Even if you’re a complete novice to DIY, you should certainly have a toolkit in your home, and there are several key tools which you should definitely know how to use.
While it would be great if you could use a wide range of different tools so that you could execute pretty much any DIY project, if you aren’t really that into home improvement there are just five tools which you should certainly learn how to operate.
A Claw Hammer
A hammer is a must-have in any tool box. You’ll find that a good quality claw hammer has a world of different uses. From putting up pictures on your family room wall to removing nails from a piece of wood, a solid hammer can help you demolish or construct. A 16oz hammer is ideal for most projects – light enough to take anywhere, but heavy enough to get the job done. If you have the choice, don’t go for a wooden handle as it could easily break. A synthetic handle is the best choice. Make sure that your chosen hammer feels balanced in your hand without being too head heavy. You should always try out your hammer before you buy it.
A Screwdriver
Actually, you really need two screwdrivers. You’ll need both a flat head and a Phillips head screwdriver to make sure that you can get every job done. Your flat head screwdriver will be an absolute essential for simple tasks like replacing plugs as well as for other useful tasks like prying off the lids of paint tins. Meanwhile, a Phillips head screw driver allows you to apply extra torque and is essential for all kinds of different screws. Whenever possible, try to have screwdrivers in a range of sizes so that you can achieve all kinds of tasks.
A Circular Saw
If there’s one power tool that could be used for all kinds of tasks, it’s a circular saw. These useful tools may look intimidating but they are perfect for a wide range of DIY tasks. You can use them for everything from chopping through firewood to cutting wood so you can build a bookcase. You can view more details here to help you to choose the right circular saw for your needs.
A Drill
Drills come in all kinds of shapes and sizes. While you could always go for the old school manual drill, that definitely isn’t the best option these days. Instead, you could go for a standard corded power drill or a cordless model that is even more convenient since it allows you to work at a distance from the nearest power outlet. A drill is essential for a wide range of tasks such as fitting up shelves and putting furniture together.
Pliers
Last but not least, the fifth tool that you should definitely include in your tool box and know how to use is a pair of pliers. Preferably two types of pliers. Blunt nosed pliers are useful, but if you can only have one pair, making them needle nosed pliers. These are vital tools for all kinds of tasks, especially electrical ones, and are essential for bending wires. Their narrow, thin shape makes it easy to fit them into small spaces and their impressive gripping ability makes that you can use them for stripping wires or even fixing jewelry.
Although these are the five essential tools that every homeowner should have in their toolkit, there are lots of other items that you should consider adding too. A tape measure for getting correct measurements, a utility knife for cutting through card, material or paper, and a spirit level to make sure that your pictures are balanced are just some of the additional items that you should include in your tool collection.
With this useful information in mind, it’s time to stock up your tool box ready for your first DIY project. Whether it’s fixing a door, putting up a shelf or installing a new light fitting, you can be sure that with these five tools you’ll have the essential equipment on hand to get the job done to the best of your ability.
