Are you worried about starting the first major DIY project that requires you to use fancy tools? There’s nothing to worry about. Everyone starts somewhere, and this is your shot. You need to know your way around the instruments. The best solution is to start by learning how to use an impact driver.
An impact driver is an essential tool and necessary for major construction projects. It is instrumental when you need some extra power to fasten a screw and helps makes the job more convenient. I always love when more people start to explore DIY projects, so I want to guide you as much as possible.
This blog will briefly explain what an impact driver is and provide a comprehensive guide for using it.
What is an Impact Driver?
An impact driver is a tool that leverages torque to create a high-speed rotation. This rotation allows it to exert power and push screws into relevant positions during construction. Their function is similar to drills to give you a better idea; however, impact drivers operate with greater rotational force on average.
There are several popular brands in the market for impact drivers, like DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee, and Flex; hence, you can find several reliable options.
How to Use an Impact Driver
The key to using an impact driver lies in knowing the process and following safety precautions. Although the tool is not as harmful as a saw, careless handling can still cause injuries. However, reading the following instruction will give you the necessary information on how to use an impact driver.
1. Is it Cord or Cordless?
The first thing you need to check is whether your impact driver has a cord or not. Several of the latest designs are cordless because the design increases the convenience of use. If the tool has a cord, you will need to ensure you work near an electrical outlet or get an extension wire to operate it.
If it is cordless, you will need to get the correct batteries and keep them on hand. I generally don’t attach the batteries to my cordless driver until everything else is ready to avoid accidents. However, it is up to you to make a choice.
2. Locate and Manage the Settings
Your impact driver has several speed settings, and you need to determine which speed you need for the job. Remember that higher speeds generally indicate greater power, so you should avoid choosing them for less intensive jobs. Using more energy than necessary will negatively affect your accuracy and disrupt your work.
The settings location is different for different models, so you’ll also need to find out where they are located on your driver. It would help if you had the manual to check this out.
3. Get the Necessary Bits and Fit Them
Impact driver kits come with bits that need to be attached at the top and which facilitate the fixing of the screw. Study the shape and size of the screw you need to fasten and find a matching bit to attach to your driver.
Ensure that it is fully secure; however, don’t over tighten it. The tighter it is, the more challenging it will be to get the accuracy you desire due to increased power.
4. Ensure the Safety Settings Are Engaged
Several modern impact drivers come with trigger protectors and similar safety elements to minimize the chances of injuries. Take a look at the manual and ensure that you use all the necessary safety precautions to keep yourself safe.
Impact drivers aren’t typically dangerous. But, any fast-moving object can cause some degree of damage if it comes into contact with skin or objects.
5. Keep the Gear Ready (Mask and Protective Glasses)
Head over to Home Depot or Amazon to get protective masks and eyewear before starting a DIY project. Wood fragments will inevitably fly around when you are working on the construction.
There is a risk of those fragments and similar elements entering your eyes or affecting other sensitive parts of your face. Therefore, it is better to be safe than sorry and be prepared for such incidents.
6. Hold the Impact Driver as Comfortably as Possible
Some impact drivers are specially designed ergonomically and are comfortable to hold at most angles. However, even if your driver is a simpler model, you need to adjust your handling to ensure that the grip is comfortable.
Disregarding your comfort can cause unnecessary fatigue, pain, or even accidents, so prioritize this tip. Once everything is set, you can connect the cord or place the battery to prepare for the main work.
7. Do Not Apply Too Much Strength.
There is no need for you to over-exert yourself when working with an impact driver. The tool’s purpose is to give power, and yours likely has a speed setting that fulfills your requirement. Over-exertion will only tire you out and might cause the accuracy to suffer.
It is better to adjust the speed setting instead.
8. Disengage the Battery When Finished
DIY projects are often complex, so it is understandable for you to be dead tired after completing the day’s work. However, do not forget to turn off the switch or disengage the battery once you are done.
The last thing you want is for someone to accidentally turn the impact driver on and get injured in the process. Being careful is less complicated and will only take a few seconds of your time.
9. Store in a Safe Area
Lastly, ensure that you keep the driver in a safe storage area after you get done for the day. Although such tools are sturdy, they need to remain protected against dust and moisture. Keeping them in a suitable storage area will help reduce damage.
Our Final Thoughts
I hope you found my guide on how to use an impact driver helpful and enjoyed reading the instructions. Preparation and safety are the keys to success, so pay attention to the tips.
