Account for Wood Movement

Sure, wood’s a pretty tough material all around, but it’s still highly susceptible to temperature and moisture fluctuations from the surrounding environment. This phenomenon, known as wood movement, can result in contraction and expansion across the grain. When humidity is high, wood absorbs moisture and swells. When humidity drops, wood shrinks.

The movement is gradual, but it can cause big problems in your woodworking projects, so you have to account for it in your woodworking projects. There are several ways to do that, some of them depending on the type of project and where it will sit once finished. The most important tactic for dealing with wood movement is to let it sit and acclimate in your shop. The time can vary depending on the size and thickness of the lumber and whether or not its kiln dried.

The post 10 Basic Woodworking Lessons You Should’ve Learned In Shop Class appeared first on Family Handyman.

Stair runners are useful to minimize noise and reduce the risk of slipping. If you have hardwood steps, consider this stair runner project you can do in a weekend.

This project was created by Jen Woodhouse, a Kentucky mom who had her familys (and pets) needs in mind. “We have an 11-year-old, 100-pound Rhodesian Ridgeback named Watson. Going up and down the hardwood stairs was getting pretty scary for him and for me, she says.

Woodhouses stair runner project takes a weekend to finish. Here is the step-by-step.

Prep the stairs

Since the wood has been unfinished for over a year, the stairs were looking pretty grimy from the daily foot traffic. There were scuffs, spots and drips, so I sanded each stair tread with 120-grit sandpaper to get back down to raw wood. This also opens up the wood fibers so that the oil finish can easily penetrate the surface.

After about 30 minutes of sanding, the wood looks clean and brand-new again!

Pro Tip: How to Fill Nail Holes

Nail holes need to be filled, but wood filler doesnt usually take stain or finish very well and you end up with ugly splotches of wood filler that doesnt match the rest of the wood tones. Heres a little trick I learned from my contractor friend, Josh, that minimizes the discrepancy between the wood filler and the natural wood tones.

Apply a base layer of stain, finish or whatever youre working withfirst, let it dry, and then apply the wood fillerafter. I also try to wipe away any excess and surrounding wood filler with a damp rag to get as much of the wood filler off the wood as possible. This way, Im decreasing the area that the wood filler is in contact with the wood so the difference between the filler and wood tones is a lot less noticeable.

The post Install a Stair Runner For A Revitalized and Safer Staircase appeared first on Family Handyman.

Mark Up the Wall First

Before you can begin installing cabinets, you need to do your prep work. A good cabinet installation starts with a good layout. Measure from the highest point in the floor and draw a level line marking the top of the base cabinets. Measure up 19-1/2 in. from that line and draw another line for the bottom of the upper cabinets. Label the location of the kitchen wall cabinets and appliances on the wall. Draw a vertical line to line up the edge of the first cabinet to be installed. Finally, mark the stud locations.

The post Tips to Install Cabinets Like a Pro appeared first on Family Handyman.

Set Up for Spraying

Spraying paint or finish provides a smooth look while saving time. But it also creates a fine mist of solvent and finish that’s dangerous to breathe and drifts and settles on everything in sight.

To avoid problems, work outdoors if possible. If you spray indoors, cover everything with plastic sheeting or drop cloths and wear a respirator fitted with organic vapor filters, especially if youre spraying lacquer. Also, put an exhaust fan in the window. Read the label on the can for additional safety precautions.

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Get Melted Rubber Off Exhaust Pipes

If you need to remove melted boot heel residue from hot exhaust pipes, grab some household oven cleaner. Test it first on your bike by spraying it in an inconspicuous spot on the chrome.

If it doesnt discolor the chrome, run the bike until the pipe is warm. Then spray the oven cleaner directly onto the melted rubber, let it soak in for a few minutes and wipe it off with a cotton towel.

The post 11 Motorcycle Detailing Tips appeared first on Family Handyman.

An outdoor table should be tough. After all, it stays out in the weather and needs to withstand summer BBQ spills, toy car races, rocks from the yard and all the things your family will place on it. This is a simple design that uses rugged, low-maintenance PVC, plus rot- and weather-resistant cedar.

Project Overview

Cutting List

Cut the table base parts

It’s best to use a miter saw to cut all your parts, but a circular saw will be just fine if youre accurate with your cuts.

I set up a stop block on my miter saw to cut the legs, side and end aprons, and stretchers out of the deck lumber. With a stop block, I can make sure each part is cut to the same length. Next, get to know how to pour concrete apron.

The post How To Build a DIY Patio Table appeared first on Family Handyman.

Build a Simple Desk

DIYing a desk doesn’t need to be an intermediate project. If a simple writing desk will do, this table shown can be assembled by any beginner in just an afternoon. First, you’ll need to select your legsa great resource is hairpinlegs.com, which offers a variety of styles and sizes. Hairpin legs typically comprise two or three rods per leg, with three usually being used for larger items like desks or dining tables for extra stability.

Since the standard height for a desk is on average 28 to 30 inches, choose your leg size accordingly, but rememberthis project can be completely customized to your own specifications. A sheet of plywood cut to size makes for an easy top, then finish the wooden table top with a topcoat of your liking. For a more polished look, mask the raw edges of the plywood with an iron-on veneer in a coordinating material.

The post 5 Easy Furniture Pieces You Can Make with Hairpin Legs appeared first on Family Handyman.

Inspired by editor Brad Holdens letter recounting his backyard makeover in the June 2023 issue of Family Handyman, reader David Moore shared his familys story:

When I was growing up, my dad was not one to pass up on anyones offerings. One day, someone offered him some used brick A LOT OF BRICK. He loaded up me and my brother, and off we went. We filled the truck with as many bricks as it could hold, and back home we went to unload them.

“In the ensuing days, it was our chore to clean and stack them. After what seemed like an eternity, we finished handling the approximately 2,000 bricks.

This was in about 1970 to 1972 when I was 11 or 12, but lets fast forward to 2018. Both my parents had died earlier that year, and in October, Hurricane Michael paid a visit to southwest Georgia and destroyed our childhood home. With destruction everywhere, my brother and I started walking the property to see what was salvageable.

When we reached the back, we found, covered in vines and debris, the bricks we had cleaned and stacked some 50 years earlier. We had often reminisced about our dreaded brick duty, but little did we know that the bricks would eventually find their way to our own homes.

The walkways shown are just two Ive made from those bricks. Now when I see free bricks or an old building being torn down, what do I do? I do as my dad did: I jump in the truck and load them up. And yes, I too have a stack at the back of my property, pending the next project. I guess you can say Like father, like son.

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It’s not my style to wear ritzy wrist watches. To me, a watch is a tool that serves a purpose primarily, to tell time when I’m working or can’t easily access my cell phone.

I own a couple of Timex and G-Shock watches. I’ll wear a watch while riding my motorcycle, mountain biking or fly fishing an evening hatch on a nearby trout stream occasions when I need to keep track of time but prefer tucking my smartphone safely away.

I love these affordable watches because they’re easy to read, waterproof, sturdy and well-made, so they’ll last for years. The downside? Every couple of years, the battery dies and needs replacing. Instead of paying a jeweler to do it, let me show you how to change a watch battery in just minutes.

Determine the Battery Type

To change a watch battery, first determine what type of battery you need.

• In many modern watches, the type of battery is often engraved directly on the rear cover or case back. Look for three digits starting with “3,” such as 371 or 395. There may also be a string of four to seven letters and numbers beginning with “SR,” “LR,” or “CR.”
• If there’s no engraving, look for the model number. With that information, a quick internet search should turn up the required battery type.
• If you don’t know the model number or can’t find the battery information on the internet, the dead battery will have the model number in it.

The post How to Change a Watch Battery appeared first on Family Handyman.

As a child, I fondly remember selling lemonade on the corner to scrape up a few bucks to spend on sugary treats and baseball cards at the local drugstore.

