I can't believe I'm building a chicken coop.

[tk10]

So is there a trick to using them? I'm swearing at them at the moment as they won't go in with my drill or my hammer. Start them with the hammer and they will screw in partway with difficulty. I've pounded them in the rest of the way, now I have 2 that I can't even pound in. I'm wishing I had my 30+ old electric drill but it was stolen, I think more powerful than this battery charged Ryobi . Taking a break cause my arm is worn out.

I'm sure you've found a solution by now, but I had this problem too, even with pre drilled holes! I then switched to a diamond/square shape deck screws, adjusted the bit, and they went in beautifully.

 

[anatess]

I'm sure you've found a solution by now, but I had this problem too, even with pre drilled holes! I then switched to a diamond/square shape deck screws, adjusted the bit, and they went in beautifully.

Oh yeah! The deck screws come with its own drill bit inside the box. I ran out of screws so I went and bought another one and didn't realize that deck screws come with a bit number. So, the new screws I bought was a different number than the one I used previously so when I tried to screw the new ones in using the previous one's drill bit, it kept on slipping!

 

[debid]

Oh yeah! The deck screws come with its own drill bit inside the box. I ran out of screws so I went and bought another one and didn't realize that deck screws come with a bit number. So, the new screws I bought was a different number than the one I used previously so when I tried to screw the new ones in using the previous one's drill bit, it kept on slipping!

We have a ton of odds/ends screws and I try to use them whenever I have a small project. It's super annoying if there are ALMOST enough of one type. Even if we have every bit size in one of the many assortments, stopping to hunt for a match because close enough isn't is a buzz kill.

 

[jeria]

I'm sure you've found a solution by now, but I had this problem too, even with pre drilled holes! I then switched to a diamond/square shape deck screws, adjusted the bit, and they went in beautifully.

I bought a stronger corded drill. Used my little drill to drill starter holes, a regular hand screw driver to start them a few turns and the new drill does wonders. It works and I'm getting a workout for my right arm with the new drill.

 

[aart]

I bought a stronger corded drill. Used my little drill to drill starter holes, a regular hand screw driver to start them a few turns and the new drill does wonders. It works and I'm getting a workout for my right arm with the new drill.

I highly recommend learning to drive screws with either hand....you and your hands will be glad you can switch back and forth.

 

[jeria]

I highly recommend learning to drive screws with either hand....you and your hands will be glad you can switch back and forth.

That would be awesome if I could. For me that would take some time, probably be done with this coop long before then . I work out, lift weights, suspension training etc but an old injury has left me with about 1/2 the strength in my left arm as the right and not much strength in my left hand. I'm thankful the left one works as well as it does, so no complaints. Love the workout, the first day I used the heavier drill I was so sore the next day. LOL

 

[pennyJo1960]

Oh ya arthritis in both my hands so I could barely hold on my right used the left with it till it grew better now can switch back and forth most days again

 

[aart]

Same here....arthritis in both wrists, hands/fingers, rebuilt thumb joint on left, right thumb joint needs it but didn't get it. Took a long time, but both hands are almost same strength because of using both hands.

 

[jeria]

Sounds like we are all battling strength issues and tough enough to work through them. Mine some arthritis but I totally lost the use in my left arm and partially in my right after a neck injury: surgery, much physical therapy and exercise since has made a huge difference but my left hand has never regained much strength but I can use it, so all good. Like building this coop adapt along the way and keep going

Assembly weekend for much of my coop, wish me luck. Have to head out early for more deck screws and maybe more paint. Roof will wait for grandsons' help, hopefully next weekend.

 

[patsy334]

Well, it appears I am in good company! I have some experience in repairs and minor building (if I don't do it, it doesn't get done). But this "coop business" is new to me. AM 71 and most of my friends are traveling, etc. However, I am glued to this website and Story's Guide and having more fun than all the others!