Every siding contractor knows having the right equipment is crucial to getting your jobs done efficiently and accurately. And, when it comes to the tools of the trade, no company's better than Malco Products. For more than 70 years, the Minnesota manufacturer has led the industry in innovation, developing professional-grade products with contractors in mind. From ergonomic handles to a brake that can bend metal from the tailgate of a pickup, Malco's siding tools can help you work smarter, not harder. Read on to discover our six favorite products, all available at Roofers Mart.
1. Portable Mini-Brake
There's nothing mini about the capabilities of Malco's Portable Mini-Brake. The versatile, lightweight tool can produce precise bends up to 135 degrees in various sheet metals up to four feet wide, including aluminum, copper, and 22-gauge galvanized steel. When it comes to length, the brake has no limit, because it doesn't have a fixed throat depth. Use it anywhere on your job sites, even on the tailgate of your truck. Optional legs are available separately.
2. Turbo Shear Heavy Duty
Cut through sheet metal like butter with Malco's Turbo Shear Heavy Duty. This drill attachment fits onto most corded and cordless drills, and it can make straight, curved or square cuts quickly in most common sheet metals. The shear’s wide-opening jaws can operate at high or low speeds, giving you the control you need, when you need it. The clamp collar allows the shear head to rotate 360 degrees for optimum tool clearance when navigating profiles or to facilitate easy material flow. Replacement blades are also available and easy to install.
3. Andy Snips
They're a cut above the rest. Andy Snips is one of Malco's best-selling product lines, and for good reason. All the snips are manufactured for ease of use, empowering trade professionals to make the cleanest, most efficient cuts possible across a wide variety of materials. They also feature replaceable blades. Check with your local Roofers Mart to learn what Andy Snips models are available.
4. Adjustable Siding Gauge
Lap siding installation can be a one-person job with Malco's new Adjustable Siding Gauge. The aluminum gauges come in a pair and work with most commercially available lap siding products, including fiber cement and LP Smart Siding. Adjustable clamps hold planks up to 16 feet firmly in place, and an adjustable reveal ensures they are properly positioned. The ergonomic design keeps your hands comfortable throughout your workday. The gauges have a 4-inch to 8-inch adjustment range, with a 5/16-inch to 5/8-inch clamping range.
5. Nail Hole Punch
It's a must-have tool for siding installation. The Malco Nail Hole Punch is perfect for adding or widening holes in vinyl or aluminum siding. The generous 5/32 x 3/4 inch horizontal slots allow for the natural expansion and contraction of vinyl siding panels. The tool also features ergonomic RedLine Handle technology. These easy-to-operate compound leverage handles maximize user comfort, enabling fast and easy one-hand operation anywhere on the job, and its rugged construction ensures a long service life.
6. Magnetic Hex Chuck Driver
Get a firm grip on screws with Malco's precision fit and hardened Magnetic Hex Chuck Drivers. Built to last a lifetime, the hex drivers have a 1/4-inch power insert shank and are designed to meet the toughest on-the-job demands, whether installed on a power drill or used with a Malco CONNEXT Quick Change Handle. Sizes are color-coded for easy identification and come in short, long and extra-long lengths. Reach out to your local Roofers Mart to find out which Magnetic Hex Chuck Drivers they have in stock.