Tool School: Framing Nailer

by Bruno Bornsztein Oct 26, 2018

This week on Tool School, I'm trying out the new Dewalt cordless framing nailer. It's the most powerful cordless nailer they've ever built, so I'm excited to see how it works!

Dewalt cordless framing nailer - 20-volt lithium ion battery - 21-degree — This post is sponsored by the Home Depot

You know you're pushing the limits of what you might call "DIY" when your project requires a nail gun. For most jobs, a hammer and a bag of nails will suffice. But if you're framing an addition, building a deck, or putting up a fence, you'll probably want to reach for a framing nailer. These beasts are heavy, tough, powerful, and (slightly) dangerous. But when you need one, you'll know it, and you'll be glad it's there.

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An Unloved Utility Closet Finally Gets the Organization It Deserves

by M.E. Gray Sep 27, 2018

Utility closet makeover — This post is sponsored by the Home Depot

We're lucky enough here at Curbly to have a dedicated office space to work from. Nestled just along the divide between Minneapolis and Saint Paul, our airy studio has hosted many meetings, photo shoots, popups, and has even has doubled as an art gallery for second graders. When Curbly HQ first moved into the building in 2016, the entire space was renovated, from new flooring and lighting to a fresh paint job. Every corner of the studio was considered... well, almost every corner. Our small utility closet has remained untouched until now, and boy oh boy, has it been in need of some TLC.

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Tool School: Meet the Rigid MEGAMax Interchangeable Tool System

by Bruno Bornsztein Sep 14, 2018

Tool School: Rigid MEGAMax — This post is sponsored by the Home Depot

The Rigid MEGAMax is a hulking monster-tool. It's the Optimus Prime of home improvement. If they ever make a movie about power tools coming to life and taking over the world, forcing us DIYers to labor at the thankless tasks they've plied for so long, well, then this tool will be their leader.

The MEGAMax is a really powerful interchangeable tool system just introduced by RIGID. The Powerbase includes an 18V brushless motor and can automatically identify which tool head you've attached (and adjust battery/motor output accordingly). I tried two of the attachments, the Reciprocating Saw Head and the 1/2 in. Right Angle Drill Head, and I can tell you that I don't think I've ever used a more powerful handheld tool (corded or not) in my life. Here's what I found ...

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Curbly Original
Make It! A DIY Tabletop Phone Stand with Personality

by Holly Wade Aug 17, 2018

Since I'm a self-diagnosed lazy person, I'll admit it's really nice to look at things on my phone without having to pick it up. It's just soooo much work, after all! To prop up your phone while you work, sleep or browse, it's nice to have a phone stand, but it's better to have one with a bit of personality. This bright pink acrylic project definitely stands out as a modest but bright, statement-making DIY phone stand, and you can use any colored acrylic or plexiglass to make your own that fits your phone!

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Tool School: Why an Impact Driver is So Freakin' Awesome

by Bruno Bornsztein May 30, 2018

RIDGID 18-v impact driver — This post is sponsored by The Home Depot

Today we're checking out the RIDGID 18-Volt Impact Driver, which you can buy alongside a cordless drill in a combo kit for $179 at The Home Depot. I've built up a lot of trust for the Ridgid brand over the years. In fact, my very first (ever) impact driver was a Ridgid (the great-grandaddy of this model). But beyond that, I've owned several of their products, including a circular saw (indestructible) and a wet/dry vacuum (unbelievably versatile).

So I was excited to get this combo kit in the mail last week, because I feel a guy can't ever have too many impact drivers. Sure, having the drill is nice too, but to be honest, I only reach for a normal drill in rare occasions. The impact driver is just so much more versatile and useful, not to mention light and maneuverable.

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Why Having More Than One Tool Bag Will Make You More Efficient

by Bruno Bornsztein Jan 19, 2018

How to keep your tools organized by having different tool bags for different jobs — This post is sponsored by The Home Depot

The most important factor in completing home improvement projects is having the right tool for the job. It's that simple. Home improvement isn't rocket science, and when you're unable to complete a task, it's usually not because you aren't smart or skilled enough. It's because you don't have that tool that does that thing you need in order to finish the job!

Stay organized by utilizing more than one tool bag

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Product Review: Nextec 12-Volt Right Angle Impact Driver

by DIY Maven Sep 29, 2010

Recently, I had the opportunity to take Craftsman's new Nextec 12 volt lithium-ion right angle impact driver, for a test drive. I had seen television adverts for the Nextec Hammerhead Auto Hammer and it had piqued my interest, so when the impact driver showed up on my doorstep, I wasted no time in giving it the Maven once-over.

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Ready to Commit: Busting Up Your Ugly Ceramic Floor Tile

by Mod Home Ec Teacher Jun 07, 2010

You may remember a post I did here on Curbly about painting the mauve ceramic tiles in our front hall. I stand by that project. However, painting the ceramic tiles in our master bathroom doesn't strike me as wise way to do away with that look.