In the last two articles, Festool’s Phil Beckley has looked at how the developments in power tools have been pivotal in improving working standards for tradespeople. In this column, he continues to reflect on this theme through roof construction.
Unlike any other areas, the improvements in roof construction work are not only down to tool advancements but also materials. The standardisation of timbers has meant that the days of rough sawn timber that bowed, and was only available in an approximate size, have gone. Now, setting the timbers for construction is easier as dimensions are consistent.
Of course, the cutting of timber still plays a major role in roof construction for ‘hand cut’ roofing. The ‘panel saw’ was once the common piece of kit. It is still occasionally used for tighter angels, while the carpenters saw is still relevant for following an angle freehand. However, it still relies on following a line.
For more in this series click here and here.
Knowing the angle, marking it and following it carefully is tricky and time consuming. The process can be sped up with a type of saw from Festool that attaches to a specialist guide rail. With the fixed guide it is easier to follow the set angle with the saw. In one cut you have a perfectly straight and accurate angle, really speeding up the work flow.
With insulation there are similar issues and solutions. Insulation is used in greater quantities and cutting it has previously been a challenge. It goes everywhere and getting a neat cut with an electric saw or knife has never been accurate.
For the insulation to do its role then it should be a tight fit to the structure of the building so the cut has to be straight. Earlier this year, Festool launched the cordless insulation saw (ISC 240) that will help tackle these insulation issues. The ISC 240 enables you to cut both hard and soft insulation accurately. It can also be attached to a dust extractor so fine harmful dust, especially from PU, is removed. Work is sped up, there is less material waste and a healthier working environment is created.
The advancements in power tools will continue and greater consideration, like with ISC 240, will be given to not only improve efficiency but also the health of the user.
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