The Home Depot Tool Savings Event Is Here—Just In Time for Spring Projects

Spring’s almost here! Time to shake off the winter blues and get your toolbox ready for all those home and yard projects. If your tools are looking a little tired, The Home Depot has you covered.

The Home Depot Tool Savings Event is going on now, so you can score deals on the gear you need to tackle every DIY dream. Plus, snag free batteries, handheld tools and even jobsite speakers while you’re at it.

We’ve rounded up some of our favorite buys so you can shop smarter and save big.

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The Home Depot Tool Savings Event

Did someone say free tools? This savings event is too good to miss!

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What is The Home Depot’s Tool Savings event?

The Home Depot Tool Savings Event offers huge deals on top brands like Milwaukee, DeWalt and Ryobi. You can score free batteries, buy-one-get-one offers and big discounts on power tools, outdoor gear and tool storage.

Historically, this is one of the best times to snag savings on the brands you trust. We highly recommend stocking up now if there’s a new tool you have your eye on.

Our Top Picks

Not sure where to start? These tools—handpicked by Family Handyman editors—are a great choice.

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Milwaukee M12 Brushless Cordless Extended Reach Box Ratchet

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Deal: Free battery pack with purchase

Built for auto techs, mechanics and HVAC pros, the M12 Extended Reach Box Ratchet is Milwaukee’s newest addition to its ratcheting lineup—reimagined for better access and versatility. This low-profile problem solver is designed for extra-tight spaces. Drop sockets and adapters straight in to reach deep into engine bays, behind equipment or anywhere a standard ratchet won’t fit.

The extended neck saves your knuckles, while the brushless motor delivers the muscle. Expect maximum power and longer life, plus dual LEDs that illuminate the work area. The on-board fuel gauge keeps runtime in check.

When space is tight and speed matters, this tool gets the job done. For a limited time, add a Milwaukee M12 12-Volt Battery Pack free with the purchase of the box ratchet set.

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Milwaukee M12 12V Cordless Compact Band Saw

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Deal: Free battery pack with purchase

You can also grab a free Milwaukee M12 12-Volt Battery Pack when you pick up this Compact Band Saw—lightweight, cordless, and fully compatible with the M12 system.

Powered by a brushless motor with technology that maintains consistent tool speed, it delivers fast cuts with a 2-1/2 x 2-1/2-inch capacity. Weighing just 6 pounds, it’s the lightest compact band saw on the market, built for easy one-handed use with integrated blade covers.

This tool is built tough with impact-resistant composite housing and crush zone protection to handle drops and jobsite hits. The variable speed trigger gives you precise control, the LED lights your cut line, and the integrated rafter hook keeps it right where you need it between cuts.

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Milwaukee M18 18V High Torque Impact Wrench

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Deal: Free with qualifying purchase

Tightening lag bolts, anchoring shelves and securing posts just got easier. The Milwaukee High Torque Impact Wrench delivers cord-free power for faster driving and jobsite productivity. Its brushless motor handles lag bolts and concrete anchors, the 1/2-inch friction-ring anvil makes socket swaps a snap, while the onboard LED lights the way.

Score this guy free when you purchase a main Milwaukee tool, like the M18 18V Cordless Combo Kit.

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Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless Grinder

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Deal: Free with qualifying purchase

Spruce up your garden furniture this spring! Strip paint and rust, smooth welds and tame rough edges on metal tables, chairs and more.

The Milwaukee M18 Cut-Off Grinder packs serious power in a compact, lightweight package. Its 11,000-RPM brushless motor tackles cutting and surfacing with ease—up to 80 cuts in 1/2-inch rebar—while the 4.6-pound body keeps it easy to handle.

Safety and durability come standard with an electronic clutch for kickback and overload protection. Plus, it includes a rugged all-metal gear case and tool-free guard adjustments for fast, hassle-free setup. Fully compatible with common grinder accessories, this tool delivers control, comfort and performance every time.

You’ll get this grinder free when you pick up a new Milwaukee M18 18V Battery and Charger.

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Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless Circular Saw

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Deal: Free with qualifying purchase

If you’re set on the grinder front, this Circular Saw is another freebie option when you buy the Milwaukee M18 18V Battery and Charger.

