my Old Workshop

Why the heck? Answers on tools and techniques

It’s the accepted way to do it. But why?

Why do you wrap wires clockwise around a terminal screw on an outlet or switch?

The outlet or switch will work just fine if you wrap the wire counter-clockwise; as long as there’s contact, the current will still be carried, right? That’s true. But here’s why you wrap the wire clockwise around the screw. As you tighten the screw, you nudge the wire a bit. If the wire’s wrapped counter-clockwise, you might shift it away from a good seating or connection as you tighten. If it’s wrapped clockwise, you’re more likely to seat it even tighter.

Why do you push down when unscrewing a screw?

This one’s simple: to maintain a good contact with the screw. If you’re too light with the screwdriver, you may slip and strip the screw.

Why should you avoid exposing end grain in wood?

End grain absorbs stain faster and more deeply than face or side grain, making it darker. It’s also tougher to sand smooth. So when possible, use a return.

Why do you leave reveals around door jambs — setting the door trim 1/8″ or so back from the jamb face.

It’s pretty tough to keep the edge of your trim piece precisely flush with the inside of the jamb. And even if you do manage, it won’t stay that way. As the house settles or as your trim wood shrinks, all your careful work will be lost. Even a small difference in one spot will be noticeable. But if it’s set back, the variations aren’t nearly as noticable.