Bob Beacham

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Name: Bob Beacham

Title: Contributing Writer

Bob Beacham is an engineer by trade and has spent 35 years working on everything from auto parts to oil rigs. He is also an avid DIY enthusiast. Bob started writing for the Bob Vila team in 2020 and covers tools, outdoor equipment, and home improvement projects.

Expertise and Experience

Bob spent many years working as an engineer. This gave him the opportunity to travel around Europe and the U.S., working with component suppliers to Aston Martin, Audi, Rolls-Royce and Volkswagen. He also spent some time working on control systems for the aviation and petrochemical industries.

In his late 40s, Bob changed career paths. Since woodworking was one of his favorite hobbies, he decided to start his own woodshop. During this period, he remodeled an old rural farmhouse from the ground up with his wife—the first of two similar projects. As a result, he gained extensive experience with techniques and tools. The woodshop was hugely enjoyable, but not particularly lucrative. He supported his passion with consultancy work and began writing freelance articles about his experiences for several online publications. After 10 very enjoyable years, Bob closed the woodshop after relocating to his current home. The consultancy work and writing continues.

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MARCH 4, 2022 | FRIDAY
The Best Makita Drills of 2023

Makita offers an impressive range of drills that are highly regarded for their competitive performance and excellent durability. The collection is also remarkably extensive, with over 60 ...

FEBRUARY 26, 2022 | SATURDAY
The Best Hard Hats Tested in 2023

The jobsite can be a danger zone, and various home improvement projects come with their share of injury risks as well. Head injuries are among the hazards, and they can cause long-term di...

FEBRUARY 25, 2022 | FRIDAY
5 Ways to Do Projects When You Don’t Have a Full-Fledged Workshop

When we are first learning how to fix and build things for ourselves, few of us have a fully stocked workshop up and running—or a space that can be set aside exclusively for the purpose. ...

FEBRUARY 23, 2022 | WEDNESDAY
Brushless vs. Brushed Motor: Which Is Best for Your Power Tools?

Often, two power tools from the same manufacturer will have very similar specifications. The only clear difference may be that one has a brushed motor and the other has a brushless versio...

FEBRUARY 14, 2022 | MONDAY
9 Types of Bathtubs Every Homeowner Should Know

Whether you are remodeling an existing bathroom or adding a new one to your home, the type of bathtub you install can be a key decision. Not only are there numerous bathtub styles to choo...

JANUARY 31, 2022 | MONDAY
The Best Home Elevators of 2023

A modern home elevator can make a huge difference to the lives of those with mobility issues. It’s not just about aging; all kinds of health factors can impact the ability to move freely ...

JANUARY 31, 2022 | MONDAY
14 Picnic Table Plans for Building the Perfect Backyard Dining Area

A nice picnic table is a desirable piece of furniture for many backyards and gardens. It isn’t just a great place to share meals; it can be an outdoor desk, a hobby center for the kids, a...

JANUARY 28, 2022 | FRIDAY
12 Types of Granite to Consider for Your Countertops

When it comes to attractive, long-lasting countertops, it’s hard to beat granite—literally. It is one of the toughest natural stones available for the kitchen, and it's highly resistant t...

JANUARY 26, 2022 | WEDNESDAY
The Best Electric Fireplace Inserts of 2023

Electric fireplace inserts, popular electric room heaters, are not only energy-efficient and relatively easy to install, but they also have a range of user-friendly features. Manufacturer...

JANUARY 26, 2022 | WEDNESDAY
The Best Dual Fuel Ranges of 2023

The dual fuel range has become a popular culinary weapon for many home chefs. As more models become available, enthusiastic cooks have become interested in developing their skills and wan...