Get ready to jump into DIY season with the Milwaukee M18 Circular Saw. Build shelves, cut trim, frame a fence, or tackle a flooring project—this saw slices through tough jobs with ease.

It powers through LVL headers while rugged magnesium guards protect the blade. The soft-grip handle keeps you comfortable and in control, and the lightweight aluminum shoe ensures smooth, precise rip cuts on every project.

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Ryobi USB Lithium Rotary Tool Kit

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Deal: Free battery with purchase

The Ryobi USB Lithium Rotary Tool is your pocket-sized DIY powerhouse. Carve, sand, polish or detail wood, metal and miniatures with precision, switching bits in seconds with the quick-change collet. The USB-C battery powers the tool and charges your devices, with an LED gauge to track runtime.

Small, versatile and part of the RYOBI USB Lithium System. This little tool is your key to finishing all those crafts, hobbies and other mini projects around the house.

Just don’t forget to select a Ryobi USB Rechargeable Battery to go with it—for free!

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Ryobi USB Screwdriver Kit

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Deal: Free battery with purchase

You can also add a free Ryobi USB Rechargeable Battery to your cart with the purchase of this Ryobi USB Screwdriver Kit.

The Ryobi USB Screwdriver makes light-duty jobs a breeze. The pivoting head reaches tight corners. Plus, on-board bit storage keeps your bits handy while dual LEDs keep things lit for precise work. It’s perfect for assembling furniture, installing hardware and tackling decor projects.

The USB-C battery powers the tool and charges your devices, making this compact, versatile screwdriver a go-to for small tasks.

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Milwaukee M18 18V Cordless Jobsite Radio

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Deal: Free with qualifying purchase

The M18 Bluetooth Jobsite Radio is yours free when you buy the M18 18V Cordless Combo Kit.

Whether you’re listening to Chris Stapleton or Metallica, the Bluetooth jobsite radio delivers clear, balanced sound with dual woofers and high-range tweeters. Stay connected up to 120 feet, tune AM/FM stations with 18 presets and enjoy up to 13 hours of max-volume playback on an M18 battery.

Built tough for the jobsite, its metal grille resists water, dust and hard impacts. Charge your devices via USB-C and power the speaker with any M18 battery or the included AC adapter for total versatility.

How to Shop

Head to The Home Depot now and give your toolbox a spring refresh during the Tool Savings Event! Browse by brand, deal or tool type to find exactly what you need this season.

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How Much Drivers Pay for Auto Insurance in Every State

Wondering what the average auto insurance cost is in your state? Or questioning how your state compares to the rest of the country? Bankrate did a study recently, gathering the prices as well as some insights into the reasoning behind the price differences.

If you’re planning on moving in the near future, this information might help you decide on a location, or at least budget if it turns out your new home is in a more expensive state.

Factors That Can Impact Your Rates

Several variables go into calculating your auto insurance rate. Bankrate says location accounts for most of these factors. According to their report, “an insurer might consider road conditions, the number of licensed drivers, uninsured driver statistics, traffic density and the cost of living as it relates to repair and labor costs when calculating your rate.”

There are climate, historic, and legal factors as well. Bankrate says that “other considerations include factors like weather conditions, local claims history and state laws that specify the minimum insurance drivers are required to carry.” The company looked at the average rates for both full coverage and minimum coverage to give readers a clearer picture of the cost to insure a car in each state.

Cheapest Car Insurance

Bankrate lists out the full coverage averages by their annual costs, but breaks down the minimum coverage costs by month as well.

Full Coverage

The five cheapest states to insure your car with full coverage are:

• Idaho at $1476/year
• Vermont at $1610/year
• Maine at $1687/year
• New Hampshire at $1694/year
• Indiana at $1709/year

Minimum coverage

The five cheapest states to insure your car with the minimum coverage are:

• Wyoming at $22/month or $265/year
• Iowa at $28/month or $335/year
• Vermont at $29/month or $351/year
• South Dakota at $31/month or $374/year
• North Dakota at $33/month or $397/7ear

Most Expensive Car Insurance

Full coverage car insurance will cost you more than the minimum, but it may save you money should you end up in an accident. When looking at the average auto insurance costs in the most expensive states, that difference is usually around $3000/year.

