Labor Day started in 1882 with a parade by the Carpenters Union in New York. Soon many states joined in, and in 1894 it was signed into law, making it a legal holiday and a day off for most. Since the holiday is linked with carpenters, many today trade hot dogs for hammers to do projects they have been putting off. The 16-ounce curved-claw carpenter's hammer is the most common of hammers. Heads have two types of faces. "Smooth" reduces surface marks, but makes bending nails too easy. "Corrugated," used for rough framing, grips nails better, but leaves waffle marks. Professionals rub smooth hammer faces on concrete to improve friction and reduce bending. Curved claws pull nails easier. And that's the On The House tip for today.