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Best Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner & Heat Pump Reviews and Buying Guide

Last Updated: June 12, 2019 | Joshua Houtson

Few tools are as efficient and dependable than the best ductless mini split air conditioner & heat pump when we come to flexible cooling/heating for your spaces.

Functioning as powerful alternatives to traditional cooling systems, these conditioners cum heat-pumps comprise of an indoor air-handling unit and an outdoor air condenser run in either cooling/heating modes:

In cooling mode, they’re excellent air conditioners while in heating mode, they function as effective “non-ducted” heating systems.

This design makes the ductless mini-split air conditioners one of the best bets for controlling heating in individual rooms or other areas in your home.

Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner & Heat Pump 2019

Top 5 Best Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner & Heat Pump Reviews:

In an effort to give you an idea of what the market has to offer, our editors scoured through the online and offline stores and were swept off the ground by the under-mentioned 5 mini-split air conditioners and heat pumps:

1. Pioneer Air Conditioner/ Ductless Wall-Mount & Heat Pump Mini Split System(12000 BTUs/17.5 SEER)

Hailed as one of the best, this delivers superior efficiency, extreme comfort, and importantly, it’s a performer.
And it comes as a self-contained set with air conditioning, a heating pump, dehumidifier, and a ventilation unit!

Benefits:

The Pioneer Split-system unit is one of the most comprehensive units and has always ranked highly in numerous best mini split air conditioner reviews.

We particularly like its construction because not many units achieve its high efficiency levels in making spaces more comfortable.

Then, unlike most of its competitors, the unit remains very quiet as it works.

Similarly, it’s one of the easiest to operate with the accompanying wireless remote allowing you to switch to the function that you want to activate- cooling, ventilation, heating, and dehumidification.

We Love

It’s quite powerful.
The unit runs quietly.
Can be set to run or stop at a set time.
The flat front panel looks handsome.
Very affordable.

We Don't Love

Installation is a bit taxing.

Buy Pioneer Air Conditioner/ Ductless Wall-Mount & Heat Pump from Amazon

2. Senville Split Air Conditioner/Heat Pump 12HF/Z (12000 BTUs/25 SEER)

This is also fantastic. Runs silent, keeps your rooms comfortable at your chosen temperature, and has a sizeable temperature setting display to boot.

To cap it all, it comes at an amazing price.

Benefits:

The Senville mini-split conditioner/heat pump unit has several winners, chief among them a virtually silent operation…my editors say they’ve never come across such a whisper-quiet unit.

The unit’s indoor air handler is also one of the best and excels in countless applications, from single rooms, garages, restaurants, and additions.

Not to be left behind, the outdoor condenser is also formidable and works incredibly fast once activated. But for me, the biggest of them all is the installation…it’s so easy you enjoy it even if you are a noob.

We Love

The quietest operation.
Super easy to install.<
Very well built.
Works like a charm.
Very energy efficient.

We Don't Love

The packaging is sometimes wanting.

Buy Senville Split Air Conditioner/Heat Pump from Amazon

3. KINGSFIN Mini Split Ductless Air Conditioner & Heat Pump 12000 BTU/15 SEER

Outstanding in this unit is the easy-to-use movable LED display and the magical air quality monitoring function.
The air sweep supports better air circulation and balanced room temperature making it another of our all-time favorites.

Benefits:

The system features the inverter technology so it can vary its compressor speeds, ensuring maximum efficiency.

But it does more:

In addition to perfectly heating your zones, it ensures that you enjoy improved air quality throughout thanks to the presence of the performance-oriented air-quality monitoring utility.

Considering that it also has remarkable cooling, dehumidification and ventilation capabilities, this unit should make you feel nice and relaxed.

To cap it all, it comes pre-charged with the eco-friendly R410a. refrigerant meaning you don’t need to add a refrigerant.

We Love

It runs effortlessly.
Another powerful unit.
It’s very accurate.
It has one of the best cooling units.
Helps air flow.

We Don't Love

The warranty agreement is complicated.

Buy KINGSFIN Mini Split Ductless Air Conditioner & Heat Pump from Amazon

4. Senville SENL-18CD Split Air Conditioner & Heat Pump (18000 BTUs/15 SEER)

Over the years, Senville has emerged as one of the best ductless air conditioner brand and seeing the quality of this ductless mini-split unit, it will take some beating to overthrow them.

Rated 18000 BTU, this is one of the few units that can handle 1000 square footage comfortably.

Benefits:

From the first time you lay your hands on it, you can clearly tell that this is special.

It’s, as mentioned earlier, amazing in larger spaces and is so advanced that you can mistake it for central air-conditioning systems, at least going by the sleek performance.

Despite its affordability, it can heat and cool your space up to 5F/-15C courtesy of the reliable outdoor condenser and silent indoor handler and in keeping with the tradition of Senville brands, it comes with all the essential accessories for an easy DIY installation.

We Love

Affordable unit.
5-year warranty.
It has an easier air evacuation procedure.
Comes fully charged.
Energy efficient.

We Don't Love

May need a professional installer.

Buy Senville SENL-18CD Split Air Conditioner & Heat Pump from Amazon

5. Innova Ductless Mini-Split Cooling & Heating pump (9000 BTUs/15 SEER)

One of the most compact units, this conditioner/heating system works with a calmness and productiveness that belies its minute size which is why it’s an ever-present in our ductless mini split air conditioner & heat pump reviews.

Benefits:

This versatile unit is considered one of the most innovative and comes with a “swing” feature that improves how air moves in your room.

Both the heat and AC mode works as expected and remains hushed such that sleeping will never be a problem. The accuracy is incomparable and you’ll have better control of your homes’ heat and cooling.

