Showing posts with label Construction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Construction. Show all posts

Dec 17, 2016

Contractor Tips

Helping a contractor friend from Massachusetts constructing cabinets and doors for a kitchen remodel. Here are great tips for anyone's how-to notebook:
.. have a plan
.. with multiple wood pieces - label, label, label all related or like pieces i.e. 1, 2, 3, etc
.. use multiple electric cords (to avoid plug-unplug-plug every time)
.. establish a tool bench (so you're not always looking for tools, pencils, whatever)
.. pre-check all electric and pneumatic tools in advance
.. always keep orbital sander flush or flat on wood surfaces
.. do not move to next step unless that stage of work is level/square/correct
.. use a tool or work belt with pockets
.. set all brads, nails or staples completely and fill with non-shrink filler
.. use a utility knife blade after filling set nails to minimize excess filler (and removal)
.. if doing electrical work - always test and/or shutoff power
.. do not place wood on ground (will absorb moisture)
.. prep wood for painting: prime and after dry sand surfaces to remove raised grain
.. use utility knife for 'specific' mark for cuts
.. use the Phillips Head tip on the electric drill drive set as your counter sink tool
.. mark a 'V' to identify where a cut should be made (not one pencil scratch)
.. buy excess material (and return if unused) to avoid travel disruptions
.. use the right tool for the job - avoid 'making do' like pliers for a hammer
.. if extra material is available - make extra piece(s)
.. use a 'push' stick when ripping on a saw
.. consider surrounding design or features when adding new structure/elements
.. use a speed square to confirm corners are perfect i.e. 90 degrees
.. try to achieve uniformity of design or layout 
.. insure uncluttered space is set before using electric tools
.. measure, measure, measure - confirm, confirm, confirm
.. consider Romex plastic cable connectors vs. metal connectors
.. only use a dimensional template AFTER you verify accuracy 2 times