Types Of Power Tools: A Beginner’s Guide

Power tools have become an essential part of a carpenter’s or DIY enthusiast’s toolkit. They help you do work faster and more efficiently, from hanging shelves to cutting wood. When it comes to choosing the right power tool for your needs, there are several factors you should keep in mind. These include the type of job you plan on doing with the power tool, your level of expertise as well as your budget. In this article, we’ll discuss what types of power tools there are and how they differ from each other so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing one for yourself. After reading this guide, you will be able

Corded or Cordless?

The first thing you should know about power tools is whether they’re corded or cordless. Most of the time, when a manufacturer says a power tool is cordless, it means that it’s battery-operated. This allows you to move the power tool from one spot to another without worrying about how much charge the battery has left. However, if you want to use the tool from a distance, you’ll need to connect it to a power source. If you want to use the tool from a distance, you’ll need to connect it to a power source. And if you’re working in a place that has limited power access, you may want to consider a corded tool instead.

The pros and cons of each type of power tool are as follows.

Corded tools are more affordable and easier to maintain than cordless ones.

You don’t need to buy batteries and charge them (or find a power outlet), which makes it more convenient.

But you need to make sure the socket outlet in your house can accommodate the tool you want.

If you own a corded drill, you can use it without worrying about running out of charge.

On the other hand, if you have only a corded circular saw, you’ll need to stop working when the battery runs out.

Corded Plunge or Cordless Screwdriver

While cordless power tools are convenient to operate, there may be times when you want the benefits of a corded power tool. A corded plunge power tool offers a more powerful alternative to a cordless screwdriver. This is because the corded tool runs on electricity, while the screwdriver runs on a battery. A corded plunge system is basically a corded screwdriver that comes with a motorized twist switch. When the switch is turned on, the screwdriver’s motor begins to spin, which makes it easier for you to tighten screws. A corded plunge power tool is particularly useful if you often work on projects that require you to tighten multiple screws at the same time. Another great use for a corded plunge power tool is in cabinets where you need to reach out a short distance from the tool. This can be helpful when you’re working under a shelf or cabinet and need to reach for an item.

Brush or Impact Driver?

When it comes to power tools, the debate on what type of driver to use has been raging for years. There are brush and impact drivers. Impact drivers have been around for much longer and are generally more expensive. They’re primarily designed to drive screws into hardwood, concrete and other similar surfaces. Impact drivers can also be used as a drill if you twist the switch on the side to change the setting. To use an impact driver as a drill, you first need to attach the correct attachment to it. This can be a bit challenging since the attachments are not readily available at the store. The best thing you can do is search online for impact drill attachment reviews. The impact driver you choose should have a high-speed setting. High-speed settings help you drill through many materials, including wood and concrete.

Plunge and Flat Shaper

Plunges are also known as oscillating tools. As the name suggests, they have an oscillating blade that rotates as you push or pull it across the surface you’re working on. These are great for cutting carpet, tile and other soft surfaces. When working on hard surfaces such as wood and concrete, you need a bladed surface that can withstand the pressure. A flat shaper is a tilting tool that has a cutting wheel that looks like a plane. The wheel has a set of blades that follow the contour of the surface you’re working on. Both types of tool work great on softer surfaces such as carpet, tile and vinyl, but they’re more effective on softer surfaces.

Bevel-edge Blade or Flooring Scraper?

Depending on the job you’re doing, you can choose between a bevel edge blade and a flooring scraper. The bevel edge blade has a serrated edge that’s great for cutting through wood, while the flooring scraper has a rough edge that’s perfect for scraping off old flooring material. Both types of power tools work great as long as you’re working on softer surfaces like wood, tile, vinyl and carpet. They’re less effective on hard surfaces like concrete and hardwood. A flooring scraper is ideal for removing old flooring material from around the house. You can use it to scrape off old paint and varnish from hardwood floors, remove dirt from tile floors or even scratch off old flooring wax.

Storage and Handling Tips for Power Tools

While power tools are extremely useful, they also pose a significant risk of injury. To prevent this, you should follow these tips to keep yourself safe:

– Keep power tools and their cords separately from other pieces of furniture.

– Make sure all power tools are unplugged and have their cords disconnected from the wall.

– Store all power tools by placing them in a tool holder. This will prevent you from kicking the tool handle, which could cause it to fly out of the holder when you move it.

– When not in use, power tools should be stored in a toolbox, on the floor or on a tool holder.

– If possible, switch off the power tool when you’re done with it. You’ll cut down on dust and potential damage to the tool.

– When switching from one task to another with power tools, make sure you keep them on a surface that can’t be easily tipped over.

Wrapping up

This article walks you through what types of power tools there are and how they differ from each other so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing one for yourself. If you’re new to the world of power tools, you should start with a corded drill or a corded sander. If you’re already familiar with the various types of power tools, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and your budget.