HOW TO CHOOSE TOOLS FOR YOUR TOOLBOX
There are some tools everyone needs for home handy work. We’ll show you the basic safety equipment, hand tools and power tools you need for all kinds of jobs around the house. Plus, we’ve got a few suggestions for more advanced tools for your kit.
SAFETY GEAR
Safety glasses
Leather gloves
When you’re doing D.I.Y. jobs around the home, the most important thing is safety. So, make sure it’s also worth having a pair of leather gloves to protect your hands from blades and splinters.
HAND TOOLS
Hammer
Wrecking bar
Handsaw
Measuring tape
Pencil
Screwdrivers
Pliers
Adjustable wrench
Shifting spanner
Clamps
Caulking gun
The hammer is a great general-purpose tool - it’s good for nailing, knocking and pulling. Add in a wrecking bar, handsaw, measuring tape and pencil, and you’ve got most basic building jobs covered. For taking apart and putting back together, include a set of screwdrivers, pair of pliers, adjustable wrench, shifting spanner and pair of clamps. Finally, put in a caulking gun for basic gluing and applying silicone sealant.
POWER TOOLS
Drill
The drill is one of the most useful power tools you can have. If you decide to get a battery-powered one, choose long-life lithium batteries. Some brands have interchangeable batteries that you can swap with other tools like an impact driver and circular saw.
ADVANCED TOOLS
Spirit level
Hacksaw
Chisel
Nail punch
Mitre square
Utility knife
File
Spanners
Socket set
Tool bag
A spirit level is very useful for a lot of building jobs. It is also great to have around for basic jobs like making sure your picture frames are straight and your fridge is sitting level. You should also get yourself a tool bag to store and carry everything around.
Once you get beyond the basic jobs, there are a few other tools to consider. A hacksaw is great for cutting metal, plastic, screws and nails. Chisels, a nail punch and a combination mitre square are helpful for carpentry. A utility knife is are working with nuts and bolts, get some open ended spanners or a socket set.
