With steady growth in homebuilding, the flooring, painting, and tiling industries continue to grow. Innovation plays a huge role in dealing with the difficulty of finding quality tradesmen to fill the roles needed in this market. Many of the following tools deliver better processes, faster production, and great value for both professionals and homeowners.
From painting products and tiling tools to drywall sanders and more, 2024 includes a host of award-winning wall and flooring tools and accessories certain to come in handy. Many of these new products improve productivity or add new ways of accomplishing common tasks.
Winner – Accessories
Zenith by Danco ZN700501 Staple Puller
What they said:
Say goodbye to the hassle of stubborn carpet staples with our revolutionary Zenith by Danco Carpet Staple Puller! Designed for efficiency and ease, it effortlessly extracts staples from any surface, saving you time and frustration. Whether you are renovating, redecorating, or simply tackling a DIY project, our staple puller is your ultimate tool for seamless carpet removal. Make every project a breeze with the Zenith by Danco Carpet Staple Puller – your new essential tool for precision and convenience!
What we say:
The Zenith by Danco Carpet Staple Puller is made from hardened steel and lets you remove staples from various surfaces, including hardwood floors and subflooring, without causing damage. It even includes a glue residue scraper on the back edge. Whether you’re a professional contractor or a weekend warrior, this staple puller looks like a handy tool for anyone tackling home renovation projects.
Price: $20
For more information, click here.
Winner – Brushes & Rollers
Purdy® Revolution™ 18″ Fixed Frame
What they said:
When Purdy® asked professional painters what would make their big jobs easier, their answer was clear: a stiff frame that secures the roller from the first pass to the last. In response, Purdy® developed the Revolution™ 18″ Fixed Roller Frame, a game-changing innovation designed to meet this critical need.
The sturdy one-piece metal design locks the roller cover in place, effectively solving common problems painters face, including frames that flex, tilt or swivel during use, causing rollers to loosen or covers to creep off. This stability ensures that the cover stays securely on track, resulting in a more consistent and even paint release across surfaces. With its impressive 18-inch width, this roller doubles the coverage compared to the average completion time of the rolling portion of the painting process using the Purdy 9” roller and 9” frame. The combination of enhanced stability and increased coverage allows professionals to work faster without interruptions or the need for touch-ups, completing jobs in less time while maintaining the high-quality results they demand.
The frame’s rugged metal construction eliminates shaking and wobbling, ensuring consistent paint release and long-lasting durability, while its nonremovable wing nuts prevent lost parts, enhancing workflow efficiency. The frame is also user-friendly, featuring sliding adjustable ends that provide customizable tightness and support heavily loaded rollers, making it easy to load, use, remove and clean.
What we say:
Rather than a one-sided paint roller, the Purdy Revolution 18″ fixed roller frame features a one-piece metal frame that grabs the roller securely from both sides. It provides stability and prevents the roller from flexing, tilting, sliding, or loosening during use. Its 18-inch width doubles coverage, letting you work more quickly. The frame looks well-made, and it has some user-friendly features like nonremovable wing nuts and adjustable ends.
Price: $39
For more information, click here.
Winner – Exterior Coatings
SEAL-ONCE Marine Grade Wood Sealer and Semi-Transparent Wood Stain
What they said:
SEAL-ONCE Marine Grade wood protection products for exterior wood docks, decks, fences, and siding provides superior protection and stability for wood that finishes and performs as well as an oil base.
Marine Grade Semi-Transparent Stain are water-based, eco-friendly, ultra-low VOC, and safe for pets, plants, people, and aquatic life. The Semi-Transparent Stains are formulated for all environments – even those in the harshest areas near open water. They are formulated to penetrate below the surface and create a flexible, breathable barrier that expands and contracts with environmental elements to protect against water damage. The products also prevent UV fading and have polyurethane for 360° abrasion resistance against cracking, peeling, splitting, and warping. In addition, the Marine Grade Premium Clear Wood Sealer can be used as an independent end grain sealer.
SEAL-ONCE Marine Grade Semi-Transparent Stain is available in 9 colors, with a trans-oxide pigment that finishes with a rich oil-like appearance. Both the Sealer and the Stain are rain-ready in only 4 hours with a 2-coat wet-on-damp application at nearly the speed of 1 coat. Both products come with an extensive warranty, ensuring long-term product performance and customer satisfaction.
