Page 34 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • September 16, 2009 Home Improvement Confounded by cordless tools? Learn to pick a winner (ARA) When you use tools every day, you know the benefits of going cordless. But when it comes to finding the best, most powerful and technologically advanced cordless tools for the job, do you know what to look for? With so many options, choosing the right power tool for you can be overwhelming. “A cordless tool isn’t all about the battery, although it is a critical factor. Safety, ergonomics and durability as well as battery charger technology and versatility are all key,” according to Terry Tuerk, product manager at Metabo USA, a leading manufacturer of professional-grade portable electric power tools. Tuerk offers some top tips to help you find the best cordless tools: Pay attention to the latest technology. Lithium-ion batteries are lighter, deliver more power and last longer than older battery technology. When you are looking for the highest quality tools, check out your local tool distributors. You wouldn’t go to the grocery store’s freezer section for fresh vegetables, you would go to the local farmer’s market. The same principle applies to tools. Shop where the experts shop, not at big-box retail stores. Handle the tools before purchasing them. Look for agile tools in compact sizes that fit better into tight spaces. A smaller size also reduces operator fatigue and achieves a better balance. The charger, and how quickly it works, are as important as the tool. Metabo cordless tools have batteries that fully recharge in just 30 minutes. Air-cooled charging technology cools the battery during charging to shorten the process by nearly 30 percent. Cell protection technology extends overall battery life and makes the battery last significantly longer between charges. Shop around for special features that best fit your needs. For example, some cordless drills have a removable chuck, exposing a recessed hex spindle that allows you to drive screws in tighter spaces. Look for tools that have a built-in LED light for better visibility in low-light areas. “Bottom line, find the tool that performs how you need it to,” Tuerk advised. “The power behind lithium-ion batteries combined with advanced ergonomics makes the newer 18-volt tools rugged enough for tough applications, while providing user comfort and ease of use.” Keep the big picture in mind and calculate the return on your investment. When you purchase high-quality, professional-grade tools they may cost a bit more up front, but they last longer, perform better and are more powerful than typical consumer cordless tools. In most cases, the tools are also covered by long-term warranties. Fall IT’S TIME TO START YOUR FREE FALL LANDSCAPE No Obligation Estimate. PROJECTS �������������� ���������������������� ����������������� ������������������ ����������������������� ��������������� ������������������������ ���������������� ����������� Call Today! Paul Banach Construction, LLC Home Remodeling Waldwick • 201-689-0765 • Windows • Doors • Garage Doors • • Finish Carpentry • Crown Moldings, Cabinetry, Walk-In-Closets, etc... • Kitchen & Bathroom Renovations • Take advantage of the Energy Tax Credit in 2009 www.energystar.gov/index.cfm?c=products.pr_tax_credits Speak to your tax advisor to ascertain if you qualify, as these credits will make a project more economical for you! Over 20 yrs. exp. • Senior Citizen Discount • Ref available upon request All work performed by owner • Free Estimates Weeping Pine Nursery ���������� ��������������� ������������ 9-9-09 janine WeepingPineFallBW2x3.5(9-9-09) 2 x 3.5 homeimprovement & decorating 7-22-09....Mike....from Janine PaulBanach2x2(7-22-09) 2x2” The Villadom TIMES is giving you the opportunity to present your quality services and merchandise in a special Fall Home Improvement & Decorating Guide. In The Villadom TIMES, you’ll get the exposure you need in 56,300 homes right in your market area. And, as always, your Villadom TIMES advertising message is conveniently delivered each week by US mail to every residence in the ten affluent Bergen County towns listed below. Publication: FALL WEDNESDAY Deadline: SEPTEMBER 23 SEPTEMBER 30 OCTOBER 7 OCTOBER 14 SEPTEMBER 16 SEPTEMBER 23 SEPTEMBER 30 OCTOBER 7 WEDNESDAY Call The Villadom TIMES today to place your advertisement. 201-652-0744 YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSPAPER ZONE 1 - Wyckoff, Midland Park, Franklin Lakes ZONE 2 - Ridgewood, Glen Rock ZONE 3 - Ho-Ho-Kus, Allendale, Waldwick, Saddle River, Upper Saddle River ZONE 4 - Ramsey, Mahwah