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Tips & Techniques

Tips & Techniques is a collection of methods, tools, and jigs that our readers have devised to get things done on their own construction projects. Email photos and descriptions of your tips to us at [email protected]; post them with the #FineHomebuildingTips hashtag on Instagram; or upload them to FineHomebuilding.com/reader-tips for a chance to have them featured in an issue of Fine Homebuilding Magazine. Plus, we pay for any tips we publish.

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Removing Mortar-Filled Screws

While not the conventional choice, a drill/driver allows for removing a lot of screws in a short amount of time.
Copying Moldings

Use bamboo skewers and corrugated cardboard to make an improvised contour gauge for moldings of any size.
On-Board Bit Storage

Magnets keep driver bits on the tool so they're accessible when you need them.
Quiet Your Stairs

Get rid of squeaks with construction adhesive and closed-cell foam.
Hole-Saw Hack

If the pilot bit is missing or broken, use screws to control the saw.
Compressor-Tool Keeper

Keeping track of tools is made easier with fuel line and cable ties.
Pitch Block for Stair Stringers

An alternative method for laying out stairs without a framing square.
Diamond Blade and Rigid Foam

A diamond-bit masonry blade creates a cleaner, easier cut than scoring with a knife.
Sawblade Storage

Half of a lid from a plastic bucket stores multiple blades on the wall of your shop or work van.
No-Scratch Metal Bucket

Adding a plywood bottom keeps floors safe from scratches when using a bucket as a tool caddy.