Adding a deck to your home is a great do-it-yourself project and the perfect way to add value to your property. Planning is crucial, and picking up the right equipment and power tools can save you time and trouble down the road. There are a few products everyone from construction experts to first-time builders will need, all geared toward getting the job done best and efficiently.

What Tools Are Needed to Build a Deck?

1. Nail Gun & Compressor

A lot of nails go into keeping your deck together, and hammering each one in manually can be exhausting. You don’t want to take forever with each nail, so invest in a nail gun and compressor. These only require the pull of a trigger to fire a nail into the wood and will give you the most accuracy over a hammer. They’re especially helpful when working in hard-to-reach areas.

2. Miter Saw

If you’re building a wood deck, a miter saw is a must. These convenient hand-controlled saws provide reliable cuts and only require a moment to operate. They can be turned 45 degrees in any direction for diagonal cuts that are more precise than you’ll get with a circular or table saw. If this is a one-off project, consider an equipment rental rather than purchasing a saw.

3. Cordless Power Drill

If you’re putting together prefabricated decking, you’ll need to use screws rather than nails. A cordless drill is one of the most important power tools to have in your repertoire. You can opt for a standard option, something with more force behind it, or smaller adjustable models for hard-to-reach areas. If you’ll be predrilling your holes, invest in a quality drill set from a construction equipment store.

4. Measuring Equipment

Accuracy is key, and you’ll need a variety of measuring equipment. A good measuring tape will help you with the layout and accurate cuts, and you can use chalk lines and wooden stakes to mark the layout of your deck. Nylon line is a more durable alternative, and you’ll want a multifunctional level, so you know everything is straight.

If it’s time to upgrade or add to your equipment and power tools collection, Grand Rental Station carries all of the essentials. They specialize in equipment rentals at their Elk River, MN, location and tailor to both professionals and do-it-yourselfers. Visit their website for a selection of their used equipment, or call (763) 441-8608 to speak with a representative.