Whether you run your own handyman business or work for an established one, it’s essential to have the right tools to get the job done. These tools ensure you can deliver quality results to your customers and protect yourself from injury.
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A staple in the toolbox of professional contractors and home improvement enthusiasts, the circular saw is adept at cutting wood and a variety of other materials. Its rotary motion and mechanical blade rotation make it ideal for straight cuts and angled workpieces. The tool also features a versatile range of blade options for cutting different types of material. A circular saw can be mounted to a table or used handheld. It can be powered by electricity or by a battery system. The choice of which type depends on the needs and budget of the Handyman.
Before using a circular saw, the Handyman should familiarize himself or herself with its controls. Start by reading the user manual. Then, find a clean, safe workspace with ample lighting. Clear the area of any debris or obstructions. In addition, wear safety glasses and ear protection while working with this tool. The saw’s moving blade can send debris flying, potentially injuring the eyes or ears. It’s also important to check that the retracting lower blade guard works properly.
The circular saw is a powerful tool, but it can be dangerous to use improperly. To prevent injuries, the Handyman should always keep both hands on the handle and keep the blade away from his or her body. The Handyman should also take care to ensure that the saw is unplugged and not pointed at anything that could be harmed by the rotating blade, such as fingers or a person’s hand.
There are several types of circular saws, ranging from the 7-1/4-inch saw that’s most common and versatile for general use to more specialized trim and flooring models. The size of the blade determines which materials the saw can cut, with some able to cut up to 3-inches thick. Some even have the capability of making bevel cuts. To adjust the bevel angle, loosen the baseplate angular lock lever or knob, then tilt it to the desired position and tighten it to secure it.
Other useful features of a circular saw include positive bevel stops (typically at 22 1/2 and 45 degrees) for quick adjustments, a spindle lock for easier blade changes, and built-in work lights to improve visibility. The Handyman should also pay attention to the power rating and longevity of the saw, as well as its ability to perform tasks like cutting metal or asphalt.
Miter Saw
A miter saw allows a Handyman to make precise and accurate angled cuts in wood. It also helps minimize material waste and ensures a smooth, clean cut that is safe to work with. It can make both miter and bevel cuts, allowing the user to create sloped edges on woodwork projects like crown molding. Some models even allow for compound cuts, which combine both bevel and miter angles in a single cut.
Miter saws are designed to cut wood trim and molding, but they can be used for a wide variety of other materials as well. The key to using a miter saw is to use the correct blade for the job at hand, as different types of wood require different kinds of cuts.
The diameter of the blade is a major factor in determining the size of the cut. A blade with a smaller diameter works better for finer work, while a larger blade is more appropriate for rough construction jobs. The tooth count of the blade also plays a role. A lower tooth count, such as 20-40, is best for rough cuts while a higher number up to 100 can provide a smoother and more refined cut for woodwork like trimming and moulding.
Many miter saws are lightweight, making them easy to move around a worksite or woodshop. They are also fairly compact, so they can be easily tucked away and out of the way when not in use.
Some models come with a portable stand, making them easier to transport from one location to another. They can also be attached to a base for more permanent use in a workshop. The base can also be used to support longer pieces of lumber while cutting them with a miter saw.
Some miter saws feature a laser feature that lines up with the blade to guide the user during cutting. This is an especially useful tool for beginners who are learning the basics of working with a miter saw. However, the laser is often aligned with the right side of the blade, which may be a disadvantage for left-handers.
Fish Tape
The fish tape is one of the hand tools Handyman use on a regular basis to run wires and cables through walls or tight spaces. The flat steel tool has a handle on one end to “fish” the tape into stud bays, wall cavities or conduit runs. It comes in different lengths and materials depending on the job. Electricians can choose between steel fish tapes that are strong for long straight runs or fiberglass fish tapes that have a greater flexibility to navigate tight bends or insulated walls.
When selecting a fishing tape, look for one that has clear, accurate measurement markings, is durable and has an easy-to-use handle design. Some models also have quick payout and rewind mechanisms to speed up movement of the fish tape. If you’re snaking a fish tape through walls, use a wire-pulling lubricant to reduce friction and make the process easier.
If you’re using a metal fish tape, consider one that has been improved to resist corrosion and rust. Conventional steel rusts and adds to the effort required for pulling, which can shorten its lifespan. Some fish tapes come with a layer of smooth plating that helps reduce kinking and rust build-up, while others have a protective coating to keep the internal steel from oxidizing and rusting.
In addition, if you’re going to be working near energized conductors, consider choosing a nonconductive fiberglass fish tape for your needs. These options are safer and can save you the cost of having to demolish walls to replace damaged electrical wiring.
Another thing to consider when choosing a fish tape is how easily it can be wound up and secured for storage. The best fishing tapes have a self-tensioning case with a thumb control to make winding and unwinding as simple as possible. Some cases feature viewing ports so the user can easily find the right spot to start when rewinding the tape.
If you’re going to be using a fish tape on a job site, plan out how far you think you will need to go in advance. This will help you avoid running out of tape before reaching your destination and will allow you to mark the location where you will need to stop using the tape.
Electrical Tape
Electrical tape is an important tool for Handyman, as it helps to insulate wires and other materials that conduct electricity. It is also useful for binding wires together and marking different types of wiring. Using the right type of electrical tape will ensure a safe and code-compliant splice and provide protection against the risk of electrical shock.
There are many different varieties of electrical tape, each with its own specific set of applications. When selecting electrical tape for a project, Handyman should choose one that is UL approved. This will ensure that the tape meets national safety standards and will not catch fire or burn if it becomes overheated. Additionally, it is vital to always turn off the power to an area before applying electrical tape. This will help to prevent any accidental shocks and will allow the user to double-check the power status with a voltage tester before starting work.
When choosing an electrical tape, it is important to pay attention to its insulating capabilities and dielectric strength. These properties are what distinguish electrical tape from other types of adhesive tapes. It is also important to consider the abrasion resistance and temperature range of the tape.
The primary types of electrical tape include vinyl, rubber, mastic, and varnished cambric. These products have been used in electrical applications for years and are typically UL-approved. They also offer a variety of color options that are helpful for indicating the voltage level or phase of the wire.
In addition to its insulation and abrasion resistance, electrical tapes are designed to resist environmental factors such as moisture and ultraviolet light. This allows them to withstand a wide range of temperatures and can extend their lifespans.
When selecting electrical tape, it is important to look for one that is easy to handle and unwind from the roll. It should also adhere quickly to surfaces and be flexible enough to conform to irregular shapes. The thickness of the tape should also be considered, as a thicker layer will be more durable and reliable than a thinner one.