Every DIY aficionado knows that the right toolbox is essential for getting the job done. Whether it’s hanging a picture, assembling some flat-pack shelving, or fixing a broken door, there are some pieces of kit that are useful across the board.
Of course, no one expects you to have every tool on the market to hand. Buying everything that you might ever need would be ruinously expensive, and keeping track of where you kept it all would be nigh on impossible.
No, all that you need are the essentials. Although anything else can be bought as and when it’s required, here are four tools that will come in handy whatever the task…
#1: A Screwdriver Set
Whether it’s replacing the fuse in a battery or unscrewing a door from the wall, screwdrivers are always going to have their uses, and no toolkit is complete without a set of them. Try to select a wide variety, covering a range of types and sizes, all with magnetic tips and comfortable grips. Many hardware stores will offer sets ready assembled for you to choose from, and these are usually an easy and economical option.
#2: A Claw Hammer
The second item on your list of essentials is a claw hammer. Suited for both driving in nails and pulling them out, it can be used for a variety of different tasks, and always comes in handy. Size-wise, keep your eye out for something around 16-inches long, weighing no more than a pound. Rubber, plastic or vinyl handles are your best bets, as these offer the greatest grip and shock absorption properties.
#3: A Level
A level is another essential piece of DIY kit. Created solely to avoid crooked positioning, it is the perfect helpmate when you’re trying to hang a picture, put up shelves, or fix your new flat screen TV to your wall. Look for a level that’s at least three to four feet long, as this should cover all of your needs whilst still being relatively easy to transport.
#4: An Electric Drill
An electric drill is the most complex piece of kit on this list, so it pays to choose wisely. Perfect for drilling holes and driving screws, the more high-tech models will also sand, grind material, stir paint, and more. The Ryobi One+ cordless options are some of the best on the market, and will provide a good starting point for your shopping venture. There are also lots of helpful reviews online to help guide your search, so you should have no problem finding one that’s right for you.
Add these essential items to your toolkit today and you’ll be ready for anything life can throw at you.
Photo: Lars Plougmann
