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Replacing deck boards, impact driver a must tool?

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May 29, 2026, 10:27 PM
whanson_wi
Replacing deck boards, impact driver a must tool?
Add a decent set of knee pads to the list of tools for this project.


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June 02, 2026, 01:52 PM
gojoe
quote:
Originally posted by Hamden106:
One answer. Deck screws with torx drive



This is the answer you seek.
June 02, 2026, 09:53 PM
wrightd
like everyone is saying, a 1/4 impact driver for deck screws. If you're young you can get away with a drill, but the impact driver eliminates ALL torque in your wrist via the majik of basic physics of inertia.

If you get a hydraulic type driver instead of a hammer driver, you won't need hearing protection. Most of the best major brands offer a hydraulic version for just a little more money. Your ears will thank you.




Lover of the US Constitution
Wile E. Coyote School of DIY Disaster
June 02, 2026, 10:06 PM
Schmelby
Thanks everyone for the replies. I'll buy a 1/4 inch impact driver. Replace the deck first, then rip up all the upstairs carpet, buy boxes of screws and tighten down all the damn squeaks in the floors that's bugged me for years.
After that I probably won't need it much. Maybe Wink
June 02, 2026, 10:10 PM
wrightd
You may like the Milwaukee M18 volt battery 1/4 Hydraulic Impact Driver. I've had mine for a few years now, and used it to build 400 ft of custom wood fence with ALL screws, no nails, and a large custom wood drying shed with walls and metal roof, with ALL screws, no nails, using this little guy.

I use it all the time, probably every other week, and it still runs like brand new. The batteries and on-board battery management circutry are so advanced, you can use it all day long on a big job without a recharge. Ryobi can't do that, which is what I started out with before getting this guy.




Lover of the US Constitution
Wile E. Coyote School of DIY Disaster
June 02, 2026, 10:50 PM
Schmelby
Since I have an 18V Bosch drill with two batteries and charger I may stick with just a Bosch driver, But I've always liked Milwaukee.
June 03, 2026, 05:22 AM
Captain Morgan
Since you have a Bosch. I would get a Bosch Impact driver as long as the batteries are compatible. Otherwise Milwaukee, Dewalt and Makita are good.

I use 2 inch torx bits which gives more control and space for your hands. I prefer ceramic coating screws if your not using a hidden fastener system.



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