Tara

FixitUp Find: Pacific Laser Systems PLS2E Level

Small, fast and versatile are good traits on a jobsite, and tools exhibiting them are typically good news for builders. Pacific Laser Systems PLS2E is…

FixitUp Find: Porter-Cable Saw Boss Model 345

Porter-Cable’s 6-inch Saw Boss Model 345 is a unique cutting platform. The 6-inch diameter blade is smaller (obviously) than the standard 7-1/4-inch size, but provides…

FixitUp Find: Superior Walls Precast Foundations

Superior Walls’ R-5 and Xi foundation systems pass my “Born on the Jobsite” test. The system was developed by New Holland, Pa., builder Mel Zimmerman…

FixitUp Find: Dow Weathermate Sill Pan

The hallmark of what building scientists call a water-managed wall system is that it does two things: First, it recognizes that all wall systems leak….

FixitUp Find: J. Aaron Cast Stone Countertops

Countertops are a total focal point in a kitchen. They tell the designer’s story, and the story of the people who will live in and…

FixitUp Find: Worx 10-inch Compound Miter Saw

I haven’t used a fixed-head 10-inch miter saw for about six years. The reason: after my last one wore out, I got a 10-inch slide…

FixitUp Find: Chelsea Decorative Metal Ceiling Tiles

When I walk into an old building, I look for a vintage “tin” ceiling, one richly detailed with patterns, filigree and style and tied into…

FixitUp Find: Bertch Doors

I love the modern materials that go into doors theses days — everything from MDF to fiberglass — but there’s still nothing like the look,…

Hot Flash: Duluth Trading Co. Shake Light

Okay, I know this “tool” review is about a flashlight, but this is a flashlight worth writing about. Honest. When I got the unit—it’s called…

An Energy-Saving Hybrid: the Stiletto Saw

If you’re one of those carpenters who has to think about where your hand saw is—if you even have one—you’re not alone. But well through…

FixitUp Find: Dewalt DW718 Dual-Bevel Miter Saw

I’m gonna spill the beans (and mix metaphors) right out of the gate: DeWalt’s 12-inch dual bevel slide compound DW718 is the best miter saw…

FixitUp Find: Bosch 1677MD Worm Drive Saw

I’m an East Coast guy. Knowing that, the basic tool-nut might infer that I came up using a sidewinder circular saw — that light, right-blade,…