'Do it yourself ' is getting complicated. Need tools.

[Paper Roses]

Just bought this reciprocating saw from Harbor Freight(see link). The reviews were good for the most part and I certainly do not have the $$$$ to but some fancy commercial grade saw.

Must remove a corner board and replace it. Mid section rotted. My problem is how to cut it out at the top where it goes under the diagonal trip for at the corner edge of a slanted roof. I cannot remember the name of this diagonal trim and it is in good shape so I don't want to mess with it.

If I cut off the corner board straight about 3 inches down and replace it, caulking well where the old remaining section is, it should be fine...I hope. Remember, it is just 68 year old me and I can't afford a contractor. Have to figure out these things by myself. None of the other power tools I have can do this kind of cut. Just a 5.5" straight cut across. Measure for length. Caulk the top end and put in place. Nail. then paint. I am assuming that the wood underneath is ok but even if it isn't, I can tackle that with no problem.

Should I buy wood or that composite stuff?

The corner board is a 1X6, which is just right. The old board is 5.5 inches wide. Since that is how a 1X6 comes, no trim needed for width.

What am I forgetting?

http://www.harborfreight.com/power-tools/reciprocating-saws/6-amp-reciprocating-saw-with-rotating-handle-65570.html

This company seems to have great prices.

[Hassin Bin Sober]

1. I picked up a Dremel Multimax from Home Depot for 99 bucks.

The Dremel Multimax (and several other brand names) came out last year after the original patent held by Fein (German company) expired. The original Fein tool was 300-500 dollars plus depending on the attachments etc.

Anyway, the tool makes fine cuts in dry wall, plaster, lumber and grout etc. I see it (or the more expensive Fein tool if you are a pro) as a must-have for remodeling projects.

It works great for cutting molding or trim in place without disturbing or damaging the surrounding wood or drywall. It also leaves a small "kerf" because the baleds are pretty thin. It's easy to hold in one hand and it's really safe because the blade doesn't reciprocate or spin - the blade vibrates at a very high speed. It works like a saw the doctors use to remove casts.

[conscious evolution]

2. I bought a similar tool

last year.
I highly recommend them.

[Stinky The Clown]

3. I've been using composite wood for locations where painting is difficult

I also use it on our rentals so I don't have to worry about another maintenance thing.

[Paper Roses]

4. Tomorrow starts my project. Thanks for the OK on composite wood.

I had a feeling that it would be good. The area is subject to a lot of shade so I'm sure dampness is an issue as to why it rotted in the first place.

My new reciprocating saw came Saturday. Must learn how to use it. I don't really know how to cut the angle at the top that goes under the slope of trim. Think I'll just cut it straight across and butt and caulk the top. Should be fun????

Going to start on another thing that bugs me. I have a gate post that is taller than the gate by about 10 inches. Going to lop that off!