract without ever visiting the home. And many experts say these changes will be the new norm for years to come. While video tours and VR walkarounds are great alternatives to an in-person visit, they can make it hard to spot certain trouble areas without a trained eye. First-time homebuyers especially may have a hard time knowing what to look for, especially considering that brand-new problem areas are emerging as the country spends more time at home. Over the last few months, people have spent up to 3x more time at home than in the past, putting extra strain on their homes and appliances according to a recent Hippo survey of homeowners. And now that 43% of full-time employees say they want to continue to work remotely even after the crisis has passed, these issues may be here to stay. Fortunately, many of these emerging problems can be solved if caught early with a little preventative maintenance—but first, you have to know where to look. Based on our recent homeowners’ survey and the thousands of proactive actions taken through virtual home maintenance checkups with our Hippo Home Care team, we’ve compiled a checklist for buyers and their agents when considering a new home in 2020. First, recognize that homes are operating differently than before. Especially now that many home showings are virtual, it’s important to ask your real estate agent for certain information upfront. If the seller is open to sharing, ask about their family size and usual traffic patterns—this could give you clues as to how much stress the house has been under (and where) during the past few months of shelter in place. A good place to start is to think about the kinds of things you use regularly that you’re now using all the time because more people are at home. It’s very likely whoever was living in the home you’re considering buying was doing the same. Know the signs of home strain. Some home strain is almost inevitable if the home has been lived in over the past few months. According to our research, 28% of homeowners in the U.S. have noticed more strain on their home appliances, equipment, and electronics since the pandemic. There are also lesser known areas to keep a close eye on like plumbing fixtures like toilets and sinks. While you can take a proactive approach to mitigate future home strain, it’s important to find out how things were handled by the current owners to prepare for any hidden maintenance costs. Pay close attention to kitchen and family room appliances. Ask about the age of certain key home appliances like dishwashers and washing machines which saw heavier use during lockdown. Pro tip: You can include coverage for equipment breakdowns in your home insurance policy to cover appliance malfunctions or unwarranted break-downs, outside of basic wear and tear. In our recent homeowners’ survey, most repairs made under shelter in place orders were for appliances. Frequently-used appliances like dishwashers, clothes washers, and dryers fail first. Check for signs of malfunction in these units as well as other issues like water damage and blown fuses. Budget for home maintenance. According to HomeAdvisor, U.S. homeowners paid more than $1100 on home maintenance in 2018—and after the extra strain of lockdown, it might be wise to put aside a little extra for this year. Find out how much certain appliances cost to repair in your area, especially those that are more likely to break down from overuse. Start with some of the basics by looking at refrigerators, ovens, leaking pipes and faucets, and HVAC units. As a seller, if you find something that needs repair or replacement, take care of it proactively to avoid having the buyer find it and use it as a point of negotiation. It may also be worth investing in a preventative home maintenance service to save you money in the long run on unexpected repairs. Check the pricing for standard utilities like electricity and heating. As more companies become comfortable with work-from-home setups, some utility bills can increase quite dramatically. In addition to researching the local utility costs, consider installing smart IoT devices like thermostats to help you regulate the temperate more efficiently. In some cases, it may even lead to discounts on other expenses like homeowners’ insurance. Know your rights. The Real Property Disclosure Statement included in every home sale is a good starting point for any agent looking to protect a buyer from unforeseen costs. It lists all known issues, defects, or previous repairs for the home—emphasis on “known.” Problems the seller doesn’t know about are not included on the form, of course, and unfortunately, sellers are often advised against doing inspections that could reveal them because it might reduce the apparent value of the property. So while a clean Real Property Disclosure Statement is encouraging, it may also suggest that the seller just hasn’t looked very closely. Which brings us to our next point... Find a good home inspector. Real estate contracts generally include an inspection contingency, which allows the buyer to back out of the deal if the home inspection uncovers any new problems. A good home inspection is thorough, honest, and complete—but some home inspectors may choose to ignore or gloss over issues to protect the deal. With so many sales now entirely virtual, choosing a good home inspector is more important than ever. One way to find a trusted home inspector is to ask your agent. All good real estate agents have at least one vetted, reliable inspector they can recommend—after all, it's in their best interest to have the inspection go well, too. You can also find a Certified Home Inspector on your own by checking the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) directory. ASHI certification requires 250 documented, completed, and paid home inspections plus an in-person exam, so you can be sure they know what they’re doing. Once you find someone you like, you can ask for a sample report from a similar home to see how thorough your inspection will be. Comparing reports from different inspectors will help you decide whose reports are detailed and whose are not. Get virtual