You are just starting out as a do-it-yourselfer and you think you have everything you need to get those home improvements done. You have your hammer, saw, level, and screwdriver set and you are ready to tackle anything and everything that comes your way. While these tools are extremely important and you will definitely use them time and time again, you may need a few power tools to tackle the tougher home improvements you want to make. Purchasing the following power tools will send you well on your way to completing any job you need to.
1. Mitre saw
The handsaw (or hacksaw) definitely has its purpose but in the interest of time and efficiency, a mitre saw is a must-have for any construction project that requires you to make cuts. Not only can you use it for lumber, a mitre saw can also be used to cut flooring, baseboards, and crown moulding. A 10-inch blade is the most common size and allows you to cut pretty much anything you need, but you may want to consider a sliding saw which can cut up to 14 inches.
2. Power drill
Of all power tools available, the power drill is the one that is probably most used. Not only can it be used to drive screws, it can also be used to drill holes into walls, lumber, and with the right drill bit, masonry. While a 12-volt drill is sufficient for smaller projects, an 18-volt battery will be enough for any home project you need to complete.
3. Circular saw
While a table saw is ideal, some people may not have the space to accommodate one. For this reason a circular saw is popular. The circular saw is compact, powerful, and you can easily take it with you to any job away from home. It is a tool you definitely need if you are required to make long and straight cuts to plywood or MDF board.
4. Sander
Sanding wood is needed in some situations to improve the look and feel of the surface but it is very time-consuming. Using an electric sander will save you time and it is a very effective way to guarantee smooth finishes when needed. If your finish just needs to be smooth and free of rough edges, a belt sander is adequate. If you need your surface to be smooth and look presentable, an orbital sander would be more appropriate. A mouse sander is used in woodworking projects. It is smaller and is triangular so it can fit into the corners of your project.
5. Nail gun
A nail gun is a tool which you never knew you needed until you have one and use it all the time. Complete with a compressor and house, a nail gun is handy for repairing furniture and installing baseboards and door trim. A nail gun can accommodate finishing nails or brad nails depending on the job you are doing. Finishing nails tend to sink deeper into a surface requiring you to putty over the head of the nail to hide the hole but they are strong. A brad nail’s head is smaller and is hard to see once fastened to a surface, reducing the need to putty over them. A brad nail is a thinner gauge of nail therefore it has less holding power.
6. Reciprocating Saw
This is also called a sawzall and with good reason. Whether it be wood, metal, or plastic piping, the reciprocating saw will cut through it no problem. It has a rotating head that helps the tool’s blade work its way through anything you need it to. Easily change the blade in the tool to suit the material you are cutting through. This tool is especially handy if you need to undertake any demolition work.
