What's the shortest distance between two points? A straight line, right? And when cutting lumber the shortest distance is a straight cut -- edge to edge -- unless it's the last board in a deck or the last plank in a hardwood floor, and you find it's too wide. Then you have to saw a straight line from end to end to narrow it down. It's called ?ripping a board? to fit. The easiest way is with a table saw. If you haven't got one, here's how to do it. Using a hand-held circular saw, measure the width you need and mark your board accordingly. Carefully snap a chalk line from end to end. Then measure the distance between the saw blade and the edge of the saw. With clamps or nails attach a straight-edge guide board the same distance from the chalk line. Then turn on your saw and let her rip. Use one long guide for the whole board or a short guide to cut one section at a time. Either way, you'll get a table-saw quality cut and you'll be ripping boards lengthwise like a pro. And that's the On The House tip for today.