Another great way to use duct tape

The fibers in duct tape provide a margin of protection when you’re making a cut. However, to make it easier to remove the duct tape can be difficult, put down a layer of painter’s tape first. The painter’s tape will insure all the tape comes up easily without damaging or removing the surface.

Our readers share their tips with us so we can pass them on to you, including another great way to use duct tape.

The fibers in the duct tape provide a margin of protection to the surrounding area in case you slip while making the cut or accidently cut beyond your work area. However, removing the duct tape can be difficult, so before placing the duct tape, put down a layer of painter’s tape.

The painter’s tape will insure all the duct tape comes up easily without damaging or removing the surface. –Submitted by Stu Goldberg, Stu’s Tile Plus, Sacramento, California

Closing caulk tubes

I have found a few solutions for keeping caulk tubes from drying out. The first one is foil HVAC tape, simply wrap it around and fold it over tightly.

The second is electrical twist connectors. They come in different sizes, and are usually floating around in my tool bag.
–Submitted by Rick Hein, Hein Design, Rockford, Illinois

Power cord tip

This helps me keep power cords from getting stuck when I drag them around the shop or jobsite. I simply cut an x on one side of a tennis ball and cut a section off the opposite side.

Then slide it over each end of the power cord – the x-cut goes first – so plug and outlet slip through. The ball’s shape allows it to slide easily over obstacles. –Submitted by Tom Poliziano, Johnson City, New York

Pre-drilling holes the easy way

When pre-drilling a hole for a finish nail, put a finish nail in your drill and use it as a pilot bit.

It gives you the perfect size hole for your nail and the head will still hold.

–Submitted by Benjamin Joseph, Joseph Home Improvement, Saint Clair Shores, Michigan