Home improvement projects are exciting, but can be pricey. You need to think about the costs of supplies and hiring a contractor, which racks up easily. A fun way to save money when renovating your home is completing smaller home projects yourself – all you need is a well-stocked toolbox of must-have home improvement tools! You need also a cart or trolley that can help you to carry heavy tools. You can make a DIY using industrial castors.
It can be expensive to get a bunch of new tools, even if it overall will save money, because of this it’s important to pay attention to coupons and sales at your local home improvement and hardware stores, such as those found over here. For these tools and any others for your home improvement needs, check out Home Essentials Direct.
So for all those do-it-yourself projects, here is what you want to have on hand:
1. HAMMER
This one is a no-brainer because, without a hammer, you won’t be able to use nails. Not only that, but the majority of hammers have a claw on one end, making it easy to take something apart by prying out the nails.
When shopping for a hammer, also consider adding to your toolbox a 16-oz option with a smooth head and curved claw. These are great for jobs of any size.
2. SCREWDRIVER
Next up are screwdrivers. These small tools hold furniture together. If you ever need to fix or renovate a door, for example, chances are you’ll need a screwdriver to remove screws or insert them. Many experts have shared that this tool is the one you’ll reach for the most because of how necessary it is.
What screwdriver to buy? Consider a flat-head screwdriver as well as a Phillips screwdriver that offers a small cross in the middle.
3. TAPE
The last tool that you need in your toolbox is tape! While you shouldn’t rely on tape for all your renovation or repair projects, it comes in handy for quick fixes. There is more than one type of tape, and the best water proof tape that you need in your kit are the following:
- Duct tape
- Painters tape
- Electrical tape
- Plumbers tape
Each serves its own purpose and will save you time and energy when working on a project.
4. BELT SANDER
Belt sanders do an amazing job when it comes down to shaping or finishing wood as well as other materials. If you are renovating an old piece of furniture, this tool can make all the difference! Belt Sanders come in several sizes, so you want one that suits your preferred use. For the best options in the market, we encourage you to read belt sander reviews.
5. UTILITY KNIFE
In many DIY projects, you’ll be required to open boxes or trim wallpaper that’s difficult to do with plain scissors. Utility knives do an amazing job at cutting things that scissors can’t get to. They can also shave wood and shape things. A good knife needs to have a secure handle and built-in storage for extra blades. The best part about this tool is that you can invest in a good, quality knife for as little as $10!
6. TAPE MEASURE
Another must-have tool is a good tape measure. For example, this resource makes sure the size of a piece of wood is right. If you are shopping for new appliances, they are also useful in measuring the area where the new appliance will fit. Having a tape measure in hand prevents sizing mistakes and are a must-have when it comes down to DIY home improvement projects.
7. FLASHLIGHT
Good lighting is essential when completing projects. It’s common that you’ll find yourself working in dimly lit spaces that don’t provide the lighting you need. A flashlight fixes this problem. Also, if the power were to ever go out in your home, you can count on this handy tool!
If you prefer, you can even invest in a headlamp, which will give you a hands-free option when working! They are generally much more expensive than a regular flashlight but worth it!
Each serves its own purpose and will save you time and energy when working on a project.
GREAT ADDITION: BRAD NAILER
A brad nail gun refers to a specialized nailer specifically designed for detailed and small wood applications, including trim, cabinetry, moldings, and a wide array of home projects and hobbies. Brad nailers fire brads or thin-gauged nails that are suitable for lightweight wood trim binding. So how does a brad nailer differ from a finish nailer?
When it comes to comparing a brad nailer vs. finish nailer, the former is the top choice of both weekend warriors and contractors for trim and detailed woodwork. These projects need more holding strength compared to a micro pin.
A finish nailer provides withdrawal resistance and increased support better than a brad nailer. Finish nailers run 15- and 16-gauge finish nails (straight and angled varieties). Cordless models usually have 16-gauge straight finish nailers. One risk that a finish nailer may have on a small trim is the increased likelihood of the wood splitting and causing wood surface imperfections.
Here are the good-to-know facts about brad nails and brad nailers:
- Brad nails are usually formed from an 18-gauge fine wire with a smaller diameter and less holding strength. The size of the brand nail prevents surface splitting, which could normally occur with too large fasteners to which it’s nailed to.
- Because the diameter and head of brand nails are smaller, they’re easier to hide in small wood trim pieces. There’s a good chance that you won’t need a carpenter’s putty for concealing brad nails after they are installed.
- The only real drawback of using brad nails and a brad nailer is that the fasteners don’t have the holding strength needed for heavier and larger projects, like handling baseboards and large crown molding. For these projects, you’ll need a finish nailer instead. However, most home DIY projects would entail having and using the best brad nailer, which is a must-have improvement tool for beginners.
What other home improvement tools do you consider are must-have home improvement tools for your toolbox? For more tips go to toolassociate.com. We’d love to hear what you use the most at home!