Tangle-Free Tie-Downs

This isn't an energy-upgrade story, but it's a small item worth knowing about if you haul materials or equipment for any home project. Titan Straps are tie-downs made of a rubbery plastic that stretches like a bungee cord but locks shut like a belt buckle, so one strap can handle a range of jobs instead of needing separate bungees, ratchet straps, and stretch wrap.

The main advantage over a bungee cord is that these straps have no metal hooks, so they won't scratch surfaces or tangle when you pull them out of a bag. They also hold up better than stretch wrap, which can shred, or bungees, which can unravel. Beyond tying down cargo in a truck bed, they can double as a way to bundle cords or clamp glued pieces of wood while they dry.

The straps are rated for loads up to 70 pounds and come in lengths from 10 to 36 inches. A four-pack of the larger size runs about $50 through the manufacturer's website. If you're planning any DIY work around an energy retrofit, like hauling insulation, ductwork, or a new water heater, a sturdier, tangle-free strap like this could make transport a little easier, though it has no direct connection to energy savings or rebates.