help. If you do find a maintenance issue, consider a telemaintenance visit with a Home Care Pro. Moving is stressful enough without letting a bunch of strangers into your home—especially now. Telemaintenance calls are a smart way to get that expert help remotely. When you’re ready to buy, invest in the right homeowner’s insurance to keep your long-term costs down. If you’re not sure what to insure, ask a licensed agent for a personalized recommendation that covers all your bases, like home office coverage if you've been working from home more often and putting more wear and tear on your appliances. With a little savvy and the right questions, you can avoid taking on a surprise maintenance expense when you buy your next home. About the Author Andrew Wynn is the Director of Hippo Home Care, a preventive home maintenance service helping homeowners save on time, money and stress. #realestate #homebuying #newhome #firsthome #homeownership #homeinspection #homeinspector #homemaintenance #hippohomecare

Re-U-Zip +Magnetic The HIR staff met the principles of this new company at the 2020 International Builders’s Show in Las Vegas. At the time, we thought Re-U-Zip’s magnetic self-closing strips offered a promising new upgrade for traditional dust-barrier systems. And we thought that before the Coronavirus pandemic had taken hold in the U.S. In light of the last few months, the new system seems smarter than ever. Professionals ranging from healthcare workers and dentists to tradesmen and construction workers are looking for solutions that can protect individuals from contamination, therefore protecting their health. Re-U-Zip’s self-closing strips not only allow for hands-free entry, but they work with any custom-sized barrier. Irregular architecture, small or extra-large doorways, and even the lack of door frames does not stop Re-U-Zip +Magnetic from creating self-closing barriers for your workspace. Visit www.reuzip.com. QPR Fast-Setting Asphalt Pavement Repair QPR (Quality Asphalt Repair) is getting rehabilitated roads, driveways, parking lots, utility cuts and other surfaces exposed to vehicle traffic open in minutes rather than hours with its new QPR Fast-Setting Asphalt Pavement Repair. A North American leader in engineered solutions for infrastructure, QPR designed this game-changing material with proprietary water-activated technology so making rigid repairs to asphalt or concrete is easy, fast and permanent. Ready-to-use out of 20-pounds buckets, QPR Fast-Setting Asphalt Pavement Repair is appropriate for any pothole or crack wider than one inch. After removing all debris, pour the QPR Fast-Setting Asphalt Pavement Repair from the pothole or crack, spread evenly with a rake, and then activate the material by saturating with water. Once the QPR Fast-Setting Asphalt Pavement Repair stops absorbing the water, firmly pack with a tamper. The patch will set hard in one hour, but traffic can return to the surface almost immediately after the repair is completed. QPR Fast-Setting Asphalt Pavement Repair requires no bonding agent and can be used in all weather conditions. “You won’t have to come back and refill the same pothole in the future, which is a common complaint with other products,” says Don Nathan, General Manager or QPR. “We worked with state DOTs and contractors to develop a best-in-class material that combines the consistency and workability of hot asphalt with superior set time, cure time and durability. It’s also solvent-free and environmentally-friendly, making it ideal for both commercial and do-it-yourself projects.” Visit www.QPRUSA.com. DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 Launches with Acme Tools Order the next generation of the DeWalt storage ecosystem today from Acme Tools. The new DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 is being launched exclusively with Acme Tools as the Industrial Channel partner online and in Acme Tools stores. The customizable, portable and durable tool storage system from DeWalt has been upgraded to provide new patented auto-lock side latches for ease of use, removable handle to allow the rolling base to fit into a truck bed with a cover, and increased modularity that allows the user to customize the system to meet their needs. ToughSystem 2.0 adds 20 percent more storage capacity and is compatible with most original ToughSystem 1.0 products. This exclusive launch of the new ToughSystem 2.0 features four case sizes and two different sized three-piece organizer sets from Acme Tools. Visit AcmeTools.com. Milwaukee Tool New Oscillating Multi-Tool Blades Milwaukee Tool continues to enhance their line of unique cutting solutions with the introduction of Oscillating Multi-Tool Blades. For use in wood, screws, nails, cement board, plaster, and other cutting applications, the Titanium Enhanced Carbide Teeth Extreme Materials Blade is complete with a thinner blade and unique aggressive tooth design to offer faster cutting performance in wood when compared to the standard carbide blade. Available in a 1-3/8-in. width, the Extreme Materials Blade lasts up to 50X longer than standard bi-metal blades and can be used in a wide range of materials. The Titanium Enhanced Bi-Metal Metal Cutting Blades are made from premium high-speed steel and feature a uniquely designed combination of tooth form and material to offer better cutting performance in soft metals, wood, nails, PVC, and drywall. The blades are available in 1-1/8” and 1-3/4” widths. Also available are Japanese Tooth Hardwood Blades, HCS Wood Blades, and specialty accessories for sanding, scraping, grinding, and material-removal applications. The new Milwaukee multi-tool blades are complete with a Universal Fit OPEN-LOK Connection for quick blade changes. Visit www.milwaukeetool.com. Empire 1190 16x24" True Blue Laser Etched Framing Square The Empire 16" X 24" True Blue Laser Etched Framing Square features permanent high-visibility laser markings that won't wear after heavy use on the job site. The square features Arc-Scribe, which gives users the best solution for marking radii on job-site materials. The durable anodized lightweight aluminum framing