Handyman Lexington, KY, tackles all manner of small repairs and projects. A squeaky rocking chair gets that soothing creak back, and old light fixtures can be updated for safety and style.
A quality set of hand tools is a staple for any handyman. Add a circular saw for straight cuts and power tools like a drill to round out your toolbox.
The circular saw is a versatile tool that can be used for many home improvement projects. It is a great alternative to using a miter saw or table saw for making long, straight cuts. It is also a much more portable option than these larger tools, allowing you to take it with you on jobs where setting up a work station would be impractical or impossible.
When using a circular saw, it is important to follow all appropriate safety precautions. Wearing eye and ear protection is recommended, as well as work gloves to prevent slippage and hand injuries. The area where the saw is to be used should also be clear of any obstructions or debris. It is also a good idea to secure the material for cutting, clamping it firmly or using a vise where possible.
There are a variety of different types of blades available for circular saws, with the selection typically depending on what type of material the user is cutting. For example, there are blades suitable for cutting wood and laminate, as well as blades that can cut metal or plastic. The blade diameter, arbor hole size, number of teeth and kerf (the thickness of the cut the blade creates) will usually be printed on the blade face.
If the saw will be used to make angled cuts, it is advisable to use a guide rail. These are available as standard accessories for most corded and battery-powered circular saws and can be used to ensure accurate and precise straight lines. It is also a good idea to use a spirit level and clamps to prevent any movement during the cut, and always double-check the marked cutting line for accuracy.
When choosing a circular saw, it is a good idea to consider the size and torque of the motor as well as the blade width, bevel angle and type of blade. Other considerations include whether the saw is corded or cordless, and whether it has a right or left-blade version. Finally, it is worth bearing in mind that some more advanced models have the ability to plunge into a workpiece, providing a more precise and clean cut for tasks such as creating openings for vents or electrical outlets.
Miter Saw
A miter saw is a valuable tool for Handyman jobs, particularly framing tasks such as building door frames and walls. This powerful tool allows you to make precise angled cuts, which are essential for clean, professional-looking work. When choosing a miter saw, consider its blade size or diameter and the tooth count, as these factors determine how well the saw cuts different materials. For example, a blade with more teeth is best for hardwoods while a blade with fewer teeth works well for softwoods.
Some miter saws come equipped with a clamp, which helps you secure the piece of wood you’re cutting. This feature is especially important if you’re working with smaller pieces that could get caught in the spinning blade and fly away, causing serious injuries. Many manufacturers also offer an adapter to connect an industrial vacuum cleaner, which can improve dust extraction and reduce the amount of waste you have to dispose of later.
Before using your miter saw, inspect the blade for any chips or dullness. These issues not only decrease precision but can increase the risk of accidents due to slippage or binding. If necessary, replace the blade promptly to maintain accuracy and extend its lifespan.
Similarly, check the fence to ensure it’s straight and free of damage. Depending on the model you have, it may have removable sections that tighten with wing nuts and can be removed without tools. This can be helpful for adjusting the miter and bevel settings when a piece is longer than your saw.
For safety, always use one hand to firmly hold the piece of wood against the fence and the other to operate the saw. Never use both hands to hold the wood, as this can cause kickback, which could send the board flying and injure you. If you’re cutting a piece of wood that’s too long for your saw, rest it on a workbench or stack of scraps next to the saw to support it.
To help you create the desired angled cuts, most miter saws feature adjustable bevel and miter settings. These are often located near the blade, so you can adjust them without turning off the machine and risking injury. Some models include indicators and gauges that let you know when you’ve reached the desired angle. Once you’ve made the adjustment, tighten the knob securely so that it cannot move.
Fish Tape
The fish tape is a hand tool that helps Handyman run wires without having to cut through structural elements. According to Ideal Industries, the device is “used to ‘fish’ electrical wire or other lines into stud bays, wall cavities and conduit runs. It’s also used to snake wires or cables in finished walls and hard-to-reach spaces above ceilings and below flooring.”
These tools are available in a variety of materials, from traditional fiberglass nonconductive models to PET (polyethylene terephthalate) or metal designs that offer heightened durability. They typically house the tape in a donut-shaped case with handle, which allows you to extend the tool, attach the end of the wire or cable, and reel it in as you push the line toward its destination. The types of conditions you’ll encounter in a given job site will influence which type to select, as will the case design. Some include strong, slip-resistant handles; retainers that keep the fish tape in place; and a conduit bending tool to reduce kinking.
A key aspect of using fish tape is planning how far to extend the wire and ensuring you don’t overextend it. To do this, many experts suggest planning ahead by walking off or measuring out the distance you think you’ll need to go, and then marking it with a piece of tape. Some tapes feature laser-etched distance markings for increased accuracy. Others have fast payout and rewind mechanisms to help speed up movement. They’re also designed to be durable and withstand heavy use, with molded overmolds for added comfort and slip-resistant handles for secure gripping.
Always be aware that metal fish tapes can conduct electricity, so you’ll want to make sure power is off in the area before working with them. In addition, you’ll need to check the condition of the area with a wire tester to ensure there are no energized wires or panels in the vicinity. If you do find a live line, turn off the power at your circuit breaker box to prevent injury or shock. If you’re unsure, consider using nonconductive fiberglass fish tape instead.
Electrical Tape
The electrical tape is the insulating and protective staple of any handyman’s tool kit. Used to wrap and bind wires, electrical tape can help prevent dangerous shocks, keep wire connections secure, and prevent splice failure. It also helps meet a variety of other electrical needs, such as color coding and phasing.
When it comes to selecting electrical tape, you want to look for one with a high dielectric strength and a thicker insulation than regular tape. You should also prioritize an electrical tape that carries Underwriters Laboratories (UL) approval, which ensures the tape meets strict safety standards. Regardless of what type of job you’re using electrical tape for, it’s always important to make sure the power is turned off before beginning any work in an area that may contain live wiring.
It is also important to note that electrical tape is not intended as a permanent repair for exposed wiring or connections. Rather, it should be a temporary solution until the wires can be rewound or replaced. If you notice an unexplained uptick in your electricity usage, it could be a sign that your wires are wearing out and need to be replaced.
Another thing to consider when choosing electrical tape is its heat-resistant rating. You’ll want to select a vinyl or rubber electrical tape that is rated for the temperature you are working with. For example, PVC electrical tape can withstand temperatures up to 176 degrees Fahrenheit, while rubber electrical tape can handle up to 221 degrees Fahrenheit.
While many people use electrical tape for a variety of purposes, some are creative and find other uses for this versatile product. For example, it can be used to create a simple stencil for painting or as an alternative to masking tape in arts and crafts projects.
Additionally, it is possible to use electrical tape to add decorative touches to walls or other surfaces. For instance, it can be used to create a tiled Swiss cross on a wall, or even a unique piece of art for your home. While this may seem like a small project, it can add a touch of elegance to any space.