Best Hack or Right Tools For the Job

[Joe Splitrock]

I have learned that having the right tools can not only save you time, but you can do things you thought were impossible. When I say tools, I am broadly including processes, chemicals, machines, etc. What are some game changers you found at solving problems?

Here is ten of my favorites in no particular order: 

1. Ozone machine for smoke or other odors.

2. Foam post set for replacing mailbox or fence posts. Pour the foam in the hole, wait five minutes and done - no more cement.

3. Shower drain top retrofit. I had the drain part in a shower that joins to the pipe rust out. I was told the shower needed to be removed to replace. I found a $25 top mount retrofit part that saved me over a thousand dollars.

4. Lithium batteries on power tools. I upgraded all my tools to these batteries and they are lighter, charge faster and hold more charge.

5. PEX plumbing pipes. No more soldering and even a guy like me can do plumbing now. 

6. Finding the right cleaning chemicals for the job. Degreaser for grease, CLR for calcium or rust, TSP for cleaning walls,

7. Odor blocking primer for pee on sub floor. When changing carpet after pet damage, odor block any stains with primer. It will seal the smell in and leave the place smelling fresh.

8. Kwikset smart key for rekeying a lock in less than one minute. No more changing locks. I can change the key to a "showing" key and rekey to a fresh key right before someone moves in. Need extra keys? Lowes has a bucket of scrap keys and gave me a handful for free. I never have to worry who has a key.

9. High quality Sherwin Williams paint. Yes it costs way more, but it covers anything. One coat, thick so it doesn't drip. Durable so you can clean it. Easy to color match. Call ahead pickup or free delivery. 

10. Learning that time is the most expensive thing. If I can buy a tool for $20 to save me 30 minutes, it is a no brainier. I can expense the tools. My goal is to do more in less time.