The oscillating multi-tool is the most useful power tool any handyman, builder, or do-it-yourselfer should own. Having a multi-tool is crucial, but so is using the correct attachment to get the most out of it.
Multi-tools make the task easier and allow you to finish your project faster. Oscillating multi-tools are the best for trimming and sanding wood, plastic, and PVC, as well as cutting pipes, nails, and screws.
Because of its versatility, an oscillation tool is ideal for reaching tight spaces and making precise cuts in awkward positions. With the right blade, this incredible tool can remove grout around tiles and countertops without damaging the surrounding surfaces. These tools are great for doing housework and make all small and large projects much easier and faster to complete.
This article will look at tips and tricks for getting the most out of your oscillating tool.
What Is an Oscillating Multi-Tool?
First, it’s a good idea to understand these fantastic multi-purpose tools. It will help you understand what they can do and why they are a valuable addition to any professional or DIY toolbox. As the name implies, a multi-tool is a highly versatile power tool that can perform various tasks to the expected standards.
It means you won’t have to buy different tools for different tasks if you don’t have the space or budget. You’ll also save time by not looking for a specific tool.
Oscillating refers to moving multi-tool attachments and accessories such as a metal cutting blade or a wood sanding pad. A rapid back-and-forth rotation distinguishes the oscillating movement. Using a Makita oscillating tool metal blade creates the friction needed for sanding or quick cutting. MultifitBlades offers a wide range of blades.
MultifitBlades is a wholesale distributor of cutters and other accessories for oscillating multifunction power tools. By providing extremely low-cost, high-quality replacement blades and accessories that are compatible with most leading tool manufacturers, the company has helped revolutionize the oscillating tool accessory industry.
Tips for Using an Oscillating Tool
1. Round Blades or Straight?
A straight blade is ideal for plunge cuts, stabbing the blade into the surface. Use a round oscillating saw blade for long, linear cuts. To produce cleaner cuts with the round blade, start with a shallow scoring cut and gradually deepen it using an oscillating saw. In any event, keep in mind that heat destroys blades. To clear the kerf of dust, swing the oscillating tool blade back and forth. Don’t be too harsh on yourself, though.
2. Undercut Doorjambs
Cutting the doorjamb and trims to make room for new flooring is the only neat way to install it in an existing space. That used to necessitate the use of an expensive (and potentially dangerous) flush-cutting circular saw or tedious hand-cutting. However, it’s a piece of cake for the oscillating multitool.
3. Cut Rusty Faucet Nuts
Even the best basin wrench can’t always pry rusted-in-place faucet nuts loose. You also won’t be able to use a reciprocating saw under the sink deck because there isn’t enough space. However, you can accomplish the impossible by using an oscillating saw tool with a high-quality bimetal cutting blade.
Angle the tool against the nut and begin slowly until a groove is cut. Increase your speed and continue sawing until you’re about three-quarters of the way through. Then, using pliers, break off the remaining portion.
3. Use a Bimetal Blade to Cut Metal
Be cautious: most store-bought blades are designed for soft materials like wood and plastic. Cutting metal instantly destroys them. When cutting metal, make sure to use bimetal blades.
4. Paint Prep
Preparing to paint requires four steps at the most basic level: 1) cleaning to remove dirt, grease, and mildew; 2) scraping to remove loose paint; 3) sanding to smooth out scraped areas; and 4) filling and concealing blemishes such as nail holes and cracks. Finally, it’s time to prime. An oscillating multitool’s triangular sanding head helps you smooth rough wood in corners, sand down wood filler, and smooth over jagged edges of scraped paint.
5. Extra-Wide Blades
Extra-wide blades do not slide off a curved surface as easily as narrow blades, making them perfect for cutting circular materials like tubing. For other tasks, narrower blades are typically preferred since they plunge, cut more efficiently and put less stress on the motor.
6. Grout Removal
You may want to replace the grout in a bath area to freshen it up, or you may have a major bath remodeling or repair that occurs when, for example, a shower valve is replaced. An oscillating tool’s carbide-grit attachment can cut grout and tile if necessary.
7. Scrape Away Gunk
Without spending hours on your knees hacking at dried construction adhesive, joint compound, and another crud with a putty knife. With an oscillating tool fitted with a scraper blade, you can swiftly remove it.
8. Remove a Toilet
Trying to remove an outdated toilet? It takes far less time to cut rusted hold-down bolts with an oscillating tool than it does to remove them. The tank is fastened to the bowl with the same fasteners. Use a scraper blade to cut through the seam if the bowl is caulked to the floor.
Bottomline
The only restriction on what an oscillating multi-tool can do is your imagination. By mastering these adaptable tools, you can excel in DIY projects. Have you been inspired to start a new project but don’t have an oscillating tool or know which multi-tool blade to use? A helpful Multi-Tool Buyers Guide can assist because it contains all the expert advice you require.
When cutting through the original wall, having the tricks at your disposal will cause you to go through the reciprocating saw blades quickly. Indeed, if you implement the tricks above and the tips, you will have changed your perspective on using the oscillating tool.