Very Cool Fact! SEAL-ONCE rebuilt the US Capitol Christmas Tree trailer that will transport the 2024 US Capitol Christmas Tree from Wrangell, Alaska to the west lawn of the US Capitol. The new 104-foot wooden trailer is coated with a special SEAL-ONCE ‘Christmas Red’ color that will protect the ‘People’s Tree’ on its 4,200 mile journey to Washington, DC.
What we say:
SEAL-ONCE Marine Grade wood sealer protects exterior wood structures like docks, decks, and fences, even in harsh environments near open water. These water-based, eco-friendly stains and sealers penetrate deep into the wood, creating a flexible barrier that defends against water damage, UV fading, and abrasion. We love that you can get it in 9 different colors and also that it delivers the same durability of an oil-based finish but in a safer formula that doesn’t harm people, pets, and aquatic life.
Price: $55
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Drywall Screw Gun
Craftsman CMCF600B V20 BRUSHLESS RP™ Drywall Screw Gun
What they said:
The V20 BRUSHLESS RP™ Drywall Screw Gun features a brushless motor for longer runtime, better performance, and less maintenance. The adjustable nosecone locks on securely and is easily removed while maintaining consistent screw depth. It’s compatible with the MCF6001 Collated Drywall Screw Gun Attachment for efficient screw driving without constant reloading, and the LED helps illuminate the work area for greater accuracy. (Battery and Charger sold separately)
What we say:
The Craftsman V20 Brushless RP Drywall Screw Gun includes an adjustable nosecone to ensure consistent screw depth. The tool is compatible with the MCF6001 Collated Drywall Screw Gun Attachment—making for a streamlined installation process by minimizing the need for frequent reloading. An integrated LED light illuminates the work area of this excellent tool that should appeal to both DIYers and professionals looking for a value drywall screwing solution.
Price: $99
For more information, click here.
Winner – Housewrap & Barriers
Grip Rite ProWrap™ SA Self-Adhering House Wrap and Flashing Tapes
What they said:
Grip-Rite announces the launch of its ProWrap™ SA solution for creating tight, efficient, and breathable building envelope wall ProTection. This self-adhering house wrap is rated for both residential and commercial applications. It stands out in the market for its high breathability, labor-saving application, and economical cost for a premium product.
The ProWrap line is distinguished by its high permeability, making it more breathable than other brands, thus protecting the lifetime of homes. The time-saving “peel-and’stick” installation is a significant advantage, to help overcome the labor shortages in construction. Barrego adds, “Grip-Rite has a complete offering that builders can trust. This whole-home solution means builders will want to partner with us, getting all the products they need to build efficient and comfortable homes.”
The product meets the requirements of large builders and window manufacturers, particularly in the use of butyl wrap and flashing. Offering a 15-year warranty when used as a system, Grip-Rite ensures long-term reliability and performance.
What we say:
Grip-Rite ProWrap-SA is a self-adhering “peel-and-stick” house wrap that offers premium moisture and air protection for residential and commercial construction. It installs without the need for primers, even in 20-degree weather, and withstands up to 180 days of UV exposure. ProWrap-SA promotes efficient drainage, boasts a 60 perm rating for breathability, and contributes to energy savings. It’s a durable, easy-to-install solution that strikes us as ideal for those seeking an above-average weather barrier.
Price: $299
For more information, click here.
Winner – Insulation & Foam
DAP Wall & Cavity Foam with Wide Spray Applicator
What they said:
DAP Wall & Cavity Foam with Wide Spray Applicator has transformed spray foam insulation applications by simplifying the process and helping both professionals and DIYers increase energy efficiency and comfort in homes. Traditionally, spray foam applications have involved complex, two-part systems that can be challenging to set up and use effectively, but DAP Wall & Cavity Foam with Wide Spray Applicator is the first of its kind 1-component broadcast spray foam.
Using the latest in polyurethane sealant technology, the one-component system is always on ratio, can be applied in a wide temperature range of 40°F – 120°F, and is great for repairs, renovations, and new installations. The patent-pending wide spray applicator provides a wide broadcast fan spray that is ideal for large surface area applications such as wall cavities, rim joists, and attics. The canisters are portable, and the ergonomic handle design makes it easy to switch between horizontal and vertical applications, so users can maintain a comfortable grip whether they’re framing or filling.
What we say:
The DAP Wall & Cavity Foam with Wide Spray Applicator differs from traditional two-part systems by providing an innovative one-component foam. It simplifies the installation process by eliminating the hassle of mixing. A patent-pending wide spray applicator helps you tackle large wall cavities and attics quickly. It’s also Class A fire resistant and can be applied in temperatures ranging from 40°F to 120°F.
