Top Tool Tips

Monday, March 1, 2004

Top Tool Tips (NAPSA)—New homeowners often purchase tools on an asneeded basis—or realize they don’t have the right tools at the time of an emergency repair. A properly equipped toolbox can save time and frustration and makeprojects fun and exciting. In addition to screwdrivers, hammers and wrenches, power tools are important for any do-it- yourselfer. “Confidence comes with the right power tools,” said Tim Brasher with Skil Power Tools. “The Internet is a great resource to find the right tools to meet your needs. At Skil.com, do-it-yourselfers can find buying guides, as well as project instructions at any level.” Here’s the Skil recommended New Homeowner’s Guide to Power Tool Essentials: Cordless Drill/Drivers provide versatility and are good for projects ranging from hanging up pictures and drywall to erecting a tool shed or attaching a satellite dish. Both 12-Volt and 14-Volt drills are great for occasional household drilling or screwdriving projects. If your projects are more comprehensive, such as deck building, then an 18-Volt drill is a good choice. In addition, look for drill/drivers with convenience features to boost user confidence. For example, Skil’s 18-Volt X-Drive™ drill/driver features an on-theboard stud finder, battery fuel indicator, built-in work light and forward/reverse indicator. Skilsaws are ideal for making straight cuts through a single piece or multiple pieces of wood. Typical uses include cutting plywood, paneling or 2x4s for decks. Having the right power tools saves homeowners headaches. Whenshopping for a Skilsaw, look for a safety latch that locks the blade in place to prevent the tool from accidentally turning on. Sanders add the finishing touch for a variety of projects. A random orbit sander removes twice as much surface area as sheet belt sanders. A common gripe with sanding projects is that they are dirty and cause too much dust. Look for sanders with a Micro Filter system that actually captures two times the dust of conventional sanders. Another power tool to consider is a reciprocating saw for pruning and handling fallen branches after storms or to power through metals and tackling demolition projects. A cost-effective way to get your tool kit started is with power tool combination kits. Many kits include many powertool essentials andsell for under $200. For example, Skil has a cordless combo-pack that has an 18-Volt X-Drive drill/driver, a Skilsaw, a reciprocating saw, light and stud finder. The Skil X-Drive 18-Volt ComboPack has a carrying bag, two batteries and a one-hour quick charger for user convenience. It’s available nationwide at Lowe’s.

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