Our Melbourne-based driveway experts know that to some people – DIY projects are a way of life. There’s something special about putting the work in and admiring the end-result – or, even better, actually using whatever you’ve built. Pergolas, raised garden beds, benches and even items the kids can play on – there is an endless list of DIY projects so why not be prepared? Today we’re going to be highlighting some key power tools that will come in handy if you’re someone who likes tackling DIY projects regularly.
1. Circular saw
The circular saw is probably the most useful power tool you can have in your arsenal. It uses a blade which will have either smooth or toothed edges to cut through different materials. In DIY situations it’s primarily used for cutting through wood or timber but can also handle plastic or metal.
A circular saw is a much-favoured alternative to a manual saw in DIY situations as it requires a lot less labour and will also yield cleaner, more accurate cuts. Circular saws can be handheld or mounted and are available in corded or cordless battery-powered options.
2. Belt sander
When you cut any type of wood, you’re going to want to sand it so it can become smooth. Not only will this be much easier to work with, but it will also look much nicer as well as minimise the risk of getting a splinter. Essentially, a belt sander operates in the same way a normal sander does except it uses a motorised conveyor belt and a looped roll of sandpaper to achieve a much faster and more efficient result.
Similarly to a circular saw, a belt sander removes much of the manual labour making the sanding process much smoother. Additionally, belt sanders also come in corded and cordless options.
3. Drill
A drill is probably something you’re more likely to already have at home compared to some of the other tools. A drill will help you get screws in and out quite quickly and efficiently without the manual labour required when using a screwdriver. Another area a drill excels in over a screwdriver is putting screws into untouched timber – so creating the actual holes with the screws or with specific drill bits.
Doing this requires some short bursts to get started. It can be easy to use too much continuous power and accidentally veer off course – potentially damaging or ruining your materials/project. Drill bits are another big part of drills as there are so many different drill bits available – all of which are great for specific requirements.
Our Melbourne driveway experts recommend purchasing a well-made drill with solid drill bits – budget drill bits will dull very quickly and you’ll end up spending more on replacing them compared to paying a premium up-front cost for a well-crafted bit. Drills are available in battery-powered cordless options or corded ones.
4. Jigsaw
When you want to cut shapes and curves – then a jigsaw is for you. Unlike a circular saw – which is designed explicitly for cutting straight lines – a jigsaw is designed for making those cuts a circular saw just can’t do like cutting a circle in the middle of a piece of timber. Experienced users will be able to cut odd and decorative shapes to achieve some truly unique pieces.
A jigsaw can come in handy when working on decorative projects such as grandeur park benches for the yard that require some curved armrests or picturesque support pieces. Like the above power tools, jigsaws are available for purchase in both corded and cordless options so you can choose the type that works best for you.
Are you looking to update your driveway in Melbourne?
Here at A Better Driveway, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality driveway solutions in Melbourne. A durable and stunning exposed aggregate driveway would work so well with a DIY arbour or even a quaint front yard bench – so don’t waste your time on a subpar driveway – get in touch with A Better Driveway today for a driveway that will last.
Feel free to give us a call on 0412 537 776 or fill out the contact form on our website to request a quote or raise any queries you may have.