Full Coverage

The five most expensive states to insure your car with full coverage are:

• Louisiana at $4135/year
• New York at $4090/year
• Florida at $3884/year
• Nevada at $3568/year
• New Jersey at $3254/year

Minimum coverage

The five most expensive states to insure your car with minimum coverage are:

• New York at $148/month or $1773/year
• New Jersey at $118/month or $1413/year
• Maryland at $92/month or $1101/year
• Louisiana at $91/month or $1087/year
• Connecticut at $91/month or $1089/year

Source

Car Insurance Rates by State for February 2026, Bankrate, 2026.

RELATED:

• Do You Know What That Little Button on Your Seat Belt Is For?
• What Those Lines on Your Backup Camera Really Tell You
• Here’s What The Small Panel On Your Car’s Front Bumper Is For

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The Digital Survival Guide to Staying Online During a Blackout

Many of us aren’t willing to live without the internet for long, so that means you’ll need to plan ahead to stay online during power outages. According to J.D. Power’s 2025 utilities report, 45 percent of U.S. homes experienced power outages in the first half of the year, rendering lights, appliances and, yes, Wi-Fi routers inoperable.

While most outages are short, longer ones are becoming more common, making planning ahead even more important. Good news: there are backup internet options available. Read on to learn more, with insights from J.P. Blackwood of the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel and Nate Sumner, home internet and technology expert.

See What Still Works

Determine if a fuse has blown or if it’s a total outage. Flip lights on and off in several rooms, then check for tripped breakers in the breaker box. If nothing is working and all breakers are in place, you’ve lost electricity as part of a larger outage. If you still have cell phone internet service, it’s likely your local cell towers are not affected.

Use Your Smartphone as a Hotspot

For short power outages, keep tablets or laptops online using your cell phone’s hotspot. This shortens battery life, but “you could opt for a small DC backup battery to keep your phones charged during an extended outage,” Sumner says.

Backup Power Options

For longer power outages, use backup power options to keep your home online.

Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)

A UPS prevents the abrupt shutdown of connected electrical devices by activating its battery power within milliseconds of a power outage. For residential use, opt for a small standby model. “This is the most common option, but it does need to power up at least your modem and wifi gateway or router,” Sumner says.

Portable power stations

Charge portable power stations before an outage to charge devices and power routers. ”I have a 150 Watt portable power station with AC outlets, DC ports and USB ports,” Blackwood says. “It could power a router or modem for many hours.” Some portable power stations also come with solar panels to recharge during extended outages.

Generators

Generators provide long-term power to either part or all of your home during an outage. Gas generators require gasoline to run, while solar battery units rely on the sun. Sumner recommends Jackery for those interested in solar battery generator systems. Run gas generators outside and away from your house to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, Blackwood says.

Power inverters

Transform your car battery’s DC power to AC with a power inverter. Connect it to the battery, turn on the engine, then run extension cords to power your router or modem. Inverters can also run lamps, a TV or a refrigerator, depending on its capacity. “I use an inverter to power electronic items when camping,” Blackwood says. “It’s very simple to use.”

Never leave a car running in a garage, as this can also pose the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning.

Home Internet Backup Options

Xfinity and Cox include a battery-powered Wi-Fi extender in some of their home internet plans. This device detects when your internet service is disrupted and switches to cellular internet. It comes with a four-hour battery life to easily ride out short power outages. The Ring Alarm Pro from Amazon also comes with a power pack that provides eight hours of cellular internet service in the event of an outage.

How To Prep For an Outage

“It comes down to thinking ahead and being safe,” Blackwood says. Fully charge all phones, tablets, computers and portable power stations. Fill generators with gas, and consider securing extra fuel. Fill up your car’s gas tank to charge devices or run an inverter. Additionally, Blackwood recommends having a plan to keep medical equipment running during an outage.

FAQ

Will fiber or cable internet still work without power?

“It depends,” Sumner says. “Fiber and cable internet travel over different cables than power lines but often run on the same telephone poles or underground paths.” If the outage is caused by a transformer or distant power grid infrastructure, internet service will continue uninterrupted. “However, if the internet and power lines are taken down by a fallen tree, cable and fiber service would be out until a repair is made.

How long will cell towers stay online during a power outage?

Most (but not all) cellphone towers have backup batteries that last 4 to 8 hours and generators that run for 24 to 72 hours. However, there is no current federal regulation or enforcement of these policies.

