Choosing the right product for surface preparation can make all the difference. Caulk fills and seals gaps and joints, while patching compounds repair holes, cracks and damaged surfaces.

With modern caulk formulations now offering many properties traditionally associated with sealants, understanding which product suits the job is more important than ever.

Here’s how caulk and patching compounds differ and where to use them.

Protecting surfaces is an essential step before any painting or renovation job begins. The right protection can make the difference between a smooth, professional finish and spending extra hours — or even days — cleaning up paint spills, dust and scratches.

Spring is here, bringing longer days, warmer weather and the perfect excuse to tackle those painting and renovation jobs that have been sitting on the to-do list all winter. Whether you're refreshing a room, reviving the deck, repainting the fence or getting the exterior of your home ready for summer, a little planning can make a big difference.