Home and property owners know how pricey the labor costs can get, especially if it’s a big project they are working on. This is why many people opt to tackle a home project by themselves, do it yourself (DIY) style. If you fit this category or want to start more renovation and construction jobs at home, this checklist will help you greatly.
The tools and equipment listed here are for every DIY project, whether it’s getting some Pacific Trail Manufacturing Custom Saws or safety gear, this list will ensure that the project proceeds safely and that all the right tools are available. To complete DIY projects around the home, make sure to have the following:
A Sturdy Workbench
First and foremost, you will need a designated work space so you don’t compromise any other space in the home. A sturdy workbench can hold all your equipment and tools and provides a stable surface for clamps. Workbenches can come in various sizes, so you can get a larger workbench if you tackle large DIY projects. If your projects are on a smaller scale, then your workbench won’t need to be large.
Workbenches can be plain and simple or come in creative designs depending on what they would are used for and your preference. A good quality workbench can also be used for storage, as some come equipped with drawers, a tool well, and cabinets.
A tool well is a convenient space that can be used to store tools temporarily as you work. Work benches can be affordable or a little pricey depending on the size, features it provides, and what material it was made from.
A Jigsaw
A Jigsaw is a handheld saw with a small blade smaller than most handheld saws. It makes the cut more precise and comes in handy for any detailed cutting that the DIY project may need. It makes it a handy tool to have for any of your projects. For example, you may need a Jigsaw for cutting shapes out of wood or cutting designs into a material.
The Basic Toolbox
It’s a very convenient tool for your DIY projects because it gives you more storage space. All your basic tools, such as screwdrivers, nails, and hammers, can be stored in a toolbox. Some toolboxes can be pre-packed with all the essentials for beginners, while others are bought empty.
If you do get an empty toolbox, make sure you get the following tools as well:
- Screws: These tools can hold two or more objects together in place.
- Pliers: Pliers can come in various shapes and sizes and grip objects together. They can grip objects such as pipes and rods and be used to cut hard wire, making them a very handy tool.
- Measuring Tape: A measuring tape is a very important tool for a DIYer because it can make accurate measurements. It will lead to fewer mistakes in the DIY project as you’ll be able to measure size and distance with the measuring tape
- Ruler Tool: Just like the measuring tape, a ruler tool can be used for accuracy to prevent mistakes.
- Level: This simple tool can check if a surface is vertical (plumb) or horizontal (level). It comprises a vial with liquid that is filled with free-floating bubbles.
Once your handy toolbox has all of the basic equipment, you’ll be able to tackle any DIY project safely and confidently.
The Circular Saw
The circular saw can be used effectively to cut different materials. You can easily make an angle, straight, and bevel cuts with a circular saw, making it a convenient tool. It’s smaller than a milter saw and less expensive than one.
You’ll be able to save material and be more precise regarding cutting. It’s a popular tool amongst DIYers and will add value to your projects.
A Cordless Screwdriver
A traditional screwdriver is a very good idea, but owning a cordless screwdriver will also benefit you. It’s not a redundant idea, as both tools complement each other well and add great value to your construction project.
Cordless screwdrivers run on batteries and use their short pulse of rotational force and power to install and tighten different screws. They are portable and light and can be travel-safe with their storage bags. A cordless screwdriver can also remove the strain from your wrists as you try to secure screws. You can use it for hinge tightening, hanging up photographs, or other projects needing a cordless screwdriver.
A Nail Gun
Nail guns can be used to nail together different pieces of material, such as nailing two pieces of wood together. To simplify the process, using a nail gun is a great idea. A nail gun is a tool that can shoot out nails every time you pull the trigger. It makes the nailing job more precise and quicker, so you can use it to create bookshelves or secure some construction projects.
Nail guns are also safe to use, and you won’t have to walk around carrying nails for your project. They are also a very good investment for any DIYer because they are built to last. It’s a valuable, durable tool for any project.
A Sturdy Sander
When tackling DIY projects, sanding down could take hours. However, if you have a sturdy stander in your arsenal, you can save a lot of time sanding down objects. A sturdy sander can be handheld and have a circular appearance. The device oscillates and rotates smoothly on prefabricated disks made of sandpaper.
You can use a sander to resurface any cabinets, complete crown molding, and smooth down and re-staining floors.
Clamps
Clamps are important for every DIY project and should be used if your project requires a Jigsaw or a circular saw. Before cutting, you will be required to secure any materials, such as wooden planks, to your workbench. Different clamps are available, such as bar clamps and C or G clamps. You can use these clamps to secure materials before you cut them, making the whole process much safer.
A Stud Finder
If your DIY project requires you to hang anything up, you need a stud finder. A Stud Finder can help you find framing studs, also known as support beams, behind the dry walls in your property.
These support beams can help you mount a picture depending on the project. If you are hanging heavier objects like a television, they should be hung directly on the drywall. A stud finder looks like a remote control and uses a sensor to find not only studs but also metal pipes, cords, and wires.
Safety Gear
It’s important to have safety gear when tackling DIY projects. Some important safety gear you should own include gloves, safety goggles, kneepads, portable mats, and protective clothing. Each safety gear serves a purpose such as:
- Safety Goggles: Safety goggles protect your eyes from debris such as dust, metal shavings, and wood as you work. It’s especially important when you use some of the power tools on this list.
- Gloves: When handling different materials, wear gloves and protect your hands and skin from getting splinters or any other injuries on your hands.
- Protective Clothing: As the name suggests, protective clothing protects your clothes as you work on your DIY project. They can also give you temporary storage space as some protective clothing come with many pockets to store your handy screwdrivers and other small tools. Your clothes will be protected from wear and tear and any bleach stains.
- Earplugs And Earmuffs: Some DIY tasks can be quite noisy; some power tools’ hammering and sounds can get very noisy. Earplugs and Earmuffs protect your ears from loud sounds, especially if you are sensitive to loud noises.
- Kneepads And Portable Mats: If you have DIY projects requiring you to kneel somewhere, you need kneepads and portable mats. They keep your knees ache and bruise-free. They can be made from various materials so that you can find the best option for you.
Safety gear should be a priority when it comes to DIY projects. If you’re unsure about something, always consult a professional for advice on the safest and most effective ways to tackle any projects you may have.
A Carpenter’s Pencil
A carpenter’s pencil is a great tool for any DIYer, and its lead is thicker and denser than the average pencil. You can make thick distinguishable marks on your materials after you’ve measured them for accuracy. You can also use a carpenter’s pencil to mark off your materials to show where to place nails and screws. It’s one of the handiest tools, and every DIYer should have one on their workbench.
Conclusion
Many people who own property know how expensive labor can cost. It’s why many follow the DIY route and take on construction projects themselves. If you decide to become a DIYer, this is a comprehensive checklist for all the materials you should have. You need a designated workspace with a sturdy workbench is important. It gives you storage options and can be a comfortable place to work safely.
Every DIYer should have a fully stocked toolbox with all their basic equipment, such as a nail gun, cordless screwdriver, and clamps, to name a few. Following the checklist, you’ll be ready for a great DIY experience.
