There's a Better Way Video Tips

Do have your own better way to tackle a construction task? If so, we’d love to see it and even pay you for it if we decide to use it in print. Email photos and a description to us at [email protected], or use the #FineHomebuildingTips hashtag on Instagram.

Bending Rebar with Pipes
If you only have a few pieces to bend, skip the pricey rebar-bender and use some tools you probably already have lying around the job site.
Shimming Roof Jack
Cedar shims under each roof jack protect asphalt shingles from damage.
Foam-Gun-Tip Cleaner
You could just let the foam cure at the tip and then shave it off with a utility knife, but there’s a better way.
Bucket-Mixed Concrete
A hoe and a wheelbarrow aren't the only common tools you can use to mix small batches of concrete.
Curved Corners in Concrete
If you need to build a form for a concrete step and you want a tight radius on the front corners, you could get a piece of tempered hardboard and…
Brick Cutting Jig
Experienced masons can cut a brick quickly and accurately with just a masons hammer. But for us amateurs, there’s a better way. Will Foster of Aberdeen, Wash., came up with…
Conehead Concrete Piers
If you’re building a backyard structure like a pergola or an arbor, you’ll want to elevate those post ends above grade to keep water from getting to them. Now you…
Cutting Batts with a Knife
This kitchen knife is the perfect tool for making lengthwise cuts in fiberglass insulation.
Fiberglass Batt Cutting Guide
Making a handy plywood jig lets you cut a bunch of pieces of fiberglass insulation to the same size.
Cutting Shingles with Shears
Long-handled tin snips are the perfect tool for easily cutting thick roofing shingles.

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