The Best Tools and Materials for Outdoor Home Projects

With spring here, the time is right to start turning attention outdoors. From seasonal landscaping to designing new outdoors hangouts, there is no shortage of projects to keep homeowners busy. With that said, northern Illinois residents know that spring does not mean the end of blustery weather. As such, it is crucial to choose the right tools and materials that can withstand diverse conditions and provide longevity amid changing weather.

Cutting and Shaping Tools

It is essential to have the correct tools to prepare materials for installation. Without the proper fit, the final project can end up unsafe, unsightly, and poor performing.

Chisels are used to carve and shape wood. They help guarantee the intricate details for a precise fit. The correct knife for cutting insulation is necessary when installing thermally-stable patio walls and outdoor coolers. Shears are used to cut metal and plastic flashing. Planes help smooth wood surfaces for clean finishes. 

Power Tools

Whether you are a professional or DIYer, power tools are inherently exciting. They are the great equalizer in construction, allowing workers to tackle the most daunting tasks in a fraction of the time it would take with hand tools.

While professionals will want to have each and every power tool in their arsenal, cost-conscious DIYers can get by with a selection of the most essential, renting or borrowing the others on an as need-basis. Some of the must-haves that will have utility in all types of outdoor projects include:

• Drills – this is arguably the number one power tool any homeowner should have, as the need for pilot holes will arise in virtually every home improvement task imaginable.
• Circular saw – this is a crucial tool for any of the more ambitious outdoor tasks, such as building a deck or patio. The best circular saw blade will differ depending on the type of project you are performing. Small, finer teeth are ideal for intricate cuts on wood, while strong carbide teeth are the way to go for metal and other hard materials.
• Sander – an essential item for any homeowner with standing structures, as it will prepare surfaces for staining and sealing.
• Nail gun – some may say this is optional, but it really should be included in the collection of homeowners who regularly perform large-scale outdoor projects. It applies nails faster and more precisely than a hammer, offering the potential for safer, more efficient construction.

When building your collection of power tools, it is vital to collect the necessary PPE. Hard hats, safety glasses, and dust masks are no-brainers. A word to the wise: unless specially manufactured for a specific tool, avoid using gloves when operating power tools. They can easily get caught in saw blades and sanding belts, opening the door for serious injury. 

Corrosion Resistant Fasteners

Homeowners prioritize moisture-resistant materials. Composite decking. Fiber cement siding. Metal roofing.

However, the fasteners holding them in place often get overlooked.

No matter how durable the material itself, its structural integrity will be compromised if the fasteners fail. This is underscored in outdoor projects, where nails, screws, and bolts will be directly exposed to the elements.

As such, upgrade off of basic steel fasteners in favor of more durable corrosion-resistant options. Stainless steel is a logical option, but there are even more robust zinc-plated fasteners that will extend the life of exterior joints by decades. 

Insulated Concrete Forms

As the need for energy efficient homes and functional exterior space have proliferated in recent years, more and more homeowners are turning their attention toward next-level exterior materials. One such option is insulated concrete forms (ICF).

ICF uses a series of precast insulated blocks that lock in place at the building site. They are then filled with concrete to create a continuous, double insulation layer for the structure. They are a top option for exterior walls and foundations. Their thermal efficiency and noise mitigation help create safe, comfortable spaces that homeowners can enjoy in all seasons. In addition, the ease of installation helps projects wrap up in a fraction of the time of traditional wood-panel framing. 

Composites

From decking boards to roofing tiles, composites are quickly becoming a preferred option in outdoor projects. Their inorganic fabrication makes them superior to wood in terms of moisture, pest, and fire resistance. In addition, they do not need to be periodically painted and stained to maintain their performance. Composites can be fabricated in a wide range of colors and styles to meet the design needs of any exterior. 

Stainless Steel Railing

Railings are a vital component of a complete exterior. They secure perimeters, define space, and provide safety to staircases and decks. A trending railing option is stainless steel hog wire. Consisting of a series of sleek stainless steel cables tensioned between posts, it allows for unencumbered views of the surroundings for optimal outdoor enjoyment. 

Choose the Right Tools and Materials to Take Outdoor Projects to the Next Level

Spring is the perfect time to turn attention to outdoor projects. However, it is crucial to plan for diverse conditions. From the proper cutting tools to durable stainless steel railings, choose from any of the tools and materials listed above to help your home outdoor project shine through the seasons. For more of the latest trends in home improvement, check out the resources at Bee Sure Home Inspection Services for the leading insights in the northern Illinois region!