There’s a reason popular brands are so, well, popular. They’re often better quality, higher performing, more innovative, offer a better value, or a combination. But they all had to start somewhere, and there are some cool products are available from smaller brands that you might not have heard of before. I’ve pulled together 10 of my favorites in hopes you might find a gem or two that can help your next job run more efficiently.
1. Camo Block Heavy Duty Deck Foundation
The Camo Block is a heavy-duty foundation support base that’s intended to give deck builders a lightweight alternative to traditional concrete supports. They’re compatible with 2x materials as well as 4×4 and 6×6 posts and are rated to support up to 1,800 pounds.
The real benefit of these blocks is their weight—or lack thereof! Traditional concrete blocks weigh around 50 pounds each, but the Camo Blocks weigh just 2.16 pounds and are made of a durable Polyolefin that is chip and crack resistant, even in cold weather. Plus, these blocks nest together, so they’re easier to store and transport than concrete alternatives.
Price: $11.98 each
2. Paver Buddy Construction Dolly
The Paver Buddy construction dolly provides a distinct mechanical advantage for one-man hardscaping operations that need to lay large diameter pavers. Its unique design reduces your overall effort by over 50%, giving your back a break and making a one-man operation a viable option. It’s not a cheap tool, but everyone knows that a good Buddy can make the day go by faster!
Price: $499
3. Mist-Pro Blower/Fogger Attachment
The Mist-Pro Blower/Fogger system is designed to transform your ordinary leaf blower into a pest prevention machine. This system is compatible with a variety of pump sprayers from popular brands, or you can get a guaranteed fit if you purchase a pump sprayer directly from Mist-Pro. This unique sprayer works with any blower, and there is a buying guide to help you correctly purchase the necessary fittings.
The real benefit of the Mist-Pro is that it allows you to utilize equipment you already own and manage your outdoor pest control needs without buying a completely new sprayer. Depending on which blower you own, Mist-Pro tells us that you can spray up to 40 feet, which grants access to second-story roof eaves and other hard-to-reach places.
Price: Varies
4. GreenTek Tools Demo-Dek Removal Tool
GreenTek Tools’ Demo-Dek solves an important safety issue for deck builders and demo teams. The Demo-Dek features a long, sturdy handle with a larger reinforced claw and an integrated nail puller that helps save you time as you work.
Unlike the traditional board removal tools, the Demo-Dek allows you to work from the “safe side”, meaning you’re not walking on floor joists as you work. Rather, you stand on the remaining deck boards and work backwards. This increases your overall safety and reduces the risk of an accident.
Price: $144.99
5. Tile Gripper POTIS Tile Installation System
The Tile Gripper Pattern Oriented Tile Installation System (POTIS) is designed to reduce labor hours and improve quality with the flick of a switch. The Tile gripper features an array of pneumatic suction cups that attach to the individual tiles. These suction cups can be rearranged to match a specific patter or tile size based on your needs.
Start by arranging your tiles in the custom trays before the job begins, then use the POTIS to grab a batch of tiles, and then firmly press the tiles against your thinset. This allows a crew of three workers to lay between 250 to 300 square-feet of tile per day! This system does take a little extra preparation, but you end up saving time in the long run when it comes to installation.
Price: $15,000 (kit)
6. Pivot-All Wheelbarrow
The Pivot-All Wheelbarrow is designed with handle ergonomics at the forefront. Its pivoting handles move with your hands as you transport and dump the contents, meaning there’s no need to reposition your grip. This design promotes improved balance, neutral grip positions, and better handling over uneven terrain.
It comes in standard, heavy-duty, and extreme-duty configurations, and all three models have a six cubic yard capacity.
Price: $119 (standard), $155 (heavy-duty), $179 (extreme-duty)
7. Franklin Sensors 12-Inch Light Level
While Franklin Sensors is a name you’re more likely to know, they have put a fresh spin on a classic, and essential, jobsite staple. The 12-inch Light Level offers increased visibility by way of LED lights that visually indicate when your surface or material is level or plumb. These LEDs progressively illuminate from red to green to help you pinpoint when you’re level. You still get two trusty vials for visual verification, but the lights add an extra layer of convenience while you’re working.
Price: $24.99
8. Tru-Fit Belts Ratcheting Belt Buckle
Finding a comfortable tool belt can be a challenge because they’re not usually a one-size-fits-all item, but Tru-Fit has a solution. Traditional belts space the belt holes around 1-1/2 inches apart, but the ratcheting Tru-Fit belt tightens in 1/4-inch increments. Start by adjusting the belt to your approximate length using the side buckles, then use the ratcheting buckle to hone in the sizing. This ensures that you’ll get an optimal fit every time.
The buckle is constructed of black anodized Pro-grade aluminum for increased durability, and the belt diameter is compatible with most tools bags on the market.
Price: $89.95
9. Cyclone 2X Airflow Amplifier
The Cyclone 2X Airflow Amplifier is designed to improve the performance of your leaf blower through simple physics. Much like what we saw from the Worx Nitro 40V WG585, the Cyclone 2X draws in outside air to boost your overall blowing force as you work.
This attachment is compatible with any leaf blower with a nozzle ranging from 2 to 4 inches in diameter and is very easy to install. Simply affix the Cyclone 2X to the end of your blower’s nozzle, leaving a slight gap for air to enter, then tighten the straps for a secure fit. This attachment is a great option for removing heavy seasonal leaves and grass clippings, not to mention, you get a nice power boost without dropping the extra cash for a new blower!
Price: $45.99
10. RNV Portable Industrial Construction Vacuum
Jobsite vacuums come in all shapes and sizes, but the RNVac Hydrovac-2 takes it to a whole new level. When paired with a 6 cu ft wheelbarrow, the Hydrovac-2 is an ideal option for vacuuming up water, wet leaves, sand, mud, and sludge on the jobsite. It comes with a 12-foot hose, extension wands, and a few nozzles to get you started.
The best part about this vacuum is its versatility. As I already mentioned, it’s a great option for cleaning general construction debris, but it has other applications, including collecting excess concrete slurry and pool service/restoration.
Price: $1998.00