Price: Varies based on quantity
For more information, click here.
Winner – Paint & Primer
Dutch Boy® Paints Professional Series Drywall PVA Primer & Sealer
What they said:
As an essential first step to achieving a perfect finish, the Dutch Boy® Paints Drywall PVA Primer & Sealer effectively primes and seals surfaces using an easy-to-spray application specifically designed to be user-friendly for contractors of all skill levels. Its smooth basecoat provides an excellent foundation for both latex and alkyd topcoats, making it easier for professionals to achieve a consistent and high-quality finish.
The Dutch Boy® Paints Drywall PVA Primer & Sealer is formulated to seal new drywall and other porous surfaces, providing outstanding enamel holdout, effectively preventing the topcoat from absorbing into the substrate, resulting in a more even, vibrant finish across various surface types.
Dutch Boy® Paints Drywall PVA Primer & Sealer is designed to provide excellent flow and leveling, which reduces the appearance of brush strokes and roller marks and creates a smooth base for the topcoat. Its high-hiding formulation effectively conceals imperfections on drywall, plaster and textured surfaces, crucial for achieving a uniform, professional finish. Contractors appreciate its versatility, as it can be applied effortlessly using a sprayer, roller or brush.
Dutch Boy® Paints Drywall PVA Primer & Sealer’s ability to enhance productivity while ensuring a high-quality finish sets it apart as an innovative solution in the painting industry. It’s not just a product but a valuable addition to any professional’s toolkit, elevating efficiency and quality in every application.
What we say:
The Dutch Boy Paints Drywall PVA Primer & Sealer offers contractors a one-coat solution for priming and sealing drywall. Its easy-to-spray formula ensures smooth application, providing an easy-flowing and leveling base for both latex and alkyd topcoats. The primer’s high-hiding formulation effectively conceals surface imperfections, making it ideal for achieving a uniform finish. Designed for versatility, it can be applied using a sprayer, roller, or brush, making it a valuable tool for professionals aiming to enhance productivity and quality in their work.
Price: $14 (gallon)
For more information, click here.
Winner – Patch & Repair
Wall-Russ Wall-Patch Kit
What they said:
The typical process to patch an anchor hole (without our kit) requires the user to purchase putty, sandpaper, drywall knives, wall texture sprays, etc., to start the project. Then, the user fills the hole with putty, waits for the putty to dry, sands the area with sandpaper, sprays wall texture, and waits for the texture to dry. This can take up to an hour and be quite costly, especially if the excess putty expires before the next project. Our Wall-Patch Kit is a patent-pending solution to patch a wall anchor hole in less than sixty seconds.
Our innovative solution to wall anchor hole repair eliminates the time spent waiting for putty and spray texture to dry, the expense of purchasing multiple supplies, including tubs of putty that dry out quickly, and the skill and artistry to apply spray texture to the wall. Our kit includes a patent pending hand tool used to remove a thin layer of texture around the circumference of the anchor hole, along with sticker-like patches of the same circumference and depth as the cavity created by the tool, and a safety cap to protect users from the tool’s thin blade.
To patch the hole using our Wall-Patch Kit, the user aligns the tip of the hand tool to the center of the anchor hole. While applying light pressure and rotating the tool around the hole, the user removes a thin layer of texture around the wall anchor hole. Next, the user applies the patch to the hole, which sticks with its permanent adhesive backing. Finally, the user blends the edges of the seam using the tip of the safety cap. In under a minute, the anchor hole is ready to paint!
What we say:
The Wall-Russ Wall-Patch Kit simplifies the traditionally complex and time-consuming process of patching wall anchor holes—letting users fill these holes in less than a minute. The kit includes a patent-pending tool that removes a precise layer of texture around the hole and an adhesive-backed patch that fits seamlessly into the cavity. The final step involves blending the edges with a safety cap. This streamlined process eliminates the need for putty, sanding, and texturing, offering an efficient, cost-effective solution for both professionals and DIYers.
Price: $29.98
For more information, click here.
Winner – Sprayers
Graco Inc. Ultra 490 XT Airless Sprayer
What they said:
The Ultra 490 XT delivers an airless spray experience like no other. Featuring a 1.3 HP Xtreme Torque motor, Next Generation Rapid-Response Pressure Control, elevated performance, and the longest life pump in its class, the Ultra 490 XT is sure to become a staple in your fleet.