square will not rust or corrode and features laser etched graduations at 1/8-, 1/10-, 1/12-, and 1/16-inch for superior readability in any light condition. Visit www.grizzly.com. Deckorators Voyage Composite Decking Named Top 50 Product Deckorators Voyage composite decking has been named to the Pool & Spa News Top 50 Products list for the second straight year. Superior surface traction and resistance to water make the mineral-based composite (MBC) decking perfect for areas around pools, spas and hot tubs. Each May, Pool & Spa News honors the year’s top pool industry products in a special issue. New Voyage Khaya (true brown) and varied-plank decking options made the 2020 Top 50, after the lineup of Voyage Sierra (dark gray), Tundra (gray), Costa (golden brown) and Mesa (red brown) was honored in 2019. Made with patented Eovations MBC technology that allows virtually no water absorption, Deckorators Voyage decking also features textured embossing that provides 34 percent or more improved surface traction than other leading brands of composite decking. Visit www.deckorators.com/Voyage. Infinity Drain Linear Drains offer Maximum Sanitation Infinity Drain offers a solution for chemical cleaning of “wet room" bathrooms. In a wet room, all floors and walls are waterproofed and tiled so that they can efficiently shed moisture. Floors are sloped, and all water exits the wet room through a high-performing linear drain or center drain.Wet rooms can be created in any size, from small guest baths to luxury master bathrooms, and the drain transitions from being a shower drain to becoming a floor drain. Having a floor drain is like an insurance policy in case there is a plumbing failure on the dry side of the bathroom. The bathroom can also be sprayed down and squeegeed for cleaning. A smaller space may lend itself to including a shower enclosure with no glass partition. Or, a shower or tub could be enclosed behind the glass. For a larger bathroom, the shower and tub could be located in separate areas of the bathroom, completely barrier free. This means the space is spread out enough so the sink or toilet will not get overspray from the shower head. For linear wet-room drains, Infinity Drain offers a broad selection of decorative choices and installation options. Visit infinitydrain.com. Metabo HPT Dual-Powered MultiVolt Rebar Bender/Cutter Metabo HPT (formerly Hitachi Power Tools) introduces the industry’s first dual-powered MultiVolt Rebar Bender/Cutter (model VB3616DA) designed exclusively for rebar to make quick cuts and to bend to uniform angles easily. Made in Japan and based on the iconic corded rebar bender/cutter model VB16Y, this tool is crafted to deliver even greater cutting and bending performance than the original model. It delivers one-of-a-kind cordless/corded dual-power convenience as part of the MultiVolt family of tools. This rebar bender/cutter can bend approximately 520 pieces of #5 rebar at 90° on a single charge of the included MultiVolt 4.0Ah battery in under 2 seconds per bend. It can bend multiple pieces of rebar at one time(one piece of #5 rebar, two pieces of #4, or three pieces of #3) to save time and improve productivity.Dial into precise angles up to180° for uniform bends with the simple turn of the convenient color-coded angle adjust dial. For custom angles, a quick-reverse setting is a feature of the new Manual Mode. When it comes to cuts, a user can expect approximately 270 cuts of #5 rebar in a matter of seconds on a single charge of the battery. With any MultiVolt tool, if a power outlet is handy,just plug in with the AC adapter with cord (model ET36A sold separately or FREE with mail-in rebate for a limited time; visit www.metaboHPTfree.com). Milwaukee Tool I-Beam Levels Milwaukee Tool is growing their layout solutions with the addition of three new Magnetic I-Beam Levels. Built to withstand jobsite conditions, the new levels are constructed with a stronger frame and feature integrated pitch vials. Each level features an all-metal frame while maintaining lightweight performance that can be easily transported on and off the job. The integrated pitch vial allows users to easily set 1º and 2º pitches for runoff applications. The vials are protected from impact damage, debris, and fogging for better visibility. Finally, a strong magnetic edge provides a reliable hold to any ferrous surface for trusted hands-free use. The new I-Beam Levels are made in the USA, come in 24-, 48- and 78-inch lengths, and are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Visit www.milwaukeetool.com. Rodda Paint Super II Rodda Paint, the largest family-owned paint manufacturer in the Northwest, announces the release of Super II — a new 100-percent acrylic paint formulated with the latest acrylic waterborne technology to deliver high performance characteristics with maximum durability, premium stain resistance and outstanding washability. Excellent flow and leveling and superior adhesion to porous and non-porous surfaces make Super II an excellent choice over oil-base paints and previously stained wood surfaces. Super II’s outstanding durability and washability offer “best in class” touch-up ability, excellent flow and leveling, superior adhesion and stain resistance. Super II is excellent for walls, doors, woodwork and trim, and its higher volume of solids ensures a better hide for masonry surfaces. Visit www.roddapaint.com. Spyder New Bi-Metal Reciprocating Saw Blades Spyder's new Black Series bi-metal reciprocating saw blades are designed for tough cutting tasks that require an aggressive, durable and long-lived blade. Constructed from an 8-percent cobalt blend, which adds strength and durability, they are up to three times faster and 10 times longer-lasting than standard bi-metal blades. Available in lengths of 6, 9 and 12 inches, and featuring 6 to 18 teeth-per-inch, Spyder's Black Series reciprocating saw blades excel in demanding demolition projects, quickly cutting wood, nail-embedded wood, metal and other materials. Three-piece and five-piece packs and a 14-piece variety kit with a storage case are available at Lowe's. Visit www.spyderproducts.com.

