The best hammer drills for your heavy-duty drilling needs

By 21Oak Published April 20, 2021

Hammer drills can be versatile. Some models enable the impact mechanism to be turned off so they can be used as a conventional drill to perform such tasks as screwdriving. These hammer drills are not only versatile, but they’re solid performers and low-cost options.

Also called a percussion drill or impact drill, a hammer drill is a highly useful power tool when drilling into hard materials. If you’re seeking a good hammer drill to suit your tough-surface drilling needs, take a gander at these high-performance and affordable models.

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Makita Brushless Cordless Hammer Drill

Best hammer drill overall

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An ergonomic and battery-powered hammer drill is an appealing option as an overall performer. That describes the Makita Brushless and Cordless Hammer Drill, which weighs only 5.9 pounds with its battery and has a brushless motor that provides maximum torque. The hammer drill targets the most demanding drilling and driving applications in wood, masonry, and metal.

DeWalt 20V MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill

Best rotary hammer drill

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Rotary hammer drills use a cylinder of air compressed by a piston to beat the bit into a surface. When your job calls for a leading rotary hammer drill, consider the DeWalt 20v MAX SDS Rotary Hammer Drill. Its brushless motor can extend runtime and durability, and factory-set clutch can reduce sudden, high-torque reactions if the bit jams.

Skil 1/2 In. Hammer Drill

Best budget hammer drill

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The lightweight Skil 6445-04 Hammer Drill is designed to be easier to maneuver and carry to any job. Its side handle — which offers more essential control while in use — is reversible, making it suitable for both right- and left-handed users. (B00TSJRV7Y)

Although hammer drills are a niche tool — the perfect device to use when drilling into very hard surfaces — you never know when one will come in handy. So don’t wait for that to happen. Instead, consider one of these attractive hammer drills to add to your tool arsenal.

Topics

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If your laminate countertops are stained, dated, cracked, or damaged, they can be an eyesore. If you want to give your kitchen or bathroom a quick DIY facelift, addressing a drab-looking countertop is a great first step. If you feel your countertop is salvageable with some DIY love, however, here's how to fix laminate countertops without calling a professional.

While some minor damage or basic refinishing can go a long way, there is a certain point where the damage should be addressed by a professional. If your countertop has major cracks or stains and damage covering a large portion of the surface, it may be a good idea to call in some help to repair or replace it entirely.
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Do you avoid spending time in your basement because of its unpleasant odors? Whether it's finished or not, basements are typically cool, damp, and have little airflow going through them, which are all factors that contribute to its musty smell. Unfortunately, it takes more than general cleaning practices and air fresheners to rid the space of mustiness for good. Take a look at some of these tried-and-true methods for how to get rid of musty smell in basement spaces, so you can keep it smelling light, airy, and fresh.
1. Find the culprit of the musty smell

If you smell that common musty stench, the culprit is often mold or mildew. Since basements tend to be damp and have little airflow, they are common hot spots for mold and mildew growth. The first step in preventing further growth by sealing any leaky spots and inefficient drains.
Leaking windows and doors
Check your basement's exterior doors and windows for signs of moisture. Since leaks on the first floor can often drain into the basement, check the windows and doors on the main floor as well. If you find moisture around these entry points from rain or condensation, re-seal the area or call a professional to repair it.
Leaking pipes
Whether pipes are visible in your basement or not, you need to check them regularly for leaks. Examine any water and sewage pipes for signs of leaks and repair any cracks or poor seals. If plumber's tape or epoxy putty can't repair the leak, it's time to call a professional.
Dried-up drains
Basement floor drains direct water out of the home to keep the floors dry and prevent them from flooding. The stagnant water in this drain also traps bad odors emanating from the sewage system below. However, these drains can dry up from infrequent use, releasing stench into the air. If you notice smells arising near your floor drains, just pour a few cups of water into the drain to block the gases from escaping.
2. Clean up the basement

Hacks & How-to's

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Make sure you use the right materials for your tile project

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Choosing the right grout for your tiling project can significantly impact both the aesthetic and durability of your work. The debate of sanded vs. unsanded grout is a common one among DIY regrouting enthusiasts and professionals alike. That's why we are going to explore the differences between these two types of grout, discuss the best applications for each, and provide tips on care and cost considerations.
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