(NC)-Like any hobby, those who love remodelling and renovating also love the toys that come along with it. Any trip to the hardware store aisle will show you things have changed in the past few years.
Take drills, for instance. Nowadays many drills are cordless, going anywhere around the house or renovation site that you do. But with so many options for drills to choose from, how do you know which one to buy?
"When looking at drills, there are three basic factors to consider: battery type, voltage (power), and the type of drill," says Greg Wight, Director of Marketing for Black & Decker Canada. "There are two predominant battery systems: the older but less expensive nickel cadmium and the new lithium ion battery that is quickly becoming the industry standard."
Lithium ion (Li-ion) technology makes drills much lighter because the battery packs are smaller, yet still hold the same charge. This makes them a great option for those who want to be mobile while working, or have less strength to carry around a heavier battery pack.
Once you know the type of battery, the amount of voltage is the next important thing to consider. Unlike Tim the Tool Man Taylor would have you believe, more power isn't always the best choice.
"You can get anything from a 6 voltage pack to a 36 voltage pack," says Greg Lavigne, Director of Marketing for DEWALT. "Ideally for regular tasks around the house we recommend something between 12 and 18 volts."
The third factor to consider is the classification of drill that you need.
"Each drill is engineered to do a specific job, and it's very important for safety reasons that you're using the correct one," explains Lavigne. "A home renovator doesn't need the highest-end drill made for a construction site, as enticing as it may be!"
For example, a regular drill is best used for a variety of applications, and should be your number one choice if you're a do-it-yourselfer buying a drill for the first time. A right-angle drill generally has the same power as a regular drill, but is better suited for tight spaces, such as in between studs or joists. And finally, a hammer drill is best used by someone doing more serious work requiring stronger force, such as drilling into concrete.
For more tips and tricks, check out www.blackanddecker.com and www.dewalt.com.
- News Canada