DIY Network

I love my iPhone and all its apps. Being a hard-core DIYer instead of downloading games, I’m always scanning for apps to make my projects easier.  I do, however, have Angry Birds but it helps me better understand structural integrity.  (At least thats how I justify it.)

Among the many home improvement apps available, I like the powerOne Construction Calculator by Infinity Softworks the best.  It’s easy to use and easy on the pocket book with a cost of  $4.99.  Compare that to traditional construction calculators selling for around $50. The price alone justifies its worth but the added features make it a real steal.

The app has 18 templates for estimating materials and project planning.  They will help save money on estimating such things as tile, paint, gravel/stone, drywall, fencing and mulch.  Templates to assist the mathematically challenged like myself include: areas, baluster spacing, hip/valley, stairs, foundation squaring and roof conversions.

The app even archives the templates used and keeps a history of calculations.  When all the information is inputed to a template it does all the calculations.  The results can be emailed or sent to the included materials list.  All that in one app residing on your smart phone that fits in your shirt pocket.   That is truly amazing.  Do you have a favorite home improvement app?  Share it with us.

Warren Seegers is the producer of the home improvement TV reality show The Edifice Venture. He was also a finalist on DIY Network’s Stud Finder 2009.