Here’s a roundup of the latest news on tool and home-improvement products sent to our mailbox. World’s First Smart Microwave Drawer Oven The Sharp SMD2489ES is the first, built-in Microwave Drawer Oven with Wi-Fi connectivity for seamless integration with the modern smart home. Download the Sharp Kitchen app to enable the smart features. The SMD2489ES Microwave Drawer Oven features built-in airflow venting. Now you can choose the traditional “proud mount” installation or flush mounting for a streamlined finish without additional trim-kits or vent deflectors. With the Easy Wave Open feature for touchless operation, simply wave up-and-down near the motion sensor and the Microwave Drawer Oven will glide open. With the touch of a button or a gentle nudge, the patented Easy Touch Automatic Drawer System smoothly closes the oven to avoid messy spills. The oven stays closed when you walk by, so children and pets won’t accidentally open it. Visit shop.sharpusa.com. DeWalt Cordless Roofing Nailer DeWalt adds the 15° Coil Roofing Nailer (DCN45RN) to its 20V MAX System, featuring over 200 products. Optimized for small jobsite applications, this nailer is ideal for service and repair jobs, small production work, flashing and shingling around windows, skylights and vents. Roofing pros can save up to 20 minutes daily in set-up and cleanup time by switching from a pneumatic nailer to a battery-powered roofing nailer. The DCN45RN Nailer drives 500 nails per charge and can fire up to three nails per second. It includes features standard among pro-grade corded equipment such as bump-actuation mode and tool-free depth adjustment for precise nailing. The nailer can install up to one square (100 square feet) of asphalt roofing shingles per charge at four nails per shingle using a 2.0Ah Battery (DCB203). Available in early summer 2020. Visit www.dewalt.com. AirThreds Reusable Furnace Filters AirThreds are billed as the world’s first furnace filters that are machine washable and dryable. Simply pop it in the wash anytime you feel it’s dirty. Just unzip the cover and give it a wash and dry. Then put it back on the frame and re-use. According to the manufacturer, user will no longer have to replace their furnace filters. AirThreds’ patented filter are designed to strike a balance between airflow and particle capture, which is especially important for those suffering from asthma, allergies, colds or flu. Made of antimicrobial-treated fabric, AirThreds help prevent bacteria, mold, and allergens that collect on air filters from blowing back into the home. Visit airthreds.com. RentalHQ Website for DIY’ers The online rental store locator RentalHQ.com has undergone a complete overhaul to make finding local rental tools and equipment and rental partners easier than ever for do-it-yourself homeowners. RentalHQ.com, managed by the American Rental Association (ARA), features an easy-to-use search function with fields for tool type and location. Searches deliver a list of local ARA-member rental partners carrying the tools and equipment—such as carpet cleaners, pressure washers and portable air compressors—with contact information for each store. The website functions seamlessly on desktop computers, laptops and mobile devices. Visit www.RentalHQ.com. DAP Tank Bond Adhesives DAP now offers Tank Bond, a complete line of hard-working adhesives ideal for an extensive list of professional and DIY applications. The family of products includes Tank Bond Thread Stopper, Tank Bond Liquid Grip, Tank Bond Heavy Duty Advanced Epoxy and Tank Bond Clear Epoxy. Combined, these adhesives are strong enough to tackle repairs ranging from tools, home products and outdoor maintenance to boats, bicycles, automotive, motorcycles and even musical instruments. According to Kate Piche, product director at DAP. “Whether it’s preventing stripped screws and bonding fasteners to holding screws and bolts in place and bonding metal, this ‘tough-as-a-tank’ military-grade adhesive technology provides tactical solutions for even the most demanding jobs.” Visit tankbond.dap.com. Fortress Apex PVC Decking In satisfying ignition-resistant building standards for wildfire resistance, Fortress Building Products is now able to equip California building professionals with a built-to-last decking solution. Fortress Apex PVC decking was evaluated in accordance with the California Building Commission’s fire safety codes and subsequently awarded the green light for use in the state’s Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) areas. Apex decking utilizes a proprietary tri-extrusion process to deliver the look tropical hardwoods made from a blend of lightweight bamboo and a cellular PVC core, which allows 25 percent less expansion and contraction than other decking for a consistent, uniform appearance. Resilient against the elements, each board is encapsulated in an acrylic polymer for protection, UV performance and best-in-class slip resistance. Visit fortressbp.com. Diablo SPEEDemon Self Feed Bits Diablo SPEEDemon Self Feed Bits. These bits are specifically designed for faster, more efficient drilling in cordless drills. Traditional self-feed bits are slow and not optimally designed for cordless drills; they pull too much power and quickly drain the drill’s battery. Additionally, the feed-screw design on traditional self-feed bits makes them easy to lose or get stuck when pulling out the bit. The SPEEDemon Self Feed Bits have a precision heat-forged two-cutter head and a unique positive hook angle tooth geometry, which means these forward leaning teeth rip through soft wood up to two times faster than standard bits. The SPEEDemon Bits also feature a replaceable feed screw with a pull-out stop design that prevents it from slipping out when the bit is removed from the material. Visit www.diablotools.com. Dickies Temp-iQ Clothing The Temp-iQ line of clothing from Dickies features dynamic cooling technology that manages perspiration to keep you dry. The fabric’s easy-care stain release takes care of spills and splatters so the clothing looks like new each time you get it out of the dryer. Choose from t-shirts, long sleeves, shorts and button-ups. Visit www.dickies.com. Flooring Visualizer Tool for Bruce, Hartco and Robbins Hardwood Brands AHF Products, a leading manufacturer of high-quality, hardwood flooring, announces the launch of its floor Visualizer digital tool to help customers picture the latest flooring styles in their home before buying. The Visualizer is available across the company’s top-selling flooring brands, including Bruce, Hartco and Robbins. The Visualizer