The overall quality is up there with the best with the bezel-less LED display ,especially being a star attraction.

We Love

It’s another versatile unit.
Handsome bezel-less display.
Clear installation instructions.
Great customer service from the vendor.
First-class quality.

We Don't Love

May struggle in larger spaces.

Buy Innova Ductless Mini-Split Cooling & Heating pump from Amazon

Buying Guide

The hunt for the best ductless mini split air conditioner & heat pump can be daunting but having the right information can help you secure a better deal.

Here are the questions to ask:

Single Or Multi-Zone?

Single-zone ductless split systems cools using one outdoor and indoor unit per instance and are preferred in bedrooms or any other room not ducted for regular central air conditioning.

For these, the crucial step is to check the power rating to ensure it can cover your room’s square footage when buying.

Multi-zone mini splits systems aren’t so different from single-zone models but usually cover larger areas in your apartment.

However, each of the indoor units (representing a zone) will connect to the sole compressor unit via the refrigerant lines.

Homeowners lacking central air conditioning will find this suitable as it can cool different parts of the home including multiple floor levels.

Multi-zone models are common in basements, apartments, and commercial offices.

What’s The Best Size (BTU Rating)?

The amount of energy that your unit should generate to cool your space is measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units).
Technically, a BTU is the energy needed to elevate water’s temperature by 1 Fahrenheit and is simply its cooling power.

Now, the BTUs associated with a mini-slit’s indoor unit are enough to point you towards the ability of single-zone models.

Things, however, become a bit complicated in multiple zone systems and here, you have to assess the BTU rating of both the indoor and outdoor units with regard to each zone.

It’s also important to remember that BTU ratings are just estimates and assume 10ft ceilings, proper insulation, and windows meaning that improper insulation, excessive sun, an adverse climate in your regions, and taller ceilings will affect the accuracy.

Something Else

In general, larger spaces need more powerful units which will ,in most cases, cost more.

Lastly, don’t make a mistake of thinking that the bigger the unit the better the performance. Rather, what you need is an optimum size and not necessarily the biggest!

Here is a guide on the recommended BTU rating for specific square feet:

Square Feet	BTU Rating/hour
150 – 250	6000
250 – 300	7,000
300 – 350	8,000
350 – 400	9,000
400 – 450	10,000
450 – 550	12,000
550 – 700	14,000
700 – 1000	18,000
1000 – 1200	21,000
1200 – 1400	23,000
1400 – 1500	24,000

Is It Energy Efficient?

Apart from independently controlled cooling for each room, the other major strength of ductless air conditioners is their smart power consumption.

That explains why most are energy star certified.

Now, here the keyword is SEER (Seasonal Energy Efficiency Rating), essentially a measure of a unit’s cooling output (seasonally adjusted) divided by its energy consumption.

The thing is, the higher its SEER rating, the greater the energy efficiency and the more the savings in your utility bills.

What About The Extras?

In terms of additions, some models offer more extra features than others. A programmable timer helps you set your unit to turn on/ off at a specific time. For example, you can program it to activate before you arrive home from work so as to be welcomed by a perfectly cooled home.

The automation also helps save energy.

On the same note, you may find an auto restart very handy since it automatically recalls the previous settings after a power failure. Apart from this being convenient, it helps to shield your circuit breaker and the compressor from premature damage.

Besides the above mentioned, an adjustable airflow is awesome as you will also be in charge of airflow, something important since some rooms may need excess airflow, for example, due to their location not to mention that its normal to have temperature disparities between rooms and/or zones in your home.

Finally, washable air filters are great as you just need to wash them when dirty to restore its best functioning rather than spend on replacement filters- which come with some mini-slits.

Versatility?

If possible, units with additional functions are advantageous. Fortunately, most of the latest units are coming enhanced with more and more functions including dehumidifiers.

Best Brands of Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner & Heat Pump

There is no shortage of players in the best ductless mini split air conditioner & heat pump sector with some firmly in the driving seat because of a distinctive consistency in quality.

Here are the manufacturers who captured our imagination:

iNNova

iNnova specializes in premier ductless units. Their products are ultra-quiet and super-compact compared to what the rest of the market offers.

Homeowners have repeatedly praised iNNova’s customer care service as fantastic.

Senville

Senville is a big name here and absolutely dominates the market with their Leto series of ductless mini split/heat pump systems.

This brand has some of the simplest to install portable mini split air conditioner models besides leading in aesthetics.

Pioneer

Another giant, Pioneer has a tendency to use the latest technologies to release high-performance units.
Pioneer has several models targeted at both residential and light commercial uses.

Ductless Mini Split Air Conditioner & Heat Pump FAQs

Here are some common question’s answer that you may looking for. So check these questions including answers to know more about the product. You should check these before purchase.

Q1: Why does my compressor unit fan run continuously?

Answer: Some systems come with a “fan-on” control on the remote or at the base of the indoor air-blower unit. Confirm that it’s not set to on or man.

Q2: How do I get my ductless system fan to switch off automatically?

Answer: Almost every mini split system has a thermostat and will turn off the cooling function when the set temperature is reached.

Q3: How long can my ductless air conditioning unit last?

Answer: If properly maintained, your unit can last more than 20 years.

Q4:What maintenance and servicing do ductless air conditioning units need?

Answer: The most important routine is to keep the indoor air handling unit filters clean and to replace the replaceable filters (if that’s what you have) on time.

For the outdoor unit, clean it regularly, especially on the coil.

Q5: Why is my indoor ductless part blowing a reduced amount of air than before?

