Call it stinginess or call it practicality, but I hate paying money for a product that purports to take the place of something that can be accomplished in a cheaper and simpler way. For instance, those masking tape corner pieces. Ever seen those? Instead of cutting off masking tape for corners, this product has already done it for you. Well, no thanks. I know how to use a pair of scissors.
But construction dust and paint-spray is a different story.
Construction and Demolition Dust
There's nothing worse than drywall dust; it's evil stuff. Even my house vacuum has a codicil in the warranty saying that if you use it on drywall dust, the warranty is voided. I'm not kidding. Have you ever cut millwork indoors with a miter saw and tried to contain the sawdust? Good luck. Have kids? If you live in a pre-1978 house, lead-based paint is yet another of your worries.
Falling, Drooping, Dripping Sheet Plastic
The "solution" is you tape sheet plastic against the ceiling, walls, and floor with masking tape. You slit a little door at the bottom so you can get in and out. Next morning, of course, the plastic has fallen down. So next you staple the plastic to your walls and ceiling. To keep the staples from tearing through the plastic, you fashion a hem of masking tape along the edges of the plastic. And staple into your walls.
Doesn't sound like much of a solution. Isn't there something better?
Enter ZipWall Barrier System
ZipWall lets you build that plastic wall and it ensures that the wall stays up. Telescoping aluminum poles with spring-loaded tips form the "studs" of your fake wall and hold the plastic tight against ceiling and floor. Foam-padded rails attach to the top ends of the pole to form a "T" along the ceiling, sealing off any possible penetration point for that drywall dust to infiltrate your house. Optional clamps hold the vertical edges of the wall firmly against the walls of your home.
But Wait. It Does Even More.
These aluminum poles are sturdy. Two of them can press a sheet of drywall against the ceiling. Or you can use a couple to press crown molding into place, freeing your hands for the hammer or nailgun.
But is it worth it?
