STUFF WE LOVE
12 SEPTEMBER 2019 FAMILYHANDYMAN.COMBOTTOMRIGHT:^GENIEA BETTER
PRUNING BLADE
The next time your list of
chores includes branch trim-
ming, put a pruning blade in
your reciprocating saw and get
to work. A standard wood-cutting
or demo blade will get the job done, but
a pruning blade will work much faster. The
teeth are big and sharp and allow for fast
cuts through big sticks and logs.
Pruning blades aren’t limited to cutting
branches and logs; if you’re not worried
about splintering or a very rough-cut edge,
they’ll work fast on any wood material,
making them great for demolition as well.
This Diablo blade features carbide-tipped
teeth, which will stay sharp much longer
than those on standard pruning blades.
Pruning blades are made by
many manufacturers and
cost $2 to $9 each
at home centers.Peel-away protection
P
eel-Tek 150 is a liquid masking; you brush or roll it
on like paint and it forms a rubbery coating. It’s
used for painting and staining and other home
improvement projects, as well as for crafting.
It’s ideal for protecting surfaces that might get stained,
chipped or scuffed during demolition. Cover your sink or
tub ahead of renovating a bathroom, or roll it on a coun-
tertop before replacing your backsplash. It’s easy to apply
with just a brush or roller, and you can lay it on extra thick
for more protection. When you’re done with the job, peel
up the masking and the surface will be just how you left it.
Peel-Tek 150 is available in a quart for $30 and a gallon for
$80. To buy it and see all its uses, visit peel-tek.com.QUIET, SMART
GARAGE DOOR OPENER
Most garage door openers are loud and frankly,
not too bright. They’re difficult to install, can set
off your dogs, and it’s easy to forget to close them
when you drive away. The Genie SilentMax
Connect is one of many smart garage door sys-
tems that solve these problems. We found it easy
to install and program and were pleased by its
ultra-quiet operation. With Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
technology, it connects to your smartphone, allow-
ing you to open and close the door while you’re
away. It also integrates with Alexa and Google
Home for hands-free control, and doesn’t charge a
fee for linking with these smart devices. The
opener is available for $200 at homedepot.com.
JASON INGOLFSLAND, ASSOCIATE EDITOR