I Replaced My Own Door Last Weekend and Saved $300 — Here Is How
Replacing a door is a weekend project that can transform a room. You’ll need basic tools like a screwdriver, hammer, chisel,
Tools & Equipment
Buyer guides and hands-on reviews for the tools that matter — circular saws, miter saws, and the gear behind every DIY project. What to buy, what to skip, and how to use it well.
Stud Finders: Which Type Actually Works
A stud finder locates wood studs, metal studs, AC wiring, and pipes behind drywall, allowing safe mounting of TVs, shelves, and cabinets without guessing. Capacitive (electronic) stud finders dominate the DIY market at $20-$60; magnetic stud finders cost $5-$20 and have no batteries. Premium multi-s
Pressure Washers: PSI, Gas vs Electric, and What to Buy
A pressure washer uses high-pressure water (1,300-4,000 PSI) to clean siding, decks, driveways, vehicles, and outdoor furniture. Electric units cost $100-$400 and produce 1,300-2,500 PSI; gas units cost $300-$900 and produce 2,800-4,000 PSI. Quality units last 5-15 years with annual maintenance. Top
Circular Saws: How to Choose Your First One
A circular saw is a portable handheld saw with a rotating blade, used for crosscutting and ripping lumber, plywood, and panel materials at the job site. Corded 7-1/4 inch sidewinder saws cost $80-$200; premium worm-drive saws cost $200-$300; cordless 7-1/4 inch saws cost $150-$350 (bare tool) and $2
Miter Saws: Which Type to Buy for Your Projects
A miter saw (also called a chop saw or drop saw) makes accurate angled crosscuts in wood, plastic, and aluminum. Compound, sliding, and dual-bevel sliding compound miter saws are the three main residential types. Quality 10 or 12 inch sliding compound miter saws cost $250-$650. They last 10-25 years
Impact Drivers vs Drills: Which One You Actually Need
An impact driver is a compact, high-torque driver that uses rotational impacts to drive long screws, lag bolts, and structural fasteners without the user fighting torque reaction. Quality 18V or 20V brushless impact drivers cost $90-$250 bare tool, $140-$350 full kit. They last 8-15 years of homeown
The 9 Drill That Almost Went Through My Hand: What I Actually Know About Cordless Drills
I used a 9 Black & Decker for three years before borrowing a Milwaukee M18. Here is everything I learned about cordless drills after 15 years of DIY: brushless vs brushed, what to buy at every price point, and why the clutch matters.