tool is an easy-to-use online platform where consumers can see how a color or style will look in a variety of different rooms, and can even upload their own image to see how their selections will look in their own home. Visit Bruce.com, Hartco.com, or www.robbins.com. Brilliant Smart-Home Control for Genie Garage Doors Brilliant, a leading smart-home control and lighting company, and Genie smart garage door openers have teamed up. Now, Genie’s full line of Wi-Fi enabled garage door openers powered by Aladdin Connect can be controlled from Brilliant’s in-wall touchscreen control panels and mobile app. Brilliant offers an affordable smart home control system that unifies all your favorite smart home devices and makes them easier to use. Homeowners, families, renters, and guests could already control lighting, locks, cameras, music, thermostats effortlessly by using simple voice-enabled touchscreen controls on the walls or the all-in-one Brilliant app. Now they can add garage doors to the list. Visit www.brilliant.tech and www.geniecompany.com. Rivana Faucet Collection Featuring modern, geometric styling with functionality home chefs will appreciate, the new Rivana collection from Blanco includes semi-professional, pull-down and bar faucet options along with a coordinating soap dispenser. Available in polished chrome and stainless finish, the Rivana faucet models help make clean-up more efficient with their easy-to-maneuver design and powerful dual spray features. An innovative magnetic handspray holder on the Semi-Professional model enhances ease-of-use. A bar faucet and coordinating soap dispenser round out the collection, allowing for a seamless design when incorporating additional sinks into other areas like a wet bar or kitchen island. Visit www.blancoamerica.com. 2-Way Radio Kleen Discount Two-Way Radio introduces the “2-Way Radio Kleen,” a first-ever two-way radio cleaning kit designed to help shield professional two-way radio users from inadvertently being exposed to potentially harmful pathogens. According to the manufacturer, 2-Way Radio Kleen will protect workers from 99.9 percent of all bacteria, germs, and viruses that can collect on radio equipment before being passed along to the radio user or other crew members. 2-Way Radio Kleen includes is designed to sanitize, disinfect, and protect the radio user and every external component of the radio itself, including the metal housing, plastic programming knobs, and rubber antenna. A 4 oz. bottle of specially formulated cleaning solution that cleans, deodorizes, and disinfects two-way radio equipment from all viruses including influenza A (swine flu), H1N1 (bird flu), and COVID-19.The kit includes wipes, tissues, swabs, gloves and an antiseptic brush. Visit www.facebook.com/DiscountTwoWayRadio. #tempiq #2wayradiokleen #construction #epoxy #toolrental #visualizer #microwavedraweroven #airthreds #rentalhq #smarthome #PVCdecking #DAP #rental #speeddemon #tools #homecontrol #sharp #fortressbuildingproducts #faucet #bruce #hartco #dewalt #nailer #TankBond #furnacefilter #homeimprovement #smartcontrol #adhesive #SMD2489ES #AHFproducts #DIY #geniegaragedoor #blaco #decking #newproducts #buildingmaterials #remodeling #diablo #apex #dickies #selffeedbits #roofing #rivana #robbins #ARA #brilliant

Homeowners are no strangers to increasing electric bills in the summer months due to hotter temperatures and increased humidity and the load they put on the air conditioning units. But, they may be unaware that they can cut their electric bills up to 30 percent by taking proper care of their homes’ air duct system. Many older homes have leaks, holes, and poorly fitted connections on their air ducts that cause a significant loss of heated and cooled air into the attic space. This air loss can cost homeowners hundreds of dollars every year and shorten the life span of their heating and air conditioning units. Also, since most attics get dusty and dirty, those pollutants can get sucked into the air conditioning system and distributed throughout the house, leading to unhealthy indoor air quality. “We know indoor air pollution is a major health concern, especially for people with respiratory symptoms. Having uneven temperatures and humidity levels due to a leaky duct system could aggravate such health conditions, so we encourage homeowners to check their air ducts at least once a year,” said Anthony Perera, founder of Air Pros USA. Perera explains that to prevent these scenarios, homeowners should make sure ducts are sealed, either the old-fashioned way or by hiring a professional to balance the air temperature, save energy, reduce electric bills, and improve the air quality. Although many people may have never climbed into their attics, here are five basic steps to seal ductwork, from the outside of the ducts: Cover your nose and mouth with a mask or a scarf to avoid inhaling any dust and dirt accumulated in the attic. Grab a flashlight and carefully crawl into the attic to visually inspect all accessible ductwork. Then, turn the HVAC system on and inspect all the connections and joints around the air ducts. Once the problem is identified, use HVAC aluminum foil, found at most home repair stores, to seal holes and secure fittings. To get a good seal, use a continuous strip of the foil to seal off all longitudinal seems along the straight runs of the duct. Repeat until all the ductwork is insulated. An alternative is to seal the ductwork from the inside of the ducts, which is actually more efficient and a complicated process and will likely require hiring a professional. To help homeowners get control of their leaky ducts,  Air Pros USA Residential and Commercial Air Conditioning Services (Air Pros USA) is offering a new duct sealing service using Aeroseal ‘s advanced technology to provide customers with a quick, proven solution to improve indoor air quality, boost system efficiency, and reduce energy bills. “While DIY methods can fix leaky ducts to a certain extent, depending on the home’s age and location we recommend homeowners call a professional who can help tackle the problem at its core,” said Perera. There are several benefits of having a home’s ducts professionally sealed. A well-designed and properly sealed duct system can often increase in system performance that allows better cooling, heating, and dehumidification in homes, elimination of dust, allergens, and odors coming from unconditioned spaces, and lower energy bills. To learn more about Air Pros’ duct sealing services and to schedule an appointment, visit https://airprosusa.com/ or call 877-561-9730.

