I often am surprised to discover that many contractors are unaware of several "gadget" tools to which I've become accustomed in renovations. So I've decided to deviate from my usual columns to talk about what have become my invaluable (albeit somewhat odd) working accessories. Because tools often go by different names in my Canadian homeland, I won't get into brand names. But all of them are readily available south of the border. Electronic Stud Finders Let's start with finding studs. The old magnetic stud finders are useless—but you already know that. Two electronic types do work quite well, however. One is simply a specialized metal detector that hunts out nail heads or pipes and costs $20 to $30.
