Tools made easy: How to use a drill driver

Get to know the drill driver

A drill driver combines two tools in one. It can drill holes into materials like timber, then switch to driving screws simply by changing the bit. Instead of struggling with a manual screwdriver or spending ages turning an Allen key, a drill driver makes everyday jobs faster, easier and far less effort. Whether building flat-pack furniture, hanging artwork, installing shelves or tackling D.I.Y. home improvement projects, it's one of the most versatile tools to own.

Use it for everyday D.I.Y. projects

A drill driver can save time on all kinds of jobs around the home. Use it to assemble flat-pack furniture, replace cabinet handles, install cable management under a desk, hang pictures, tighten loose furniture or build simple D.I.Y. projects. It's also perfect for ongoing maintenance, like tightening loose hinges, adjusting furniture or fixing anything that's worked loose over time. Once comfortable using a drill driver, it's surprising how often it comes in handy.

Understand the different bits

The bit fitted to the drill driver determines what it can do. Drill bits are designed to create holes in materials like timber before installing screws or wall plugs. Driver bits are used to tighten and remove screws and come in different shapes to match different screw heads. Choosing the correct driver helps ensure the bit fits securely and delivers better results. The most common include:

• Phillips, which has a cross-shaped head
• Pozidriv, which looks similar to a Phillips but has extra smaller lines between the cross
• Torx, which has a star-shaped head
• Hex, which has six flat sides

Using the correct bit helps prevent the screwdriver slipping and reduces the chance of damaging the screw.

Drill holes and drive screws

For many projects, it's best to start by drilling a pilot hole, especially when working with timber. As a guide, choose a drill bit that's slightly narrower than the screw itself – not including the threads. This gives the screw something solid to bite into while helping prevent the timber from splitting. Once the pilot hole has been drilled, swap to a driver bit that matches the screw head and drive the screw into place using slow, steady pressure.

Learn the drill driver’s controls

Most drill drivers have a forward/reverse switch just above the trigger. Use the forward setting to drill holes and drive screws in, then switch to reverse to remove screws or back a screw out if it hasn't gone in straight. The trigger is also variable speed, so pressing it gently gives more control, while squeezing it further increases the speed. Starting very slowly makes it easier to keep the bit engaged with the screw and helps prevent it from slipping.

Choose the right settings

Before driving a screw, check that the driver bit is the correct size and fits snugly into the screw head. A bit that's too small or the wrong shape can slip, damaging or "stripping" the screw head and making it difficult to remove or tighten.

The numbered collar just behind the chuck controls the drill driver's driving power, also known as the torque. Turn the collar to a lower number for smaller screws or when assembling flat-pack furniture to help prevent over-tightening or damaging the material. Higher numbers provide more driving power for larger screws or tougher jobs. Start on a lower setting and increase it if needed.

If the drill driver starts making a clicking sound before the screw is fully driven, don't worry - that's the clutch doing its job. It means the torque setting has been reached. Simply increase the numbered setting slightly and continue until the screw is driven to the desired depth.

Put that drill to good use

Now you know how to use your drill driver, it’s time to tackle a project! Learn how to install timber wall panels with this easy-to-follow guide.

Frequently asked questions

What is a drill driver used for?

A drill driver is used to drill holes and drive or remove screws. It can help with everyday D.I.Y. jobs such as assembling flat-pack furniture, installing shelves, hanging pictures, replacing cabinet handles and tightening loose furniture.

What is the difference between a drill bit and a driver bit?

A drill bit creates holes in materials such as timber. A driver bit is used to tighten or remove screws and should match the shape of the screw head, such as Phillips, Pozidriv, Torx or Hex.

How do you drill a pilot hole with a drill driver?

Choose a drill bit that is slightly narrower than the screw, not including its threads. Drill the pilot hole, change to a driver bit that matches the screw head, then drive the screw using slow, steady pressure.

What do the numbers on a drill driver mean?

The numbered collar controls the drill driver’s torque, or driving power. Lower settings suit smaller screws and delicate materials, while higher settings provide more power for larger screws or tougher jobs. Start low and increase the setting if needed.

Why is my drill driver making a clicking sound?

The clicking sound usually means the clutch has activated because the selected torque level has been reached. If the screw is not deep enough, increase the numbered setting slightly and continue until it reaches the required depth.