When installing new flooring, whether it’s hardwood, vinyl, tile, or carpet, having the right tools is essential to ensure the job is done correctly. Essential tools include a reliable tape measure, utility knife, and level. Depending on the flooring type, you might also need a circular saw, wet-dry saw, or flooring stapler. Even for seasoned installers, using inferior tools can make the task difficult and affect the final outcome. Among the many tool brands available, DeWalt is widely recognized for its quality and dependability by consumers.
If you’re seeking top-tier tools to assist in the proper installation of new flooring in your home, consider DeWalt’s extensive selection. To get you started, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best DeWalt tools for tackling this significant home improvement project. We gathered insights from customer reviews on platforms like Amazon, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, and Ace Hardware, focusing on average ratings and the number of reviews. We also included professional reviews from YouTube to provide expert opinions on each model, as well as options suitable for various flooring types.
DeWalt Atomic Compact Series 30-Foot Tape Measure
A quality tape measure is crucial for any flooring installation project. Accurate measurements of the room dimensions are key to cutting vinyl, wood planks, carpet, or tiles to fit perfectly, avoiding gaps or unevenness. The DeWalt Atomic Compact Series 30-Foot Tape Measure is designed for functionality and ease of use, offering a compact size while still measuring up to 30 feet. It features a 13-foot max reach, allowing you to measure independently without bending or twisting, which is ideal for many flooring projects.
The tape measure boasts a 4.7-star rating on Amazon from over 700 reviews, a 4.6-star rating from more than 1,000 reviews at The Home Depot, and a 4.7-star rating from nearly 50 reviews at Ace Hardware. Reviewers praise its durability and long reach, noting how it simplifies solo use. The locking mechanism is also frequently mentioned, as it effectively keeps the tape extended, and users appreciate the ability to stop the tape with a finger instead of relying solely on the lock.
DeWalt 72-Inch Premium I-Beam Level
Having a level is indispensable for any DIY flooring project. Whether installing vinyl planks, carpet, tile, or hardwood, a level subfloor is crucial. An uneven subfloor can lead to an uneven finished floor, which not only looks unappealing but can also be a tripping hazard. The DeWalt 72-Inch Premium I-Beam Level ensures accuracy within 0.0005 inches and includes v-shaped grooves for versatile use on different surfaces. It also features over-molded end caps to protect it from damage if dropped.
Positive feedback on Amazon highlights the level’s performance, with a 4.9-star rating from nearly 50 reviews. Users appreciate its light weight and durability, considering it a worthwhile investment.
DeWalt 20V Max XR Brushless Cordless 7 ¼-Inch Circular Saw
The DeWalt 20V Max XR Brushless Cordless 7 ¼-Inch Circular Saw is invaluable for projects involving hardwood, vinyl, or laminate flooring. Its cordless design with a brushless motor allows for up to 330 crosscuts on a single charge. The 7 ¼-inch blade can cut through materials up to 2 ⁹⁄₁₆ inches thick, and it can bevel up to 57 degrees for angled cuts.
This saw has excellent ratings on Amazon, The Home Depot, and Lowe’s (4.6 stars, 4.7 stars, and 4.6 stars, respectively) from over 6,000 reviews. Users highlight its sturdiness, ease of use without a power cord, and extended runtime (battery sold separately). The integrated safety features are also well-received, though one YouTube reviewer noted the power is dependent on the battery, with noticeable differences between an 8.0-Amp and a 5.0-Amp battery.
DeWalt 2-in-1 Flooring Tool
For hardwood flooring installation, the DeWalt 2-in-1 Flooring Tool is a great choice. Its pneumatic driving action, activated by the included mallet, ensures fasteners are driven cleanly into the wood. Designed for ease of use, it features a longer handle and rubber grip, along with adjustable base plates for compatibility with different wood flooring types and fasteners (16ga “L” nails and 15.5ga staples).
With over 700 reviews on Amazon and a 4.7-star rating, and a similar 4.6-star rating from more than 200 reviews at The Home Depot, users appreciate how it simplifies hardwood floor installation, allowing for quicker work and properly set nails with minimal jamming. A YouTube professional review also praised its performance and affordability compared to more expensive options.
DeWalt 4 ⅜-Inch Wet/Dry Handheld Tile Cutter
For tile flooring installation, the DeWalt 4 ⅜-Inch Wet/Dry Handheld Tile Cutter is a smart choice. It features a compact, lightweight design (6.6 pounds) and a rubber overmold grip for comfortable use, allowing for smooth cuts and efficient work.
With a 4.2-star rating on both Amazon and The Home Depot from over 1,300 reviews, customers find it user-friendly and effective for clean tile cuts. However, some reviewers noted issues with the water system, mentioning leaks between cuts.
DeWalt Retractable Utility Knife
The DeWalt Retractable Utility Knife is another useful tool for flooring installation. It’s perfect for cutting carpet, scoring vinyl planks, or opening packaged materials. The retractable blade allows for adjustable cutting depths, and the heavy-duty metal body with a textured handle ensures durability and a controlled grip.
With over 1,000 reviews and a 4.7-star rating on Amazon, this utility knife is highly regarded for its quality and sturdiness. Users appreciate the non-wobbling blade and ergonomic handle. A professional YouTube reviewer praised its substantial feel, comfortable grip, and easy blade change feature.
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