In those days, my best friend Josh and I would set up on a card table with a hand-drawn sign to sell lemonade prepared by my supportive mother. (We were smart enough not to subject the public to lemonade mixed by a couple of seven-year-olds.) I clearly remember discussing how we should make a permanent lemonade stand to keep our money-making operation flowing.

Now, nearly 40 years later, a co-worker asked me to tackle this long forgotten woodworking project. So here’s how to make a DIY lemonade stand as an outdoor playset for your front yard.

Cutting List

Overall dimensions: 57-1/2-in. H x 25-1/2-in. W x 48-in. L

* – Denotes bead direction.
** – Miter cuts required.

Build the Framing

To begin building the lemonade stand:

• Gather all 2×4 parts A, B, and C from your cutting list and assemble them as shown below.
• Attach the framing members together with three-inch screws or framing nails.
• Construct one front frame and two identical side frames.

The post How to Make a Lemonade Stand appeared first on Family Handyman.

If you recently installed a gas fireplace in your home, or you’re looking to update the decor in your living area, installing a new mantel is a great way to make your fireplace the centerpiece of your room.

The following steps should enable a confident DIYer with a few power tools to create a beautiful custom fireplace mantel in just a few days.

Solid Lumber Cutting List

1/4-in. Plywood Cutting List

3/4-in. Plywood Cutting List

Determine Its Size

The first step, and perhaps the most important, is determining the size of the mantel. There’s no one-size-fits-all rule or formula, though a few components of your fireplace can guide your decision.

Choosing crown molding played a major role in determining the height of our mantel. I designed it with readily available bed molding available at most home centers. To accommodate larger crown molding, simply adjust the top rail height and mantel top to suit.

For width, often you’ll see mantels one to two feet longer on each side than the firebox or gas fireplace insert. It’s also common to make it the same width as the fireplace’s hearth.

I suggest cutting a few strips of cardboard 9-1/2-in. wide (the height of our mantel) and asking a helper to hold the cardboard above the fireplace, cutting off or bending over pieces until you find the right size for your eye. In my case, I settled on 71 inches, which is 20-1/2-in. larger than my firebox on each side and the exact width of my hearth.

The post How to Build a Wood Fireplace Mantel appeared first on Family Handyman.

Transporting things whether sports equipment, weekend camping gear or lumber from the home center comes with responsibility. Cargo must be secured so it remains on the vehicle or in the truck bed. That’s where ratchet straps come in.

Ratchet straps, aka tie-down straps, are popular because they’re easy to attach and hold cargo in place. However, I’ve often seen them misused. Poorly-secured items can be damaged in transport or even fall off the vehicle, becoming a safety hazard. Here’s how to set up, use and store ratchet straps properly.

Parts of a Ratchet Strap

Ratchet straps come in two pieces. One piece features a hook at one end and a ratchet at the other, attached via a short woven fabric strap. The ratchet has an axel with a slot in it, a release lever and the ratcheting handle.

The other piece is the loose or adjustable end. It’s simply a hook attached to one end of a long woven fabric strap.

How to Thread a Ratchet Strap

To set up your ratchet strap, start with a closed ratchet handle. Slide the bare end of the adjustable woven fabric strap through the slot in the ratchet axle and back out on top of itself.

How to Use a Ratchet Strap

Now that you’ve set up your ratchet strap, it’s time to secure some cargo. Here’s what to do:

• Attach the hook on the adjustable end to a stable anchor point.
• Attach the hook on the fixed end to another sturdy, stable anchor point. While you’re spanning your cargo, the long woven fabric of the adjustable end should move freely through the slot in the ratchet’s axle.
• Pull the strap on the adjustable end taut to remove any slack. This is where many people struggle. If you don’t remove the slack from the strap before ratcheting, you’ll end up with a fully wound ratchet that isn’t tight.
• Start ratcheting by opening and closing the handle. Ratchet until the cargo is secure.

Note: A properly-used ratchet strap offers lots of force. Be careful not to overly tighten; that can damage cargo.

How to Loosen a Ratchet Strap

When you’ve reached your destination, loosen and remove the ratchet straps. Here’s how:

• Pull the release lever toward the ratchet handle until it’s completely compressed.
• While compressing the release lever, open the ratchet handle to a flat position. You’ll hear a thud and feel some tension in the strap release. Note: The ratchet handle will not fully open if the release lever is not completely compressed.
• With the handle open, pull the entire ratchet mechanism away from your cargo. This allows the ratchet axle to rotate backwards, loosening the woven strap.
• Detach both hooks from their anchor points. Now your cargo is free.

How to Store a Ratchet Strap

If you look online, plenty of videos and hacks show how to store your ratchet straps. Some products come with a storage bag; others have a sewn-in velcro strap to wrap around for storage. Some people use rubber bands or old socks to keep their ratchet straps rolled up and tangle free.

Me? I coil up each strap individually and store them in the compartment beneath the back seat of my truck.

However you decide to do it, here’s some advice.

• Avoid putting multiple loose straps in the same bag or vehicle compartment. If you do, you’ll discover the hooks catch on other ratchet straps, creating a massive tangle.
• Don’t leave ratchet straps out in the elements, like in your pickup truck bed. Aside from the constant UV rays drying out and weakening the fabric, prolonged exposure to rain and snow can wreck the ratcheting and releasing mechanisms. They can also be stolen.
• If you notice a knot forming, take the time to untie it. Besides preventing the fabric strap from sliding through that slot in the axel, securing cargo with a knot tightens the knot as well, potentially weakening or tearing the ratchet strap.

Things to Consider When Using Ratchet Straps

Each ratchet strap is rated for a specific maximum weight capacity, known as the working load limit (WLL). These refer not to the breakage strength, but rather the amount of cargo they can securely hold.

But just because you’re moving cargo that weighs less than 500 pounds doesn’t mean one 500-lb. strap will suffice. Consider other factors, like wind and the G-forces exerted on your cargo during acceleration and braking.

Select a strap with a WLL exceeding the weight of the cargo you need to secure. And it’s always better to go with more straps than you think necessary, for your safety and that of your cargo.

Ratchet straps can also damage cargo. When hauling large items without packaging, remember the abrasive woven straps and heavy metal buckles can rub and bounce on your cargo, scratching and denting it. In these situations, cover the straps at the contact points with cardboard or packing blankets, and wrap blankets or shop towels around the ratchets.

The post A Guide to Using Ratchet Straps appeared first on Family Handyman.

Whether you live in a small apartment or an old home with a tiny kitchen, cooking with limited kitchen counter space can be a challenge. Once you lay out a few essential countertop appliances (toaster, air fryer, coffeemaker, etc.), there’s next to nothing left for cutting vegetables and food prep.

Here’s the solution: An over-the-sink cutting board.

As the name implies, these boards span your sink and give you a work surface when you need it. They’re readily available in home furnishing stores. But because sinks and kitchen designs vary, no single model will work for everyone. So why not DIY one?

Here are some steps for making your own over-the-sink cutting board.

Determine the cutting board size

Before you start, you’ll need a few crucial measurements:

• Measurement A: The width of your sink. This varies depending on whether have an undermount or drop-in sink. For an undermount, measure from the countertop on the left side of the sink to the countertop on the right side. For drop-ins, measure the lip as well.
• Measurement B: The depth of your sink from the nearest point of your faucet to the front edge of your countertop.
• Measurement C: For drop-in sinks, determine the height of the sink lip from the countertop.
• Measurement D: If you have a garbage disposal or wish to dump liquids or food scraps into the sink, measure the center of the drain in relation to Measurements A and B. Omit this if you don’t want a hole in your cutting board.

The post How to Build an Over-the-Sink Cutting Board appeared first on Family Handyman.

What is the Hack for Using AAA Batteries in Place of AA Batteries?

