Must-Have Power Tools for Your Construction Business

If you’re the owner or manager of a construction business, then you already know how important it is to have the best power tools for your team. In fact, having the right power tools is one of the keys to the success of any construction business because it enables you to finish jobs efficiently and effectively – and without jeopardizing the safety of your employees.

Some tools are standard for every construction business, while other newer, more technologically advanced tools might give your business a leg up on the competition. Since tools tend to change with the latest technologies, and technology changes fast, staying up to date with the latest advancements can be difficult. If you run a construction business, it’s recommended that you reevaluate what you have in the tool shed at least once a year.

The most important tools

Hammer, nails, tape measures, and safety hats are basic elements, but by themselves aren’t going to cut it. Any successful construction business knows that they need power tools to get the job done. Power tools are getting lighter and easier to handle than those used in the past, and settings are always being added to enable increased safety, as well as more customization and attention to detail. Here are a few must-have power tools:

• Line laser level. While many construction experts may not consider this a true power tool as many models are powered by AA batteries, a laser level is a workhorse in its own right. This tool uses laser technology to check the correct levels of surfaces and heights to properly align objects during construction projects. This type of level is more accurate than a traditional level, especially when measuring long distances. Precision is key in terms leveling and alignment.

• Reciprocating saw. The versatility of this tool makes it a go-to if you’re building or in demolition mode. It can cut through just about anything, including pipes, nails, even cast iron. With a variety of blade sizes, this saw can get into tight spaces.
• Oscillating multi-tool. With interchangeable heads, this tool can be used for a variety of purposes, including scraping, grinding, sawing, and sanding. It can be used on metal or wood by switching out blades, sanding pads and adapters. An oscillating multi-tool can also serve to help you streamline or pare back your power tool inventory.
• Non-contact voltage tester. Another small, but mighty non-traditional power tool is a voltage detector. The majority of these are powered by AAA batteries, but their usefulness in accurately testing battery and circuit integrity is immeasurable in terms of safety and troubleshooting. All contractors, not just electricians, should keep a voltage tester on hand.
• Impact driver and/or hammer drill. The impact driver can replace a regular cordless drill if you’re driving a lot of screws. With a powerful hammer-like function, screws can be driven through harder surfaces, such as stone and concrete. The impact drill provides extra torque through the rotational movement, while the hammer drill adds torque through the linear movement.
• Angle grinder. This is the tool of choice for masonry work as the cutting wheel can be used without damaging bricks. The grinder’s variety of spinning discs move at an extremely high rate of speed to cut, grind, sharpen or polish.
• Staplers. Power staplers have a wide variety of uses. They can be used to hold insulation, roofing, screening, upholstery, and light wiring, as well as carpeting and padding and more. With the force required to drive a staple, it goes without saying why it’s better to have a power stapler versus a manual version.
• Nailers. Nail guns and heavy-duty strip nailers are crucial to getting jobs done quickly and efficiently. Nail guns are easy to operate and boost productivity in construction. New designs have added features such as limited recoil, vibration, and fatigue, resulting in increased safety and fewer injuries.

Innovative technologies that can make your business safer and more efficient are always on the rise, so it’s important for construction business owners to stay in the loop. For instance, when you have a job that requires 4” to 6” nails, consider the FASCO® F91AC RHN20-160 Jumbo Nailer. With its larger size, it comes with an auxiliary handle for added comfort and control. It features top loading for plastic strip jumbo nails, and single shot actuation. Bring efficiency to your heavy-duty nailer needs with quality FASCO® air-driven tools from BECK.