Every homeowner should have a set of tools and hardware somewhere in their house, as certain items come in handy often. A power drill, drill bits and screws are among the list of must-haves because they are is so useful. Whether you're hanging art or installing a garage storage system, having the right tools and knowing how to use them will come in handy. When you hang your wall storage system, you'll need to use a power drill. The panels are held in place by screws, which require the help of a drill to insert into your walls. Of course, not all of these tools are created equal, and because you'll be hanging a lot of your belongings, you'll want to make sure the drill gets the work done properly. Here are some tips for purchasing a drill:
Check the voltage
Cordless or power drills are operated by a battery. That battery's strength is measured in volts. The more volts your drill has, the better it will operate (you'll need a strong drill when making holes in studs). For this reason, you'll want a drill that has enough voltage. Most range from 2 volts (for powered screwdrivers) to 36 volts (that's the heavy-duty kind). A 12- to 18-volt drill should be good for just about anything you do in your home, including installing wall mount storage.
Battery type
The kind of battery your drill has is less important than voltage, but some homeowners do have preferences. In fact, lithium batteries are regarded as the best option. These types of batteries will cost more, but they won't have to be recharged as often, so that's a bonus.
Drill speed
How quickly the drill spins is another consideration for buying a tool. The speed is measured in rotations per minute. Low speed is anywhere from 300 to 400 rpm while high speed is as many as 1,500 rpm. The higher speeds give you more versatility, as fast drills can tackle more tasks, so these models are a good choice if you want a quality drill you'll use throughout your life.
Chuck size
A drill's chuck is the mouth that holds drill bits, and it comes in several sizes, including 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch. Most of the time, the chuck is adjustable, which is really what you want (no unitaskers here!). A key chuck widens or narrows by turning a key (logically named) and a keyless chuck (also obvious) adjusts without a key. The one you choose comes down to preference. A 3/8-inch adjustable chuck is good for most projects.
Tips for use
Once you have your drill, you'll almost be ready to hang your wall panels (exciting, we know). But first, take a look at these drill-use tips:
- Make sure the battery is totally charged before use (otherwise you may have to stop mid-hang).
- The slower you go, the greater torque you'll achieve.
- Always wear protective eye coverings (can't have drywall in your eyes!).
- Use a predrill before putting the actual screw in the wall.
Don't be afraid to spend a little money when buying a new cordless drill. These tools are ones you'll use for a lifetime if you pick a quality model.