A while back, I came across a video on social media showing somebody’s wireless computer mouse not working because of dead AA batteries. The user then positioned a much smaller AAA battery in its place, with a small wad of aluminum foil filling the gap between the negative end of the battery and the metal connecting plate inside the mouse. As a result, the mouse worked.

I was skeptical, so I tried this hack with my TV remote, Xbox controller and camping headlamp. It worked fine in all three.

But Aren’t AAA Batteries Smaller and Therefore Less Powerful?

Yes. But here’s what I didn’t know: AA and AAA batteries put out the same 1.2- to 1.5-volts. That’s why the AAA battery could power the dead computer mouse.

Voltage is the difference in charge between a battery’s negative and positive terminals. Imagine a battery as a water pipe or garden hose; voltage is the pressure inside the hose. Rather than pushing water, the battery pushes electrons from one point to another.

There is a difference, however, in how long their power lasts.

Because the AA batter is larger, it has a larger output capacity. AA alkaline batteries offer a capacity of around 2,200 milliamp-hours (mHa), while AAA batteries offer about 1,000 mHa. So if powering the same device, the AA battery would last more than twice as long. If we’re talking longer lasting lithium batteries, it’s four times as long.

Why The Aluminum Foil Hack Works

Simple: Aluminum conducts electricity. The little foil wad bridged the gap between the much smaller AAA battery and the terminal inside the mouse, successfully completing the circuit.

Final Thoughts

We’re not suggesting you never need to buy AA batteries again. This is a stopgap until you can buy more batteries from the store. Just know the next time you’re on a family camping trip and your AA battery flashlight dies, you can borrow a AAA battery from another gadget, add a little aluminum foil and you’re good to go.

The post How to Use AAA Batteries in Place of AA appeared first on Family Handyman.

Family Handyman

$1199 at Home Depot

Adding a pergola is a beautiful and permanent way to create shade on a deck or patio. Generally made of metal or wood, these structures add a visually pleasing framework to any outdoor space.

Pergolas usually come as a prefabricated kit that requires assembly. They need to be attached to a patio or deck, something with sturdy footing. They can be costly, up to $10,000, and in some municipalities require a building permit.

Pergolas that support climbing plants will have openings to let in light. Though many come with fabric awnings that block the sun and rain, they’re best used in tandem with another option.

The post Best Backyard Shade Ideas appeared first on Family Handyman.

What is Plant Food?

As we all know, plants make their own food through photosynthesis. After taking in carbon dioxide and water from the air and soil, a chemical reaction transforms the CO2 into glucose, a food source.

So when I see a package at my local nursery that claims it contains plant food, what does that mean? It’s actually not plant food at all. It’s standard fertilizer or soil additives containing additional minerals that help plants prosper.

What is Fertilizer?

Garden fertilizers enrich soil and provide plants with one or more vital nutrients, usually nitrogen, phosphorus, or potassium.

Fertilizers are not always intended to aid photosynthesis. They address specific plant problems or needs during periods of rapid growth or stress, or aid in overall growth. A fertilizer could contain nitrogen to promote leaf growth, or phosphorus for root development.

Which Do My Plants Need?

This ultimately depends on you, the gardener, and the clues your plants give you.

If you wish to promote a specific characteristic like root growth or leaf development, or replenish a specific nutrient in the soil, choose a fertilizer that targets those specific nutrients. In contrast, if you need a broad mix of nutrients to maintain a healthy vegetable garden, go with a general plant food style fertilizer.

Applying Them to Plants

Fertilizers and plant food come in a wide variety of forms, including liquids, granules and pellets. They can be synthetic or organic.

It’s common practice to apply plant food regularly throughout the growing season to maintain a steady supply of nutrients. On the other hand, traditional fertilizers are typically applied at specific times and in specific amounts, depending on the type of plant and its growth stage.

Before applying any type of fertilizer, read the manufacturer’s application instructions. Additionally, you should test your soil to determine its pH and any nutritional deficiencies.

How Long Do They Last?

In the soil, fertilizers can last for a week to several months. The duration varies depending on weather conditions, watering practices and the type of fertilizer.

Liquid fertilizers are only good for a couple of weeks since plant roots rapidly absorb its nutrients. In contrast, granule- or pellet-form fertilizers work for up to 90 days, because it must be broken down in the soil to provide nutrients to the plant.

Final Thoughts

There’s nothing wrong with adding nutrients to the soil via plant food or a traditional fertilizer. Choose the right one based on what your plants need and which minerals or nutrients your soil may be lacking.

Rudyard Kipling, the English poet, writer and Nobel Laureate, wrote in his poem The Glory of the Garden: “Our England is a garden, and such gardens are not made/By singing: — “Oh, how beautiful!” and sitting in the shade.” Sometimes our gardens, whether in England or here in the U.S., need a little help. Whether you do it with fertilizer or plant foodis up to you.

The post Plant Food vs. Fertilizer: What’s the Difference? appeared first on Family Handyman.

Project Overview

Finished dimensions: 8-in. deep x 10-1/4-in. tall x 44-in. long.

Cutting List

Cut Your Parts

Start by cutting the parts for your coat rack. Refer to the cutting layout diagram above to see how each component fits on the board.

In this diagram, we assume you purchased a 10-foot board at a home center, surfaced on all four sides with exact dimensions of a 1 x 8: 7-1/4-in. wide by 3/4-in. thick. The cutting diagram includes a 1/8-inch buffer around the perimeter of the board, and assumes your blade’s kerf is also 1/8-inch.

The last step: Trim the stile (E) thickness from 3/4-in. to 5/8-inch. If you’d rather do this on a thickness planer than a table saw, keep all the stiles together and plane them down to 5/8-in. before cutting them to 4-1/2-in. lengths.

The post How to Make a Simple Coat Rack appeared first on Family Handyman.

With more organic weed killers hitting the market every growing season, I chatted with an expert about what they are and how they work.

The Best Natural Weed Killers

• Espoma Weed Preventer Plus Lawn Food
• A.D.I.O.S Selective Bio-Herbicide
• Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed Killer
• Earth’s Ally Weed and Grass Killer
• Sunday Weed Warrior Non-Selective Herbicide Gallon Sprayer

$44.99 at Ace Hardware

Espoma Weed Preventer Plus Lawn Food

$44.99 at Ace Hardware

Espoma Organic Weed Preventer Plus Lawn Food is the best environmentally friendly product for established lawns. It’s made of pure corn gluten meal, so it’s safe for children and pets to play on even immediately after application.

Besides inhibiting weed growth, this product also feeds the lawn, ensuring it stays green and healthy. Johnson says organic and preemergent lawn products are typically a fertilizer or germination inhibitor that wont kill already established grass but will prevent any new plants from germinating.

For best results, apply the Espoma Organic Weed Preventer twice a year, once in early spring and again in early fall.

Shop On Walmart

A.D.I.O.S Selective Bio-Herbicide

Shop On Walmart

A.D.I.O.S. Selective Bio-Herbicide is becoming increasingly popular in parts of the United States where conventional herbicides are restricted. Salt, its active ingredient, can be used against broadleaf weeds like dandelions, creeping Charlie, and thistles.

A.D.I.O.S. meets all USDA organic standards and has been approved in commercial organic farming. But use sparingly. Overuse of salt-based products can negatively affect the quality of soil in the long run.

$34.98 at Amazon

Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed Killer

$34.98 at Amazon

Green Gobbler 20% Vinegar Weed Killer is a potent, nonselective vinegar-based product. It’s made from ethanol distilled from corn grain and a concentrated vinegar containing four times the acetic acid of traditional household vinegar.

Biodegradable and nontoxic, this Organic Materials Review Institute (OMRI) certified formula will safely remove all types of weeds from driveways, sidewalks and mulch beds.

Most environmentally friendly weed killers must be sprayed directly on a growing weed so the active ingredients are absorbed. Johnson suggests using nonselective sprays such as this in an isolated area, where it’s easy to target individual weeds.

