Do I need to drill a hole before using an impact driver?

Impact drivers are for driving fasteners, not drilling holes. However, in a pinch, if you have the proper bit, you can drill a hole in light-gauge steel or softwood with a standard hex-shank drill bit.

Can impact driver replace drill?

A cordless impact driver or drill on its own cannot replace a power drill. Impact drivers are not designed to drill holes and they can’t take all of the accessories that a cordless drill can.

Is Pre drilling necessary?

Pilot holes are necessary if you’re drilling into hardwood, laminate, or need a precisely located fastener. They’re also recommended if the wood is likely to crack, or if appearance is important. You can skip the pilot holes when doing a rough build with softwood where appearance isn’t important.

What happens when you don’t Pre-drill?

When you drive screws into wood without drilling pilot holes, you’re essentially pushing wood out of the way to make room for the screw. So not only is it more difficult to drive in screws into oak without pilot holes, but the chance of splitting the wood is greater.

Should I use an impact driver with a spade bit?

Absolutely. Matter of fact, drilling clean holes with a spade bit is much easier with an impact driver. One of the problems with drilling large diameter holes (1/2-inch and wider, up to about 1-3/8 inches in diameter) with a spade bit is that the bit can pinch and get hung up in the hole.

Do impact drivers need special bits?

An impact driver has a collet that accepts 1/4-inch hex shank driver bits—to insert or release a bit you pull the collet forward. If you add an impact driver to our arsenal, you’ll need to invest in some quality 1/4-inch hex bits, which are available to fit any type of screw head.

Do you have to pre-drill for self tapping screws?

Self-tapping screws do not have an integrated drill bit into the screw and certain types of self-tapping screw require a pilot hole to be drilled before it can be driven into material.

Should you pre-drill pressure-treated?

Allow treated wood to dry thoroughly before staining or painting. Before driving in a nail or screw, drill a pilot hole to prevent splitting the wood. This is especially important when fastening near the end of a board.

Why do I need an impact driver?

The main advantage of impact drivers is their ability to drive in numerous fasteners quickly. The added force offered by the tool saves your hands and wrists as you work. This can help extend the time you can comfortably work on your project. Also, the impact driver is much less likely to strip your screws when in use.