I can’t live without zip ties. They do it all: close bags, keep tools in place while I’m working, neaten up wires and cable. I’ve even used them to hang tools from my belt loops.” —Chip Wade, Elbow Room Commercial Electric 8-inch cable ties, $4.50 for a mixed set of 100, homedepot.com
When no amount of cleaning will turn dingy grout white, I recolor it. This formula comes in 20 shades and makes gross grout look brand-new. Plus, it seals at the same time.”
—Robert Criner, Criner Remodeling, Newport News, VA Aqua Mix grout colorant in antique white, $12.50 for 8 ounces, custombuildingproducts.com for stores
I’ve been a fan of this cleanser for years.
It’s gritty, but it won’t scratch and can lift off black scuff marks—like the kind left behind by tools—from bathtubs and sinks.” —Paul Sullivan, The Sullivan Company, Newton, MA
Zud Heavy Duty cleanser, $2.50 for 6 ounces, Ace Hardware stores
Brace yourself: This level will totally change how you hang mirrors and art. It sticks to the wall via vacuum suction and shoots a red laser line across it like you’re in a Tron movie. So cool!” —Jason Cameron, Sledgehammer Ryobi AirGrip Compact laser level, $20, homedepot.com
HGTV Magazine 25