$20.59 at Home Depot

Earth's Ally Weed and Grass Killer

$20.59 at Home Depot

Earth’s Ally Weed and Grass Killer is another natural weed-killer option. It’s a non-selective, ready-to-use herbicide containing sea salt. The herbicide kills common weeds with every spray, including broadleaf, crabgrass, dandelion, clover, ivy, chickweed, and more. Plus, it’s safe in your yard even if you have pets. There are three sizes to choose from, including 24-ounce, 128-ounce and 320-ounce.

$27.25 at Walmart

Sunday Weed Warrior Non-Selective Herbicide Gallon Sprayer

$27.25 at Walmart

Sunday’s Weed Warrior Non-Selective Herbicide is best for managing large areas riddled with weeds and unwanted grass. Instead of harsh chemicals, this spray is crafted with an OMRI-listed herbicidal soap that dehydrates the weeds within 20 minutes. The fast-acting formula is also non-staining and safe around bricks, concrete and asphalt. The one-gallon container is powered by a battery wand for extensive coverage.

What to Consider When Buying Natural Weed Killers

Herbicide

Whatever the time of year or the conditions, you can treat unwanted weeds or grass in environmentally friendly ways from preemergent to post-emergent, selective and nonselective varieties. But read labels and choose products with care.

A lot of the organic options are burn-down herbicides, meaning the roots will remain intact and be able to regrow new shoots later, Johnson says. [And] salt and vinegar can remain in the soil after killing the intended weeds, which can affect the growth of wanted plants in the area later on.

To choose whats best for your lawn or garden, Johnson suggests you start by answering these questions:

Type of Weeds

Common weeds Johnson say most homeowners struggle to control are dandelions, creeping Charlie and crabgrass. The first two are broadleaf weeds. If your lawn is overrun with these, its more likely that the health of the lawn is being impacted, and lawn care besides just weed removal needs to be done, Johnson said.

The crabgrass problem is so widespread that companies have developed entire lines of herbicides to eliminate it. Though toxic, these can be effective when used correctly. However, Johnson says, same as with other weeds, if your lawn is overrun with crabgrass, then there are other health issues that need to be addressed.

Number of Weeds

In cases where weeds haven’t overtaken the lawn or appeared in large clusters, Johnson prefers hand weeding with a tool. It allows me to dig up the entire weed without the potential of damaging the lawn, she says.

On the other hand, if the whole lawn is overrun with weeds, she suggests reseeding along with testing the soil to understand the health of the grass and what nutrients may be needed to amend it.

Month or Season

Some weeds are best handled preemergence, and some weeds are best handled post-emergence, says Johnson. Crabgrass can be handled pre- or post-emergence, with the most effective time being preemergence, in April or May, to avoid harming the lawn.

She says broadleaf weeds are best handled post-emergence as long as its before they flower and spread. If you’re looking for more options to kill weeds, here’s a list ofweed-killingplants.

Why Trust Us

Ethan O’Donnell is a professional woodworker with over 10 years of experience. Ethan has built and installed furniture, cabinetry and artistic elements for Fortune 500 companies, the National Park Service and other clients in more than 12 states and U.S. territories. He is a certified rigger, forklift and telehandler operator with OSHA and UCOR safety certifications. Ethan also serves as the Senior Digital Editor at Family Handyman.

We consulted Heather Johnson for her expertise on the best natural weed killers. She’s the lead horticulturist at Bachman’s Floral and Garden in Minneapolis, Minn., specializing in diagnosing and managing plant diseases in turf and pine trees. She discovered her love of gardening at a young age, leading her to a plant biology degree from the University of Minnesota and a masters in plant pathology from the University of California-Davis. Johnson says even in her spare time, she’s consumed by plants. “I currently have over 100 houseplants and spend a little time every day tending to them.”

How We Found the Best Natural Weed Killers

To find the best natural weed killers, our team did extensive research to learn the most effective ingredients for removing tough weeds without harsh chemicals. From there, we noted the best brands to shop from. We also consulted with industry experts on their recommendations and added a few picks we’ve tried in our yards. We also combed through customer reviews to learn how each formula worked.

FAQ

Can you make your own natural weed killer?

According to Johnson, a mixture of vinegar, salt and dish soap can be an effective spot treatment for weeds. Concentrated vinegar works because its stronger than the household variety, usually containing nearly 20% acetic acid.

The salt and acetic acid present in vinegar causes unwanted plants to dehydrate, wither and die. Dish soap enhances this effectiveness by breaking down the plants outer layer (cuticle).

Mix one gallon of vinegar, one ounce of dish soap and one cup of salt in a plastic bottle and spray directly on weeds. Apply the mixture on a sunny day with no wind. Because vinegar-based products are nonselective weed killers, they will harm nearby plants if you don’t spray carefully. If used in small amounts, this shouldnt affect the soil long term, Johnson said.

Can you eliminate weeds without weed killers?

If youre still unsure about using an environmentally friendly weed killer, other methods are available.

Try pouring boiling water on weeds on the sidewalk, driveway or patio. The water will scald the unwanted weed, and any runoff will cool on the impervious surface before it reaches other plants.

A propane torch is another effective alternative for eradicating weeds from nonflammable areas like cracks in sidewalks and gravel driveways. Weeds growing on dry or combustible materials should never be torched, nor should poison ivy or other poisonous plants because their smoke can cause serious allergic reactions.

Consider solarizing or smothering the soil for large areas of your yard or between rows of vegetables in your planter boxes.

To solarize, place a transparent plastic tarp over the soil. The tarp prevents water absorption while heating the soil, ultimately killing vegetation. To smother, place layers of newspaper or old shower curtains on the soil to block the sun and moisture.

One of the most effective ways to maintain a weed-free lawn isto follow alawn care schedule. Johnson recommends keeping a lawn calendar that outlines when to do each maintenance task, such asmowing, fertilizing and thatching.

Following those tips and hand-removing weeds when they are present is a good way to mitigate weeds without using any chemicals, she says. If your lawn is more than 50% weeds, Johnson said its best to reseed the whole lawn.

The post 5 Natural Weed Killers That Actually Work appeared first on Family Handyman.

Select straight-grained, clear lumber and mill your parts to size. You’ll need to mill two sets of slides for each drawer box in your project. For sturdy slides, I tend to use maple or ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UMHW).

Use whatever tools you have available to ensure these boards are as flat and straight as possible. A planer, jointer or hand plane all work. In most cases, rout the drawer box sides directly with the mount groove instead of having a separate mount piece.

A two-piece slide and mount can be incredibly useful in lots of situations, like building framed cabinetry. In the following drawings, I selected a length of 16 inches. Determined your length by the depth of your drawer box.

The post How to Build Your Own Drawer Slides appeared first on Family Handyman.

via merchant

$44.37 at Amazon

The block plane is a handy tool for breaking and chamfering board edges, straightening studs, removing milling marks and fine-tuning wooden drawer slides.

The heavy-duty Stanley Six-Inch Low Angle Block Plane is accurate and dependable. Featuring a 21-degree bed angle, it’s ideal on a variety of construction materials and trimwork. Its cast-iron base, machined side and bottom and hardened steel blade ensure accurate cuts every time. Dialing it in perfectly takes time, but the effort will be quickly rewarded.

Type: Block.
Length: Six inches.
Bevel: Up.
Cutting iron width: 1.375-inches.

The post Best Hand Planers of 2024 appeared first on Family Handyman.

via merchant

$23.57 at Amazon

If I could only keep one handsaw in my shop, it would be the Stanley Fat Max. I’ve owned a Stanley Fat Max for more than a decade and I love it.

Most often, I use the 15-inch blade to rough cut hardwoods before joining and planning cabinet parts. I always have it with me for adding blocking on framing or drywall jobs, and I drag it to the bonfire for cutting up branches and logs. I’ve even cut piles of plastic and PVC with it.

