If you have a home DIY project planned, one of the most important things you can do to ensure the success of the project is to make sure you have the right tools on hand. Just like having the right tools for parenting makes the job easier, the same is true with home DIY. The right tool for the project can and will make a tremendous difference.
There are commonly used tools that not only should be on hand for DIY projects but that every homeowner should own. Learning more about these common tools will ensure you are ready for every project.
The Basics
We mentioned parenting tools because parenting tools are a good comparison of the different levels of tools that you will need as a homeowner. For example, a new parent would only need the ability to change their baby, burp them, and carry out some basic functions. The same is true of the tools you keep in your tool kit for everyday use around the house. You just need the basics.
You should build your DIY tools the same way you build your parenting tools, once you master one level of tools, move on to the next.
Here is a list of basic tools every homeowner will need to manage their household:
- Hammer
- Screwdriver set contains both Phillips and flat head screwdrivers.
- A set of different size wrenches, and a ratchet set.
Now, of course, as you dive into the realm of DIY home improvement you will need to step up your tool game.
Next Level Tools
Common tools for DIY repairs and remodeling are a little more sophisticated but not much:
- A torque wrench is a great tool to have on hand because it allows you to set the “torque” of a fastener like a bolt. They are great for plumbing projects and for working on your cars.
- Power drill, power fastener, and power saw. If you are going to be doing anything beyond hanging pictures, you should invest in some power tools. Power tools make your job easier and can speed up the project considerably.
Investing in some power tools and the right-hand tools will ensure that you can take on more advanced projects around the house without having to worry about having the right tools on hand.
Expert Level Tools
Let’s say you have surpassed the basics and you want to take on some metal fabrication for your home. Like other consumers, you have purchased stainless steel or cold-rolled steel or aluminum (the most common metals purchased by consumers), what next? Well, you have to be sure that you have the tools on hand to fabricate the metal:
- Dies, Metalworking tools
- Welding equipment, and good quality metalworking fluids
Metalworking fluids are a very important part of metal fabrication. They cool, lubricate, remove chips and help with corrosion resistance.
One thing that you do want to avoid is buying a bunch of specialty tools that will just take up space and collect dust. Evaluate the investment before you jump in with both feet.
Buy or Rent?
Of course, no matter how well-stocked your tool kit is there will always be “that” project that is going to need some type of specialty tools. The question is, when you run into these super-specialty tools, is it better to buy them or to rent them. The answer is it depends. Will you ever need this tool in the future? Can you justify the cost of buying it based on one project?
Additionally, consider storage. If it is a large-sized tool, do you have a place to store it? In many cases, renting a specific tool that is a one-use-and-done type deal is the better move.
