Want to perfect your DIY home improvement skills? Start with a simple must-have tool — an electric drill. This versatile household item is great for everything from hanging curtains to putting together furniture. Saving you time and hassle, an electric drill is a must-have for any DIYer’s toolbox.
Whether you’re an experienced carpenter or a first-time handyman, there’s no better way to fasten screws into wood, plastic, or metal than with an electric drill. Our step-by-step guide will show you how.
Read on to learn the most efficient tips on how to use electric drill for screws.
What is an Electric Drill?
An electric drill is a versatile tool that serves many purposes both in the shop and at home. It runs on electricity to rotate at high and low speeds, allowing it to efficiently drill holes in wood and other materials such as metal and certain types of plastic.
This power tool is also great for powering out screws, bolts, and fittings. A variable trigger system lets you change the speed and power of an electric drill by how hard you squeeze the trigger.
With its multiple functions and simple operation, an electric drill is perfect for any handyman to drill holes like a pro.
How to Use an Electric Drill for Screws
Now that you know all about the electric drill and its many uses, let’s explore how to use one for screws.
Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Select the Right Bits and Screws for the Job
The first step in using an electric drill for screws is choosing the right drill bit and screw for the screw head. Different sizes and types of screws require different size drill bits – if you don’t have the right bit, you won’t be able to drive it into your material.
Examples of electric drill bits and screws include Phillips heads, slotted, flat blade heads, nut driver-shaped heads, hex heads, and Torx. Make sure you use the correct screwdriver bit for the job.
Step 2: Insert the Bit into the Drill Chuck
Once you’ve selected the right bit, attach it to the drill. Open up the chuck (a clamping device located at the end of the electric drill that holds a bit in place while it’s spinning) by turning its jaws counterclockwise and insert the bit into the chuck.
Tighten it firmly with a chuck key by turning the jaws clockwise to avoid slipping while drilling.
Step 3: Firmly Hold the Grip on the Drill Handle
Once the bit is secure in the chuck, it’s time to prepare for drilling. Before you start, make sure your grip on the drill handle is firm and steady — this will ensure accuracy and prevent accidental slipping while drilling.
Step 4: Select the Right Speed and Drill Depth
An electric drill has variable speed settings. Ensure you select the right drill speed for your project before starting to drill. A slower speed setting is better for screwing, as it offers more control and prevents the stripping of screws.
Also, keep in mind the depth you need to reach with your drill bit. Depending on the material you’re drilling into, you may want to adjust the speed and/or pressure so that you don’t go too deep into your material and ruin it, especially when drilling into softer materials.
Step 5: Mark Your Spot
Before drilling, mark your spot by making a tiny indentation with a nail or punch on the surface of your material. This will help you keep track of where to drill and ensure accuracy.
Step 6: Drill Pilot Holes First
Pilot holes are small, shallow holes that guide your drill bit and screws when drilling through harder materials such as wood, metal, or plastic. Drilling pilot holes is a great way to ensure that your screws go into their designated spots the first time.
Pilot holes also ensure the screw won’t wander away and goes straight in.
Step 7: Start Drilling
Now you’re ready to start drilling! Begin with light pressure and speed and slowly increase both as needed. Keep a steady grip on the drill handle. As you put more pressure on the drill, move it steadily in a circle to ensure you are drilling accurately.
Once you’ve drilled your hole to the desired depth, remove the drill bit from the chuck and insert the screw. Removing the drill bit is the same as inserting it — simply turn the chuck counterclockwise to loosen it.
Step 8: Screw in Your Screw
Now that you’ve drilled your pilot hole, it’s time to insert your screw into the screw head. Make sure you start with light pressure and slowly increase it until the screw is securely in place.
Step 9: Clean Up
Once you’ve successfully used your electric drill for screws, it’s time to clean up! This may seem like a minor step, but it’s essential for ensuring your electric drill remains in good working condition and is ready for your next project.
Start by wiping off any residual dust and debris that accumulated during drilling. Then, clean the inside of the chuck with a brush and some lubricant to ensure it’s free of debris and dust. Finally, store your drill in a cool and dry place when not in use.
With these simple steps, you can tackle any screw-related tasks that come your way.
Final Thoughts
Using an electric drill for screws is a great way to get a DIY job done quickly and efficiently. This guide has provided all the necessary information you need – from selecting the right bits and screws to cleaning up when finished.
With these tips in mind, you’ll quickly become a pro at using your electric drill. Whether hanging curtains or putting together furniture, you can now tackle any project that comes your way with ease — all thanks to your electric drill. So grab your drill and start drilling away!
