Construction projects always take time, but they do not have to fall behind schedule. Contractors can use commonly overlooked tools to save time and energy while working.
Investing in extra resources could make team members more comfortable and enhance the productivity of future projects.
1. Dust Collectors
Sawing and drilling through building materials generates excess dust. Shop vacuums quickly take care of the mess, but they are bulky.
A dust collector will remove dust from large areas, preventing team members from hauling a vacuum around on extension cords. The workspace will become cleaner and safer, and fewer contaminants will linger in the air around contractors.
2. Magnetic Screwdriver
Dropping screws adds up to wasted time on jobsites. Magnetic screwdrivers nearly eliminate that issue. They hold screws in place while team members double-check their angle or verify the screw positioning. The chance of removing a screw multiple times to get the correct placement could shrink.
Many magnetic screwdrivers also come with tamperproof bits. Contractors will not have to carry a heavy toolbox if a tiny container lets them hold 12 bits in their pockets. Lifting lighter things to accomplish the same tasks will reduce daily muscle strain, keeping everyone happier and potentially reducing turnover rates due to physical exhaustion.
3. Hook Tools
Hook tools with specialized ends make a significant difference in physical comfort and time. A top popper has a thin tip that quickly gets between numerous openings, while a manhole hook uses a beveled end to easily lift manhole covers.
A chisel popper provides additional leverage and is ideal for opening stubborn covers. Hook tools ensure team members can open containers, maintain a firm grip on materials and lift things with less strain.
4. Utility Knife
Construction duties often require utility knives. When someone needs to cut through a rope or open a box, they should not have to trek across the site for scissors. Contractors can safely store utility knives in their pockets to save time.
Models in bright colors will also be easier to locate on-site than darker scissors, which makes everyone safer if the knife edge is exposed. Updating a crew’s toolset with brighter knives is an easy safety adjustment for any site.
5. Laser Level
Ensuring level measurements is crucial in any project. While traditional bubble levelers have been part of standard construction efforts for decades, laser levels are upgrades that provide numerous benefits.
Their lasers stretch much farther than bubblers and operate on specified slopes. Many even come with stands. The hands-free, extensive leveling capabilities reduce the time needed to mark an area.
6. Moisture Meter
Experts estimate that 30% of annual construction insurance claims are due to water-related incidents. Although it is impossible to shield every project from the elements over multiple months, moisture meters can provide enough information to act quickly and prevent further damage.
The pocket-sized tools detect moisture hidden in wood, foundation blocks and other materials. An instant reading could indicate the need for dehumidifying efforts, helping projects remain on schedule. If there is no water buildup, construction experts can confidently move forward with their project.
7. Voltage Reader
Adding electrical lines is a common task in residential and commercial construction. While certified team members might handle the installation, live wires make the site more risky for contractors finishing last-minute work. If they carry voltage readers, they will not worry about accidentally encountering a live wire or electrical equipment.
Each palm-sized reader safely checks for electrical currents before contractors cut wires, handle tools or install final fixtures like ceiling fans. Team members only need a few seconds to get a reading and decide if it is safe to proceed. They will be safer, more comfortable and finish their work without delays by avoiding injuries.
8. Hammer Drill
Applying enough force to manually hammer nails significantly strains the body. Hammer drills will save contractors from discomfort. The high-impact tool drives nails into the thickest structures instantaneously.
Teams can use hammer drills to quickly assemble porches, drywall and any other parts of a project to keep everything on schedule. The tools also achieve the desired angle and drive nails without bending them, which could save teams from having to start a task over.
Stay Ahead of Schedule With Better Equipment
When contractors use some of the most overlooked tools, they may feel less physical discomfort while saving time. Industry leaders can keep their projects on schedule by streamlining tasks like lifting objects or verifying level measurements.
Investing in these tools provides better project results and improves team resources for every future site.