Answer: This could be due to dirty filters, blades, or an obstructed unit fan.

Final Verdict

The best ductless mini split air conditioner & heat pump can be an exceptional addition to your current heating systems. You can use it at your home or in your comfortable place.

Because they efficiently heat separate rooms and zones to your preferred comfort level, these ductless heating systems could be the way to go if you have been searching for a flexible heating and cooling solution.

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See our more writing on home tools, garden tools, hand tools etc.

Best Rake For Pine Needles Reviews & Buying Guide

Last Updated: June 12, 2019 | Joshua Houtson

While there are other ways including using yard vacuum for pine needles, one of the best ways of clearing pine needles from landscapes remains the good old raking method preferably using the best rake for pine needles.

Of course, a leaf blower may help in moving some of the mess but a flexible rake will still be good company since the needles still require to be gathered.

The good thing is that the best rake is in many instances multi-functional.

For example, it can still be used to remove other yard debris leaving a spectacular lawn.

Best Rake for Pine Needles 2019

Top 5 Rake For Pine Needles Reviews

Pine need rakes have come a long way with the journey culminating in the release of some of the best ever models the dominate the market today.

Now, the editors of this blog always prefer to diligently investigate products before recommending them and that was the case here…

The investigation was so thorough such that out of the initial selection of 17 models, only five survived.

Here is a preview of these leading models:

1. Maintainer 21″ Multi Purpose Debris Rake

With a comfortable 60-Inch fiberglass handle, the 21-Inch aluminum rake is an absolute monster when it comes to cleaning up nasty pine needles.

It can also help to remove any pesky pine needles stuck on roof tops.

Benefits:

Always mentioned in the same breath as the very best rake for pine needles, this rake is multi-talented and will work practically everywhere including on artificial turfs.

Its deigned in such a way that the pine needles never stick on the rake in addition to being able to “comb” up other waste, for example, the little pollen pods associated with the spring.

The rake’s handle is just as good and is thick and pretty solid so users can work with confidence knowing that it’s not going to snap off any time soon.

We Love

Has a solid handle.
Debris doesn’t stick on the rake.
Strong enough to handle thick build up.

We Don't Love

For taller people, the 60-inch handle could be a problem.
A bit pricey.

Buy Maintainer 21″ Multi from Amazon

2. The Groundskeeper II Rake, 21-inches Wide, 55-inch Fiberglass Handle

Another pine needles rake to make the grade is the Groundskeeper II Rake mainly because of its wide rake head which helps remove larger amounts of leaves, pine needles, and thatch, while sparing plants and shrubs.

Benefits:

Measuring 21-inches, the rake has one of the widest heads which, coupled with heavy-duty steel spring tines helps gather massive loads of both dry and wet debris within no time.

The unit is also versatile enough to be used either as an effective pitchfork or a handy thatching tool. At 55-inches, the handle is also longer that its predecessor the Groundskeeper II Rake meaning that even tall people don’t have to bend when using it.

Similarly, it’s so easy one can comfortable work with one hand.

We Love

Has indomitable steel pines so it clears bigger loads.
Tough Fiberglass handle.
Multipurpose- can be a pitchfork/thatching tool.

We Don't Love

Needs some assembly.

Buy Groundskeeper II Rake from Amazon

3. 63 Inch Adjustable Garden Leaf Rake – Adjustable Folding Head from 7″ to 22″

Another best way to pick up pine needles is by using this adjustable garden rake. That the user can adjust the head to easily maneuver through tight paths between plants is enough to demonstrate its class.

Benefits:

Unlike conventional rakes, this can be expanded from as narrow as 7-inches to a whole 22 inches depending on where the user is raking, the distribution of plants, and the density of the pine needles.

Besides, reducing the rake head means it will occupy much less space in storage.

More good news are from the 63-inch long handle- it’s made of long-lasting, solid steel and comes coated with zinc to discourage rusting!

Amazingly, the rake is super lightweight making it one of the easiest to use.

We Love

The smaller footprint makes it great in tight spaces.
Easier to store.
The handle resists rusting.

We Don't Love

It may not handle heavier loads as excellently as the competing RPM rake.

Buy 63 Inch Adjustable Garden Leaf Rake from Amazon

4. Professional EZ Travel Collection Telescopic Rake Folding Rake Garden Rake Heavy Duty Foldable Rake

Made of steel, this also rakes up pine tree and common garden needles on gravel landscaping like a champ and is a remarkable steel constructed pine needles rake.

Benefits:

The one thing that has brought bucket loads of praises to this rake is the steel pines which make it the master of raking rough and rocky landscapes.

It also wins extra marks on its easy-to-adjust head (7.5 to 21.75-inches) which allows the owner to work on yards and smaller spaces without straining. And its telescopic power is from 37 inches to 68 inches.

Its engineers also tailored it in such a way that debris doesn’t get stuck. Overall, it’s a very well thought out product.

We Love

Quite resilient.
Captures pine needles and other debris quickly.
Super lightweight.
Telescopic power.

We Don't Love

The handle design may need some upgrading.

Buy Professional EZ from Amazon

5. ROOT ASSASSIN Gardening RAKE 58″ Aluminum Handle

A top pine cone sweeper, this has been invented to be both an efficient rake and an amazing shovel. And so users don’t have to get extra tools- it will gather all debris then help to scoop everything.

Benefits:

Rather than use the usual plastic “hands”, the rake, being essentially a 2-in-1 garden accessory, can also be used to scoop gathered needles using a simple hand method.

And because it collects debris so efficiently, it does the job in almost half the time ordinary rakes take.

