Combination Device Ideal for Homeowner
A combination tool that should be handy around most homes leads off this grab-bag column of new products.
The Rawlings Multifunctional Level combines the functions of a level, steel square, protractor and straight-edge in a single tool.
Most professionals prefer the traditional tools, but a homeowner who has only occasional use for a steel square might find this folding tool the ideal substitute.
Available in 12-inch and 24-inch sizes, the tool is made (in the U.S.A.) of Borg-Warner Cycolac A.B.S., a heavy-duty plastic. I tried out the 24-inch size, which I recommend over the smaller one.
The suggested prices are $39.95 and $49.95, respectively, and dealer information can be obtained from the manufacturer, G. Rawlings Inc., 12161 McGregor Blvd., Ft. Myers, Fla. 33907.
What is this tool used for? How about determining roof and stair angles, laying out angled or irregular kitchen counter tops, drywall or flooring; squaring up a block wall, framing for a partition or sheet-metal duct work; leveling support timbers for a deck, or installing kitchen cabinets properly?
The locking lever holds the pivoting arm securely in place. I have a good quality steel square, a level and a number of other tools, but this combination device has advantages over the separate tools. Just as many people have both a set of individually sized wrenches and an adjustable one or two, so would this clever tool (U.S. Patent No. 4,144,650) supplement a tool kit.
Lightolier, the well-known manufacturer of track lighting, has introduced a do-it-yourself miniature track lighting system called Lytetrim that has fixtures small enough to fit in the palm of a hand.
The system, ideal for bookshelves and similar applications, offers a choice of four lighting elements: Compact fluorescent, basic light, spotlight and linear fluorescent light. More information: Lightolier, 100 Lighting Way, Secaucus, N.J. 07094-0508.
If you’ve got major gaps to fill in roof fascia boards, for instance, artificial wood substances won’t work all that well. Reader Martin R. Carbone suggests his Work-Able Epoxy Putty. Unlike conventional epoxy materials, there is no waste, no measuring, it mixes easily, it doesn’t stick to your hands and it doesn’t shrink. I’ve got several places on my house where I can use this product. It comes in half-pound bars, “A” and “B,” ready to be snapped off and mixed. More information: Martin R. Carbone, 2519 Bath St., Santa Barbara, Calif. 93105.
Your problem: You need a glossy or semi-glossy finish on woodwork or bathroom walls, but you want a product that meets the California and federal regulations that have all but banned oil-based paints. Jay Leanse of the Procos Group recommends Break-Through. A water-borne cross-linking acrylic coating, it’s been on the market since 1979, meets all the environmental regulations and is thinned with water.
Retailing in the $30-$35-a-gallon range (the most expensive alkyds are about $25-$28), Break-Through is as easy to use as latex paints, but is much more durable, Leanse said. It dries in less than an hour and two coats should be sufficient for most applications. Leanse said that Break-Through is available in many independent paint and decorating centers. It comes in a variety of colors, including--of course--Navajo White! More information on dealers, etc: Procos, 8501 Washington Blvd., Culver City, Calif. 90232.
