Construction
Group
Leader - What you need to bring.
What follows is a complete list of the tools and equipment your group will
need to construct a house in Mexico. This is a minimum list. You can
certainly add or replace items from this list to suit your groups specific
needs.
(Note: Pictures of tools and their links are only for illustration.
Many other makes and models are readily available)
Typical Generator by Coleman Note: If you are unable to obtain a suitable generator, contact Baja
Christian Ministries and let them know before your trip. A few are available
in Mexico but they must be reserved well ahead of time.
1
or 2 Skilsaws
with 100' extension
cord.
Some groups also bring a chop type saw. If you decide to bring a chop saw, you may want a separate set of saw horses
for the saw.
A Reciprocating Saw with wood cutting blades, is also a must.
A Sawzall is the reciprocating saw of choice for most house building
teams. You will
want to bring blades for wood cutting, both 6" and 12". You may
also want blades for cutting holes (small blades that can turn sharply) and some
blades that can cut nails (in case you make a mistake!).
Both DeWalt and Milwaukee make a cordless version. They work fine as
long as the batteries are charged.
2
Sawhorse sets
Pictured here are a good example of portable saw horses.
Click on the picture for a link to the
manufacturer
for more information.
This style works well and can be transported easily.
They adapt well to uneven ground and are very strong. The picture above
shows two different sizes. You will need two
sets of two for this project.
1
- Electric
or large battery powered drill with 5/8" & 3/4" bits.
You
will need a drill capable of drilling several dozen holes. A good quality
pistol type hand drill will work fine, remember a long extension
cord. If you prefer cordless drills, remember
to bring extra batteries and the charger.
Many different kinds of kits are available. From simple hole saw kits
to kits the pros use. Some groups prefer to order a pre-hung door.
(At extra cost.)
If you use a pre-hung door, you will not need this tool.
Round Soft
Milled Face
Drywall Hatchet
Nail puller
Important in proper installation of the drywall.
A
special note about hammers. Many groups bring inexpensive, light weight
hammers. Will the cheap hammers work? Sure, but not nearly as well
as a hammer designed for the job. Building
these houses requires framing, drywall and roofing. I have illustrated the basic differences in the three types of hammers. If
you have one of these types, they will make your work much more fun, easier and faster.