Constructing a tree house can be tricky. They are generally built off the ground and supported by a living tree. A tree house can be a very heavy structure, and the only safe way to build one is to have its weight soundly supported. One of the safer methods of construction is the use of a T.A.B., which is short for “Tree-house Attachment Bolt.” This is the same hardware used by Nelson Treehouse and Supply, which is the crew featured on the Treehouse Masters television show. The use of TABs has become a standard construction method for professionals, but it’s also DIY-friendly, and Nelson Treehouse reports that hundreds of homeowners around the world have used the same hardware to create their own backyard treehouse. Since many DIY homeowners aren’t aware this hardware exists, I thought I’d share this info on the HIR blog for anyone building their own tree house this summer. How Does a T.A.B. Work? A typical TAB consists of a threaded metal bolt and a larger diameter collar. According to Wikipedia, “the collar provides an extra bending strength by bearing upon the compression strength of the tree grain. Since treehouses are subject to frequent load reversal produced by winds, TABs must be made of spring steel. One of the main features of TABs is their strength, requiring fewer tree penetrations for robust fastening of a treehouse and hence less damage to a live tree. The bolts are able to support from between 9,000 and 12,000 pounds, a much greater load than conventional lag bolts.” Note: You will need a heavy-duty drill, appropriately sized Pilot Bit, and a 1" Auger bit for installation of the TABs. Once mounted into a tree to support the weight of the structure, the protruding TABs are commonly used in conjunction with heavy-duty metal brackets, allowing the tree-house to move independently with the tree. (Example shown below.) As the Nelson Treehouse website explains: "Unlike a traditional earthbound house, the foundation for a treehouse is elevated in the air and rests in living organisms. Yet treehouses are not lightweight structures: a fully finished, furnished, and occupied treehouse can weigh tens of thousands of pounds. The foundation for the treehouse – its connection to the trees and the hardware that supports its prodigious weight – is of the upmost importance for the safety of the occupants, health of the tree(s), and longevity of the structure. When properly installed, our treehouse hardware provides a safe, sustainable, and strong support system for your treehouse without causing irreparable damage to the trees. Investing in quality, specialized hardware is essential for creating an enduring foundation for your treehouse." So, whether you’re a pro builder or a backyard handyman, know your hardware options when it comes to tree-house construction. Below is a video that shows how to install the TABs. #treehouse #construction #treehouseattachmentbolt #TAB #DIY #doityourself #builder #outdoorbuiling #outdoorliving #nelsontreehouse #treehousehardware

Planning to add a new window? Or maybe changing the style of your existing windows? There is a lot to consider, and many options are available. This infographic will help break down your choices.

A pocket-hole joint can provide a fast and reliable method to join wood together. A pocket hole is drilled at a precise angle and depth to create a pocket for a flat-head screw. The pocket screw connects the two pieces of wood, and when used with glue, it forms a strong, permanent joint. The joints are easy to make when using a jig system, even for a DIY’er, but the task first requires setting up the tools. Here are the three main components of a pocket-hole jig: Guide block: The pocket-hole jig has a block that guides a step drill bit into the wood at a specific angle to produce the engineered hole to house the screw head. The block is adjustable and should have its drilling depth set according to the thickness of the boards to be joined. Step Drill Bit: The “step" drill bit is so named because it drills in two steps. The bit has a shoulder that bores a large hole to fit the screw head while a narrow center tip to bores a smaller hole for the threaded screw. To accurately stop the drilling depth, a stop collar must be tightened (using a set screw) onto the bit shaft. The setup of the pocket-hole jig will determine where to position the stop collar on the bit. Pocket Screws: Pocket joints require pocket screws, which have a flat underside head to give clamping pressure to the wood. These case-hardened screws are designed with self-drilling tips that will not split the wood when driven in. The self-tapping screws also eliminate the need to pre-drill the second piece of wood. Note that it’s important to choose the appropriate length of screw based on the thickness of the boards you intend to join. Once you’ve set up the jig, the rest is easy. To make the joint, first clamp the jig in position where you want to drive the screw, then drill the pocket hole with the step bit. Next, apply wood glue to the joint and clamp the mating boards in position. Use a long driver bit (included with the jig) to drive the pocket screw into the hole, completing the joint. There's no need to wait for the glue to dry before continuing with your project. After a little practice, even novice woodworkers will get the hang of making these strong wood joints to build bookshelves, tables, cabinets, chairs and more. How to Set Up a Pocket-hole Jig In my experience, the trickiest part of making pocket holes is the tool setup, because it requires consulting the instruction manual for specifics for each project. Step 1: Use the thumb screw to align the drill-guide block with the marking that indicates the thickness of the material being drilled. If you’re about to drill through a 3/4“ board, align the block at the 3/4“ mark. Step 2: Refer to the instructions that came with your jig for details about setting the step bit’s stop collar in relation to the jig setting. For example, the instructions for the Kreg Jig shown in blue instructs that if the jig is set at 3/4“, the stop collar should be set at 3-9/16“ from the shoulder of the drill bit. Tighten the collar’s set screw with a hex key. Step3: