Top Tool Tips (NAPSA)—New homeowners often purchase tools on an asneeded basis—or realize they don’t have the right tools at the time of an emergency repair. A properly equipped toolbox can save time and frustration and makeprojects fun and exciting. In addition to screwdrivers, hammers and wrenches, power tools are important for any do-it- yourselfer. “Confidence comes with the right power tools,” said Tim Brasher with Skil Power Tools. “The Internet is a great resource to find the right tools to meet your needs. At Skil.com, do-it-yourselfers can find buying guides, as well as project instructions at any level.” Here’s the Skil recommended New Homeowner’s Guide to Power Tool Essentials: Cordless Drill/Drivers provide versatility and are good for projects ranging from hanging up pictures and drywall to erecting a tool shed or attaching a satellite dish. Both 12-Volt and 14-Volt drills are great for occasional household drilling or screwdriving projects. If your projects are more comprehensive, such as deck building, then an 18-Volt drill is a good choice. In addition, look for drill/drivers with convenience features to boost user confidence. For example, Skil’s 18-Volt X-Drive™ drill/driver features an on-theboard stud finder, battery fuel indicator, built-in work light and forward/reverse indicator. Skilsaws are ideal for making straight cuts through a single piece or multiple pieces of wood. Typical uses include cutting plywood, paneling or 2x4s for decks. Having the right power tools saves homeowners headaches. Whenshopping for a Skilsaw, look for a safety latch that locks the blade in place to prevent the tool from accidentally turning on. Sanders add the finishing touch for a variety of projects. A random orbit sander removes twice as much surface area as sheet belt sanders. A common gripe with sanding projects is that they are dirty and cause too much dust. Look for sanders with a Micro Filter system that actually captures two times the dust of conventional sanders. Another power tool to consider is a reciprocating saw for pruning and handling fallen branches after storms or to power through metals and tackling demolition projects. A cost-effective way to get your tool kit started is with power tool combination kits. Many kits include many powertool essentials andsell for under $200. For example, Skil has a cordless combo-pack that has an 18-Volt X-Drive drill/driver, a Skilsaw, a reciprocating saw, light and stud finder. The Skil X-Drive 18-Volt ComboPack has a carrying bag, two batteries and a one-hour quick charger for user convenience. It’s available nationwide at Lowe’s.
