Question:
Rent or buy? Which is best?
Rent Before You Buy
When you start building a tool kit, it's easy to accumulate the simple things: hammers, power saws, power drills, sanders, and other basic items. When it comes time for more advanced projects, you may be unsure whether the investment is right for you. You might need a ceramic tile saw for this particular project, but will you need it again soon? If you have a temporary need for a specialized tool, consider renting instead of buying. You will get the advantage of taking a test drive with the power tool, without the financial commitment. Whenever possible, it's good to get an experienced friend to help you get up to speed with the rental power tool you are working with, your "training time" will go much faster than learning on your own.
When renting power tools, be sure to give yourself enough time in the rental agreement to get familiar with the new power tool before trying to use it in your project. Trying to do the task at hand with a piece of hardware you aren't familiar with is a recipe for disaster, especially with a rental time limit hanging over your head. The best strategy is to rent for at least two days more than you think you need to complete the project, which gives you extra time to develop your expertise with the power tool before launching into the actual work.
Tool Frequently Asked Questions
Which air compressor is right for me?
Can I plug my air compressor into any socket?
What should I look for in air tool accessories?
Are there replacement parts for my air tools?
Should I get a big or small air compressor?
Should I rent or buy my first air compressor
What is the compressor duty cycle?
How heavy is too heavy for a tool belt or tote?
Are there specialty tool belts for women?
How can I organize all these tools?
What can I do about the oily residue at the bottom of my tool box?
How can I secure my hand tools?
What should I do with my old hand tool storage solutions after I outgrow them?
When would I need a screwdriver magnetizer/demagnetizer?
What good is a magnetic sweeper?
Why do I need a rechargeable flashlight?
What's in a drywal repair kit?
How do I fix cracks in my drywall?
What accessories are available for my rechargeable flashlight?
Do I need a vacuum pick up tool?
What options do I have with cordless tool kits?
Where do I start with cordless tools?
What does my cell phone have to do with cordless power tools?
How does cold weather affect cordless battery life?
What can I do about my bottom heavy cordless drill in the tool belt?
What are my cordless tool battery choices?
What should I do with these old tools?
Should I buy discount power tools?
What should I look for in used power tools?
What safety issues are connected with circular saws
When would I need a heavy-duty vise?
What is a variable angle strap clamp?
What is the difference between a permanent and temporary clamp?
What are my staple gun options?
What rivet tools should I buy?
How would I use blind rivet tools and blind rivets?
What kind of staple gun should I get for upholstery?
Is soldering material dangerous?
What good is a measuring wheel?
What are those extra markings on my tape measure?
How can I get better results from my tape measure?
Can I get a combination stud finder and laser level?
Why does my stud finder keep "finding" nails?
My bandsaw has an auto cut-off. Is it safe to run unattended?
How do I choose the right blade for my circular saw?
What is the difference between contractor table saws and cabinet saws?
What should I look for in table saw blades?
What should I know about an electric drill bit sharpener?
What are my choices in router bits?
What should I know about bit selection and cutting time?
What safety issues are connected to routers?
Can I build an inexpensive table for my router?
What kinds of bolt cutters are there to choose from?
What should I include in my first set of pliers?
Where can I find left-handed tools?
What kinds of files should I add to a woodworking kit?
What should go into my first automotive tool set?
I've got all my tools. Anything else I should know?
Will I need additional tools for car stereos, alarm systems, and other add-ons?
Should I buy metric or standard wrenches?
What is a crowfoot socket wrench?
My socket set is so large I can't find any of them quickly. Help!
What safety issues are raised by dull tools?
What are my rights and responsiblities on the job with power tools?
What's the difference between safety glasses and safety goggles?
What can I do to increase safety on the job with newcomers?
What can I do to increase my personal safety margin around power tools?
Where can I find the federal guidelines for power tool and hand tool safety in the workplace?
Can I texture a drywall project?
How do I fix a "doorknob hole" in my drywall?
Can I install bathroom or decorative tile directly onto drywall?
What should I know to safely install my new gutters
What do I need to replace vinyl siding?
Should I add primer to my drywall before painting?
What can I do about all this chalky drywall residue?