Additionally, the editors of this blog are convinced that this is one of the most versatile tool and it’s hard to disagree…from removing fallen fruit, grass, tree waste, leaves ,pruning clippings, moss or skimming a swimming pool, the tool is simply stunning.

We Love

Super-efficient.
One of the most useful tools.
Easy on the back.

We Don't Love

It cannot be adjusted.

Buy ROOT ASSASSIN Gardening RAKE 58″ from Amazon

Buying Guide

Like with other products, buyers have often to go through numerous models and brands when choosing rakes for pine needles.

To narrow down the chase, its recommended that focus should be, first and foremost, on the factors that affect the performance of a product..

These following checks may help in getting a better deal for the money:

Handles

Looking at the material used for the handle can be a good pointer regarding the handle’s quality.

For most types, hardwood, aluminum, and steel dominate and while there is always the odd chance of ordinary wood caving in, such an occurrence is quite rare for hardwood, steel and high-grade aluminum handles.

Even so, the decision is never that easy considering that the metals are susceptible to rusting, if not taken care of, to say nothing of the fact that they can also bend.

A couple of models have fiberglass handles but these again can crack and shatter. On the same note, cheap plastic handles will hardly last 2 seasons, which is not surprising as most are meant to be for short term use.

Still on handles, the length is paramount and determines whether the user will have it easy or will end up with an aching back at the end of it all.

The thing is the best length depends on one’s height. Too short will force the user to bend and trigger back issues while too long could result into an uncomfortable position so pick an optional length.

It’s also crucial that the grip is right otherwise there will be a challenge when working as poorly installed grips shift and slide and make it pretty hard to rake.

Tines

Metal tines, particularly those that come with a spring metallic hinge are superb and will serve for many seasons.
That being said, they need to be shielded against rusting, for example, by storing the rake in shaded environments.

Equally important, the tines should be sufficiently flexible and have the strength to handle thicker pine needles, wet or dry, and even other debris if it’s intended to be more useful.

That would be too much to ask of plastic tines as they are known to break under the slightest pressure and/or fail to supply the requisite flexibility.

Again, this is totally acceptable as this class of rakes is single-season and best for light use.

The Rake Head

The rake head also has a huge say in performance and whether one will win the battle against the troublesome pine needles.

Most experts agree that anything from 22” to 24” in width picks up bigger heaps of leaves in one sweep without being too heavy or clumsy on the hands.

On the question of raking tighter spots, adjustable heads will win hands down because their footprints can be reduced as necessary to navigate safely between plants.

But the buyer should ensure that the adjusting feature is easier to engage otherwise it may not serve the purpose.
Moving on, curving the rake heads or applying another fancy design has little influence on its handling and results and may be more of an attempt by the manufacturers to stand out so it should be the least of worries.

Comfort

Raking is typically taxing on muscles. One can eliminate incidences of premature tiredness, hurting backs, and distressed hands by looking at, among other things, the rake’s dimensions.

But for a few companies, the leading players are now making rakes which observe good ergonomics for users. Indeed, these innovative designs deliver extra comfort and better control making the whole operation effortless.
Overall, a lightweight pine needles rake combined with an adjustable handle plus, where possible, adjustable tines will be cozier, by a mile.

And as a bonus, adjustable rakes are easier to store once reduced.

Best Brands of Best Rake For Pine Needles

The number of manufacturers targeting the rake for pine needles market has been growing steadily for the last few years.

The following brands have however managed to build a bulging reputation among consumers because of superior quality:

1. Flexrake

Flexrake has been making pine needles rakes and other gardening/landscaping equipment since 1945.
They first sent tongues wagging with the introduction of their spring steel rakes and which have a lot of loyal fans to this day.

2. Gardenite

Trading under the Gardenite brand name, Equinox International, is known for its premium quality gardening products.
Gardenite pine needles rakes, especially the adjustable models, are quite popular.

3. Root Assassin

Another leading brand, Root Assassin units have repeatedly proven very dependable. They have manufactured some of the most versatile rakes for pine needles including the legendary Root Assassin’s gardening rake.

4. Bond

Another trusted name, Bond has in the past released some of the best adjustable rakes. They also tend to excel in making heavy duty models.

5. RPM Hand Rake

RPM advocates for products that help users to work smarter and not harder and true to form, their rakes are very easy to use.

Best Rake For Pine Needles FAQs

Here are some common questions, you should know before purchase any pine needle. So lets go we check these, what’s included here.

Q1: What Kind of Sharpening Does a Rake For Pine Needles Need?

Answer: In most cases, a flat file will be fine. Again it’s not every day that they need sharpening.

Q2: Do These Rakes Rust When Left Outside?

Answer: It depends on the construction. Aluminum doesn’t rust but steel does meaning unless coated with materials such as Zinc, there’s a real possibility of rusting.

Q3: What Maintenance Do Pine Needle Rakes Need?

Answer: Rakes are generally basic tools and do not really involve a lot. It should be cleaned regularly. The tines should also be cleared of stuck debris, washed then dried prior to storage. The tool should also be regularly inspected for rust (which should be rubbed off immediately). Storage should be in a shed or something similar to protect it against elements.

Q4: Do Pine Needle Rakes Need Assembly?

Answer: A couple requires some basic setup but most don’t.

Q5: Are There Other Options Besides hand Rakes?

Answer: People with lots of pine trees face more work and should try a suitable pine needles rake attachment for garden tractors, ATVs or riding mowers.

Final Verdict

As fall nears, pine needles are reading themselves to wreak havoc on the landscape. But in the best rake for pine needles, they meet their match!

