Your Builder’s Equipment Checklist
Ever wondered what you should really have in your toolbox or shed, ready for whatever DIY challenge comes your way? Then take a leaf out of a construction worker’s book. We take a peek at your builder’s equipment checklist so you can stock up on your own work tool essentials.
Hand tools
Hand tools are the mainstays of many builders’ equipment checklist, with the following ‘old faithfuls’ always close to hand:
- Utility knife – with its retractable blade and pocket size design, the all-purpose or utility knife is an equipment list essential. Many also have space in the handle for spare blades so you and your DIY are always sharp.
- Socket set – versatile and convenient, a wrench socket set is the go-to for all types of DIY jobs where you need to work with different types and sizes of fasteners, nuts and bolts.
- Screwdriver set – Phillips, flathead or stubby, make sure you always have the right screwdriver to hand at that crucial DIY moment with a selection of screwdrivers contained in their own easy carry case.
To take your pick of the best hand tools you can buy, check out the range at ADA Fastfix.
Power tools
When you need a little more power to your elbow for a tough DIY job, builders know where to turn:
- Oscillating multi-tool – grind, saw, sand, cut, scrape, polish…and everything in-between, an oscillating multi-tool is a must have for your own power tool collection. As the ultimate DIY multi-tasker, this tool works as hard as you do and reduces the number of separate tools you need, making it an essential investment.
- Cordless drill – next after the oscillator is the cordless power drill, which if combined with a power screwdriver is a match made in builder’s heaven. With multiple screw and drill bit connectors as well as a host of features, this power tool will hang from your tool belt with pride!
Specialist tools
Your tradesperson may have a specialist skill that requires a specialist tool. And if you want to try your hand at new types of DIY jobs, you too could need something a little more specialised, including:
- Nail gun – An excellent piece of kit for a variety of wood and metal work, a nail gun enables you to cover a lot of ground with precision when it comes to driving in multiple nails or rivets. Choose from battery or compressed air power.
- Angle grinder – particularly if you are planning a larger DIY or home build project, an angle grinder could prove invaluable. And this serious piece of polishing/sanding/cutting kit is super-versatile, grinding metal, routing out mortar, cutting tiles and pavers, removing paint and rust or sharpening blades.
Safety gear
While not tools exactly, keeping safe on the building site – or home DIY project – is paramount. Take a lead from a builder’s safety equipment checklist and invest in the following:
- Safety glasses – protect your eyes from airborne debris such as dust, wood or metal shavings as well as any toxic solvents you may be using with a quality pair of safety glasses or goggles. Look for protective goggles that wrap around the side of your face and are made from impact and scratch-resistant Polycarbonate.
- Ear protectors – did you know the average DIY power tool emits over 90 decibels? And with the recommended safe level at 85 decibels, you need to protect your hearing when doing your home improvements. Earmuff style protectors offer the best protection or look for earplugs for quieter jobs.