The team at Makita look at the power tools and accessories that professionals should keep close at hand when constructing ‘shoffices’.
As a result of the pandemic, and subsequent restrictions, many workers in the UK have experienced a shift away from office working. As such, to make working from home more comfortable, there has been a notable increase in the number of people looking to set up designated working spaces either inside or outside their home.
For professional tradespeople called in to construct ‘shoffices’, there are a number of power tools that can help to make the process easier. Firstly, the DLX2180TJ 18V LXT Two Piece Combo Kit is the perfect jobsite companion. With the DHP84Z 18V LXT Combi Drill and DTD153Z LXT 18V LXT Impact Driver included (as well as the DC18RC compact charger and two 18V LXT batteries), this kit can be used for any drilling or fixing task. All products also come in a handy Makpac case for easy transportation to and from the van, and around site.
The DHS680 18V LXT Circular Saw is also a useful tool to keep close at hand. Thanks to Automatic Speed Control, the cutting speed of the DHS680 is always aligned to the load conditions, ensuring optimum operation at all times. The electronic current limiter also works to prevent overload and protect the machine from damage.
For ease of use, the DHS680 features a twin LED job light to illuminate the work piece and a blower function that can be used to clear wood dust from the cutting line. Its compact and lightweight design and ergonomic soft grip makes this machine comfortable and easy to handle and reduces user fatigue, even when used over extended periods. The DHS680 also has a large base for more stable operation.
When it comes to fitting waterproof membranes, the DST221 18V LXT Stapler should be used. It has been designed to provide precision and durability, with smooth staple loading and feeding, and is compatible with commercial staples. It also includes a depth adjustment feature, rubberised soft grip and a useful hanging hook for keeping the machine secure when not in use.
For fitting decking and flooring, the DFR750 18V LXT Auto-Feed Screwdriver is perfect. It has been designed for durability, with a rigid aluminium casing and features to prevent dust ingress. An anti-tilt device keeps screws secure to prevent swinging, and the foldable screw guide keeps the screw strip from tangling. Thanks to Makita’s lithium-ion battery technology, the DFR750 offers greater run time so users can work for longer periods of time without having to stop to replace or recharge the batteries, and the automatic feeding of the screws means faster fixing for improved productivity.
In addition, Makita’s DJV182Z LXT 18V LXT Jigsaw and DSP600ZJ Twin 18V LXT Plunge Saw can be used for cutting window frames in wooden wall panels. The DJV182Z has a rigid aluminium base that can bevel 0 to 45degrees left and right and the machine can be set for either orbital (with the option of three different settings) or straight cutting. The ability to change the blade without needing additional tools also means that users can quickly and effortlessly adjust the machine to suit different tasks.
To protect operators, the DJV182Z features a ‘soft no load’ function that automatically reduces the motor speed during idling to suppress the vibration of the machine body. It also features an LED job light and blower function to keep the work piece clear of wood dust.
In comparison, the DSP600ZJ is a 165mm cordless plunge cut saw that utilises two 18V LXT batteries for additional power, making it ideal for heavier-duty applications. It features Automatic Torque Drive Technology (ADT) that works to automatically adjust the cutting speed to match the load conditions to ensure optimum operation – and to increase efficiency further, the DSP600ZJ bevels -1 to 48degrees and includes a depth stopper for splinter free cutting. The DSP600ZJ is also compatible with a guide rail.
Finally, the DBN600ZJ 18V LXT Finishing Nailer can be used for installing skirting or architrave. For ease of use, this machine features tool-less depth adjustment and nail jam clearing, and a rocker switch for changing between sequential and bump fire modes. The machine can fire up to 800 shots per battery charge (using a 4.0Ah battery) and its ergonomic body enables nail firing in tight spaces. It also includes a handy window, so it is easy to check the quantity of remaining nails. The body bumper has also been designed to protect the workpiece from scratches and damage during operation.
Thanks to the 18V LXT battery system, professionals can use all of the above machines using the same batteries. This makes switching between tools and tasks effortless and assists with maximising onsite productivity and efficiency.
To find out more about Makita and its LXT platform visit: www.makitauk.com
Your toolbox checklist:
- Combi Drill – can be used for drilling and fixing applications.
- Impact Driver – for driving screws and tightening nuts.
- Circular Saw – to make cutting timber to size effortless.
- Stapler – ideal for fitting waterproof membranes.
- Auto-Feed Screwdriver – for fitting decking and flooring.
- Jigsaw and/or Plunge Saw – can be used for cutting window frames in wooden wall panels.
- Finishing Nailer – ideal for installing skirting or architrave.
Accessories:
Makita’s DCU180 18V LXT Wheelbarrow is a motorised unit that makes transporting heavy goods effortless. It has two speed options and a reverse gear to choose from, with a three-stage adjustable handle for easy operation – and the handle can be folded away for compact storage. The brake lever with a locking mechanism keeps the wheelbarrow secure and in place when not in use. Professionals can choose between a traditional wheelbarrow bucket for transporting dirt or sand, or a pipe frame carrier for moving other building materials.
https://makitauk.com/product/dcu180z
Finally, the SK105GDZ 12V CXT Green Cross Line Laser offers increased visibility in brighter work areas and there are two brightness modes to choose from depending on the work conditions. Helpfully, the LED light flashes if it is out of level. Better still, the SK105GDZ can be powered by LXT batteries when used with a USB adaptor.
https://makitauk.com/product/sk105gdz
To watch an instructional video on the DBN600 Finishing Nailer visit: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rymvLTM-W7A&feature=youtu.be
For a video on the DSP600 Plunge Saw visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cups5Z7GGcw