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Best Saw For Cutting 2X4 Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

Last Updated: June 12, 2019 | Joshua Houtson

A 2×4 has dozens of uses at home or the garden, especially in typical DIY circles. It’s also the lumber of choice in plenty of structural works and in aesthetics.

Yet, it’s one of the most stubborn materials to cut. This is why the best saw for cutting 2X4 remains a crucial piece of any workshop.

Such a saw makes short work of the challenge, is solid, and pretty easy to use. And importantly, it leaves remarkably clean cuts in all cases.

This post is all about this awesome tool. It covers the very best models in the market today and also discusses what to look for when selecting the top and best hand saw for cutting 2×4.

Best Saw For Cutting 2×4 2019

5 Top Saw For Cutting 2×4 Reviews

It’s not uncommon to come across saws that forever struggle with two-by-fours. Unsurprisingly, the editors had a hard time identifying the most promising saws despite the prevalence of ‘good’ saws in the market.

Anyway, it was a happy ending as the following little champions fully compensate for lost time.

They all cut stock super quickly and easily.

1. Worx Worxsaw 4-1/2″ Circular Saw

One of the best ever, this cuts any 2×4 piece like a legend delivering an incredibly smooth cut. The Saw’s footplate can adjust up to 45 degrees enough to cut perfectly through 2 inches lumber.

Benefits

The Worxsaw is extremely precise thanks to the accompanying parallel guide attachment which ensures straight and accurate cutting quickly. The saw’s adjustability gives it a distinct ability to cut wood, tile, plastic or metal with ease. Also winning it rave reviews is the depth of its blade which can reach 2” helping it to cut with a full-size performance even on tough angles.

Unbelievably, the Worx Worxsaw circular saw is one of the most affordable 2×4 options.

We Love

Amazing price
One handed operation.
Easy depth and angle adjustments
Lightweight (less than 5 lbs.)
Cuts 2×4’s in one pass

We Don't Love

Sometimes it heats up.
It doesn’t come with a storage bag.

2. TactLife’s Circular Saw 4-3/4″, 10feet Cord Length

This also cuts through the notorious 2×4’s like a piece of cake. The mini circular saw comes with an impressive 6 blades and a useful screw on the handle to help give the user more control when cutting.

Benefits

The saw is one of the most practical. First, the laser & scale design allows flawless cutting of different material without needing additional aids. It’s also optimized for a convenient one-hand operation in the process making the cutting line more visible.

Then, like its peer, the Worxsaw circular saw, it comes with a laser attachment to help cut wood, plastic, metal, and tile on an exact straight line.

It’s very well built while its cutting angle (adjustable between 90° to -45°) plus the magnificent cutting depth guarantees stunning results.

We Love

Cute saw.
Easier to handle.
Very durable.
Comes with extra blades.
Quite small.

We Don't Love

User manual not much detailed.

3. Rockwell 4-1/2″ Compact 2×4’s Circular Saw

The biggest news here is the left-handed blade design that provides exceptional cut-line visibility.
Moreover, it’s clear from the powerful 5-amp electric motor and the beveling ability that this saw exists solely to devour 2×4’s.

Benefits

A premium nimble-footed circular saw, the Rockwell 4-1/2” saw rocks the famously resolute 2”X lumber types breezing through in a single pass.

Its power, unparalleled maneuverability for overhead cuts, and slim, inline grip construction sets the stage for a big performance.

The smaller, thinner blade takes minimal effort to cut yet performs as well as bigger saws. Additionally, this saw is constructed of rugged materials so it doesn’t shy away from tough jobs. Lastly, the depth is easy to set and adjust for a superb job.

We Love

So powerful.
Very accurate cuts.
Clear cutline visibility.
Very comfortable to operate.
Easy to transport.

We Don't Love

Safety switch awkwardly positioned.

4. Genesis 4-1/2 in. Control Grip Circular Saw

This is yet another saw engineered for the ultimate performance when it comes to 2X4’s.

It packs serious power as evidenced by the 5.8 Amp motor which combines with the tungsten-carbide-tipped blade to conquer hardened 2×4 materials.

Benefits

Strong and dogged, the Genesis circular saw comes with an ergonomically designed handle making it one of the easiest to handle. It’s really athletic and despite its diminutive size, it takes up the challenge without much fuss.

Even If it’s copper or aluminum, the optional HSS blade will still give a fantastic cut. The saw is also as much as 50% lighter than conventional 7-1/4” saws so there’s very little fatigue.

The dust port (built‐in) and vacuum adapter always keep the working area clean.

We Love

Easier to adjust depth/angle.
The cutting area remains clean.
It’s not tiring.
Excellent in tight spots.
Durable dear box and blade.

We Don't Love

There are not many options in terms of replacement blades.

5. SKIL 14-Amp 2×4 7-1/4” Circular Saw

The Skil 14-amp 2×4, 7-1/4” circular saw salvages the situation for users who need absolute power for DIY projects.
Its 51-degree bevel (with a positive stop at 45-degrees) gives you more options for angle and tough miter cuts.

Benefits

Skil 14-amp 2×4 ,7-1/4” Circular Saw’s physical and technical qualities are up there with the best.

Its power and wider angle help it sweep through 2×4’s in addition to cutting plywood down to size.

While doing this, the built-in dust blower keeps the cut line sawdust-free enhancing visibility and ensuring an easier, precise cut.

The included 20-tooth carbide blade ensures that not even the toughest piece of material will survive the onslaught.

In short, it’s the go-to saw when frustrated by other regular tools!

We Love

It’s one of the most powerful 2×4 saws.
Offers a wider cutting angle.
Cut-line remains visible.
Best for big projects.