To this day, its induction-hardened teeth (which I have never sharpened) are still strong enough to get through boards quickly without much effort. The Stanley Fat Max is all the best in one place inexpensive, sharp, comfortable to use and well constructed.

Type: Panel saw.
Best for: Wood, wood products, plastics.
Blade length: 15 inches.
Teeth per inch (tpi): Nine.

The post 8 Best Handsaws of 2024 appeared first on Family Handyman.

The heat can have a significant effect not only outside, but also inside, especially in rooms with south-facing windows. In addition to the higher energy costs, bright, direct sunlight can bleach furniture, decor, and floors in rooms with direct exposure.

One of my high school friends and her family encountered this exact issue with a backyard flooded with direct sunlight that made it hard to maintain the lawn, let alone organize a backyard cookout or children’s birthday party. The Outsunny Retractable Awning was a clear option for addressing the issues, and I jumped at the chance to help out.

What Is The Outsunny Retractable Awning?

The Outsunny retractable awning is a 13 x 8-foot awning with a manual crank handle. The UV and water-resistant fabric awning features a powder-coated steel and aluminum frame and roller, and a 58.5-inch long hand crank that makes opening and adjusting it easy.

Outsunny Awnings come in a variety of sizes and colors, and they can be easily installed on concrete, brick, or wood surfaces.

The coffee colored awning arrived in a smaller-than-expected 5-foot box that weighed about 50 pounds. Inside, between the white steel frame parts, individually wrapped in plastic, and the folded fabric canopy are an instruction manual and four small boxes containing hardware. As I unwrapped the parts, many had small scratches and dents, likely from their journey from the factory in China. Despite my dissatisfaction with the condition, there is nothing structurally problematic, and though sad, probably what I should have expected for a sub-$300 awning.

How We Tested It

Using the basic tools listed in the manual, I began assembling the awning on sawhorses in the driveway.Assembling the awning on my own took about 90 minutes because of the lengthy 13-foot pieces that needed to be carefully flipped, twisted, and spun to fit together. It didn’t help that the instructions themselves were vague and difficult to follow at times, but after carefully studying the assembly diagrams, it was together and ready to hang.

Hanging the three brackets required some thought. Outsunny Retractable Awnings are recommended to be hung anywhere between 8 and 13 feet high. However, since we were also trying to prevent direct sunlight from flooding the family room windows, we chose 10.5 feet as our installation height to ensure that the crank style windows still functioned.

We began looking for studs in the 1970’s wood-framed exterior wall. This took some time since the studs were under the wood siding and buffalo board, but six lags later, the brackets were hung and the awning ready to go up.

A second set of hands, along with another ladder, were gathered to get the 13-foot long awning up on its brackets. Once in place, three bolts were secured, a couple of tilting adjustments made, and the Outsunny Retractable Awning was complete.

The awning is beautiful, foolproof to use, tightly packs away when not in action, and provides plenty of shade. However, I was surprised by how noisy it is when rolling it up and down and by how vulnerable the awning itself felt compared to its more durable components.

I am glad we decided to hang it at 10.5 feet rather than any higher. In spite of my nearly 6-foot height and a crank arm of 58.5 inches, rolling the awning at the current height is uncomfortable; it would be unfathomable if it were higher.

Pros

• Provides shade inside and out;
• Inexpensive;
• Looks great;
• Easy to assemble, install, and use;
• Neatly rolls up.

Cons

• Pieces came scratched and dented;
• Noisy to roll up/down;
• Lightweight;
• Short crank arm if you hang it high.

FAQ

Q: Can the awning’s angle be adjusted?

A: Yes, it is possible to adjust the pitch by tightening/loosening the bolts at the base of the arms.

Q: Is there a manufacturer’s warranty on the product?

A: The manufacturer provides a one-year warranty. Outsunny’s warranty terms and policies can be found at www.aosom.com.

Q: Is there an Outsunny video to show the assembly and installation process?

A: Outsunny has not produced any, though there are a few user generated videos on YouTube.

What Others Had To Say

Ann F seemed to stuggle with the instructions a bit too, saying “Looks good but a bit [of] a struggle to put together. The shade works great once we finally got it together.” in her five-star review on Amazon. And, verified purchaser and Arizona resident Lillian writes “…The weather has been over 110 for over a week now with no sign of cooling down. This awning has been a lifesaver. It looks great when open and closes up tight able to withstand our high winds. Definitely a great buy.” in her Wayfair.com review.

Final Verdict

If you are looking for a retractable awning, then the Outsunny Retractable Awning is a worthy option. Its ease of use, affordability, and out of the way nature can make your home more comfortable both inside and out. Make sure you have a helper available to assist with the installation; perhaps a cold beverage under your completed awning can motivate them to lend a hand.

Where to Buy

Outsunny Retractable Awnings are available from Amazon and Wayfair.

Buy Now

The post Outsunny Retractable Awnings Review: Best Retractable Awning that Elevates Your Patio appeared first on Family Handyman.

If it’s a big job like replacing the rear differential in my truck. I don’t have the time, space or confidence to tackle it. But for smaller issues with my bicycle, lawn mower, snowblower, boat, motorcycle or family vehicles, I try to fix them myself.

It usually doesn’t take many tools. An adjustable wrench, socket set, breaker bar, mallet, torque wrench and a willingness to get grease under your fingers is all you need.

Of those tools, a torque wrench is the least common, but it’s essential. It lets you apply the right amount of torque to a bolt without over- or under-tightening it.

Torque wrenches come in various styles and ratings. Some are best for ultralight carbon fiber bicycle components, others for heavy-duty farm or construction equipment.

While visiting a friend, I came across his Performance Tool M206 Digital Torque Adapter, a torque tool attachment with a scale that would be just right for my needs. So I ordered one up and gave it a try.

What is the Performance Tool M206 Digital Torque Adapter?

The Performance Tool M206 Digital Torque Adapter is a small, lime-shaped attachment that converts your standard 1/2-inch socket handle or breaker bar into a torque wrench with a rotating digital readout.

It measures between 30- and 150-ft/lb of torque and provides an accurate measurement of within 2%, with five units (kg/cm, kg/m, ft/lb, in/lb, N/m) to choose from. Any 1/2-in. socket can work with the digital torque adapter. It also includes adapters for 3/8-in. and 1/4-in. sockets.

The adapter features a programmable interface with ten adjustable pre-set values, and informs you audibly and visually when those values have been reached. The kit comes nicely packaged in a durable storage case.

How We Tested It

The Performance Tool M206 Digital Torque Adapter came at the right time. Our cars needed their tires rotated, and my motorcycle was almost ready for end-of-summer routine maintenance. I was eager to play around with its programmable interface, and see how well it worked with different drive sockets and their adapters.

Accuracy

First, I tested the Performance Tool M206 Digital Torque Adapter’s accuracy. The manufacturer claims the torque wrench is accurate to +/-2%, which would be astonishing, since my much older click torque wrench is only accurate to +/-4%.

It was a relatively simple test. I clamped an old, inexpensive, deep well socket to the table in a pipe wrench so it couldn’t rotate. Then I attached the Performance Tool M206 Digital Torque Adapter to the secured socket and my breaker bar to its end.

From the end of the breaker bar I hung 36 lbs. worth of dumbbells and a lightweight bag, which came out to exactly 36.16 lbs. The Performance Tool Digital Torque Adapter read 39.9 ft./lb. of torque.

Then I had to remember some high school physics and pulled out a calculator.

Torque = Lever Length 13-3/8-inches (from pivot point to the bottom knob of my 14-inch breaker bar) x Force 36.16-lbs. (weights and bag).

So 13.375 x 36.16 = 483.64 in/lb of torque. Calculate the ft./lb. by dividing the in./lb. number by 12 and BOOM!!! 40.3 ft./lb. of torque, accurate by 1%. Quite impressive, I must say.

