There are probably over a dozen different fly screen designs out there. But they all fall into three broad types, and knowing which one you're dealing with changes everything. Type 1: Sits inside a groove in the aluminium window frame These screens live in a channel that runs around the inside or outside of the frame. When the channel is on the inside, to get them out, you often need to remove the sliding window first, then the screen slides or lifts free from the

After 25 years cleaning windows, I knew exactly what tool I needed. The problem? It no longer existed. So I did what any slightly obsessed tradie would do: I made my own. What followed was a crash course in plastic injection moulding, overseas manufacturing, and the humbling realisation that the more you learn, the more there is to learn.

Sick of your ladder slipping at the worst moment? The XPRT Grip Clip is a lightweight, easy-to-use ladder stabiliser that clamps securely to gutters in seconds. Invented by a tradie after too many close calls, it’s built for real-world use—fast, strong and actually gets used. Learn how this Aussie-made tool went from idea to essential safety gear for tradies and DIYers.

Invention is messy, slow, and often frustrating — but when it clicks, it’s worth every failed part and dead-end phone call. If you’re a builder too, let’s talk.