Renovation Videos

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Hammer drill

A Makita HR3210FCT rotary hammer drill.

Photo: Mark Hunter / CC BY 2.0

A hammer drill adds a pounding action to the rotation so a masonry bit can break through concrete, brick and block. Switch the tool to hammer mode, use a carbide-tipped masonry bit and let the tool do the work with steady pressure. The video here uses one while building a floating deck on footings.

Dust from concrete contains silica, so wear a dust mask rated for it and eye protection, and a vacuum or damp cloth rather than sweeping. Drilling into a slab can hit rebar or utility lines, so find out what’s below first. For occasional jobs a rental covers it; for wood and general use, a regular cordless drill is enough. See also build a deck.

Events

Videos

  3. Framing Basement Walls: Stud Length, Plates and Anchoring

    Series partAndrew Thron Improvements · 6:52

    Project: How to Finish a Basement

  4. Installing Rafter Vents in an Attic Before Insulating for an Office

    Series partThe Fixer · 19:15

    Project: Office Build

  5. Floating Deck Build: Footings, Framing and Composite Decking

    Series partMr. Build It · 34:54

    Project: Abandoned House Transformation

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