I repeated experiment several times with other heavy objects like brake rotors and bricks. In every case, the Performance Tool M206 Digital Torque Adapter was accurate +/-2%.

Performance

Then it was out to the garage to work on the vehicles.

Rotating the tires on our cars was a breeze. Once I programmed the torque settings for my wife’s Subaru and my truck, I removed the lug nuts and switched the wheels. Then I realized the Digital Torque Adapter could read torque in clockwise and counterclockwise directions a handy feature, though I’m not sure how often it’ll get used.

Using the Digital Torque Adapter, we rotated both sets of tires quickly and hassle-free. Now we have the torque settings saved for future rotations.

On my motorcycle I had to change the oil and access the valves, which meant removing some covers and guards attached with delicate screws and bolts. In this instance, I freehanded it without presetting any of torque settings because the document I found online laid out the torque values I needed. This was slightly more challenging due to the erratic behavior of the digital gauge when I applied torque.

After a bit of patience and feathering each bolt, the Digital Torque Adapter handled all the tasks we asked of it with ease. The smaller 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch drive sockets and adapters were especially useful for these tasks.

Ease of use

While I wouldn’t describe the Digital Torque Adapter as difficult to use, I also wouldn’t describe it as user-friendly, either.

Although there are only five buttons, a quick glance at the readout reveals a lot of programmable data such as torque, units and more. Let’s just say I won’t be discarding the owner’s manual anytime soon, because I’m sure I’ll have to re-reference it at some point.

Pros

• Compact;
• Works with 1/2-, 3/8-, and 1/4-inch drive sockets;
• Really accurate;
• Programmable presets;
• Storage case and adapters included.

Cons

• A lot of programmable info to process;
• Readout seems erratic when presets aren’t used.

FAQ

Q : This Digital Torque Adapter is only compatible with 1/2-inch drive sockets and breaker bars. Are they made for 3/8-inch drive?

A: No.

Q: Do your saved torque presets disappear when you replace the battery?

A: No, battery changes do not affect their programming.

What Others Had To Say

In a five-star Amazon review, MWD writes, “Handy and accurate … Understanding the buttons to get to the features is a bit tricky but once understood this is a nice unit. … I checked its readings against two other torque wrenches and they are all either accurate to my needs or all off the same amount across the usable scale. I call it a win-win.”

Amazon verified purchaser WVUFAN4LIFE gets right to the point, writing, “Worth the money!” and “Great product for those hard to reach places.”

Final Verdict

If you’re just starting out with DIY mechanical maintenance, or you’re looking for a compact and precise substitute for traditional torque wrench, give the Performance Tool M206 Digital Torque Adapter a try.

It’s extremely accurate, works with all standard socket sizes, and can be programmed to save the exact torque settings required for your vehicle. Moreover, the durable plastic storage case ensures it will last for years to come.

Where to Buy

The Performance Tool M206 Digital Torque Adapter is available at Amazon.com.

$50 at Amazon

The post This Digital Torque Wrench Adapter Is Essential for DIY Mechanics appeared first on Family Handyman.

I spoke to her retired plumber cousin over the phone, and he diagnosed the problem as a clog in the floor drain pipe rather than something more serious. But before she called another plumber for a quick $100+ cleanout, I brought over my recently acquired Cobra Tools Pistol-Grip Power Drum Auger to see if I could break up the clog myself.

What is the Cobra Tools Pistol-Grip Power Drum Auger?

How We Tested It

I bought the Cobra Tools Power Drum Auger because I was sick of standing in ankle-deep water standing in my aging bathtub as I showered. A week later I learned of my mother’s basement floor drain predicament, giving me two worthy tests just days apart.

How it Works

Unclogging drains is a messy job. But with the Cobra Tools Power Drum Auger, I was done in a matter of minutes.

In both cases I attached my cordless drill to the drum auger and plunged the rotary tip of the cable into the depth of the pipe. I didn’t use chemicals at all, so I felt safe operating the drum auger with just some thin rubber gloves and grungy work clothes.

Once I placed the Cobra Tools Power Drum Auger cable down the pipe, I pushed it by hand until I felt resistance from a bend in the pipe or the mass clogging it. With about 10 inches of the cable sticking out of the drain, I kept downward pressure on the pistol grip and slowly feathered the trigger of my cordless drill. This ensured the sharp pointed end of the tip burrowed into the obstruction, or made its way around the bend.

For a clog far down the pipe, the quick lever cable locking switch comes in really handy, since it needs to lock at each obstacle encountered.

Once I found and breached the clog, the backed-up water slowly drained. I learned years ago not to pull out the auger too soon. Instead, I made a couple of extra turns with my drill to ensure it locked into the obstruction. Then pulled the drum auger cable back. This method helps you bring all the debris to the surface. If you don’t, you may find yourself repeating this process a few weeks later.

Ease of Use

Value

Just having a plumber show up at your residence will run you well over a hundred bucks. With the Cobra Tools Power Drum Auger costing less than $40, I can’t imagine why you wouldn’t keep a drum auger on hand to try to break through a stubborn clog.

Pros

• Clears pipes up to three inches in diameter;
• Quick lever cable lock;
• Easy to use;
• Inexpensive;
• Works with any drill.

Cons

• Unclogging drains is a messy task.

Q&As

Q: Is the Cobra Tools Power Drum Auger compatible with any drill?

A: Yes, as long as it features an adjustable chuck.

Q: Can you use this to unclog a toilet?

A: No. This cable may scratch the porcelain. The Cobra Tools Power Drum Auger is best for smaller diameter pipes like sinks, tubs and shower drains.

Final Verdict

Where to Buy

The Cobra Tools Pistol-Grip Power Drum Auger is available at Lowe’s or Ace Hardware.

$34.98 at Lowe's

The post Cobra Tools Pistol-Grip Power Drum Auger: How To Use, Pros, Cons & Where to Buy appeared first on Family Handyman.

In northern Minnesota, where I spend many of my weekends, I can’t remember a year when the mosquitoes were this terrible. All summer long we’ve experimented with new and different insect repellents, fogging methods and anything else to limit my family’s itchy bites. Nothing worked.

So I started scouring the internet for mosquito extermination options and found the Skeeter Hawk Fly Trap. I ordered one up and tested it to see if it could be the thing to save our summer.

What Is the Skeeter Hawk Fly Trap?

The Skeeter Hawk Large Fly Trap lures, captures and kills mosquitoes, gnats, house flies, horseflies and many other flying insects. The dual-band, bright blue LED UV light attracts them, and the ultra-quiet fan draws them to the canister where they die from dehydration.

Roughly 16 inches tall, it plugs into a conventional 110-volt outlet. A fold-down hanging hook makes it easy to keep out of the way, indoors or outdoors. And a single power button and twist-lock insect dehydration canister make it extremely user-friendly. Skeeter Hawk Large Fly Traps protect large rooms, yards, pools, patios and decks without chemicals or continuous buzzing.

How We Tested It

With the summer winding down, I packed up the family for a quiet August weekend at a small northern Minnesota cabin. Since my in-laws are also staying there, I brought the Skeeter Hawk Fly Trap to help keep the mosquitoes away during outdoor meals and patio sessions with us and our new baby, their newest grandchild.

I was eager to determine how well the the fly trap worked, whether the sound or brightness were nuisances, and how easily I could dispose of the dead insects.

Operation

FAQs

Q: Can the Skeeter Hawk Fly Trap run on batteries if there’s no outlet available?

A: No, it requires a wall outlet.

Q: Do the Fly Traps come in any other sizes or colors?

A: There are two sizes of Skeeter Hawk Fly Traps: small and large. They’re only available with a gray body and blue LED lights.

What Other Reviewers Had To Say

The post The Skeeter Hawk Mosquito and Fly Zapper Traps Bugs Both Indoors and Outdoors appeared first on Family Handyman.

