Handymen can tackle a wide variety of tasks. One minute, they could be mending a leaky pipe; the next, they could be crafting wood cabinets.
Handyman Lexington KY rely on superior tools to complete their work efficiently and deliver quality results. The right tools demonstrate professionalism and customer reliability, increasing the likelihood of repeat business and referrals.
The circular saw is a cornerstone tool in both professional construction and do-it-yourself home improvement. Its mechanical blade rotation cuts wood and other materials. Depending on how and where you plan to use it, choose a model with appropriate features. These include bevel capacity, cutting depth, and power source (corded or cordless).
The key to using a circular saw is to draw a guideline on your workpiece to help you make an accurate cut. A carpenter’s pencil is good for this, or you can also use regular mechanical pencils. A combination square is helpful, too, since it allows you to both mark the lumber and guide the saw for crosscuts. It can also help you create straight lines for bevel cuts.
Once you’ve marked the line you need to cut, set the saw blade so that it sits no deeper than 1/8 to 1/4 inch below your material. A blade that’s set too deep can cause friction, wear down the teeth and damage the material.
Always follow your saw’s safety instructions for use and operation. For example, you should always wear eye protection and ear protection when operating the saw. It’s important to use a solid, stable base for the saw that can be easily adjusted or clamped to the workpiece, such as a table, a sawhorse or a strong, stable piece of scrap wood. You should also avoid cutting on concrete or other hard surfaces, as this can cause severe nicking and damage the saw’s blade. Also, make sure the saw’s guard is firmly in place and can’t be removed. It can be tempting to skip the guard, especially when making steep bevel cuts, but this is dangerous.
Fish Tape
A fish tape is an electrical tool that helps a handyman run wires in walls and other tight spaces. It has hooks on both ends that can be hooked into existing wires, allowing it to pull them through the wall or conduit without damaging their surroundings. It’s important for a handyman to have this tool in their arsenal as it can save them time and effort in many situations.
There are a number of different types of fish tapes, but the most common are steel and fiberglass. They can be purchased in a range of lengths, from 25 feet to 200 feet or more. Some are also equipped with accessories to help with the pulling process. For instance, a multiwire pulling leader can help prevent wires from twisting during the pulling process and can be attached to the end of the fishing tape using a crimping tool.
Some electric fish tapes are also available that require no manual pressure to operate. These models are generally used by professionals that handle large-scale projects on a regular basis and can reduce wrist strain. They can also be used by home owners that prefer the ease of use and reduced physical strain of these tools.
A handyman may also choose a magnetic fish tape that utilizes a magnet to attract and guide wires through walls. This can be helpful when the wiring is a complex route through a building, and it’s an excellent option for situations where the occupants of a room may not want to be disturbed by the sound of a wire being pulled through their walls. This type of fish tape can be more expensive than a traditional steel or fiberglass fishing tape, but it can also save valuable time and prevent unnecessary damage.
Electrical Tape
As anyone who has ever done a wiring project knows, electrical tape is an indispensable tool. It helps to safely insulate and keep electric currents contained, preventing fire hazards and reducing the risk of injury from shocks. It also allows for quick, temporary repairs to damaged wires.
Unlike standard masking tapes, electrical tape is formulated to be durable and rugged for demanding applications. Its key performance metrics include break strength, dielectric breakdown, abrasion resistance and temperature rating. Some electrical tapes are even rated for use in outdoor environments.
The best quality electrical tapes are able to stick well to themselves, as well as other materials, such as plastics and metals. This is essential when wrapping around curved surfaces or irregular, bumpy objects. Some tapes are also able to adhere well when exposed to harsh environmental conditions, such as extreme temperatures and UV rays.
Finally, the adhesive used in electrical tape is specially formulated to adhere to itself without damaging the backing material. Typically, this is done by adding a layer of special plasticizers to the vinyl resin used in the tape’s construction. These plasticizers prevent the adhesive from reacting with the vinyl itself, helping to prolong the tape’s life and performance.
In addition to its insulation properties, electrical tape is often formulated in a variety of colors for phasing and color-coding purposes. This makes it easier for contractors and electricians to identify specific wires, ensuring that the correct voltage levels are being fed through a system. In this way, electrical tape helps to avoid costly mistakes and downtime that can result from incorrect splices or connections. It’s no wonder that this handy, multi-purpose tool is considered to be the “duct tape” of the electrical world.
Pliers
Pliers are among the most versatile handheld tools in a Handyman’s kit, offering multiple gripping, bending and cutting options. Designed to clamp, cut and twist materials with ease, they are typically made from stainless or hardened steel for strength, durability and resistance to corrosion. They feature a mouth and jaws, which may be smooth or serrated to ensure a tight grip on the material being held. The pliers head strap, or handles, may be curved or straight and plastic-coated to increase comfort and reduce the amount of force that is needed during operation.
The various types of pliers include locking pliers, which use cross braces to provide superb torque power for tasks like pulling wires or removing nut caps. Long-nose pliers are more delicate and used by electricians to grip, bend, shape and cut wires in confined spaces, while needle-nose pliers are ideal for grasping small objects or thin metal wires. Combination pliers have a pair of cutters located near the fulcrum, and diagonal pliers are designed to cut through tough materials like wire.
Regular inspection and care of pliers ensures that they retain their original form and function and provides the highest level of safety for the user. Regular cleaning, lubrication and storage in protective pouches or toolboxes can help extend their lifespan and enhance their performance. In addition, investing in quality pliers will make it easier for the Handyman to tackle all of their jobs with confidence. Whether they are working on electrical installations au,tomotive repairs, or even crafting endeavors, a high-quality set of pliers will make all the difference for their projects. Our buying & usage guide will assist both beginners and professionals in selecting the right pair of pliers for their needs.
Utility Knife
A utility knife, sometimes known as a box cutter or Stanley knife after the popular brand, is a handheld cutting tool that offers versatility and precision. It features a sharp blade housed in a handle and comes in a variety of lengths and designs for specific tasks, such as trimming drywall or marking cut lines on painter’s tape. You can also find models with replaceable blades to extend their lifespan and save money on replacements.
Whether you’re a professional handyman or a DIY enthusiast, having the right tools is essential to complete your projects successfully and safely. A multipurpose utility knife can help you unleash your creativity and complete various tasks, from crafting a picture frame to repairing electrical wires. However, it’s important to prioritize safety and follow proper usage guidelines to avoid accidents.
Some of the most common uses for a utility knife include cutting cardboard boxes, clamshell packaging, triple-wall corrugated packaging, cartons, twine, foam insulation, vinyl, netting, and rope. It can also be used to cut drywall sheets, trim carpet, and make precise cuts in woodworking and model making. It’s also an excellent tool for household chores, such as opening packages and cleaning debris from surfaces.
Besides using a utility knife for household chores, you can also use it to cut food items like fruit, vegetables, and cheese. Just remember to wash the blade before and after use and keep it in a safe place when not in use. It’s also a good idea to invest in a knife block or sheath for storage to protect the blade from damage and rust. Moreover, be sure to store it in a dry and cool place to prevent moisture buildup.