Good power tool are one of the keys to a successful contracting business. Even if your workers are knowledgeable and dedicated, poor-quality tools will prevent them from doing the best job possible. Discover five power tools needed for every construction project and how to choose ones that will last.

Power Drill

Every worker on a construction site needs a quality power drill, perhaps the most versatile tool in existence. Not only do drills create holes in a variety of materials, but they can also drive screws into wood or metal. Honestly, you can never have too many of these around.

Hammer Drill

If you need to drill into something a bit stronger, you’re going to need a hammer drill. These drills combine the circular motion of a drill with the linear force of a hammer, enabling you to chisel into brick, concrete, and cinder blocks. A hammer drill can also function as a regular power drill, making it an extremely handy tool.

Rotary Hammer

For the toughest projects, consider purchasing a rotary hammer, which is basically the equivalent of a mini-jackhammer. Rotary hammers can drill and hammer into much stronger materials than what other drills can handle. If you’re looking to demolish some concrete, a rotary hammer is the tool for you.

Reciprocating Saw

Reciprocating saws are most useful in tear-down situations, like remodeling or demolition projects. You can use them to cut through just about any kind of material, including wood, metal, PVC, and even nails. The main benefit of a reciprocating saw is that you don’t have to do all that back-and-forth sawing yourself—the saw does it for you.

Circular Saw

One of the most important power tools needed for every construction project is the circular saw. These power tools are best for quick cuts in lumber, but they can also cut through metal and masonry with the right blade. Depending on your needs, you may want a handheld version or a stationary drill fitted into a table.

How To Choose Quality Tools

Not all power tools are equal. Like many other fields of equipment, there are both amateur and professional grade variants available. Before making a purchase, carefully consider what it is you need your power tools to do, and how often you’ll perform that task.

Corded or Cordless?

Cordless tools are extremely handy since you never have to worry about extension cords, having power outlets within reach, or accidentally severing the power cord. Today, most cordless power tools come with battery packs that can keep them running for hours at a time. That being said, different batteries provide different voltages, which will determine exactly how much power your power tools have.

Another thing to keep in mind is that batter packs for power tools are not like regular batteries—you can’t use tools and packs from different brands or voltages, so choose your investment carefully. If you prefer cordless, it’s not a bad idea to stick to one brand so that all your tools use the same batteries.

Reliable Brands

Which brands make the best power tools? Here again there’s a difference between tools for homeowners completing small renovation projects and professionals doing large-scale projects. You’ll find that specific brands make better tools for certain jobs, so it’s unlikely that you’ll find one brand that is universally better than others.

Some of the most recognizable professional brands for construction hand tools include DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, Festool, and Bosch. While you can make do with tools made for homeowners and smaller projects, professional tools will last you much longer.

Store Brand Tools

Many hardware stores encourage shoppers to purchase their special store-brand equipment, sometimes offering free in-store repairs and other perks. While these deals are tempting, they can become a trap when you move to a new location and no longer have the same brand of hardware store nearby. Purchasing tools from a nationwide brand gives you guaranteed service no matter where your contracts take you.

Care and Cleaning

To keep your tools in good condition and avoid expensive replacements, make sure to clean them regularly and allow them plenty of time to cool down between jobs. Store your power tools in the original cases, sharpen blades and bits on a regular basis, and follow the manufacturer directions for lubrication and calibration.

How To Shop for Power Tools

Once you’ve decided what power tools you’re looking for, you’ll need to be smart about making a purchase. Since power tools can be quite expensive, smart shopping strategies can save you lots of money in the long run.

Where To Look

If you’re shopping in brick-and-mortar stores, you should be able to find quality power tools at most nationwide hardware chains. However, you’re more likely to find professional-grade brands at stores targeted at contractors and business owners rather than homeowners.

If you don’t have a local hardware store that sells quality power tools, check out Extech Building Materials’ online storefront, where you can find many of the most highly rated professional brands. No more driving to the store only to find out power tool you’re seeking is out of stock.

Wait for Sales

Another important trick for buying power tools is to wait to make your purchase during one of the major holiday sales that take place throughout the year. For professional tools, look for sales around Presidents Day, Memorial Day, and Labor Day weekend.

Something to keep in mind is that power tool prices tend to fluctuate quickly. Don’t be tempted to buy a new model right when it comes out. If you wait a few months, there’s a good chance the price will drop significantly.

Buying Used Tools

If you’re on a tight budget, you can also seek out used or refurbished tools. While you’re at the mercy of the seller’s honesty for most used tools, refurbished power tools come with less risk. These are tools that someone returned to the manufacturer, where they are repaired and put back on the market, usually with a discount and warranty.

The Bottom Line

When you’re working against a deadline, the last thing you need is broken equipment. To avoid this, always buy professional-grade power tools from a trusted retailer, like Extech Building Materials. Doing so will ensure your contracting business remains successful and efficient.