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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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Cap Caulk Tubes

All you need is a disposable glove to close up a tube of sealant until the next time you need it.
Keep Rain Off the Top

A trash can on top of a makeshift mast helps create a temporary roof.
Digging in Small Spaces

Remove dirt at a fast pace with this pipe-and-vacuum setup.
Free Precision Tools

Find high-quality tools from an unexpected source—your dentist.
Move Panels Easily

Create an improvised panel cart with clamps and a dolly.
Countersinking With a Spade Bit

A short piece of rod welded to a spade drill bit keeps the bit centered in the hole.
Clear Concrete Holes

A bulb-style syringe battery filler is an inexpensive and effective way to clear dust and debris from holes in concrete and masonry.
Tighten Loose Screws

A wooden chopstick makes a handy plug for a stripped-out screw hole.
Jab-Saw Stand-in

A sawblade and locking pliers make an improvised tool for cutting drywall.
Towel-Holder Tape Dispenser

A paper-towel holder conveniently stores a variety of construction tapes.