About the Experts

• J.P. Blackwood is Legislative and Public Affairs Liaison for the Ohio Consumers’ Counsel, a state agency that represents consumers’ rights for utilities.
• Nate Sumner is an engineer and host of the Nater Tater channel on YouTube, where he shares content about smart home tech, 5G home internet and lifestyle projects on his 47-acre property.

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Want To Live Like An Olympian? Shaun White’s Former Mansion Back On the Market

If you asked someone to name winter Olympic athletes, it wouldn’t take them long to get to Shaun White. After years of winning medals and shredding slopes with his signature shaggy red hair, White has stepped back into the public spotlight as a commentator for the 2026 Winter Games. But that’s not the only reason his name is in the news.

According to the Robb Report, a massive property White recently sold to a Louis Vuitton executive is back up for sale. The current owner is listing it after owning it for just two years and giving the property a complete makeover. Now, the Los Angeles mid-century modern property is going for $5 million.

If you’re a fan of the Olympics and celebrity real estate, check out the details below.

What Are the Basic Specs?

The 2000 sq. ft home sits on a third of an acre and has three bedrooms, two bathrooms. The Robb Report describes the single-level interior as featuring “dark slate floors, walnut cabinetry, vintage lighting, and custom furnishings.”

When it comes to parking, the property offers a two-car garage complete with a Tesla charger as well as “a petite driveway with parking for three additional vehicles.” The property also boasts a privacy wall and “a gated walkway [which] passes by dense foliage on its way to the front door.” The grounds also feature a swimming pool, a flagstone terrace, and “a fire pit lounge area alongside a dining banquette.”

What Does Shaun White’s Mansion Look Like Now?

Per the Robb Report, the Louis Vuitton executive who bought the property from White put a lot of work into it “in collaboration with Studio Veren.” He’s spent the last two years restoring the property, aiming to make it look more like it did when it was built in 1955.

The home now has a new roof, windows, a re-done brick exterior, and the interior is now primarily dark and moody, a contrast to the coastal white interior and exterior that the house sported when White owned it, according to Mansions Global.

The publication reports the current owner  “added wood built-ins that look as if they could be original to the home, plus a slat wood partition to the open-plan living room.” He also “put in new slate floors, windows, a roof and custom walnut cabinetry…[and[ replaced the cinder block exterior with brick.”

If you’re someone who loves grand views, you’ll be entranced by the glass walls that make up much of the main space. Mansions Global claims that they “[blur] the line between the indoors and the outdoors” by showcasing views of downtown Los Angeles.

Sources

Shaun White’s Former Midcentury Hideaway in the Hollywood Hills Lists for $5 Million, Robb Report, 2026.

Olympic Gold Medalist Shaun White’s Former L.A. Home Hits the Market Fresh off a Redesign, Mansion Global, 2026.

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Dollar Store Cleaning Product Dupes That Actually Work

LA’s Totally Awesome All-Purpose Cleaner

Comparable to: Simple Green, Krud Cutter

The top dollar store cleaning product recommended by our experts is this concentrated, surfactant-based, degreasing cleaner. Use it on trash cans, baseboard trim, backsplashes, outdoor furniture, grills, workshop tools and more.

“This is the dollar store legend that professionals quietly stock up on,” says master plumber Steven Morgan. “I keep a spray bottle of it, diluted 3:1, in my service van. At full strength, it’ll lift twenty years of baked-on oil from a furnace blower housing.”

Available at most dollar store franchises.

Multi-Purpose Cleaning Paste

Comparable to: The Pink Stuff

The mild abrasives and surfactants in this generic paste are ideal for cleaning stubborn areas, like burnt-on food from oven doors, gunk from sink basins, soap scum and residue on walls. Since it’s a paste, it clings to vertical surfaces, plus is generally safe for most finishes, says professional cleaner Isabella. Just avoid it on high-gloss acrylic tubs, non-stick cookware and any delicate metals.

“Opt for this when you want a major-power, non-liquid scrub that leaves behind a polished, streak-free finish,” says real estate expert Mary Sullivan.

Available at Dollar Tree.

Brillo Basics Dishwashing Soap Spray

Comparable to: Dawn Powerwash

This cleaner’s foamy lather is made for ridding grease from pots and pans, even when it’s baked on. “Bring it out for fast cleanups, when you don’t want to soak,” says Sullivan. “It works as a pretty solid substitute because the surfactant’s force is strong enough to break up oils in one swipe and rinse.”

