Handyman Lexington KY can help you with fixing a squeaky door or replacing an old light bulb. But you should ensure that they have the right tools for the job.
Specialized handyman tools expand the scope of projects that a professional can take on and improve their quality of work. Investing in premium tools also reduces physical strain on the worker.
The circular saw is a handyman’s tool of choice, thanks to its power, speed, depth-of-cut capacity and portability. It can be used to make square, miter and bevel cuts, and – when fitted with the appropriate blade – it can even cut metal and concrete.
It’s important for a handyman to have access to a good quality saw, as it can be a real time-saver when cutting large sheets of plywood down to size. The best saws have a sturdy base and handle that feels comfortable in your hand and locks in firmly, plus an accurate bevel scale with detents at the most commonly-used angles (and an easily-operated override function that lets you go past 45 degrees). Some models also have a built-in dust extractor nozzle which is a big help when working on projects around the home.
Many saws come with a choice of left and right blade options, and it’s worth having both if you are unsure about which one to choose. From a safety perspective, it’s generally recommended that beginners opt for a right-hand blade as this allows the main body of the saw to be closer to their hand and keeps the blade further away (making it harder for their clothes or fingers to get snagged).
One of the most useful techniques a handyman can learn is how to plunge cut a hole into the side of a wall using a circular saw. This can be tricky to do properly, so it’s best to practice on scrap wood first. Start by marking the outline of the hole on a sheet of plywood, then carefully lower the saw onto it. Once the blade has entered the material, release the trigger and allow gravity to carry it through the kerf.
If you are completing a large project that requires several straight cuts, it’s worth investing in a circular saw guide rail. These are metal guides up to 1.5m long that get clamped to the materials to hold them in a straight (ish) line as you saw, making it easier to create perfectly precise and accurate straight lines.
Jigsaw
A jigsaw is one of the most versatile power tools in woodworking. It can cut both straight and curved cuts in various materials. It can also create a precise cut with intricate patterns. It is important to learn how to use this tool properly in order to avoid any injuries or damage to the material being cut. This will also ensure that the jigsaw produces clean, accurate results.
A handyman needs a variety of power tools to complete his work, but the jigsaw is probably the most useful for cutting both curved and straight lines in many types of materials. It is especially well-suited for cutting wood, but can also be used to cut plastic, metal, and other types of materials. Its versatility makes it a staple power tool for any home improvement project.
When choosing a jigsaw, consider the expected regularity of use and whether you prefer corded or cordless models. Additionally, you should take into account the blade type that is suitable for your needs and if there are any other features that you would like to have. Some jigsaws have an adjustable base plate to allow you to cut at an angle, while others have an orbital setting that can be adjusted according to the material being cut.
Another important feature of a jigsaw is the stroke length. This refers to how much of the blade moves during a single cut, and affects the cutting speed. A longer stroke length is best for cutting thicker materials, while a shorter stroke is more suited to thinner materials.
Once you have chosen a jigsaw, attach it by firmly positioning it against the material being cut and carefully inserting the blade. It is important to be careful not to slip the blade or cause any accidental kickback, and you should only remove it once the jigsaw is completely stopped.
Once you have attached the blade, set the jigsaw to its cutting speed and slowly cut along the line you have pencilled on the material. If you are making a curve, make relief cuts to prevent binding and keep the jigsaw moving steadily along the line. Once you have finished, carefully remove the excess material and use sandpaper to smooth the rough edges.
Nail Gun
A handyman can accomplish a lot of tasks using only a hammer, but when it comes to larger projects like building two-story homes or installing hardwood floors, a nail gun is the way to go. These powerful tools fire nails at high speed, fully embedding them in a piece of wood in just a fraction of a second. They can save a carpenter hours of time and toil, as well as reduce the risk of injury from a dropped nail.
There are several types of nail guns, each with its own unique set of features. A pneumatic nail gun uses an air compressor to generate the driving force behind each fastener, while a cordless nailer uses battery power to provide that drive. In addition to the type of power source, a nailer can also be classified according to how it functions and the type of fasteners it can use.
Framing nailers are most commonly used for heavy framing and construction work. They can accommodate a wide variety of different types and sizes of nails, allowing for flexibility in the project. Cordless nailers are ideal for smaller jobs and can be used on a variety of surfaces. Palm nailers are small and lightweight, making them easier to maneuver in tight spaces. They can be used for a variety of light-duty applications, including putting up trim and other decorative elements.
In addition to selecting the right tool for a job, a handyman must also understand how to use it properly. This includes following all safety guidelines and ensuring the tool is loaded and operated correctly. It is also important to regularly inspect the tool for any signs of wear and tear.
RIDGID’s R09894 21-degree framing nailer offers an excellent mix of power, performance and ergonomics. It is lightweight, yet capable of driving thousands of nails continuously without running out of gas. In addition, it has a number of integrated adjustment options and features such as a dry-fire lockout to prevent accidental firing. It also has a convenient front-facing LED light to help you line up your shot in dimly lit rooms.
Rotary Tool
A handyman needs a rotary tool with the right attachments to handle DIY projects. These tools have a fast-spinning motorized tip that can cut, grind, polish, and sand various materials. The rotary tool can also be used to engrave or carve metal, glass, and wood. With a wire brush attachment, it can scrape rust off of old surfaces and furniture. Attaching a sanding bit to this handyman tool helps in smoothing surfaces for repainting.
For angled cuts, a compound miter saw is a handy power tool for a handyman to have. This tool makes precise and quick cuts for framing, trimming, and installing. The saw also has a sliding feature that allows the blade to tilt, making it easy to create beveled edges.
Unlike a regular drill, a cordless screwdriver can handle loose and tight screws. It can also help you reach areas that are hard to get to. It is one of the most important hand tools for a handyman as it saves time and effort. A ratcheting screwdriver is another must-have for a handyman as it applies consistent torque and pressure when handling stubborn screws and bolts.
A magnetic wristband is a useful accessory for keeping screws, nails, and other metallic objects within reach. It prevents them from falling or misplacing during a project and helps you finish your work faster. It is available in a variety of colors and styles.
A hammer is a basic hand tool for handymen to have. It is a versatile tool that can be used to drive nails into wood and other materials for general repairs or construction. You can also use it to remove nailheads or break apart materials. A hammer is among the most important handyman tools to have because it can be used for different tasks.