Handyman Naperville IL completes repair and maintenance tasks in a variety of settings. They usually work on weekdays and follow standard hours.
Many fixture replacement jobs can be performed by handymen, but some may require a licensed professional to do so. Some examples include plumbing and electrical repairs.
A handyman needs a tool kit that includes several tools to tackle various jobs. Some of the most essential tools are:
Fish tape is a tool that allows handymen to snake wires and cables through finished walls, conduit, and other spaces without breaking or otherwise disturbing them. It’s often used by electricians and information transport system installers. Without it, they might have to drill a number of holes in a wall or other surface, which is time-consuming and costly.
When fish tape is needed, a helper manipulates it from one end while the other end hooks onto any wire or cable that needs to be moved through a wall. The other end of the fish tape is then pulled back, gently guiding the wires into the desired location. The rigidity of the fish tape allows it to maneuver around corners and other obstructions, making it easy to avoid snagging or tangling.
The fish tape is usually made of stainless steel, which has a high tensile strength and can handle pushing and pulling forces well. It’s available in various lengths, but it’s best to get a long and robust version that can handle a wide range of tasks. Most fish tapes are also made of non-conductive fiberglass, which is a good choice for environments where electricity may be present.
Electrical Tape
Electrical tape is pressure-sensitive and has distinct properties that make it a staple of any handyman’s toolbox. It’s designed to resist heat, abrasion, and moisture in order to protect wires from damage and keep the connections between them clean. This prevents any sparks from forming between adjacent wires, which can ultimately lead to fires. Additionally, it helps keep the connection between a wire and its sheath from touching flammable materials such as wood wall studs.
When shopping for electrical tape, the primary consideration should be how easy it is to handle. Look for tape that can be torn by hand and easily wrapped around wires without a sharp cutting implement. Also, consider its durability and whether it’s suitable for your work environment. For example, if you’re using it outdoors, select one with cold-weather ratings or one that’s certified as CSA and UL-approved.
It’s also a good idea to look for an electrical tape that can elongate somewhat, as this allows it to shrink down to the size of the wire and create a tight wrap. A simple way to test its elasticity is by wrapping it around your finger a few times. A quality tape will constrict around your finger but not break.
Chalk Line
When you need to mark lines for a carpentry project or drywall installation, the best tool is a chalk line. The chalk line is a small, handheld device that features a reel case of powdered chalk and a string that can be used to impart straight lines onto surfaces.
Most models come with a hook ring on the end of the string that can be attached to an object for stability. Then, the string can be plucked or snapped so that it leaves a line on the surface of the object. These lines can be temporary or permanent, depending on the type of chalk used.
Look for a chalk line that’s easy to use. Many models feature a crank handle to help you wind up the string when you’re finished. They’re also designed with a retractable tip that snaps back, so you don’t have to cross your workspace again to retrieve it. The tip is often made of nylon, which is stronger than cotton string and can withstand a lot of tension.
Claw Hammer
Claw hammers are the most common type of hammer handymen use for basic maintenance tasks, such as hanging pictures or installing trim. They have a smooth, textured striking face at one end for hammering in nails and a curved claw at the other end for pulling out nails. The handle is made of wood, fiberglass, or metal and can be cushioned to reduce hand fatigue. There are many different variations of hammers, including framing and ball-peen hammers, but the typical claw hammer weighs 16 ounces or less.
For heavier maintenance work, a framing claw hammer may be used. It has a larger head and longer handle that maximize power for driving in nails and removing fasteners. Its striking face is smooth or textured, and it has a curved claw on the other end for removing nails from wood. Another option is a ball-peen hammer, which is better suited for metalworking jobs and doesn’t have a claw. Its flat striking surface is less likely to chip than a claw hammer’s, and it can be used to drive punches or cold chisels, set rivets, or shape metal. Its handle is often made of hickory.
Framing Nailer
Framing nailers are heavy-duty construction tools that use large nails. They are used to build and assemble wooden studs and timber to form the framing of a house. These are also used for construction jobs such as installing wood trim, panels, crown moldings, and cabinets. However, they are too powerful for some delicate projects and can cause damage to thinner pieces of wood.
Framing nail guns can be used with either round-headed or clipped-headed nails. There is no consensus among professionals as to which one is better, but the choice depends on what type of project you are working on. Round-head nails have a round head that sits flush against the shank, whereas clipped-head nails have a flat top that looks like it has been cut off.
Another consideration when choosing a framing nailer is its weight. Handymen often crouch, stand on ladders, or reach overhead, so they need a lightweight tool that can be comfortably used for long periods of time. A plastic-collated framing nailer is a good option, as it is lighter than other types of nailers.
Circular Saw
A circular saw is a versatile power tool that can make straight cuts in a variety of materials. Like any power tool, it can be dangerous if used improperly, so a handyman must always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye and hearing protection. It is also important to ensure that the saw is on a stable sawhorse or workbench and that the blade is not touching anything it’s not supposed to.
Before cutting, it’s a good idea to mark the cut line on the material with masking tape so that the saw doesn’t accidentally splinter the top side of the wood or cause it to veer off course. Then, before turning the saw on, check that the blade depth is set at least 14 inches below the thickness of the material.
It’s also a good idea to check the motor’s amperage, as some saws have more powerful motors than others. It is generally recommended to use a saw with around 15 AMPs for home projects. After using the saw, it is essential to unplug the power cord and confirm that the blade guard is in the down position before storing it.
Cordless Driver
A cordless driver (also known as a drill or screwdriver) has a gearbox that allows you to select different speeds, which allow it to either drill holes or drive screws (depending on the hex chuck and bit head that are attached). Handyman jobs that might call for this tool include installing drapery brackets, drilling drywall anchors, and assembling a barbecue grill. Steve Maxwell is a freelance writer, photographer, and content creator who lives on Manitoulin Island, Canada, in a stone house he built himself.
Tape Measure
A tape measure is a vital tool for the handyman, providing accurate measurements and lengths. The best tape measures have easily readable markings and a strong, retractable blade. They also feature a thumb lock that keeps the blade extended when making measurements and prevents the tape from automatically retracting into its case.
A good tape measure will have imperial measurements on the top and metric measurements on the bottom of its blade. It will also have a numbering system that repeats inch increments throughout its length. For example, an 8-foot tape measure will have 16 one-foot marks and 192 half-inch increments. The shortest lines will be identified by numerals, while the next shortest lines will not have numerals and denote 1/4-inch, 1/8-inch, and 1/32-inch increments.
Some tape measures have stud and joist designations that are helpful for framing carpenters. These designations are typically found at 16-inch and 19.2-inch intervals and indicate the on-center position for joists, rafters, and wall studs. They are useful for determining how to space these structural elements during a home or commercial construction project.