Pro-tip: it can also be used as a pre-treatment for stains on kitchen linens, says Flores.

Available at Dollar Tree. Similar product: True Living Diamond Foaming Spray, at Dollar General.

Chase’s Home Value Lemon Cream Furniture Polish

Comparable to: Pledge Furniture Polish

For dusting and polishing wooden tables, cabinets and similar surfaces, this spray gives the same high-gloss shine as Pledge. “It easily picks up dust, while depositing a residue that acts as a barrier and smells of oranges,” says Sullivan. “It’s a good alternative, as it gives us a nice shine that isn’t greasy or sticky.”

Available at Dollar Tree.

Pumice Stone Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Comparable to: brand-name pumice stone products

Dollar stores sell various versions of these porous volcanic stone cleaning products, usually for around $1. They’re essential for removing stubborn mineral rings and calcium deposits that acid-based bowl cleaners won’t touch. Just wet the stone and gently rub the stain. “It’s physically abrasive enough to grind down hard water scale, but softer than porcelain, so it won’t scratch,” says Morgan. “I’ve rescued antique fixtures with these that were destined for replacement.”

Available at most dollar store franchises.

The Works Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Comparable to: Scrubbing Bubbles

The highly concentrated cleaning agents in this toilet bowl cleaner remove tough scaling from heavily soiled bathrooms more quickly than most expensive and diluted gel cleaners, says Sullivan. “This powerful solution is a force against rust and hard water build up,” she says. “It’ll even beat brand-name cleaners in the fight against mineral-heavy deposits.”

Available at Dollar Tree, Family Dollar.

Oxydol Laundry Pre-Wash Stain Remover

Comparable to: OxiClean

“Off-brand oxygen cleaners are stellar dupes,” says Beatty. “These are great for soaking your dirty gym clothes or grouting.” Flores also recommends generic cleaners like Oxydol for soaking stained dish towels, cleaning white loads in the washer and sprucing up outdoor cushions.

Their secret ingredient is sodium percarbonate, which helps brighten fabrics and get rid of organic stains. Before using it, test for color fastness— and never combine it with chlorine bleach.

Available at Dollar Tree.

Melamine Foam Sponges

Comparable to: Magic Eraser

“Our favorite dollar store cleaning product substitute by far and away is melamine foam sponges,” says cleaning expert Adriana Aziz. “They’re perfect for removing stains from walls, especially for our move-out cleans.”

Off-brand melamine foam sponges are often just $0.20 or $0.30 compared with $1 to $1.50 for the name brands. “And there is no difference between the two products apart from marketing gimmicks,” says Aziz.

Available at most dollar stores.

White Vinegar

Comparable to: Heinz white vinegar

Instead of buying branded cleaning vinegars, health care expert Kyle Sobko likes the dollar store generics. Just look for ones that contain 5% acetic acid, which is the active ingredient that kills bacteria and cuts through mineral deposits.

“I pay $1 for a gallon of white vinegar at Dollar Tree vs. $4.50 for a smaller bottle of a name brand at the grocery store, and they work exactly the same for cleaning glass and removing hard water stains,” he says.

Available at most dollar stores.

Other Cleaning Accessories

Dollar stores excel with deals on plastic cleaning caddies, spray bottles and small bins. “Saving money makes sense on these functional organizational tools,” says Flores. “Their scrubbing sponges and small scrub brushes also work as effectively as the expensive versions.”

Flores also recommends buying microfiber cloths from dollar stores. “They’re as effective as expensive counterparts for dusting, glass, countertops and bathroom fixtures,” she says.

FAQ

How are dollar store cleaning products so cheap?

In general, dollar store products are less expensive because the manufacturers devote minimal money to advertising, plus use less-expensive and lighter-weight packaging. For cleaning products specifically, they also save money by selling smaller portions and using more basic chemical formulas.

“They strip away premium fragrances and sleek packaging to keep costs down, using simple, effective chemistry so you can stay fresh without emptying your wallet,” says Beatty.

Does a cleaning product being cheap mean it’s low quality?

Not necessarily. Some contain the same active ingredients as brand names, which means they offer similar effectiveness. But sometimes they are less concentrated, which means you need to use more for name-brand results.