Select the appropriate screws. Choose from coarse or fine threads to suit either soft or hardwoods. Screw length is critical. The jig’s instructions will offer specific suggestions. For example, the Kreg instructions recommend using a 1“ screw to join 1/2“ material to 1/2“ material. To join 1-1/2“ to 1-1/2“ material, Kreg recommends using a 2-1/2“ pocket screw. After your tools are set up, you’re ready to square up the boards in the jig, clamp everything in place, and drill your pocket holes. Once the pocket holes are drilled, you’ll be ready to drive screws and assemble your project. Using the Auto-Jig from Armor Tool Okay, see those detailed steps and references to instructional manuals that I list in the section above? That method works just fine, but some mad genius at the Armor Tool company came up with a device that automates all those steps in a single fluid motion. As you clamp the board to be drilled into the Auto-Jig, several things happen at once: The wood squares up and is held securely for drilling. The drill block rises to and remains at the appropriate jig setting based on the thickness of the wood being clamped. Furthermore, a collar-holder on the step bit (which is mounted alongside the Auto-Jig platform) slides the collar to the appropriate stop position, ready for you to tighten it in place. Lastly, the color chart on the side of the drill block matches Armor Tool’s color-coded pocket screws, so you can tell at a glance which screw to grab for the project. In other words, the Auto-Jig combines all the individual setup steps into a single step activated by the press of a lever. In doing so, it eliminates the need to keep referring to a manual, saving time and frustration. If you get into pocket-hole joinery, I recommend picking one up. Check out this demo video: #woodwork #carpentry #pocketholes #pocketjoinery #woodjoint #howto #homeimprovement #construction #remodeling #diy #doityourself #furniture #cabinetry #kregtool #armortool #autojig #tool #tools #fasteners #innovation #woodjig #pocketholejig

Concrete is one of the most prevalent residential building materials, whether you’re placing a slab, leveling out a space for a patio, or setting posts for a deck or fence. Concrete Delivered by Truck For large projects such as a long driveway, fresh concrete professionally delivered by a truck is usually sold by the cubic yard. To determine the volume required, you’ll need a calculator. Multiply the length by the width by the depth of the desired slab in inches, then divide by 1,728. The result is the total cubic feet of the slab. To get to cubic yards, divide that number by 27. It’s also a good idea to add ten percent to adjust for variations and waste to get your final number. Bagged Concrete Mix When it comes to calculating the amount of bagged concrete required, we turn to Sakrete’s concrete expert, Dirk Tharpe, who handles sales and training for Oldcastle APG’s brand of time-saving, pre-blended, bagged building materials and concrete. Tharpe’s rule of thumb: One pallet containing 42 bags of 80-pound Sakrete High-Strength Concrete Mix is about a cubic yard of concrete. Though it actually takes 45 bags of 80-pound mix to hit a cubic yard dead-on, this is a good method to get an initial estimate. Visualizing how far a cubic yard goes isn’t always intuitive either, but Tharpe has a solution. “Think of a 9’ x 9’ slab at 4” deep, or about five sidewalk squares,” says Tharpe. In other words, 1 cubic yard of concrete placed at 4-inches deep will cover 81 square feet. Alternately, one pallet of 56, 60-pound bags of Sakrete mix is also close to one cubic yard of concrete. Again, it actually takes four additional bags of 60-pound mix to equal a full cubic yard but this is a helpful estimating process. Another shortcut method requires knowing a little bit about how far a single bag of concrete will go. The trick: For each foot of concrete, you’ll need 1-50# bag, 0.8-60# bags or 0.6 80# bags. Although this method only works with a 4” slab, it’s a single calculation that also automatically works in the 10% waste factor, making it a great standby. For example, if you have a 9’ x 9’ slab at 4” deep, you have a total of 81 feet. If you’re using 80# bags, you multiply the total feet (81) by the .6 bags per foot trick to get 48.6 bags – a bit on the high side, but in concrete it’s always better to be safe than sorry. “While there is nothing wrong with traditional estimation, it’s definitely not something most of us can do in our heads!” says Tharpe. “Plus, not all jobs are easy rectangles. Adding concrete footings to posts or laying an irregularly shaped or curved slab can require meticulous measuring, or make you dust off your old geometry book, and that can slow you down … but as they say, we have an app for that!” Concrete Calculating App Tharpe describes Sakrete’s free estimating app as not just a measuring tool, but a total volumetric job estimator. Ideal for novice DIY’ers or seasoned pros, the app features simple point-and-shoot estimates on a smart phone without the hassle of tedious calculations. It eliminates the guesswork and helps keep the project on track from start to finish. Estimating the necessary volume of concrete with the app is very intuitive. Start by choosing a project type, then enter the project’s dimensions using the app’s Augmented Reality (AR) function to scan the area to receive the recommended Sakrete product, quantity and where to buy it locally. It can even estimate curves and irregular shapes with ease, simply by tapping the screen to place pins along the perimeter of the project area. The app also includes a tutorial for new users. Completely free and available in English and Spanish, the Sakrete app can be downloaded for iOS and Android on the following devices: iPhone 6S or newer, iPad Pro (9.7”, 10.5”, and 12.9”), iPad 2017, or newer and Android devices running Android 7.0. Go to your app store or download at www.sakrete.com/app. “Using AR spatial technology to measure and scan project sites, the app can quickly calculate the number of concrete bags needed for slab or post projects,” says Tharpe. “It’s an easy way to save time, money and material.” Learn more at www.sakrete.com.

