In most households, you can find a small workspace or area with essential tools like a hammer, screwdriver, level, tape measure, etc.
But if you’re someone who wants to complete larger projects like building a new deck or creating garden planters, you’ll find that those common household tools are not sufficient enough.
To complete these larger projects, you’ll need power tools that will help you get the job done quickly and easily. It’s not cheap, adding new tools to your shop, but it is well worth it with all of the projects you can create!
A lot of new DIYers are scared to move up to power tools. However, there is nothing to be scared of. As long as you learn how to properly use the tools and take precautions, everything will be fine. You’ll master the process in no time!
In this article, you will find the first four power tools we suggest you add to your collection.
Cordless Drill
A cordless drill is one of the most important tools to have. This tool is extremely versatile; it can be used for almost anything. Here are a few examples of what it can be used for: hanging curtains, drilling holes, and building shelves. You may want to consider a keyless chuck drill.
This drill can utilize hole saws, wire-wheel brushes, rotary sanders, and other accessories. When buying a cordless drill, you will also want to keep power and size in mind; power is measured by the voltage of the battery on the drill. The voltage can range from 6-18V.
The higher the voltage, means more usable power; however, the drills with more power tend to be heavier then drills with less power.
If you’re not sure what option is best for you, we recommend you go for a drill with mid-range power, which is about 12V. When it comes time to pick up your new power drill, be sure to pick up some drill bits as well.
Sander
You’re probably used to sanding wedges and sandpaper sheets, which are great options for smaller projects. However, if you plan on doing bigger projects, you definitely want to use a sander.
With sanding wedges and sandpaper sheets, you will find that you quickly tire.
With a sander, sanding pads are added to the sander, and when the sander is turned on, the pads move in a circle. This sands the surface as you move.
There are different sanders available like palm, detail, belt, etc., but an orbital sander is the best option overall.
Orbital sanders are easy to use due to their lightweight; it’s a great option for beginners. When buying a sander, make sure to purchase extra sanding pads and a dust mask as well.
Jigsaw
A jigsaw can be used to make curved and straight cuts, making it an important and versatile tool. It’s good at cutting intricate shapes, cutting wood of varying thickness, making bevel cuts, and cutting through steel (as long as you have the right blade), fiberglass, drywall, plastic, etc.
You’ll be surprised when you are tackling projects how handy the jigsaw really is. You may even find yourself creating more because you want to use the jigsaw, that’s how easy and fun it is to use!
Here are some example projects that you can create with a jigsaw: a curved headboard, furniture, holes for outlets, signs, etc.
When purchasing a jigsaw, you may be presented with corded and cordless options; both will work, but if you plan on creating large projects, a corded jigsaw will be more beneficial to you.
Circular Saw
A circular saw is a versatile tool that allows you to cut things like framing lumber and plywood. Circular saws are a faster and more convenient option compared to a table saw.
This tool can be used to make long, straight cuts, you’ll need to purchase a straight fence and c-clamps to make sure your cuts are as straight as possible.
The circular saw is considered an essential tool, but you may not want to purchase one until you’re sure you’ll be creating projects that require quite a bit of cutting.
Circular saws are typically used for cutting and ripping wood; however, with the right blade, it can also be used to cut metal, stone, brick, cement, and glass tile.
Just like jigsaws, circular saws have corded and cordless options. With cordless, power and performance are compromised for portability.
If you want something powerful for long projects and if you’re looking for some of the best circular saws – you’ll definitely want to go for a corded option.
To put that in perspective for you, the corded option has enough power to complete demolition work if need be.
