H7

Al & Kelly Carrell

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Velcro is a super shop aid.

Put a piece on the back of your drill-bit box and the other half of the Velcro on your drill storage case. The bits will be super handy when you need them.

Put one half of another piece on your tape measure and the other on your ladder. Now you won't lose your tape when you set it down after measuring. Keep small hardware boxes right on your toolbox. You'll be able to keep it all together with just one small package of Velcro.

Dear Carrells: We have a custom-made foot scraper out at the family farm. Since we've been working around our yard at home, I've sure missed it, so I designed a simple one for the house, too. I used the two licence plates that I just switched out on the car and attached them to each other for extra strength. Then I attached them to the side of the deck next to the steps. It's the perfect spot to scrape off the mud before heading up to the back door.

-- R.P.

A SUPER HINT -- To save time on drywall repairs, make sure to smooth down the final coat with a sponge before it dries. If the top coat is smooth like the rest of the wall, then there will be much less sanding to do when it does dry. Then you can get to the painting.

Dear Al: When we had our roof inspected for damage, the man who did it found a clogged downspout on our guttering. I'm glad he spotted it, because I had no idea it wasn't working right. I went up on the roof and tried using a snake but couldn't break up the clog. Out of desperation, I stuffed the garden hose up into the downspout and turned the water on. That clog blasted out the top and rained down all over me. What a big mess. But the clog was out of the way, and in a short time, too!

-- K.T.

Q: I am getting ready to try tiling my bathroom. I have bought the tiles but am going to have to make some cuts to fit them in. What is the best method for cutting them, that will cost me the least and be the easiest to use?

-- L.R.

A: A tile-cutting saw or wet saw is the best and fastest way to cut tiles without wasting a lot. You can rent them from a tool rental store, and they don't cost much if you plan ahead. Get everything else down except for the cutting, and try to do it all in one day so you can return the tool quickly so the rental fee will be less.

A Tip From the Super HandyMom: When my favourite mud boots developed holes in the bottom, I was heartbroken. I finally found a new pair, but created a neat planter from the old ones. I put rocks in the bottom for extra drainage (the holes added even more) and then planted ivy in the boots. They sit on my back porch next to the door, and they are a real conversation piece!

SHOPTALK: Window insulation kits will help keep you warm this winter and save money on your heating bills. The crystal-clear window film easily installs with double-sided tape and shrinks to fit with your portable hair dryer. You end up with a very energy-efficient extra layer of insulation on your window that is completely see-through.

* Got a question or a tip? Visit www.thesuperhandyman.com. Those of general interest will be used in future columns.