Handyman Mike Ferrara discusses basic carpentry skills and shares some handy tips.
- When using a handsaw, go backward with a few short strokes. When you have opened up a notch in the wood, change the strokes to long and smooth.
- Use a pull saw when you need to have more control. Normal saws cut both on the push and pull strokes, whereas a pull saw only cuts on the pull stroke.
- When sanding wood, always sand in the same direction as the wood's grains. The higher the number on the sandpaper, the finer the grade.
- Keep sandpaper handy in the workshop by attaching it to a clipboard. Hang it on a convenient place on the wall.
- Lumber is measured on a grading scale. It is graded by its species, strength and exterior appearance. The higher the grade, the more decay resistant, bug resistant and better looking it is.
- When nailing two boards together, always nail the thinner board to the thicker board, holding the nail very gently between two fingers. Gently tap the nail with the hammer until it is firmly set.
- When removing a nail, place a small scrap of wood underneath the hammer. Not only will this provide more leverage, but it will also protect the wood from scratches.
- Avoid splitting wood when hammering nails by first boring small pilot holes. The pilot holes will also prevent nails from bending.
- Keep measuring tape clean by sliding an old toothbrush on the tape as it retracts.
Guests Mike Ferrara
The Lazy Homeowner / Lawn-Care Expert, Axiom Productions
Toll-free: 888-917-3716
E-mail:
lazyhomeowner@axiomcom.com
Website:
www.lazyhomeowner.com
Also in this Episode
