Posts tagged Tool

The Hammer: The Perfect Tool

A hammer has unparalleled value around the house or job site. But, like many household tools, there isn’t just one type of hammer. Chances are, if you took some time to look around the house for hammers, you’d find at least two different kinds. Each variety of hammer is designed for a particular task. So, how do they differ and how do you know if you have the right tool?

Air hammer: Also referred to as a nailgun or nailer, this common choice among professional builders will simplify your project.
Ball-peen hammer: The head on this hand-held tool is round and very compact, while the other side is flat. It’s specifically designed to shape metalwork.
Bricklayers hammer: The distinct extended, square head is used to smash concrete and cut bricks. The handle is significantly longer and requires the use of two hands.
Curved claw hammer: This is the most popular hammer around the home and is ideal for driving and removing nails with the distinctive curved bisected claw.
Mallet: Also called a rubber hammer, it features a softer head and is designed for more delicate work.
Sledgehammer: This is one of the largest-and heaviest-hammers around. The large head and longer handle create more force than most any other hammer. Not surprisingly, they’re usually used in some type of construction.
Straight claw hammer: Use this if you’re planning to tear up and remove sheetrock, tile or flooring. It looks similar to a curved claw hammer, except (surprise!) it’s straight.
Upholstery hammer: This lightweight tool (also called a tack hammer) is used for smaller projects, like upholstering furniture or tapping nails, tacks or brads into a picture frame.

A hammer is simple to use, right? See hammer. Pick up hammer. Hit stuff with hammer. Well, there’s more to it than that. Using a hammer correctly seems like an obvious thing to do-until you smash your thumb and it throbs and pulsates like Fred Flintstone’s. Here’s a brief safety checklist to consider:

Make sure the hammer’s head is attached firmly to the handle, and inspect the tool for any defects.
Hold the hammer with a strong grasp at the end of the handle. It’s safer and more energy efficient.
Strike your surface squarely with the hammer’s head, and avoid banging it sideways.
Work against a hard surface, and make sure people and other objects are at a safe distance.
Wear eye and (if needed) ear protection.
Resist striking another large piece of steel, like another hammer, with a hammer. Not even for fun.
Finally, if your hammer shows signs of weakening-cracking, bending, becoming brittle-replace it with a new one.

The hammer is one of the most diverse hand tools a builder or homeowner can have in their arsenal. And with so many types available, you should have little problem finding one to fit your specific project.

Until next time, Happy Home Improving!