When I’m on a deck or porch site, the way I usually figure out that a scraggly bush needs to be limbed or removed isn’t by observation and planning. That’d be too smart. Only after it’s gouged my legs repeatedly, or I trip over the thing for the eighth time, do I get the idea and reach for a saw.
This Old House contributor Mark Clement demonstrates how to use the reciprocating saw to cut through a wall. Sometimes pipes or other materials are hidden behind…
May 20: Decked out! Mark & Theresa are talking decks on this week’s show. They’ll be sharing what you need to know to make sure…
In this video for This Old House, Mark explains when to use smaller or more specific-use reciprocating saws. These often have unique features that may be…
We tested the Skil recip saw in our remodeling work. Here’s what you should know before you decide if the Skil PWRCORE 20 reciprocating saw is right for you.
TOOL KIT Light and Compact Framing Nailer By Mark Clement Stanley-Bostitch 800/556-6696 bostitch.com Street price: $250 As dependable as screws are for decking, about the…
For porches – think beaded ceiling material and crown – a miter saw is a must. I use a DeWalt DW718. DeWalt nailed this tool:…
Building a deck creates two distinct spaces. Topside, gleaming deck boards and guardrails invite customers to enjoy the outdoors. But if a deck is far…
This tool review put the compact DeWalt recip saw through some tough demo
I learned deck building from a production deck builder. While he could build decks quickly, he could have been even faster if he’d used more…
If you’re old enough, you remember nailing off decks with fistfuls of hot-dipped-galvanized sixteens. Your bags were loaded with pounds of nails, and your hammer…
‘Sawzall’ is one of those names that has become the de facto word describing an item made by lots of companies, namely the reciprocating saw….
If you’re old enough, you remember nailing off decks with fistfuls of hot-dipped-galvanized sixteens. Your bags were loaded with pounds of nails, and your hammer…
In 2004, after dominating the market for more than 70 years, wood treated with CCA (chromated copper arsenate) was withdrawn from residential use due to…
No matter how you slice it, installing effective, good-looking guardrails takes time. Cutting, plumbing, shimming, and fastening the numerous individual parts is not full-speed, turbo-charged…
We revved up 5 cordless reciprocating saws and found something for everyone—from power performers to stripped-down versions for beginners. In the grip of a strong-handed professional,…
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[…] Old House contributor Mark Clement shares a few tricks and tips on how to utilize the shoe of the saw to its utmost potential. The shoe is often adjustable, which allows greater access to different […]