Expert Advice on Home Improvement

If you’ve ever wondered how long you need to wait before painting after repairing a wall, DAP DryDex Spackling Compound is for you. The spackling goes on pink but turns white to indicate that it’s dry and ready to sand and paint. Watch this video.

These Gecko Grip Levels from Black & Decker are available in 24” and 36” lengths. Both come with rubber pads that grip the wall without leaving marks. The 3’ level has sliding marking targets for easy alignment of multiple holes when hanging pictures. The 2’ version comes with a built-in torpedo level and stud finder. Gecko Grip Levels are available at The Home Depot stores. Watch this video.

Mold in your home can cause serious health problems, but the toxic chemicals used to combat it are often just as harmful. Concrobium Mold Control kills and prevents mold without dangerous chemicals. It’s odorless and contains no volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Concrobium Mold Control is available at The Home Depot. Watch this video.

The Handy Ladder Pail from Bercom holds over a gallon of paint or other liquids. A foldout metal bracket attaches securely to both step and extension ladders while the built-in magnet holds a paintbrush or putty knife when not in use. The Handy Pail is available at The Home Depot stores. Watch this video.

The Milwaukee cordless wet/dry vac resembles a toolbox, making it easy to carry and store. Models are available in either 18 or 28 volt and use NiCd or lithium ion batteries. Available at The Home Depot stores. Watch this video.

These auger style bits from Ridgid drill through wood up to six times faster than standard spade bits. The self-starting screw tip pulls the bit into the wood while the sharp spur and cutting surface power cleanly through the wood. Watch this video.

Windows are a great way to let light into a room, but they can also bring in unwanted heat and harmful UV rays from the sun. Gila Window Film is DIY friendly product that blocks UV rays and reduces solar heat gain. It comes in several tints and is available at The Home Depot stores. Watch this video.

Cork is made from the bark of a type of oak tree that grows primarily in Europe. The bark can be harvested every 8-10 years without harming the tree, making it a very environmentally friendly product. Watch this video.

This café style curtain rod from Levolor attaches to metal doors with magnets. This not only simplifies installation by eliminating the need for drilling holes in the door, but it allows you to remove the rod anytime you like in a matter of minutes without leaving unsightly holes. Watch this video.

It’s important to install safeguards on electrical outlets to keep inquisitive children from shocking themselves. While the most inexpensive method is to cover the outlet with plastic plug covers, they can be hard to remove. A more costly, but easier to use, alternative is to install Tamper Resistant Outlets. Watch this video.