Renovating your home can add thousands of pounds to its value, and provide you with a space that’s better suited to your needs and tastes. Getting a renovation right needn’t mean spending a fortune, either: if you’re prepared to learn a few skills, and invest in the right tools, you can actually get much of the work done without involving professional tradespeople.
Let’s consider some of the essential tools that all aspiring DIYers will need. Look for “a tools store close to me” and inspect the goods in person. That way, you can be sure of the quality you’re investing in, and you’ll have the security of knowing you can return any tools that fail to meet requirements.
Basic hand tools
A few tools stand out as essential. You probably already have a few of them. Every home should have at least one 8oz claw hammer, as well as at least two screwdrivers: one with a flat head, and another with a cross head. You’ll find screws in various sizes, so it’s worth having a range of screwdrivers to choose from.
Pencils, spanners, spirit levels, rulers and tape measures are all essential, too. You’ll also need the tools specific to the jobs you’ll be doing. If you’re going to be painting, for example, you’ll need a quality roller.
Electrical tools
It’s easy to spend an enormous amount on tools. But the truth is that just a few are truly essential. Look for a drill and an impact driver. Other tools are more versatile. These include the angle grinder and the oscillating multi-tool. If you’re working with timber, you’ll probably need a jigsaw. It’s more versatile (and safer) than many other varieties of saw.
Outdoor tools
If you’re going to be working in the garden, you’ll need a few particular tools. Shovels and wheelbarrows are essential if you’re going to be transporting supplies, particularly if your garden is long. Look also for lawnmowers, hedge trimmers, rakes and strimmers.
Safety gear
Don’t take any chances with your health. Many of the tools we’ve discussed can inflict serious injury if mishandled. You can protect your eyes and face with goggles, and your hands with protective gloves. Ear defenders will preserve your hearing when you’re operating ultra-loud tools, like drills.
Finally, it’s important that you make use of the most powerful piece of safety equipment: your brain. If you’re working on a project and you get a bad vibe, then it’s probably time to reconsider.
Photo credit: house, drill, tools, wheelbarrow
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