If you have a deck framing Wellington project, you are probably wondering what tools you will need. If you are a handy person, there are high chances that you already have the tools needed to build or frame a deck. Most hand tools are cheap and worth buying. Power tools can be expensive so you may decide to rent rather than buy some of them. Deckbuilding tools can be divided into five main categories which are fastening tools, cutting tools, smoothing tools, digging tools and shaping tools. You need to have basic skills in order to use these tools effectively.
Layout and measuring tools
If you want to build a quality deck, you need to check to ensure that its parts are square, level and plumb. Here are some important pieces of equipment you will need for measuring and layout.
Chalk lines and tape measures
If you have a 25-foot tape measure then it should be fine to handle most deck-building tasks. However, a longer tape may be needed if you are building a large deck. On the other hand, chalk lines are needed to create straight lines. You can opt for blue chalk if you want to save yourself from a headache. Blue chalk washes off easily.
Framing and speed squares
These are essential tools required for building a deck. You will need a framing square for checking corners for the square. It is also useful for marking along square lines during your deck framing project. Speed squares on the other hand are used when marking your boards for cutting. You can check the level and the plumb using a torpedo level for your smaller pieces and a 4-foot or 2-foot level for larger pieces.
Site excavation tools
You will need hand tools for excavation although you may want to hire a professional landscaper. You can also rent a post hole digging machine or earth moving machine if you have a large job.
Shovels
When it comes to building a deck, there is no way you can avoid digging. This is why shovels are very important. You will need a spade shovel to dig the earth and remove soil. If you want to mark off areas that you need to excavate, you will need a mason’s line. On the other hand, a drain spade has a narrow blade for digging shallow post holes. If you want to dig deeper postholes, you will need to use a clamshell digger.
Squeeze clamps and pipe
Clamps hold pieces in alignment temporarily when you drive fasteners. Pipe clamps are as long as the pipe you attach the parts to. On the other hand, a squeeze clamp grabs quickly and a sliding clamp holds firmly.
Cutting tools
During a deck framing Wellington project, you will need professional cutting tools for your project. Building a deck doesn’t call for cuts as precise as those required for cabinetry. However, you should ensure that your cuts are accurate by using tools such as circular saw, jigsaw, knives and shears, reciprocating saw, table saw and more.