“In addition, other cheaper ingredients are used in their composition, which does not always mean lower quality, just a different formula,” says cleaning expert Justin Carpenter. “They are ideal for large homes with high consumption.”

Flores also gives this safety note: Avoid heavily scented products and choose those with the simplest ingredient list. “Some dollar store goods may contain chemicals of concern,” she says. “‘Green,’ ‘natural’ or ‘eco-friendly’ does not automatically make a product safer.”

About the Experts

• Isabella Flores is a professional cleaning expert and organizer at Sparkly Maid San Diego.
• Adriana Aziz is operations manager at MaidForYou.
• Shannon Beatty is a home renovator and founder of House Buying Girls in Texas.
• Steven Morgan is a master plumber from 24hr.supply, an online supplier.
• Kyle Sobko is CEO and founder of SonderCare hospital beds for home healthcare.
• Justin Carpenter is a residential house-cleaning and home-care expert, and owner of Modern Maids, which operates across several major cities.
• Mary Sullivan is founder of Company That Buys Houses in Fort Worth, Texas.

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The Legal Gray Areas Around Using Screens While Driving Explained

Screens are unavoidable, even in your car. If you drive a vehicle built in the last decade, odds are a touchscreen sits in the center of the dashboard. In fact, backup camera screens are required in newer vehicles due to their safety benefits.

Rear-seat streaming has become widely available in family vehicles, too, and many drivers have opted for mounted dashcams. And that’s just the built-in devices, as mobile technology like cell phones, tablets, and gaming systems are also a distraction.

As in-car screens become the norm, drivers find themselves confused about what they can (and can’t) do. Learn how U.S. federal driving standards and state laws approach in-car video screens, and what you should know to be a safe and law-abiding driver.

Federal Safety Standards And State Laws

Driving laws vary by state. However, there are federal safety standards that do give a solid understanding about what is and isn’t allowed while on the road.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and other government agencies focus on vehicle manufacturing rather than driver conduct. These standards require automakers to design systems that limit certain features when a vehicle is in motion. So if you’re driving a non-modified vehicle, you can safely assume your ride is up to code.

Most factory-installed front screens block video playback once the vehicle shifts out of park. Drivers can still access navigation maps, climate controls, and audio functions. Manufacturers program these systems to reduce visual distraction, and dealerships generally do not disable those restrictions.

Rear-seat entertainment systems are a non-issue because they are only visible to passengers, not to the driver. However, volume could be a distraction, so it’s important that the media does not impose on the driver.

Smartphones And Streaming Content

This is pretty straightforward: drivers operating motor vehicles can’t watch videos on a smartphone while driving in any state. This is universal. In addition, all states prohibit texting while driving, and most have limitations regarding handheld phone use. Wording might differ slightly from state to state, but the rules are generally similar.

Platforms such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto restrict video apps while the vehicle is in motion. These systems allow calls, messaging functions, music, and navigation, but they block entertainment video playback.

Don’t think you can outsmart the law by mounting a phone to the dashboard. This does not change the legal standard as if the device displays entertainment content within the driver’s line of sight it likely violates state law.

How about if a passenger in the front seat is watching something? This is where things get a little more nuanced. Several states, including California, have clear laws allowing this.

“Yes, passengers sitting up front can legally watch a video on their phone or another device while the vehicle is in motion,” says Edward Susolik, CEO, Senior Partner & Personal Injury Attorney at Callahan & Blaine. “California only restricts drivers from holding or operating devices, though the key here is that just because your front passenger is watching something while you drive doesn’t mean you get that same privilege.”

Local and state vehicle codes determine what drivers can legally view while operating a motored vehicle. For instance, some have restrictions on dashboard-mounted tablets and aftermarket DVD players installed in the front cabin. Conversely, some states have broad distracted driving statutes instead of specific video screen bans due to the complicated issue.

The Governors Highway Safety Association (GHSA) tracks and summarizes distracted driving laws. Because rules vary by state, and are updated periodically, it’s important familiarize yourself with your own state’s vehicle code to ensure you remain compliant and avoid costly citations.

