As a DIY enthusiast, having the right tools in your home hardware is essential for getting any project done. Whether you’re refurbishing an old piece of furniture or building an entire shed from scratch, having the appropriate tools can make your life easier and ensure that your project turns out perfectly. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some essential tools that every DIYer should have in their home hardware.
1. Hammer
A hammer is an essential tool for any DIY project. You will use it for driving nails, removing nails, and even as a makeshift chisel. When choosing a hammer, look for one with a comfortable grip, reasonable weight, and a size that fits your hand. A 16-ounce hammer with a straight claw is ideal since it is versatile and can handle most jobs.
2. Screwdrivers
Screwdrivers are another essential bit of a home hardware toolkit. A set of screwdrivers with interchangeable heads ranging from small to large sizes would be ideal since they can handle most DIY tasks. A Phillips head screwdriver for drilling screws is vital to keep in your toolbox as well as a flathead screwdriver for removing screws or working with screws that hadn’t gone in all the way. Finally, consider adding an impact driver to your arsenal if you do a lot of screw driving, particularly for larger screws, long screws, and with tougher materials.
3. Power drill/driver
A power drill/driver is an essential tool that will make most DIY jobs easier. It is versatile, allowing you to switch from drill bits to driver bits quickly. A drill’s power is usually measured in volts, and for most DIY projects, a 12 to 18-volt drill-driver is more than adequate.
4. Measuring tape
Measuring tape is an essential tool for any DIY project. You need to measure the area you will be working on accurately to ensure that the final product is precisely what you wanted. A 25-foot measuring tape with a lock that works effectively is ideal.
5. Level
A level is an essential tool for ensuring that things you build are level. You will need it when hanging pictures, installing shelves, or doing simple construction jobs. There are many types of levels, but a standard one that is straight and long enough to rest on what you’re leveling is perfect.
6. Saw
A handsaw is an essential tool for any DIY job, but getting a good quality power saw will make the work much more comfortable and quicker. A circular saw or jigsaw, depending on your project, is an excellent tool to have in your home hardware. Circular saw is ideal for more heavy-duty work while a jigsaw is great for curves or intricate designs.
7. Pliers
Pliers are versatile and can be used in many DIY jobs. They are perfect for gripping, pulling, or twisting objects. Many pliers exist, but needle-nose pliers, tongue-and-groove pliers, and diagonal pliers are the most important ones for your home hardware.
8. Wrench set
Having a wrench set in your home hardware will help you in many ways. They can be used to adjust nuts and bolts, remove or install something, and even adjust various fixtures. You will need an adjustable crescent wrench and at least two socket wrenches, plus different sized sockets, for their versatility.
9. Safety equipment
No matter the DIY project you undertake, safety should always be your top priority. You must protect your eyes, ears, and hands every time you work. Invest in high-quality safety glasses to protect your eyes, a pair of gloves to keep your hands safe, and ear protection for your ears.
10. Paint tools
If your DIY project involves painting or staining, you will need to add paint tools to your home hardware toolkit. For painting, consider investing in good quality brushes, rollers and trays. You will also need painter’s tape and drop cloths to protect your work area and surfaces. For staining or varnishing, add rags, sponges, and a tackcloth to your home hardware.
Final Thoughts
Having the right tools for any DIY project is essential. Investing in quality tools, even if they may be a bit expensive, can save you time and effort and provide a better result than using sub-par tools. While the list of essential DIY tools may vary depending on the type of work you do, the tools mentioned in this blog post will help you get started on any at-home project. Ensure you invest in protective gear whenever necessary to maintain your safety.