We Don't Love

It’s heavier than the compact saws.

Buying Guide

Here now are the features that a buyer should look out for when evaluating different options in the best saw for cutting 2×4 tools category:

Power

Most of the best saws for 2×4’s are electrically driven. They thus need electricity to activate the mechanism and start cutting.

The power in these saws is often stated in amperage. While 15-amp saws dominate the field, a 10- to 12-amp saw is great for people who use it infrequently.

Otherwise, it is recommended to purchase a cutting saw with more power and capacity where larger projects are involved.

They – unlike some of the petite options- make it super easy, precise, and effective.

All said and done, the saw’s design usually determines its rotational might and will ultimately affect the power that’s finally delivered by the blade.

The Blade

A key component of any saw is its blade. Different blades serve varying applications. The secret lies in ensuring that the chosen saw has the perfect blade as far as cutting 2×4’s is concerned.

Obviously, users should pick blades whose replacements are readily available in the market.

Some of the common types of blades are:

Carbide-tipped blades: These have carbide tips fixed to their teeth. This makes them stay sharp for longer than steel blades. Conversely, these blades are more expensive though they deliver real value.
High-speed steel blades: This type is harder than classic steel blades and will have a higher wear resistance. Even though they stay sharp, it’s not for as long as the carbide-tipped counterparts.
Tile-cutting blades: As the title suggests, these are specifically customized to cut ceramic tile. There are some extremely good models, for instance, the diamond-tipped ones.
Masonry blades: This is the blade for cutting brick, concrete, cinder blocks, among other masonry materials. This explains why they are made using abrasive materials.

From the available blades, the only blade one may ever need for 2×4’s is the carbide-tipped all-conquering blade.
However, in cases there’s frequent work needing clean cuts, blades with more teeth will make more sense.

A Note On Blade Capacity

Blade capacity dictates the maximum depth that a saw can cut. Generally, larger blades cut deeper and vice versa.
The most common diameter for powerful models is 7-1/4 inches. However, contemporary blades with less capacities cut through 2×4 lumber at 45-degrees with a single (or more) pass (es).

Smaller capacity blades also tend to weigh less and have better maneuverability.

Ease Of Use

A saw’s ergonomics also matter. Indeed, while they may look pretty much the same, each will feel much different up close.

Several questions will suffice regarding ergonomics and usability. Does its handle fit in the hand? Does the selected saw feel balanced? Is it the right weight? Is the visibility of the cutline/blade satisfactory? Are the components easily adjustable?

The question of saws designed for right-handed / left-handed users should also be tackled at this point.
The best saw for diy projects will have more friendly features.

A good example is spindle/shaft locks that make changing the saw blade a breeze. Likewise, laser guides also help better cutting accuracy by beaming light onto the piece being worked on. Still there, bevel stops allow faster adjustments when making bevel cuts.

Desirable Extras

Away from the ease of use, inspecting the saw further can reveal some useful extras…

LED Work Light: An LED Work Light acts as a tiny flashlight on saws and turns on once the trigger is activated. This enhances cut-line view , especially when working in places with insufficient lighting.

Electric Brake: Thus reverses the current stopping the blade in as little as 2 seconds from the moment the trigger is released. This is very handy just in case the user accidentally places his/her hands in a dangerous spot while the blade is still running.

Dust Blower: A dust blower keeps the work bench clean by blowing ensuing dust away when cutting. It’s very beneficial and works awesomely with the LED work light/laser beam.

Vacuum Adapter: A vacuum attachment can also be connected to a shop-vac to help remove chips, dust, and cutting debris from the working area.

Best Brands That Make The best saw for cutting 2×4

The reputation of the brand can also increase the likelihood of landing the best multi purpose saw for 2×4’s and other projects.

Here are a few names that have made their mark in the tools space by consistently producing quality and top craftsmanship:

1. Worx

WORX saws are known for innovation, power, and a distinguished performance. They’re engineered with the best technologies and offer genuine value.

A contemporary design that cuts with precision and adaptability makes WORX’s saws sure bets for the toughest jobs.

2. TactLife Tools

One of the most reputable names in the industry, Tactlife produces professional saws by focusing on every critical detail and has always released superior products.

Their 2×4 saws are typically compact, come with multiple blades, and are very flexible.

3. RockWell Tools

Rockwell on the hand has some of the most durable saws. They make their products with rugged components making them top performers in the most challenging cutting jobs.

They’re also associated with some of the most powerful saws.

Best Saw For Cutting 2×4: FAQs

Here are some common questions include answers. Hope these will help you to understand about saw cutting in easy way. So lets go we see what have included here.

Q1: Can I use The Saw To cut Stone?

Answer: well, using a saw intended for wood for metal or stone can be difficult. However, it’s possible with the installation of a specific blade. For instance, TactLife’s Circular Saw 4-3/4″, 10feet Cord Length comes with 6 blades and can cut tile, metal, plastics, and flooring.

Q2: Must I Have a Specialty Blade?

Answer: A general-purpose blade does a decent job for a wide range of cuts but for a smooth and professional touch, a specialty blade may be required.

Q3: Can I sharpen The blade?

Answer: Sure. For steel, sharpening it yourself, for example, using a file would do. a sharpening tool is also an option and much better. On the other hand, carbide blades require special attention so finding a professional would be the surest route.

Q4: Why Won’t My saw cut square?

Answer: This can be caused by a couple of things. First is to check that the bevel has been set to 0°. Then, one should confirm that the blade is secured and neither damaged nor warped. If no change, users may need to adjust the bevel back to square.

Q5: What Maintenance Does My Saw Need?

