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When you purchase your first house, there are a number of things you need to make the experience a successful one. The thing you could forget is a good set of power tools. It is time to move beyond the hammer, screwdriver and Allen wrench that got you by with while you lived in an apartment. We have assembled some of the best power tools for folks who just moved into their first home.
Before we get started, here are a few tips to keep in mind. When you purchase these tools, invest in them. Instead of going to the nearest superstore and buying all these tools on the cheap, look for quality tools. Cheap tools will break, snap and need to be replaced often, but a set of good tools can last a lifetime.
In the same vein, get your tools one at a time. You can ask for specific tools as presents for birthdays, Christmas or Father's Day. If you are getting married, try to convince your fiancée to register for a few of these tools along with all the china, linens and kitchen appliances you need.
Let's start talking tools!
Circulator Saw. This is one of the most basic and versatile power tools you can purchase. It can even substitute for other tools. Beginners should practice and be cautious until they are comfortable with the saw. It takes time to be an expert, but once you get there you will shave valuable minutes and hours off of your projects.
Power Drills. A good set of power drills can complete a number of tasks. Cordless drills are more popular than corded ones, but corded drills have more power settings. Most drills - corded and cordless - come with a clutch that disconnects the drive mechanism when it reaches a specific dialed in force setting. This feature will prevent you from stripping a screw after it has been secured into place.
Drill Bits. Most people can get by with a set of 15 to 18 high speed steel twist drill bits. You can purchase more specialized bits as you need them over the years. Eventually, you will have a full set of bits for any job you can imagine.
Jig Saw. This tool makes it easy to cut curved or circular patterns in large numbers. Look for a saw that is comfortable to hold and handle as well as blades that can be changed easily.
Table Saw. With this tool especially, go with the highest quality item your budget can spare or consider registering for a high quality saw. Table saws can be used for a long time to come if you get a solidly built one. Many saws have wheels and dust collection bags which make using the saw easier and more enjoyable.
Compound Miter Saw. These saws are low cost and very useful for a variety of household projects as the saw can cut a number of compound angles. When you purchase it, get a set of different blades. Versatility is important, especially if you have limited space. Different kinds of blades will make your compound miter saw usable for various projects that otherwise would require an entirely different tool.
Miter. A miter saw is used to make a quick, accurate crosscut in a workpiece. Common uses include framing operations and the cutting of molding. This is also a good investment and will prove useful for a number of tasks.
Safety Equipment. They are not power tools, but a supply of safety equipment will ensure you can use the tools without endangering yourself. A dust mask, respirator, safety goggles, sawhorse and miter stand are all important purchases. Earmuffs are a must, as they protect your ears better than earplugs or headphones. Loud shop tools can operate at more than 100 decibels. Anything higher than 85 decibels can cause damage to your ears. Hearing damage is permanent and preventable, so make sure you get earmuffs!
After you purchase these tools or receive them as gifts, it is vital to keep them in good working condition. Eventually you will need power tool repair or equipment repair services, but the better you care for these tools the better they will perform for you.
Michael P. King is the Director of Sales & Marketing for THDRepair, one of the largest authorized repair specialists in the U.S. Their specialty ranges from lawn mower repair to power tool repair and power washer repair.
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