HOW TO KIT OUT YOUR TOOLBOX – Nearly all households have a DIY Toolbox and a selection of tools that are most commonly used for Do It Yourself projects around the home. In this guide we give you suggestions on the best and most useful tools that should make up any good DIY Toolbox.
Step 1
What you put in your DIY Toolbox will depend on the size of the toolbox you have. There are some essential tools you should have so purchase a toolbox that is strong enough and large enough for all the tools you own or intend to buy.
Step 2
Measuring Tape – A measuring tape is an essential tool to ensure you get the right lengths, widths and quantities of materials you need. Buy a measuring tape that is at least 7.5m meters and longer if you feel you need it.
Step 3
Carpenters Pencil – A carpenter’s pencil generally has a soft lead and allows for easy, clear marking on all manner of surfaces. These are generally large and therefore easy to find in the toolbox compared to a standard writing pencil.
Step 4
Saw – There are many saws on the market and in a variety of sizes. Buy one that you will use the most and remember that the more teeth per inch (TPI) then the finer the cut will be.
Step 5
Claw Hammer – Another absolute must to have in the toolbox. A claw hammer is capable of hammer in nails of any size, from pin nails to heavy duty masonry nails. The handy claw also allows you to remove nails with ease.
Step 6
Junior Hacksaw – These are extremely useful for cutting any metal items you may have to cut.
Step 7
Mole Grips – Having a pair of mole grips will allow you to clamp onto nuts, bolts of practically any size and are really useful for the plumbing jobs around the home.
Step 8
Pliers – Pliers are useful in a number of ways as they can cut, grip and strip wiring. It is best if you buy a set of pliers and ensure that the set contains snub nose and needle nose pliers.
Step 9
Screwdrivers – There are many different types including Flathead, Philips Head, Pozidriv. Also there are specialist screwdrivers, for example electrical screwdrivers and stubby screwdrivers. You really do have a lot of choice when it comes to buying these, but our recommendation is to buy a set of Electrical screwdrivers, a set of Philips screwdrivers and Flathead screwdrivers. Note that you can buy a set of interchangeable screwdrivers. These have one standard handle and then screwdriver bits that can be inserted into the handle. These are very handy and generally come in small sets.
Step 10
Bradawl – This is a great little tool that is very useful when you want accurate marking and drilling.
Step 11
Socket Set – Considering the sheer number of nuts and bolts our there a socket set is a real handy thing to have. Keep an eye out when buying a set as some come not only with sockets but also interchangeable screwdriver heads as well.
Step 12
Craft Knife – Many people refer to this as a Stanley Knife. This is one tool that you will definitely need in your tool box. Make sure you buy one that has a retractable blade as this will make it safer to store in your toolbox. Many come with a handy compartment that hold spare blades. When you buy a knife remember to pick up some spare blades while you are there.
Step 13
Tube of Silicone Sealant and Gun – Now you might be wondering why this should be in the toolbox. The answer is, you’ll be amazed at how many DIY jobs involve the use of silicone sealant so it’s always a good idea to have a tube handy.
Step 14
Alan Key Set – Nearly all flat-pack furniture, for example your wardrobes and kitchen units, will use Alan Key bolts. You can buy a set of Alan Keys that come on a ring and have varying sizes.
Step 15
Torch – A torch is always a handy thing to keep in your toolbox. In the event of a power cut you’ll know instantly where to look for your torch. There are many types of torches available but buy one that is rechargeable to save on buying batteries and make sure it’s charged regularly so that when you do need it, it will work.
Step 16
Safety Goggles – Any professional trades person will tell you that a pair of safety goggles is a must. There are many jobs around the home, especially drilling, where you should wear them. Your eyesight is very important so you should protect your eyes when working on any DIY project.
Step 17
Dust Masks – It’s always a good idea to have a pack of dust mask for any sanding or drilling jobs. You really don’t want to be breathing in all the dust when you’re working.
Acknowledgements: Video – WoodiesDIY.com
