Master Any Material: Your Simple Guide on How to Use a Corded Hammer Drill
Want to drill into tough materials like concrete or brick? A corded hammer drill makes it easy! Just select the right setting, choose the correct drill bit, and apply steady pressure. This guide will show you exactly how to use one safely and effectively for any DIY project.
Ever faced a wall that just wouldn’t let your regular drill do its job? It’s a common frustration for DIYers when tackling projects that involve harder surfaces like brick, concrete, or stone. You might have the perfect shelf or mounting bracket, but if you can’t get a secure anchor in, the whole project can stall. That’s where a corded hammer drill comes in. It’s a powerful tool designed specifically for these tougher tasks, making what seems impossible, surprisingly simple. Don’t worry if you’ve never used one before; this guide is designed to make it clear and easy. We’ll walk through everything you need to know, from understanding the tool to completing your project with confidence. Let’s get drilling!
What is a Corded Hammer Drill and Why Use One?
A corded hammer drill is a versatile power tool that combines the functions of a standard drill with a hammering action. This hammering action, delivered through a series of rapid, short impacts, is what allows it to bore through tough materials like concrete, brick, and masonry with ease. Unlike a regular drill, which simply spins a bit, a hammer drill adds a percussive force that breaks up the material as it drills.
The “corded” aspect means it’s powered by plugging directly into an electrical outlet. This provides consistent, high power without worrying about battery life, making it ideal for longer or more demanding jobs. For any DIYer looking to expand their capabilities beyond wood and metal, a corded hammer drill is an essential addition to their toolkit.
Understanding Your Corded Hammer Drill: Key Features
Before you start drilling, it’s helpful to know the main parts of your hammer drill:
- Chuck: This is the part that holds the drill bit. Most modern hammer drills have a keyless chuck, meaning you can tighten and loosen it by hand.
- Mode Selector: This is a crucial dial or switch that allows you to choose between standard drilling and hammer drilling. Some also have a “screw driving” mode.
- Variable Speed Trigger: This allows you to control the speed of the drill. A lighter touch means slower speed, and a firmer squeeze means faster speed.
- Forward/Reverse Switch: Located near the trigger, this lets you change the direction the drill bit spins, useful for both drilling and removing screws.
- Auxiliary Handle: Many hammer drills come with a second handle that attaches to the front. This provides extra stability and control, especially when drilling into hard surfaces.
- Depth Stop: This is an adjustable rod that attaches to the back of the drill. It helps you drill holes to a consistent, predetermined depth.
Essential Tools and Safety Gear
Using a hammer drill requires more than just the drill itself. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Corded Hammer Drill: Your primary tool!
- Masonry Drill Bits: These are specifically designed for drilling into concrete, brick, and stone. They have a carbide tip.
- Safety Glasses or Goggles: Absolutely essential to protect your eyes from flying debris.
- Work Gloves: To protect your hands and improve grip.
- Dust Mask: Drilling into masonry creates fine dust, so a mask is important for respiratory protection.
- Hearing Protection (Earplugs or Earmuffs): Hammer drills can be loud.
- Measuring Tape and Pencil: For marking where you need to drill.
- Level: To ensure your holes are straight.
- Extension Cord: If the power outlet isn’t close enough. Make sure it’s rated for outdoor use if necessary and the correct gauge for your tool.
- Vacuum Cleaner or Dust Collection System: To clean up dust as you go.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Use a Corded Hammer Drill
Now that you know your tool and have your gear, let’s get to the actual drilling!
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace and Yourself
Clear the area around where you’ll be drilling. Remove any furniture or objects that could get in the way or be damaged by dust. Put on your safety gear: safety glasses, gloves, dust mask, and hearing protection. Ensure your extension cord is in good condition and plugged into a GFCI-protected outlet if working near water or outdoors.
Step 2: Select the Correct Drill Bit
This is critical for success. For concrete, brick, or stone, you *must* use a masonry drill bit. These bits have a hardened carbide tip designed to withstand the abrasion and impact. They come in various sizes. Choose the size recommended for the anchor, screw, or fastener you plan to use.
Standard twist drill bits for wood or metal will dull very quickly and are not effective for masonry. Always check the packaging of your anchors or screws for the recommended drill bit size and depth.
Step 3: Insert the Drill Bit Correctly
If your drill has a keyless chuck, open it by twisting the chuck collar counter-clockwise. Insert the shank of the masonry drill bit as far as it will go into the chuck. Then, firmly twist the chuck collar clockwise to tighten it securely. You should hear a few clicks as it tightens. Give the bit a gentle tug to ensure it’s held firmly.
If you have a chuck key, insert it into one of the holes on the chuck and turn it clockwise to tighten. Make sure it’s very snug!
Step 4: Set the Hammer Drill Mode
Locate the mode selector on your hammer drill. It usually has symbols or labels like “Drill,” “Hammer Drill,” and sometimes “Screwdriver.” Rotate the selector to the “Hammer Drill” symbol, which typically looks like a small hammer or lines radiating from a circle.
Important: Never use the hammer function when drilling into wood, metal, or drywall. It can damage the material and the drill bit.
Step 5: Mark Your Drilling Location and Depth
Using your measuring tape and pencil, mark the exact spot where you want to drill. If you need to drill to a specific depth (e.g., for an anchor), use the depth stop rod. Slide the rod through the back of the drill body and adjust it so the collar on the rod is at the desired depth. Lock the collar in place.
You can also mark the desired depth directly on the drill bit with a piece of tape. When the tape reaches the surface of the material, you’ve reached your target depth.
Step 6: Start Drilling
Position the tip of the drill bit precisely on your mark. Hold the hammer drill firmly with both hands. Use the auxiliary handle for better control and stability. Place the drill perpendicular to the surface you are drilling into. Ensure you have a stable stance.
