What Do I Need In My Toolbox?

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What Do I Need In My Toolbox?

If you’re starting your DIY journey, the first thing you’ll need to do is put a basic tool kit together. This can be tricky – there’s a huge amount of options available – but if you think about the kind of projects you plan to tackle before you part with any money, you can build a set of tools which meet both your needs and your budget.

Tape measures: the absolute starting point

The first thing anyone needs in their tool kit is a tape measure. Pretty much every job starts with measuring up; for example, before assembling flat-pack furniture, you’ll want to ensure it will fit in the space you’ve made for it. If you’re re-papering a room at home, you’ll need to measure carefully to make sure you cut your wallpaper to the right length (and have enough paper to start with!). More advanced projects, like a kitchen makeover, will require careful measurement, particularly if you’re cutting worktops yourself.

What hand tools do I need for my tool kit?

For smaller projects, a set of hand tools will meet a lot of your needs. Start by selecting a hammer; a standard claw hammer will meet the needs of most DIY-ers, but there are other options available too. You’ll also need some screwdrivers. There are different types of screw heads, and therefore different screwdrivers to suit specific screws. Fortunately, ToolStore UK has a variety of screwdriver sets in stock, plus we also have multi-bit screwdrivers, such as the Stanley 0 68 010 Multibit Ratchet Screwdriver, which is supplied with 10 changeable bits, making it a versatile, space-saving option. A slightly different tool, which performs a similar function, is the hex key, which is also known as the allen key. A hex key set can come in handy for lots of jobs, especially assembling flatpack furniture.

Although flat-pack furniture and many other items will be supplied with screws and fixings, it is a good idea to have spares on hand. Again, ToolStore UK can help; we have a comprehensive range of nails, fixings and screws suitable for a variety of tasks.

At least one set of pliers should be on your shopping list too. This will help you to pull and prise small fittings out when they need to be replaced and if you’re going to be working with nuts, bolts and pipework, you’ll need at least one adjustable wrench. ToolStore UK stocks both wrenches and spanners to suit a variety of applications.

READ MORE: How To Fix A Leaking Tap

Do I need any power tools in my tool kit?

Eventually, as you become more accomplished and take on more challenging products, you’ll probably find yourself using a variety of tools. But when you’re just starting out, you’ll find one tool comes in handy more than most; a cordless combi drill. With the correct accessory, you’ll be able to complete a variety of tasks without having to switch between tools such as drilling, driving screws, boring holes into wood, metal or masonry and many more essential tasks. What’s more, the combi drill’s rechargeable battery allows you complete freedom to move around your home without being limited to the length of a power cord. The DeWalt DCD796P1 18v XR Brushless Combi Drill with 1x5ah Li-ion Battery is a good, solid choice, because it includes everything you need but won’t break the bank. With a charger and carry case alongside the tool, the DCD796P1 is a great value choice, but it’s just one option in our extensive range.

What other tools do I need for my tool kit?

WD-40 Multi-Use Product - Smart Straw 450ml is a ‘secret weapon’ around the home. It can be used to loosen rusted nuts and bolts, lubricate squeaky hinges, and prevent rust in metal fittings. You’ll also find that Sealants, Fillers and Adhesives come in handy. Crystal Clear Gorilla Tape has thousands of uses, particularly for quick fixes and patching up.

You might also want to invest in workwear and protection, such as kneepads and gloves or eye protection, depending on your projects. A tool box or organiser will help you keep everything together, tidy and away from any children and pets who might injure themselves.

READ MORE: How To Use A Power Drill

READ NEXT: How To Put Up A Shelf

So, what sort of Tool Kit would I end up with?

Below you’ll find a list of suggestions of what might be found in a DIY beginner’s tool kit. However, remember that we’re only showing one option for each possible product; alternatives are available and worth checking out.

ToolStore UK – here to help beginners and trade professionals alike!

Our friendly and knowledgeable team is passionate about what we do and we’re here to help, whether you’re an absolute beginner or spending all day on site. If you ever need help picking out the perfect tool for you, you can send us a message via the contact form, or give us a call on 03330 043777. As an independent, family-run firm, we know that no-one wants to buy the wrong tool or overpay on an item they won’t make the most of, so you can rely on our experienced customer service team to give you accurate information to help you make the right purchase, first time, all with FAST and FREE delivery to most UK postcodes when you spend over £30.