What tools for decking?

[fridgefreezer]

I'm planning on building a deck in our garden, and need to know what tools to buy.

I'm also thinking ahead to the future, so intend to buy above what I really need for this project, so for example, I want to buy a very good quality mitre saw/table and nail gun etc.

I have a variety of levels, mallets, etc. But could do with a powerful electrical drill and screwdriver.

On top of this, I need to know which of these tools can be bought as cordless - I have an allotment where I would like to carry out similar tasks, and there is no power there.

Any heads up on this sort of kit would be very welcome. In fact, you might think of this post as about cordless power tools suitable for on-site use for decks (but also doing stuff like pergolas and other stuff for allotments, like simple structures for supporting plants etc.)

FF

 

[TheVictorian]

I'd be putting some money towards a Makita Impact Driver for getting all those screws in - a better investment than a nail gun in my non-professional opinion.

 

[fridgefreezer]

I believe that the nail gun is for fixing joists rather than the board screws, but I take the pont of the ability of the Makita unit.

 

[Belle427]

an impact driver and drill kit would suit you, something from the likes of ryobi.

 

[Deleted member 174758]

Most important: mitre saw with legstand (mains) - if used outside MUST be protected by an RCD plug on the extension lead, cordless impact driver (18 volt, 3Ah) - forget the nail gun because then you'd need stainless steel fastenings (check the price) - a decent impact can be used as a druill if you buy a set of 1/4in hex drill bits such as the Hellers sold by Machine Mart. Bosch do a similar set

 

[catlad]

You don't need a nail gun, a hammer and a bag of 4" galv nails. I would say get a decent combi drill with two batteries an impact is too specialised and too noisy. You could also do with a socket set for large coach bolts/screws.

 

[Deleted member 174758]

I would say get a decent combi drill with two batteries an impact is too specialised and too noisy. .

Funny thing,that. Pretty muc every "old school" joiner I've met who was anti-impact driver said the self-same thing - until they used one for a big job. I was one of them - once

 

[Pigeon85]

Good cordless drill will always get used around the house and garden, get a good mitre saw and maybe a jigsaw depending on what shape you will be going for. As for a nail gun unless you plan on doing loads of jobs really quick then I wouldn't bother with one especially when you have a good drill and screws.

 

[WabbitPoo]

Do not nail your joists. Noggins are fine.

 

[catlad]

I have an impact driver and they have there place, but if you want to be at one with nature down at the allotment, and not break the zen like status quo then I would forget the nail gun and impact driver.

 

[fridgefreezer]

Bugger nature, I'll do what I have to do.

(with all respect, of course!)