“Some states let you have front-seat video displays only if they’re positioned in a way that only the passenger can view them,” says Susolik. “Other states are far stricter and won’t allow any video displays in the front of the vehicle. There are also wide differences between states in windshield mounting restrictions. Every state has its own enforcement and penalties regarding device use and placement, and every driver should know what the rules are in their state or any state they plan on driving through. Claiming you didn’t know won’t matter, especially if you cause an accident.”

Special Situations, Exceptions and Compliance Guidelines

Certain vehicles are exempt from traditional legal limitations. Commercial drivers, rideshare operators (like taxis, Lyfts, and Ubers), and delivery drivers follow the same basic screen restrictions as other motorists but may be allowed a mounted device used for dispatching or navigation. If you fall into one of those categories, check with your employer’s resources department to ensure your setup follows local and federal laws.

Law enforcement and emergency responder vehicles are equipped with front-facing video equipment, as those are used for official duties.

Things get a little more complicated about using entertainment devices while parked. Some states may allow using entertainment devices while the vehicle is shifted into park. However it’s important to check all local ordinances first.

While in-car technology continues to expand, so will the laws that govern them. Understanding how federal standards and state laws address in-car screens allows motorists to make informed decisions and stay within the law.

      Sources

• Edward Susolik, CEO, Senior Partner & Trial Attorney at Callahan & Blaine, expert in distracted driving and road safety cases.
  

  Resources

• National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, “Visual-Manual NHTSA Driver Distraction Guidelines”
• Governors Highway Safety Association, “Distracted Driving Laws”
• National Conference Of State Legislatures, “Cell Phone Use And Texting While Driving Laws”

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12 Genius Ways to Use Plywood That You Never Thought of Before

Protect Your Lawn

When entertaining in your yard, put 3/4” plywood sheets under heavy items like tents and food stations. “It will distribute weight evenly, rather in small, specific areas,” says lawn expert Steve Corcoran. “This helps prevent holes or ruined small patches of grass.”

When it’s muddy, you can also use plywood for temporary walkways. “Plywood sheets have enough surface area that they will not sink into the ground,” says home improvement expert Bruno Mendolini.

• Safety tip: Sprinkle sand or add wood cleats on top for traction.

Give Your Seedlings A Boost

Create sturdy seed-starter carts with wheels, so you can roll them toward sunny windows.“Watching those tiny seedlings sprout while it’s still cold outside is incredibly motivating and gets you ahead on gardening,” says Goranson.

• Pro-tips: Try tomatoes, peppers, herbs or flowers, and “opt for birch plywood for a smooth, attractive finish that takes paint or stain beautifully to match your home decor,” says Goranson.

Organize the Mudroom

Build custom entryway storage for wet boots, coats and other gear. “Ditch the soggy floors and welcome spring with a tidy, inviting entryway that makes coming home feel great,” says Goranson.

• Pro-tips: Before your final assembly, apply multiple coats of polyurethane sealant to prevent warping or molding. For extra protection, place a rubber liner inside the boot area, and don’t forget to anchor the assembly so it doesn’t pose a safety hazard.

Create Art

Plywood makes an excellent medium for projects like paintings and abstract sculptures. “I’ve seen some interesting wall art made from leftover plywood from other home improvement projects,” says home painting expert Carr Lanphier. “There are some great tutorials online for those who are less artistically inclined, and plenty of images to draw inspiration from as well.”

Dampen Noise with Acoustic Panels

Plywood’s cross-grain construction naturally dampens annoying echos. In his quest to build a home recording studio, DIY enthusiast Cody Schuiteboer used 3/4” panels with acoustic foam backing. “The transformation was immediate and dramatic,” he says.” Pro-tip: Instead of making the wall uniform, stagger panel heights to attenuate sound in multiple directions.

Mendolini created his acoustic panels slightly differently, with strips of plywood, of varying widths, glued to a frame at different depths. “Plywood is the ideal material for this because it is rigid enough to bounce sound around but light enough to hang on the wall safely,” he says.

Build a Skateboard Ramp

Instead of buying an expensive quarter-pipe, Schuiteboer built one for his son for just a few hundred dollars. “Plywood has a good surface and texture for skaters,” he says. “I also added a smooth plastic coating to the ramp’s top to make it easier for skaters to glide.”

Use 2x4s to build the base, then bend 1/2” plywood to the curve and secure it with screws at 6-inch intervals. “The biggest mistake is cheap framing, which leads to horrible flex during riding,” he says.”

