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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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Open Out-of-Reach Windows

A DIY extension handle works well for window cranks that can't be operated from the ground.
Driver-Bit Storage

Make a simple pocket for keeping several bits handy by wrapping a piece of a bicycle inner tube around the base of your cordless drill.
Ladder Helper

This homemade rack conveniently holds small workpieces when working up high.
Keep Out Sewer Gases

A drink cup beats a pile of rags if you need to temporarily plug a plumbing drain pipe when replacing a toilet.
Clean Copes

A specialty woodcarving tool works better than the typical utility knife does when cleaning up molding joints.
Create the Perfect Caulk Joint

Masking tape and solvents are the key to a clean bead of sealant.
Drywall Tips and Tricks

33 illustrated time-saving techniques for hanging, finishing, and repairing gypsum wallboard.
Solo Window Install

Unless a window is very large, I usually install it by myself. Over the years I've played with a few variations of how to install a window without it falling…
Another Way to Store Caulk Tubes

After using screws and anils to stopper opened tubes of caulk, I figured there had to be a better way
Belt-Hook Tool Storage

I was looking at different drill/impact-driver storage methods, and came up with the simple idea of using some 1-in. by 2-in. rectangular steel tube i had kicking around.