- Different Voltages—Cordless drills are measured in volts. Drills are available in everything from around 2 volts (for a cordless screwdriver) to 20-volt tools. Higher voltage means heavier weight, so consider buying a tool that will meet 80% to 90% of your needs. Twelve- to 18-volt models are the most popular, and they'll usually meet most homeowner's work needs. Higher voltage means more torque-spinning strength to overcome resistance. Over the last decade, top-end voltage has increased from 9.6 to 18V, but the range of models include 6, 7.2, 9.6, 12, 14.4 and 18V. Today's higher-voltage drills have enough power to bore big holes in framing lumber and flooring. That's impressive muscle. But the trade-off for power is weight. A typical 9.6V drill weighs 3 1/2 lbs., while an 18V model weighs up to 10 lbs.
- Drill Bits—you secure the drill bit on the drill using the keyless chuck. Make sure that on the adjustable clutch that the setting is turned to drill. Simply secure the drill bit in the chuck and drill into the piece of wood or the wall.
- Screwdriver—You can also use your cordless drill as a screwdriver. This is where the adjustable clutch comes in. You see all these numbers? Adjustable clutch settings are a valuable feature. The clutch reacts to the resistance of the screw, which changes as the density of the material changes, allowing you to drill holes of consistent depths. Adjusted properly on identical scrap material, a clutch can keep you from driving a screw too deep. An adjustable clutch can also reduce the possibility of stripping a screw head or snapping a screw off altogether.
5 In 1 Paint Tool
Another valuable tool to have in your home is a 5 in 1 paint tool. This tool can help you prepare your wall, open your paint can, and even clean off your paint roller. You can pick them up for less than $5 at any hardware store.
- The sharp straight edge is ideal for scraping out loose material and removing high spots. This edge can also be used as a putty knife.
- The pointed edge is used for cleaning out and widening cracks before patching them.
- The side is ideal for opening paint cans.
- The bottom has a built-in hammer for closing paint cans.
- Curved surface is used for squeegee out excess paint from a paint roller.
If you want one tool that can do almost everything, a Leatherman is something that every home should have. The one that we have is the Leatherman Rebar and it has 17 tools in one. There are a lot of different models and you can get them at your local hardware store or online. We’re going to show you how to use a couple of the more unique features.
• Needlenose Pliers • Regular Pliers • 154CM Replaceable Wire Cutters • 154CM Replaceable Hard-wire Cutters • Electric Crimper • Wire Stripper • 420HC Knife • 420HC Serrated Knife • Saw • Awl w/ Thread Loop • Ruler (8in/9cm) • Can Opener • Wood/Metal File • Bottle Opener • Philips Screwdriver • Large Screwdriver • Small Screwdriver For more Lifestyle by Tanya, visit
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