Answer: Dirty blades leads to rougher cuts so at least cleaning the blade is a must. A citrus cleaner would be fine as would an oven cleaner amongst other solutions.

Final Verdict

The best saw for cutting 2×4 is a wonderful tool to have at home. It will take minimal effort yet produce amazing cuts on the usually stubborn 2×4’s.

It could be all it takes to take DIY designs to the next level.

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If you are interested, can check our home tools, garden tools and power tools.

Best Dirt to Use Around Foundation of Home Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

Last Updated: June 12, 2019 | Joshua Houtson

As you might expect, finding your basement knee deep in water after a major spring snow melt or heavy downpour would be so irritating. Costs of finding and repairing the leak come to mind.

There is draining work to do, cleaning after, and repairing water damaged furniture to think about. Subsequently, there will be costs to prevent this from ever happening again.

To prevent such a tragedy to your home in the future, the best dirt to use around the foundation of your home site is something you need to think about carefully. So is the soil on which your home foundation rests and how the land surrounding your house slopes.

The right dirt for your backyard sloping, or grading, will keep away many damages. Whether you live in the countryside or city, your home is built on this dirt. The type of soil used in the grading process has great implications in this too.

This article intends to help you choose the best dirt to use around foundation of home structures. This is from the many options the market has to offer. Our editorial panelists have spoken to local building inspectors and identified dirt types that fit specific needs for any area.

Best Dirt to Use Around Foundation of Home 2019

Top 5 Best Dirt to Use Around Foundation of Home Reviews

From among many products studied by our editorial panel, these five products have proven to have the best all round qualities. This has been determined through interviewing building experts and positive online reviews.

1. Michigan Peat 5540 Garden Magic Top Soil, 40-Pound Review

Aside from its foundation protection friendly traits, this dirt is darkly good looking. This means it improves how the space between your walls and lawns or flowerbeds looks like.

Benefits

It has high water retention capabilities that protects your foundation constructions from excess water. It is a great foundation guard when inserted between your foundation and original soil. This is if you have sandy or other porous soils.

In addition, the manufacturer made this soil to allow plants to grow and thrive where original soils do not allow this to happen well. This means your wall crawling plants, flowers, and decorative plants will thrive when grown on this dirt near your foundation walls.

We Love

Absorbs large amounts of excess water.
Offers thriving environment for decorative plants.
Good looking.

We Don't Love

Requires mixing with other soils.

Buy Michigan Peat 5540 from Amazon

2. Hoffman 10404 Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix, 4 Quarts Review

This dirt will help drain water from your foundation easily without corroding your foundation structures chemically. This is because it was made for growing desert and jungle cacti. It has excellent drainage characteristics and pH balance as a result.

Benefits

This dirt type fends off water when dry meaning it has hydrophobic tendencies. As a soil surrounding your foundation, this water repelling quality will help in keeping your foundation dry.

This is while making it difficult for water to seep through your foundation into your basement.

Even after heavy rainfall or flooding, this dirt type remains dry, acting as a barrier between water and structures making your foundation. This is because the hydrophobic tendencies in this soil make it hard to entirely water every part of the soil.

We Love

Stops water from seeping through structures.
It does not wet equally on every part due to hydrophobicity.
Also It works well in dry or wet regions.

We Don't Love

It has big pieces of foreign material difficult to remove.

Buy Hoffman 10404 from Amazon

3. Succulent & Cactus Soil Mix – Pre-Mixed Fast Draining Blend Review

This blend of soil has fast draining powers. Its preparation favors over-watering for plants sitting in water for long periods. It will, therefore, control amount of water reaching your foundation.

Benefits

It has a composition that supports a good balance between retaining water and air. That balance stops this soil from corroding your foundation structure. Primary components, over time provide excellent drainage, water retention, and air circulation, thereby promoting healthy foundation environments.

This dirt mixture consists of non-organic primary components. These work as a seal between water and your foundation structures.

Its expanded shale and pine bark components absorb excess water. Pumice volcanic byproduct and Japanese hard clay components retain water too. These components keep water away from your foundation for long periods, keeping your basement dry.

We Love

Good for mixing with poor local soil.
Dries quickly on top improving barrier strength.
Compact at the bottom strengthening barrier strength.

We Don't Love

Poor soil for growing decorative plants next to buildings.

Buy Succulent & Cactus Soil Mix from Amazon

4. Miracle-Gro 70551430 All-Purpose Garden Soil, 1 CF Review

Miracle Gro created garden soil to satisfy growing conditions for any plant grown on it. This gives it excellent qualities as an offsetting go-between if your original soil is a poor grading type.

Benefits

This soil product is intensely dense and compact. It would therefore act as a good mixture to improve drainage for foundation sandy soil.

With its special components, it works great with water plants. This means it absorbs rather than lets excess water through to your foundation construction.

It has excellent qualities for growing flowers and other decorative plants that go near buildings.

The product also comes in relatively large quantities giving it good value for the purchasing and transportation costs you incur.

We Love

Improves your poor foundation dirt.
Absorbs large amounts of water.
Excellent for growing decorative plants.

We Don't Love

Package may have foreign materials.

Buy Miracle-Gro 70551430 from Amazon

5. Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix, 8-Quart Review

The manufacturer makes this dirt to protect plants from both overwatering and under watering. This gives power to absorb thirty-three percent more moisture compared to other dirt types.

Benefits

Its high water absorbing power gives it excellent qualities to mix with clay and sandy soils to keep moisture away from the foundation structures. It is attained the nickname “moisture control” online because of this trait.