Stabilize the Washer

If your washing machine vibrates intensely or is damaging he subfloor, this is the plywood project for you. Simply glue or screw two 3/4-inch plywood pieces together and place them underneath the appliance. “It’s incredibly dense and will distribute the weight across multiple floor joists,” says Mendolini. “This will prevent the washing machine from walking across the floor and will reduce the noise level considerably.”

Protect Cabinets from Leaks

A slow leak under your sink can ruin your expensive cabinet base before you even realize what’s happening. To prevent this, place high-quality 1/2” plywood, primed and painted with waterproof exterior paint, above the cabinet floor. “This liner will save your cabinet’s structural box from water damage by absorbing initial moisture and providing a bright surface that can be easily cleaned,” says Mendolini.

Transform Your Ceiling Beams

When contractor Andy Gibbs found an outdated wooden beam under some drywall, he decided to update its look to faux gluelam. His technique: cut dozens of 1-1/2” strips of plywood of different lengths, then laminate them to the old beam with a pin-nailer. Next, he filled and sanded the entire assembly and finished it with polyurethane. “The bottom of the beam was finished with 2X8s cut to the same width as the faux glue lam finished width,” he says. “Stunning!”

Add Pizazz to Your Vanity

Gibbs also built a floating vanity by cutting 3/4” plywood into 1-1/2” strips, then flipping them 90 degrees, so the ply laminations showed at the top. “This one came out beautifully,” he says. “You can only see the zebra effect of the edges of the plywood slats looking straight down, but from a distance, it’s a solid glossy slab with solid wood strip edge trim.” Pro-tip: Use cabinet-grade plywood, and finish with four coats of clear polyurethane.

Protect Outdoor Furniture

If your outdoor seating has open slats on the bottom, add a thin sheet of exterior-grade plywood underneath the cushions. “It creates a flat, breathable layer that reduces pressure points on foam and also stops water from pooling underneath cushions,” says upholstery expert Mike Handelsman. “It’s a pity more people don’t know about this!”

Pro-tip: drill one-inch holes across the plywood so air can still flow through. “This helps the foam dry faster and also prevents mold,” he says.

Repair Sagging Sofas

If you have sagging sofas or sectionals, plywood can help reinforce them. “Instead of replacing the entire frame, you can just cut strips of plywood and screw them lengthwise across the weakened section from underneath,” says Handelsman. “This works well because plywood distributes pressure across many layers and reinforces strength.” Pro-tip: Round the edges and pre-drill, so it doesn’t split.

FAQ

Is it safe to use plywood for kitchenware (like cutting boards or countertops)?

No. Plywood has several disadvantages here, including toxic glues, seams that can hold bacteria, the tendency to splinter and a lack of durability against knives, heat and moisture. “For any kitchen-adjacent projects, add a separate food-safe surface like laminate, butcher block or a sealed tray on top,” says Goranson.

Can plywood be used in high-moisture areas (like bathrooms)?

Sometimes, if it’s outdoor or marine-grade and well-sealed with a heavy-duty moisture-resistant sealant. But, it is still possible that the moisture could release chemicals from the plywood, says Goranson. “For food-related or steamy applications, consider certified composite alternatives or professional-grade options to ensure safety and durability,” he says.

About the Experts

• Eric Goranson, aka Eric G from Around the House, is a syndicated radio, podcast, TikToc and YouTube video host, and Certified Kitchen Designer (CKD) with the National Kitchen and Bath Association. He has more than 30 years of experience, and is a nationally recognized expert in home remodeling, construction and interior design.
• Bruno Mendolini is a home improvement and tile expert, and co-founder of Tile Choices.
• Andy Gibbs is a contractor with five decades of experience in remodeling and building, and used plywood and engineered wood exclusively on his whole-house remodel in Palms Springs. He’s also building RemodX, a deep-content remodeling education platform for homeowners.
• Carr Lanphier is CEO of Improovy, a Chicago-based painting company.
• Steve Corcoran is CEO of Lawn Love, a company that connects commercial and residential customers with local lawn care professionals.
• Mike Handelsman is CEO and owner of FoamOrder, which specializes in tailored foam solutions and performance materials for homes and outdoor spaces.
• Cody Schuiteboer is president and CEO of Best Interest Financial home financing, and a DIY enthusiast.

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