Begin by squeezing the variable speed trigger gently to start the drill at a slow speed. This helps prevent the bit from “walking” or slipping off your mark. Once the bit has started a small indentation, increase the speed by squeezing the trigger further.
Step 7: Apply Steady Pressure
As you drill, apply steady, consistent pressure. Let the hammer drill do the work. Avoid pushing too hard, as this can overheat the motor or break the drill bit. The hammering action will break up the material, and the spinning will remove it. You should feel the drill bit cutting into the material.
Periodically pull the drill bit back slightly while it’s still spinning. This helps clear dust and debris from the hole, preventing the bit from getting stuck and allowing for more efficient drilling.
Pro Tip: If you’re drilling a deep hole, it’s a good idea to pause every 15-30 seconds to pull the bit out and clear the dust. This also helps keep the bit cool.
Step 8: Finish the Hole and Clean Up
Continue drilling until you reach your desired depth. If you’re using a depth stop, you’ll feel the drill stop advancing when you hit the set depth. Once the hole is complete, keep the drill running at a slow speed as you pull it straight out of the hole. This helps clear any remaining dust.
Use a vacuum cleaner or a blast of compressed air to clean out the hole. This is essential for ensuring anchors fit properly. Clean up any dust from the surrounding area.
When to Switch from Hammer Drill to Regular Drill Mode
It’s important to know when to use each mode.
- Hammer Drill Mode: Use this for drilling into hard, dense materials like concrete, brick, stone, and mortar. The percussive action is key here.
- Regular Drill Mode: Switch back to this mode for drilling into softer materials like wood, metal, plastic, and drywall. Using the hammer function in these materials can damage the material, the drill bit, and potentially the tool itself. It can also create oversized or ragged holes.
Always double-check the mode selector before you start drilling, especially if you’re switching between different types of materials in a single project.
Troubleshooting Common Hammer Drill Issues
Even with the right technique, you might run into a few snags.
- Drill Bit Stuck: If the bit gets stuck, switch the drill to reverse (counter-clockwise) and try to back it out slowly. If it’s really jammed, you might need to use a pliers or even cut the bit off flush with the surface if it’s in a critical location.
- Drill Overheating: This can happen if you’re pushing too hard or drilling for too long without breaks. Let the drill cool down. Ensure you’re using the correct drill bit and clearing debris regularly.
- Hole Not Deep Enough: You might not be applying enough pressure, or the drill bit could be dull. Ensure you’re using a masonry bit and that it’s sharp.
- Drill Not Hammering: Double-check that the mode selector is definitely on “Hammer Drill.” Also, ensure you’re not pressing the trigger too lightly; some hammer drills require a certain trigger pressure to engage the hammering action.
Maintaining Your Corded Hammer Drill
To ensure your hammer drill lasts a long time and performs well, follow these maintenance tips:
- Keep it Clean: After each use, especially if you’ve been drilling into masonry, wipe down the drill body, chuck, and cord to remove dust and debris.
- Inspect the Cord: Regularly check the power cord for any nicks, cuts, or damage. Replace it if you find any issues.
- Lubricate the Chuck: Occasionally, apply a small amount of lubricant to the chuck mechanism to keep it operating smoothly.
- Store Properly: Store your hammer drill in a dry, clean place, preferably in its original case or a dedicated tool bag.
- Check the Brushes: Over time, the carbon brushes inside the motor will wear down. Most hammer drills have accessible brush caps, and replacing them is a relatively simple maintenance task. Consult your owner’s manual for instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use a hammer drill to drill into wood?
While you *can* technically drill into wood with a hammer drill, it’s not recommended. You should switch the hammer drill to its standard drill mode (without the hammering action). Using the hammer function on wood can damage the wood, the drill bit, and potentially the drill itself.
Q2: What’s the difference between a hammer drill and a regular drill?
A regular drill only spins. A hammer drill spins and also delivers rapid, percussive blows (like a hammer) at the same time. This hammering action is what allows it to break through hard materials like concrete and brick, which a regular drill cannot effectively penetrate.
Q3: Do I need special drill bits for a hammer drill?
Yes, when using the hammer function, you absolutely need masonry drill bits. These bits have a hardened carbide tip that is designed to withstand the impact and abrasion of drilling into concrete, brick, and stone. Standard wood or metal drill bits will be quickly destroyed.
Q4: How deep should I drill for a wall anchor?
The depth required for a wall anchor depends on the specific anchor. Always check the anchor manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, you’ll need to drill a hole that is slightly deeper than the length of the anchor itself, to allow for dust to settle at the bottom.
Q5: My drill bit is getting very hot. What should I do?
Drill bits can get hot, especially when drilling into hard materials. Ensure you are using the correct type of bit (masonry for masonry), applying steady pressure (not forcing it), and clearing the hole of dust regularly by pulling the bit out while it’s still spinning. Letting the drill and bit cool down periodically can also help.
Q6: What is the purpose of the auxiliary handle?
The auxiliary handle, also known as a side handle, provides much-needed stability and control when using a hammer drill, especially in hammer mode. It allows you to apply more consistent pressure and keep the drill straight, which is crucial for accuracy and safety when drilling into tough materials.
Conclusion
Using a corded hammer drill might seem intimidating at first, but by understanding its features and following these simple steps, you can confidently tackle projects involving concrete, brick, and other hard surfaces. Remember to always prioritize safety by wearing your protective gear and selecting the right drill bits and settings for the job. With a little practice, your hammer drill will become an indispensable tool in your DIY arsenal, opening up a world of new possibilities for your home improvement projects.
Now you’re equipped with the knowledge to master your corded hammer drill. Happy drilling!