It’s no secret that, over time, silicone tends to pick up dirt and grime, especially around sinks, bathtubs and showers. When this happens, you’ll need to carefully remove the old silicone with sharp blades and putty knives, then clean and reapply a fresh bead.

Recently, I learned that GE, a leading manufacturer of silicone caulk, had developed a product that could be applied directly over worn out silicone. Curious, and with a bathtub in need of silicone refresher, I grabbed a tube of GE Re-New to test it out.

What Is GE Re-New Silicone Caulk?

With my caulking gun loaded with a full 9.5-ounce tube of Re-New, I got to work retouching the silicone around my upstairs bathtub and basement bathroom sink. I expected this to be a fast project with minimal cleanup.

I noticed Re-New has a thinner consistency than silicone. It went on easily, and the self-tooling nozzle made the project lightning quick.

One downside: GE Re-New is not a standalone product. It’s supposed to be paired with existing silicone; it doesn’t replace the caulk or silicone itself. So if there are sections of silicone missing from around your kitchen or bathroom fixtures, don’t use this product.

That brings me to another issue not all kitchen and bathroom caulks are 100% silicone. It’s common for some “kitchen and bath” caulks to be siliconized, which means they contain some silicone. Re-New, on the other hand, only bonds with 100% pure silicone. If you’re not sure what caulking material was used in your home, or if you know it wasn’t caulked with pure silicone, this product will not be suitable for you.

In my case, after the recommended twenty-four hours of drying, GE Re-New worked great. My bathtub and sink look clean and rehabilitated, and in only a fraction of the time it normally would have taken.

Ease of use

Pros

• No need to remove old silicone;
• Self-tooling nozzle works great;
• Flexible
• Waterproof;
• Mold and mildew resistant;
• User friendly.

Cons

• Not a standalone product;
• Only works with 100% pure silicone.

FAQs

Q: Is it possible to paint GE Re-New?

A: No. GE Re-New is not paintable.

Q: Is it available in any other colors besides white?

No.

Q: If GE Re-New is a silicone product, why can’t I use it like regular silicone?

A: Because GE Re-New is a coating over unsightly silicone caulking, not a caulk itself.

What Other Reviewers Had to Say

HomeDepot.com verified purchaser Eddie writes, “Application and clean up [was] easy. Wish I had more of it.” Another verified purchaser, Rebecca, encountered an issue. “Im sure its great, but it only works on silicone,” she writes. “I had acrylic caulking.”

Final Verdict

Where to Buy

The post Is GE Re-New the Best Silicone Caulk Remover? We Tried It! appeared first on Family Handyman.

Ive flip-flopped on this for years. At one point I lugged a toolbox so big and heavy I outfitted a furniture dolly with a custom-built rack, just so I could move it onto the jobsite.

These days, all the leading tool brands feature modular, rolling tool towers. After examining several at my local home center, I picked up DeWalt’s ToughSystem 2.0 Rolling Tower and put it through its paces.

What Is The DeWalt’s ToughSystem 2.0 Rolling Tower?

The DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 Rolling Tower consists of three toolboxes: standard, extra-large, and an even bigger one with a rolling bottom. It comes with an adjustable handle and sturdy eight-inch wheels.

Tough System 2.0 toolboxes feature spring-loaded, auto-connect side latches enabling one-handed operation, along with durable metal front latches and a padlock hasp. The dust and water resistant set comes with two large organizer cups and two removable inner trays, letting you maximize your storage space. Best of all, the Rolling Tower is compatible with any Tough System product, past or present.

Straight out of the box, Rolling Tower feels steady, strong and well-built. The molded bee-colored plastic tower is roomy, measuring almost 40 inches tall while providing nearly five cubic feet of storage space for your tools and gear.

How We Tested It

I sought to determine its capacity, maneuverability and durability. In my test I loaded almost 100 pounds of tools and gear into the Rolling Tower. Then I took it up and down stairs, across uneven terrain, and even plunged it off my pickup’s tailgate.

Towards the end, I sprayed the ToughSysytem tower with my garden hose from every angle imaginable to assess its water resistance.

Performance Review

Capacity

My first impression while loading the Rolling Tower was how spacious it is. It easily fit all the cordless tools I usually bring to a jobsite in the bottom rolling unit alone. That included a drill driver combo, oscillating tool, handheld vacuum, random orbital sander, right angle drill, 18-gauge nailer, jigsaw, reciprocating saw and a circular saw. I loaded the batteries and charger as well, no problem.

I filled the large toolbox on top with hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers and pliers, as well as my corded belt sander and router. With just these two boxes filled, the Rolling Tower was definitely heavier and more cumbersome, yet still maneuverable.

Typically, I would save the top box for my delicate tools, pencils and instruments like tape measures, squares, levels, and chisels. But for testing purposes, I threw in some more non-delicate hand tools and filled the large storage cups with screws, dowels and biscuits.

Maneuverability and durability

At this point, after accounting for its 45-pound starting weight, the DeWalt Rolling Tower weighed approximately 144 pounds according to my bathroom scale. Though hefty, it still managed to roll smoothly up and down stairs and across bumpy terrain.

I could feel the Rolling Tower’s heavy weight stressing its adjustable handle when it tipped up before rolling, or going up and down stairs. Despite my slew of rigorous tests, the handle held firm. That surprised me.

I was most afraid of the tailgate test. Counting the curb height, the fall from the bed of my midsized pickup onto soft grass measured 22 inches above and beyond what a full toolbox should handle.

I figured the auto-connecting side latches would be the weak point, either popping apart or breaking completely. But I was wrong. The Rolling Tower stood up to the abuse and came away unscathed.

Waterproof

I emptied every tool out of all three toolboxes and wiped them clean. If water seeped into the Rolling Tower, I wanted to notice it.

I pulled out my garden hose and put the sprayer on the most powerful jet setting. I soaked the tool tower for two solid minutes. Upon inspection, I found the DeWalt ToughSystem Tower to be legitimately waterproof.

However, I was disappointed to see a couple of drops trickle down from the lid and enter near the open boxes hinges. This isn’t that big of a concern, just something to be aware of if your box gets stuck out in the rain.

Why You Should Buy This

Though nothing is flawless, the DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 Rolling Tool Tower is close. It’s well-made and roomy enough to carry every tool you can imagine in one easy-to-transport tower. Furthermore, it’s water- and dust-proof, excelling in tests beyond everyday use.

Easy to configure and disassemble, it includes plenty of compatible accessories. It’s backed by DeWalt’s Guaranteed Tough Lifetime Limited warranty. There isn’t much more a toolbox tower could offer.

Where to Buy

The DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0 Rolling Tool Tower is available at The Home Depot.

$269 at Home Depot

The post Dewalt Rolling Tool Box: Features, Tested and Reviewed appeared first on Family Handyman.

I bought a bow saw, pole saw, pruners, loppers and a gas chain saw. I did much of the work myself and hired a professional tree service to take out the big ones closest to the house.

These days, I don’t use those tools much except when a windstorm knocks down a limb or two. Instead of digging out the entire tree tool collection, I grabbed the Stihl GTA 26 Pruner to see if it would work for these small and medium branches and limbs.

What Is the Stihl GTA 26 Pruner?

The Stihl GTA 26 is a compact, handheld battery-operated pruner weighing 2.7 lbs. It’s got a condensed four-inch chain saw with a quarter-inch PM3 chain to make smooth cuts with next to no vibration.

It also features an LED display, safe trigger lockout switch and a comfortable ergonomic rubber grip. The Stihl GTA 26 ships with a powerful AS 2 battery, charger, lubricating oil and a carrying case.

Like other Stihl products, the GTA 26 pruner looks and feels sturdy and well-made. It even features a tiny version of their trademark bright orange guide bar scabbard to keep it safe and sound during storage or transport.

How We Tested It

I had a single limb come down from a maple tree during a recent storm. I broke it down with the Stihl pruner and took to the county compost heap for disposal.