Advanced design of the new Xtreme Torque (XT) Brushless Motor eliminates multistage gear trains and reduces speed by 90% and noise by up to 10X.
Rapid-Response Pressure Control delivers the world’s steadiest running pressure. Dial in 10 psi increments with the widest performance range (50-3,300 psi).
Bring on the savings with Selectable Performance Modes — exclusively on XT Sprayers. Two selectable modes offer unique performance levels, expanding the sprayers capabilities, and boosting efficiency on every job!
What we say:
The “XT” in the Ultra 490 XT airless sprayer stands for its 1.3 HP Xtreme Torque motor. It uses simplified gearing to reduce speed by 90% and dramatically reduce tool noise. An advanced pressure control system lets you adjust between 50 and 3300 PSI in 10 PSI increments to dial in the best control for various painting applications. We also love that it offers fast cleanup and flushing with less water and an easy-to-remove filter.
Price: $2,499
For more information, click here.
Winner – Cordless Sprayers
Titan ControlMax® 1650 18V HEA Sprayer
What they said:
Powered by a rechargeable onboard battery, it improves the sprayer series by offering a cordless HEA model designed for projects not easily accessed by an electrical cord and outlet. Another key feature of the ControlMax 1650 18V is its versatility – it can be used as a backpack, stationary, or carried in hand.
This mobility, combined with being cordless, makes it especially useful for projects like painting outbuildings, parks and recreation structures, pergolas and playgrounds. Titan’s patented High Efficiency Airless™ (HEA) technology decreases overspray by up to 55 percent compared to traditional airless sprayers while delivering softer spray, improved control, and a more-consistent finish.
The ControlMax 1650 18V comes standard with two Bosch 18V 2Ah AMPshare™ batteries and a charging station, which are compatible with all AMPShare-Powered by Bosch tools. The batteries deliver ideal power-to-weight ratio, high performance, heat management and include charge status indicators for quickly checking available battery life. On a single charge, each battery can spray up to 350 square feet, applying approximately 1.25 gallons of material (one tank fill), depending on coating viscosity and desired settings.
What we say:
The Titan ControlMax 1650 18V is powered by a single Bosch 18V battery which lets you spray the entire 1.25 gallons for up to 350 square feet of coverage. Two batteries (included in the kit) let you apply up to 700 square feet (2.5 gallons) of paint without dragging a cord, freeing you up for better mobility. Its High-Efficiency Airless (HEA) technology and T2 spray gun reduce overspray by up to 55%, so you get a consistent finish with less waste. We love the versatility of the design, which lets you wear the sprayer as a backpack, carry it by the handle, or set it on the ground as a base for spraying using the 9-foot hose.
Price: $649
For more information, click here.
Winner – Stains & Sealers
Cabot® Heat-Reducing Solid Color Stain + Sealer
What they said:
As we are starting to experience rising temperatures across the country, fueling longer and hotter heat waves, Cabot® has introduced an innovative solution that addresses both the immediate and long-term needs of outdoor living spaces. The most notable feature is its Cool Feel® Technology, which can reduce surface temperatures by 20 degrees Fahrenheit when compared to other solid color stains, making outdoor spaces more comfortable, even during peak summer heat.
In addition to its heat-reducing capabilities, it provides advanced UV protection that effectively blocks and reflects harmful UV rays that can cause fading and sun damage over time. This preservation of wood integrity and vibrant color minimizes the need for frequent maintenance, providing enduring beauty and durability.
Available in three rich colors, including Brown Cashmere, Equestrian Brown, and Hampton Gray, Cabot® Heat-Reducing Solid Color Stain + Sealer with Cool Feel® Technology not only revitalizes surfaces but also covers old stains and mismatched boards seamlessly, providing a uniform and aesthetically pleasing finish. From decks and porches to outdoor furniture, steps, and railings, this stain is designed to be highly versatile and easy to use. It can be applied with brushes, stain pads, or professional spray equipment and dries quickly, allowing for efficient project completion.
What we say:
In Florida, deck surfaces can get very, very hot. Cabot’s Heat-Reducing Solid Color Stain + Sealer includes Cool Feel Technology, which reduces surface temperatures by up to 20°F compared to other solid-color stains. It goes without saying that this will make painted decks, porches, and outdoor furniture more comfortable in the summer. It also offers advanced UV protection to preserve the integrity and color of wood while minimizing maintenance. Cabot has their Heat-Reducing Solid Color Stain in three colors: Cashmere Brown, Equestrian Brown, and Hampton Gray.
Price: $65
For more information, click here.