The dirt is airy and light. This means when it gets wet or dry, it will not push against your foundation wall, at a high pressure, causing cracks. It will also let you grow flowers and other plants along your foundation, as long as these are not epiphytic or succulents.

We Love

High water retention character.
Light and airy.
Mixes with others to lighten or add density.

We Don't Love

May introduce fungus, gnats, and mites to your backyard garden.

Buy Miracle-Gro Moisture Control Potting Mix from Amazon

A Foundation Dirt Buyer’s Guide

So now, lets go, we will write here a details guide on how to purchase foundation dirt. So you can buy it easily from the market.

What Are Symptoms Of Wrong Soil Around Your Foundations?

The moment you find your basement is flooded to your knee caps, it becomes apparent you have a big problem with your foundation structure. It is leaking water from outside into your home. Tracing the leak most often leads back to what soil you have around your foundation.

Think of another scenario. Walk into your basement and nightmare of nightmares, there is a crack on the wall. Do not panic with the thought your house is coming down. Cracks are a symptom of an underlying problem. Among the several basement crack causes include lateral pressure from the soil surrounding your home.

Should your foundation soil consist of expanding clay, wall cracks will not be permanent. They will merely change when soil water content changes during different seasonal changes. In spring, for example, snow melts saturating your soil, making your wall bow out slightly and cracking.

Conversely, in summer, evaporation and plants draw out moisture closing out the cracks. Winter and freezing soil leads to similar movements with cracks arising from ice buildup and melting.

Another danger lies in soil erosion taking place over time. This creates slopes towards your house and wells or collects against your foundation where excess water accumulates.

What Should You Look For In Good Foundation Soil?

Soil has different strength ranges. Your building foundation needs to rest on strong and stable soil such as All-Purpose Garden Soil. Otherwise the foundation will crack, sink, or your home may fall.

Physical properties determine how stable and strong your soil is. Good structured soil has advanced stability features. Clay textured dirt, for example, has better stability than dirt with sand textures. The trick is mixing weak textured soil with better structured and more stable soil like the Pre-Mixed Fast Draining Blend.

This means the best dirt to use around foundation of home structures should have higher clay texture than the surrounding dirt.

Some clay minerals have a higher tendency to shrink and expand during respective dry and wet weather seasons than others. The best soil for grading around house foundations will also capture precipitation stopping runoff or erosion from damaging foundation structures.

Again, dirt with balanced chemistry straits, such as Hoffman Soil Mix, prevents home construction materials from corroding. This means cracks, through which water leaks into your home, will not develop.

Type of Your Soil

Clay has less porous tendencies compared to other soil types. This means water will not run through it and it is heavier, meaning it erodes less easily. When thinking of the preferred type of filling in dirt around foundation structures, the objective is ensuring water drainage, away from your house foundation, is fast and as easy as possible.

Properly compacted soil forces excess water to run over without soaking in. Avoid dirt that contains obstructions to rapid water run-off. This means filling dirt needs to be clean, devoid of rock, bark, and mulch.

Have your subsoil analyzed too because impervious clay underneath a poorly graded and porous topsoil directs water into your foundation too.

A good mix in particle sizes, All-Purpose Garden Soil, for example, is great for home engineering and adding dirt around foundation edifices.

Buy soil that maintains its stability through both dry and wet seasons. This way, expanding or contracting dirt will not crack your home foundations. Also, seek professional help in determining how to build up dirt around foundation structures in the right manner.

Solution of Your Soil

Numerous homes in the United States stand on expansive soils. Once this soil type gets wet, it expands by as much as 150% of its original dry volume. This exerts as much as 500 lbs. per square foot of pressure.

This expansion, in turn, creates movement as pressure increases, leading to foundation and framing damages. To stop this, a well graded soil type that will direct water away from the house is recommended.

Home foundation edges pose as prime positions to plant flowers and shrubs. Such cultivations, and erosion from rain rolling off your roof, are top culprits in creating weakness that allow water leaking through your foundation and into your home.

The remedy is back filling. A poor dirt push back up against the foundation can, however create water and structural problems.

Backfilling requires one of two types of material. If there is adequate compactible soil on site, it should go up against your foundation. This dirt has to be organic material free because these tend to decompose and create excess settlement.

Lack of enough good dirt to use around foundation of home constructions means some needs to be bought from elsewhere. Ultimately, as excess water flows away from your foundation fast, there is no time for it to soak through, preventing leaks through foundation cracks.

What are the steps on how to regrade around foundation structures?

Dirt placed in the hole next to your foundation requires mechanical compacting using a vibrator. This is every six inches of depth. Erectors of structural elements need to avoid this area too. A patio, for example, should go outside foundation backfill spots unless special compaction arrangements on such spots is initiated.

Again, it is important to have any organic material bound to decompose removed from back filling areas. This prevents dirt sinking around foundation constructions.

Best Brands in the Dirt Industry

In every industry, there are brands that take top positions in creating and marketing products for their discerning clients. The best dirt to use around foundation of home industry is no different.

To top the list is Hofman the Hoffman 10404 Organic Cactus and Succulent Soil Mix product creators. A close second on this list is SuperFly Bonsai who gave you the Succulent Cactus Soil.

Fat Plants San Diego make it onto this list and one of their great products is the Fat Plants San Diego Succulent Soil Gallon dirt. This list would be incomplete without Perfect Plants propelled by their leading dirt mixture, the Succulent Soil Mix.

Final Verdict

A flooded basement is a huge irritation. So are cracks on basement walls. This article lets you identify what to look for in the best dirt to use around foundation of home for grading procedures. Only then can you stop future flooding incidents.

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You can also check our garden tools, hand tools and power tools.