Handyman Naperville tackles a wide range of home repair and maintenance tasks. They can fix leaky faucets, hang pictures, install a light fixture, and more. They often work with other tradespeople such as carpenters and plumbers.
When hiring a handyperson, ask for proof of insurance and a background check. A contract is also a good idea, as it will help both parties keep their expectations in line.
Whether you’re a professional carpenter or just a do-it-yourselfer, a circular saw is an indispensable tool to have in your arsenal. These handheld cutters with large blades and powerful motors cut through wood more efficiently than manual hand saws or jigsaws. They’re also a lot lighter and compact than bulkier table saws, making them easier to transport and maneuver around the job site. Plus, they’re available in both corded and battery-powered versions to suit your power needs.
To make accurate straight cuts, most circular saws come with a guide rail that slots into the saw and helps you stay on the line as you cut. You can also use a spirit level and clamps in lieu of the guide rail to achieve straighter results. Whichever method you choose, it’s important to always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for use and safety. And remember to unplug your saw or disconnect the battery before adjusting or changing the blade.
The blade size and tooth count of a circular saw are two important factors when choosing one. A smaller blade makes a narrower cut, ideal for crosscutting, while a larger blade is good for ripping lumber or cutting through dense woods. Some models have interchangeable blades for greater versatility.
Another factor to consider is the speed at which a saw spins its blade. The higher the number of revolutions per minute (RPM), the faster the blade will cut through material.
A high-quality circular saw will be able to slice through wet plywood or heavy dimensional lumber without slowing down or bogging down. A powerful, high-speed motor and sharp blade will help you finish projects more quickly—and with less wear and tear on your tools.
For general framing and other DIY jobs, Popular Mechanics tester Brad Ford recommends the Milwaukee M18 for its superior power-to-weight ratio and the ability to cut a full 4 x 6 pressure-treated board with minimal effort. It’s not as powerful as the rear-handle saws we test for framing, but it’s still a fast cutter and more than enough for your DIY projects.
Fish Tape
A fish tape is a handy tool for routing electrical wires and other cables through walls, ceilings, floors, and other tight spaces without demolishing structures. Electricians use them frequently to snake NM wire through conduit, but handymen may also find them useful for pulling other conductors into or out of walls and hard-to-reach areas. Fish tapes are long, flat steel wires that come in a variety of lengths and materials to suit different tasks.
The most common fish tapes are made of stranded steel and fiberglass, with lengths ranging from 25 feet to 200 feet or more. They are typically stored in a plastic case and manually pulled out and reeled back in, though some models have powered fish tapes that do the work automatically.
Some models have an end hook that makes it easier to catch the cable at the other end of a wall or ceiling void, while others include a swivel ball to keep the tape from twisting during pulling. Many have a plastic or metal eyelet at the tip that can be attached to wires or cables, and some are nonconductive for working around live circuits.
Choosing the right fish tape depends on the task at hand and the user’s experience level. A novice handyman may not need anything more than a basic but hefty mid-length blued steel fish tape, while a professional may select one based on specific job requirements and the presence or absence of energized conductors.
All fish tapes are rated for a minimum of 300 pounds of pushing and pulling strength, so the handyman must choose one that is appropriate for the work to be performed. Ideal Industries recommends that the user wear heady-duty gloves when handling a fish tape, as any sharp edges or burrs can cut bare hands. Occasionally running wet fish tapes through a towel as they are being rewound can help eliminate rust buildup and prevent the emergence of sharp bends and kinks. In addition, the user should always be mindful of where the fish tape is positioned in the wall or ceiling void as it can snag on studs or drywall.
Electrical Tape
Electrical tape is a special type of pressure-sensitive tape that insulates wires and other materials that conduct electricity. It is often made from plastics that have good insulation properties and can withstand higher voltage levels than regular tape. Electrical tape is also designed to be able to resist moisture and heat, making it resistant to many types of environmental conditions. This is important because it can prevent damage to wiring and other components and ensure that the connections are safe to use.
In addition to providing insulation, electrical tape can also be used for various other purposes. For example, it can be used to make repairs to a wire or cable, and it can also be used to color code wiring in order to help identify different phases or functions of an electrical system. In addition, electrical tape can be used to secure splices in wiring and prevent them from coming loose or exposed.
There are a number of different varieties of electrical tape available, each with varying properties and characteristics. Some are thicker than others, while some are designed to be resistant to moisture or high temperatures. In general, however, electrical tape is made from a durable material that will last for a long time. Some types of electrical tape can even withstand up to 600 volts, which makes them ideal for use in most electrical and wiring applications.
It is important to note that electrical tape should never be used as a substitute for proper wire nuts. While it may seem easier to just grab a roll of Sellotape and wrap it around a wire, this is a dangerous practice that could result in an electric shock. Instead, you should always use the right tools and equipment for the job. In particular, you should only use insulated tools that are specifically designed for working with electricity, such as VDE rated screwdrivers.
When using electrical tape, it is important to remember that the more you stretch the tape, the better it will work. Ideally, it should be stretched to 75% of its width in order to provide effective and long-lasting insulation. This will ensure that it is able to withstand high voltages and protect the electrical connections against damaging environmental conditions.
Miter Saw
A miter saw is a handyman’s go-to tool for precise angled cuts in woodwork projects. These power tools come in a variety of varieties, categorized by blade size, cut types and power source (corded or cordless). A basic model pivots the base to make standard miter cuts, while a compound miter saw allows you to create angular bevel cuts as well. Choosing the right blade and utilizing the various features of these tools can significantly enhance the quality of your cuts.
Considering all the different ways a miter saw can be used, it is important for any handyman to own one of these versatile woodworking tools. However, before you start using your new tool, familiarize yourself with its key aspects and how to operate it safely.
In order to use a miter saw, you will need a basic understanding of how it operates. The saw is powered by a small motor, which turns a blade when you press the trigger. The blade is then pulled down against the workpiece to make a cut, and it stops when you release the trigger. Once you are familiar with how the tool works, you will be able to create clean and accurate miter and bevel cuts in all types of woodwork projects.
The blade size and type is the most important aspect to consider when choosing a miter saw for your needs. The saw will usually be able to accommodate blades between 8 and 12 inches, with different models catering to specific projects. In addition, you will also want to select a blade with a suitable tooth count for the work you plan on doing. A blade with a lower tooth count is better suited for framing lumber, while a higher tooth count will produce a smoother edge for trim and moulding.
The saw may also have additional features, such as positive and negative stops. Positive stops allow you to quickly set the blade at specific angles, decreasing the time it takes to complete a cut. Many models are also equipped with laser guides, which project a beam of light onto the workpiece to help you align the blade correctly with your mark. You should also ensure that your miter saw is regularly cleaned and maintained to avoid issues such as inaccurate cuts and splintering.