While I was there, I asked the attendant if I could use his 20-foot tall pile of limbs and branches to further test the Shihl GTA 26. With his approval, I got after the pile, keeping a close eye on battery life, cuts made, and overall performance on different thicknesses and types of branches.

Performance Review

Performance

With the battery charged, I began cutting the downed maple limb in my yard. The limb was nearly 17 feet long and close to five inches in diameter at its fattest.

The GTA 26 pruner had no problem with this task. It cut up the branch in no time, though it required multiple passes and one rotation on the thick final cut. Though better on branches less than 2-1/2-in. thick, it handled thicknesses up to 3-1/2-in. in a single, methodical pass.

The Stihl GTA 26 was comfortable to carry and use, producing more cutting power than I expected from a compact battery operated pruner.

The same was true at the compost heap. Again, starting with a full battery, I performed 83 cuts over 29 minutes before the battery ran out. It again worked best on branches less than 2-1/2-in. thick. Unsurprisingly, it cut through softer woods like Pine and Aspen with no problem.

Value

If you compare similar pruning products, you’ll quickly find are all roughly the same price when you include the battery and charger. However, the GTA 26 was the first of its kind in the U.S. market. Plus, Stihl is an industry leader in high-quality lawn and garden tools.

Although it may seem like you’re spending a lot on another garden tool in your collection, know that it’s a well-built and dependable one.

Reliability and durability

The reputation of Stihl tools has long been based on durability and dependability, and those traits held here. The GTA 26 looks and feels sturdy and strong. It features high quality, well-made components like the PM3 saw chain and stout AS 2 battery. If properly used and maintained, these will function for many years down the road.

Ease of Use

The trigger operated Stihl GTA 26 is as user friendly as they come. The LED display gives you up-to-the-second charge readings and tool status information.

There are also multiple safety components like a retractable chain guard and trigger lockout switch for ensuring safe operation. Even maintenance and lubrication on the GTA 26 is painless, thanks to the tool-less, single-wingnut bar and chain access.

Why You Should Buy This

The Stihl GTA 26 is ideal for light cutting around the yard. The foolproof, trigger operated pruner is lightweight, strong, agile and well-made.

The tool comes with everything you need to get it running. And it’s made by Stihl, one of the best known and respected brands in the field. Once you get your hands on one of these, youll never pick up your pruning shears, lopper or bow saw again.

Where to Buy

The Stihl GTA 26 pruner is available at Ace Hardware.

$149.99 at Ace Hardware

The post Stihl Cordless Pruning Saw Review: Is This Battery-Powered Pruning Saw Worth Buying? appeared first on Family Handyman.

I’ve also become a late-arriving enthusiast of the smoking and outdoor cooking craze. Staying true to my love of sides, I picked up a Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket and a boatload of shrimp and veggies to try my hand at some gourmet creations.

What is the Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket?

The Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket is a stainless steel container available in two sizes: 7.5-inch squareor roughly 11-inch-by- 13-inch. Both baskets are a hair under 2.5 inches deep and can be used with gas, charcoalor pellet grills.

These baskets are ideal for grilling vegetables and small items like shrimp or steak tips. They feature handles that are simple to grasp with oven mitts and tongs. And they’re dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze.

$29.99 at Weber

Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket Product Features

How We Tested It

Pros

• Durable stainless-steel construction
• Affordable
• Versatile
• Easy-to-carry handles
• Dishwasher safe
• Available in two sizes
• Works on charcoal, pellet or gas grills

Cons

• Can be difficult to stir contents inside basket

Final Verdict

All the recipes I tried in the Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket worked out great. It’s an easy and affordable way to cook small and delicate foods without worrying about them sticking or falling through the grill grates. For the price point, durability and usefulness of the grill basket, we think it’s perfect for those who frequently grill food outside.

Where to Buy the Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket

TheWeber Deluxe Grilling Basketretails for just under $25 for the small size and just over $30 for the large. Both sizes of the Weber Deluxe Grilling Basket are available at Weber, The Home DepotandLowes. Don’t waste another outdoor summer get-together peeling veggies or foil from your grillthis grill basket will make cooking a breeze and cleanup an afterthought!

$29.99 at Weber

The post This Weber Grilling Basket Is the Best Grill Basket For Cooking Veggies. Here’s Why appeared first on Family Handyman.

If I had to choose, I’d take the Arctic cold, because you can always layer up, grab a sweater or a down jacket. But during a heat wave, there are fewer easy options. Maybe take a dip in a pool if you own one, or sit inside with your air conditioning cranked.

With our annual mid-summer family road trip to our rustic cabin in the woodscoming up, I figured I’d try out a portable air conditioner. After some due diligence and research, I came across a unit I was excited about: The LG 7,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner.

What Is the LG 7,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner?

The LG 7,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is a standalone AC, dehumidifier and fan in one. It features multiple fan speeds, an easy-to-set on/off timer, and an auto restart feature that will automatically turn the machine back on if you lose power.

The bright white, plastic-cladded unit is beefy, around 27-1/4-inches tall and 16-1/4-inches wide, weighing about 55 lbs. But once you get it out of the box, it’s easy as pie to operate and maneuver on easy-rolling casters.

The large digital user-friendly dashboard features indicator lights for fan speed, timer and temperature control. It also features an innovative auto-swing air vent to help circulate the cool air, plus a clean filter light which illuminates when it’s time to clean the multiple air filters.

How We Tested It

With vacation days beckoning, my family and I headed north for a week’s stay in a cabin during the hottest days of the summer. LG says the air conditioner will cool rooms up to 300 square feet, but I wanted to test it in our 200-sq.-ft. bedroom as well as the 550-sq.-ft. living area. I also planned to play around with its LCD remote control, on/off timer and fan mode, then dig deeper into its routine maintenance and upkeep.

Performance Review

LG Portable Air Conditioner Performance

We arrived to blistering hot weather and a steamy cabin. I was already sweating as I thumbed through the instructions and assembled the window venting kit, which was more tedious than I anticipated. I needed a Phillips screwdriver and a pair of scissors to get it buttoned up tight.

Once installed, the LG Portable Air Conditioner did an adequate job of slowly cooling the large cabin living area, almost double its recommended size. The user-friendly remote was great for adjusting minor things like temperature and fan speed, though its short proximity range left something to be desired.

At night, we rolled the machine into the bedroom to help us sleep comfortably. That meant reinstalling the venting into the cabin’s bedroom window. Again, this process was tedious and required different adjustments because the windows were different sizes.

This brings up a fundamental misconception I had about all portable air conditioners. I thought you could just wheel them from room to room and cool down whichever area of your home you felt necessary. Though this is true, it requires a few extra minutes to get it set up and vented properly.

The unit kept us so cool and comfortable in the small cabin bedroom I started using the timer to turn it off in the middle of the nightand fire up the fan setting to circulate the chilled air.

LG Portable Air Conditioner Maintenance

Maintenance on the LG 7,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner also seemed to be simple, with only two items to stay on top of.

A dashboard light indicates when it’s time to clean two washable air filters. It’s as simple as popping them out, rinsing, drying and putting them back in place. The other: Draining any built-up condensation. Two spigots on the back of the machine empty the air conditioner and dehumidifier, respectively. Make sure to connect a drain hose or empty them regularly.

Why You Should Buy The LG Portable Air Conditioner

Overall, I was impressed this LG Portable Air Conditioner. The unit cooled both rooms in the cabin better than expected with straightforward operation.

Installing the window venting kit proved to be the most challenging part. But it’s still easier than installing a window air conditioner, and easier on your back. And when the heat wave is finally over, the LG Portable Air Conditioner rolls out of sight or into a closet for easy storage. While you’re at it, read the Windmill AC review.

Where To Buy The LG Portable Air Conditioner

The LG 7,000 BTU Portable Air Conditioner is available at The Home Depot and LG.com.

$379 at LG

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