If you’re going to be performing basic DIY around the house, then you’ll want to be able to call upon the right tools. An effective toolbox for a DIYer needn’t be an expensive thing, or even a particularly heavy thing. The majority of jobs can be performed with just a small number of tools – and in the cases where you need something more specialised, you might look at bringing in a professional, anyway.
Let’s take a run through the contents of any good DIY toolbag.
Hammer
If you’re going to be using nails, whether you’re driving them into a piece of architrave, or removing them, then you’ll need a hammer. Hammers come in a range of weights and sizes, right up to the kinds of sledgehammer that can create a hole in the wall. You’ll want at least an eight-ounce hammer.
Drill
A drill will allow you to perform all kinds of DIY tasks. Whether you’re wall-mounting a television, putting up some curtains, or installing floorboards, you’ll want a drill that you can rely on. Look also at the power of the batteries: higher amperage means more power. Milwaukee drill drivers tend to provide a great option for DIYers and professionals alike.
Drill bits
Different kinds and sizes of drill bit will be appropriate for different tasks. A drill bit that’s been designed for masonry will do a poor job on timber, and vice-versa. Invest in a good set that includes everything.
Screwdrivers
The screws you encounter will come in many different shapes and sizes, but for the most part they’ll be either cross-head or flat-heat. Buy screwdrivers to match. You might also look for a screwdriver with an interchangeable head, which will be able to tackle the rarely-encountered screws, like star drive and square drive.
Spanners
If you’re going to be doing any plumbing, then you’ll need a spanner. Look for them in several sizes, and for adjustable ones, too.
Tape Measure
If you don’t have a tape measure, then you won’t be able to find out the dimensions of your rooms and windows. Tape measures come in handy so often, and they’re so affordable, that it’s difficult to think of a reason that you wouldn’t want one.
Spirit Level
When you’re installing curtain rails, television wall-mounts and furniture, you’ll need a spirit level. Invest in a small one and a larger one, too.
Superglue
Superglue is brilliant for repairs of all kinds – and it’s also useful for other purposes, too. You might use it to create screwable holes in plywood surfaces, for example, which can be useful for installing standoffs in DIY computer cases.
WD40
If you’re running into squeaky hinges in your house, then you need to apply a lubricant. There are many options here, but WD40 is popular enough that it’s become a synonym for lubricant in general. It’s also something with many, many uses.