Milwaukee Tool’s new ShockWave Red Helix Titanium Drill Bits Milwaukee Tool’s new ShockWave Red Helix Titanium Drill Bits are engineered for extreme durability and longer life in wood, plastic, and metal applications. The new bits provide up to 5X life versus black oxide drill bits. New to this next generation of Red Helix bits are two features: a Quad Edge Tip and Enhanced Tapered Web. The Quad Edge Tip delivers a longer life with a precision start and four cutting edges to stay sharper longer. The drill bits’ Enhanced Tapered Web acts as an internal backbone and strengthens the bit to reduce premature breakage. The Red Helix titanium bits are also designed with a Variable Helix, which includes an aggressive 35° helical angle that varies along the flute, ending at 15° to limit heat buildup for faster material removal.The new bits are ideal for use with both drills and impact drivers and will be available in sizes ranging from 1/16” to 1/2”, as well as in sets, at select distributors in July 2020. Visit www.milwaukeetool.com. BigAssFans Unveils Haiku with UV Technology Big Ass Fans has spent the past few months perfecting a combination of proven technologies with the power and efficiency of airflow to deliver unique systems capable of making the places we live, work, and play ready to return to safely. To kick off the new line of products, the "world’s most advanced ceiling fan," Haiku, is now the first with the proven germicidal power of short-wave ultraviolet light, featuring anti-pathogenic UV-C technology seamlessly integrated into Haiku’s form and function. It features virtually silent airflow and routine disinfection with programmable fan scheduling. Or, choose effortless control through mobile app or handheld remote. Visit bigassfans.com. Sylvania Natural Series LED Lighting Natural light delivers true colors and feelings of comfort and happiness for building occupants. Now, Sylvania Natural Series of LED lighting products with innovative TruWave Technology combines unique chip, phosphor and packaging technology to offer the best alternative to natural light by mimicking the natural light spectrum, all while saving energy. As a result, these energy-saving LED products enhance color contrasts without saturation and deliver less intense blue light to reduce eye strain, improve readability, and support an improved sleep-wake cycle. They also deliver superior flicker performance, lower glare and excellent dimmability when applicable, which results in better visual comfort. Ideal for a wide variety of applications in home and business, Sylvania Natural Series products will begin launching in July. Visit www.sylvania.com. WORX 20V PowerShare 9 in. Cordless Fan The Worx 20V PowerShare 9 in. Cordless Fan is cordless but also features an A/C power cord. This gives users the options to run the fan through an electrical outlet while charging the 20V Max lithium 2.0 Ah battery, or going entirely cordless. The two-speed fan operates at low (0-1500) and high (2500 rpm) speeds. Its air flow generates 310 and 450 cubic-feet-per-minute (cfm), which rivals some of the most powerful Worx leaf blowers. When cordless, at low speed, the fan runs up to six hours, and up to two hours at high speed on a single charge, using the Worx 20V battery. The fan is mounted to a tubular style base and provides 360º north/south rotation. Once positioned, locking knobs on either side of the base hold it in place. Set it on a shelf, workbench, table or freestanding on the floor to generate a refreshing breeze. The 8.5-lb. fan (with battery) can also be mounted to a wall. Visit worx.com. IMI Magnetic V-Pad Clamps for Welders Industrial Magnetics, Inc. introduces Magnetic V-Pad Clamps for welders, a small, strong, and versatile magnetic clamp that offers quick setup and multiple holding positions on flat, angled, or round steel stock. The V-Pads' dual, pivoting, magnetic-heads can position and hold angles up to 180°. Each V-pad contains four, powerful magnets--two on its back, and one on each pivoting foot, giving the welder several options for holding configurations. Great for repetitive applications, they're easy to position and are available in two different sizes and holding strengths, sold in sets of two. Visit www.magnetics.com. Milwaukee Metal Cutting Circular Saw Blades Engineered with a hand-tensioned, hardened alloy steel body, the new Milwaukee metal-cutting blades are designed to deliver the highest quality cuts in the market, and do so without a lubricant. The new blades are equipped with carbide-tipped teeth with alternate top bevel grind to shear through metal, leaving burr-free and cool-to-touch cuts. The blades will be available in sizes ranging from 5-3/8” to 14” at select distributors in July 2020. Visit www.milwaukeetool.com. Punch List Project Management App The Punch List project management app helps contractors manage remodels with homeowners. Punch List simplifies client communications and helps pros get paid faster with quick and easy digital invoicing. Punch List streamlines what are usually tedious and time-consuming tasks, so contractors can focus on the work they were hired to do. For homeowners, Punch List offers a real-time view into the status of their home remodel.Traditionally, with no tools in place to facilitate communication with contractors, the remodeling process leaves homeowners feeling in the dark. With Punch List, once a contractor and a homeowner agree to work together on a remodel, the contractor uploads the details to the app for homeowner approval. As the contractor completes work, photos of progress are taken in real time and sent to the homeowner. Messaging is used for quick questions and consultations. When each significant milestone is complete, Punch List automatically generates invoices for homeowner approval. This pay-as-you-go model allows contractors to get paid faster while offering homeowners peace of mind that their remodel is going as planned. Visit punchlist.com. Six New Residential Carpet Designs from Tarkett The six new carpet designs from Tarkett are made with 100-percent. solution-dyed fiber with built-in protection against spills, stains, soil and pets, and are protected by an industry-leading lifetime warranty. The new styles include Arabesque, inspired by the multi-directional lines and imprecise beauty of handwoven textiles. Atlas has a soft, tonal palette and relaxed, flowing lines. The classic waffle weave of Cambria provides warmth and comfort with a palette crafted from a single, neutral tone to create the perfect foundation for any room. The Park Collection offers the ultimate combination of comfort and durability, using Tarkett’s innovative 3-ply Primus PET-DuraSoft Fiber with three different cut-pile weights included across the Inman Park, Grant Park and Candler Park series. Visit www.tarkettna.com.

Need to cut metal fast and accurately? Evolution Power Tools, based in the U.K., manufactures a range of specialized power tools dedicated to the steel industry. These heavy-duty industrial tools are engineered for sustained daily use and feature an innovative dry-cutting technology that reduces heat buildup and minimizes blade wear. The dry cut metal-cutting technology is achieved with a heavy-duty motor that runs at a lower RPM with higher torque, when compared to wood-cutting saws and abrasive cutting saws. The Evolution system uses specialty carbide-tipped circular saw blades to cut materials such as steel, aluminum and stainless steel. The HIR staff recently had to cut a metal drainage grate to fit a sidewalk. Sounds like a tough job? Not for the EVO230-HD Steel Saw from Evolution Power Tools. Check out the video below, and learn more about Evolution tools at www.evolutionpowertools.com. - M. Weber