The Helpful Hardware Guy Power tools are like superheroes for DIYers—strong, efficient, and a little bit dangerous if you don’t treat them right. Whether you’re tackling a weekend woodworking project or drilling holes for wall anchors, it’s easy to overlook some basic safety and handling rules. Let’s look at 10 common mistakes people make with power tools and how … Read more
If you’ve been a homeowner for any length of time, you know that stuff breaks, projects pile up, and sometimes you just want to build something cool for the house. That’s exactly where having the right power tools in your corner can make life way easier. With the right gear, you’ll be able to handle … Read more
If you’ve ever painted a wall but skipped the trim, you’ve probably noticed how much of a difference crisp, clean trim makes. Freshly painted baseboards, crown molding, and door casings add a pro finish to any room. Getting that sharp look isn’t as tricky as it seems. It takes the right prep, tools, and a … Read more
Understanding how power tool batteries work helps you get the most out of your drills, saws, and other cordless gear. If you’ve ever shopped for new battery packs, all the numbers, abbreviations, and types can leave you scratching your head. Choosing the right battery isn’t just about price or size. There’s a bit more going … Read more
Finding the right heavyduty anchor or wall plug can make all the difference between a longlasting installation and a loose shelf crashing to the floor. Whether I’m mounting a big TV, installing shelving, or hanging large mirrors, I always want to feel confident that what I’m hanging stays put. Wall anchors and plugs come in … Read more
Stripped screws and bolts are a pain for anyone who tackles DIY projects, repairs, or maintenance jobs around the house. One minute you’re breezing through a fix, and the next you’re stuck with a screw head that won’t budge. No matter how hard you turn the screwdriver, it seems welded in place. When the grooves … Read more
Pest control supplies are a big topic every season, especially if you want to handle bugs or critters around the house without calling in the pros. Walking through your local hardware store, you’ll spot all kinds of products stacked up for every pest problem you can imagine—from sprays for ants to live traps for mice … Read more
Choosing anchors for your walls might not sound like the most glamorous home project, but picking the right ones can be the difference between your shelves staying up or crashing down. I’ve seen wobbly picture frames, TV mounts that barely hang on, and curtain rods that just won’t quit pulling free—all because the wrong anchors … Read more
Fasteners like screws, bolts, nuts, and washers might seem simple at first, but there’s a whole lot more to choosing and installing them than picking out the first thing you spot at the hardware store. I’ve watched plenty of projects go sideways because of basic fastener mistakes. Using the wrong fastener or putting it in … Read more