Do you consider yourself to be something of a DIY enthusiast? Are you quick to jump on any project around the house that needs to be done? Are you so proud of some recent handiwork that you’ve invited friends round simply to ogle it? With so many television shows, magazines, and blogs now dedicated to the art of doing it yourself, it seems as though people have never had so many resources at their fingertips.
Of course, in order to be successful in your projects, you need to have the right tools. Because a bad workperson always blames theirs, but here, there should be no excuses. When you invest in the tools most appropriate for the task, the rest writes itself. So with the help of engelbert strauss, who sell a selection of professional quality tools and kits, here are 10 IDEAL tools every home DIY enthusiast needs.
FLASHLIGHT
While this may seem really simple and basic, you’d be amazed at how many times you’ll need to reach for a flashlight when doing repairs and renovations. Sometimes the detail is fine and the visibility low, and a little illumination goes a long way. And of course, during a power outage, they’re indispensable.
SAFETY GLASSES
Safety should always be the number one priority when doing it yourself, no matter how big or small the job is that you’re working on. With that in mind, a pair of secure, well-fitting safety glasses that wrap around and protect your eyes in their entirety is a must.
TAPE MEASURE
If you plan on building anything at all with precision, are looking to purchase items to fit in a room, or are just moving things around, then there’s a good chance you’re going to be taking measurements. You’ll need a basic tape measure in your kit, then. Look for one that is at least 25 feet in length, and has a lock on it, so you can lock the measurement in place for accuracy and definitude.
SPIRIT LEVEL
A spirit level is another staple in your kit and is something that you’ll find yourself using on a regular basis; essential for analysing the correct angles of items you’re installing. Though traditional bubble spirit levels have a charm and are pleasing on the eye, digital ones are now available which grant even greater accuracy in measuring slopes and gradients. And accuracy’s what we’re after, right?
HAMMER
Did you know that there are over 25 types of hammer, according to the experts at thetoolscout.com?
Absolutely no tool kit is complete without a hammer, though you might need just one. Let’s face it, it’s one of the most basic tools out there and also one of the most-used. Again, as with the pliers above, be sure to look for an appropriate grip on the hammer. You want something that fits in your hand easily, won’t slip and is comfortable to hold on to. At the same time, the hammer should be fairly heavy so that it holds up well, no matter the job.
SQUARE
Any time you make lines that you need to cut, the oh-so-simple, all important square will be your best friend. Also equipped with ruler like measurements, adding to their functionality and overall usability, they’re indispensable for the budding enthusiast. Great stuff.
SCREWDRIVERS
One of the most used tools in the box is the humble screwdriver. Even if you aren’t committed to a big project, they still come in handy for tightening loose screws, opening battery doors that are screwed closed, and assembling items that you’ve purchased, to name but a few of their uses. You can buy a full kit or one that has interchangeable tips; the latter, in our view, is the more convenient purchase.
ADJUSTABLE WRENCHES
Adjustable wrenches typically come in a set and again and are invaluable in the tightening and loosening of larger installations. You’ll want at least three different sizes to get your kit started, and in doing so, these are a much more prudent purchase than a conventional spanner.
PLIERS
Pliers also need to make an appearance in your beginner’s toolbox. You can find needle-nosed and groove joint models, and both are handy to have, as is a pair of locking pliers if you’re going to the whole hog. Be sure to look for pliers with a good padded grip so that you don’t lose your handle on them; a cause of many an injury to amateurs not fully conversant in the DIY game.
POWER DRILL
When considering power tools, things can get expensive. Prioritising your purchases here is vital.