What Tools Should You Get Before Starting a Proper Home Improvement Project?
By: John Garcia | Date Posted: January 11, 2022
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Many people start home improvement projects without the necessary tools. Many times, they are unaware of what tools are needed for a project or do not have enough funds to purchase all of them at once.
This blog post will discuss the basic tools that you should get before starting any type of home improvement project and how to prioritize your purchases based on their necessity for various types of work.
What Tools Should You Get Before Starting Home Improvement Projects
Tape Measure
A tape measure is an absolute must-have when it comes to completing a home improvement project. You will need this tool to get accurate measurements for all of your materials and tools, such as wood pieces and nails.
Many types of projects require you to cut pieces down into smaller sizes using different saws; however, having these measurements beforehand will save you a lot of time and hassle.
When purchasing a tape measure, be sure to get one that is at least 25 feet long. This will give you plenty of room to work with when measuring larger spaces or items. Specialists at Regal® suggest that you get a tape measure that has an end hook.
While this feature is not needed, it will give your tool added security when hanging from objects or walls for measuring purposes. At the very least, always keep one small ruler in your pocket while working on any project to help take measurements of smaller items and materials without having to pull out a tape measure.
Hammer
A hammer is one of the most basic tools that you will need for any home improvement project. It can be used for driving nails into wood, removing nails from wood, and breaking apart objects. There are a variety of hammers available on the market, so it is important to choose one that feels comfortable in your hand. You do not need an expensive hammer; a basic model will do the job.
When purchasing a hammer, be sure to get one that has a claw on one end. This will allow you to remove nails from wood without damaging the surrounding material. In addition, look for a hammer that has a shock-absorbent handle. This will help reduce hand fatigue while you are working.
If you are going to be doing a lot of demolition work, it may be wise to invest in a sledgehammer. A sledgehammer is heavier than a standard hammer and has a larger head. This tool can be used for breaking apart walls, knocking down doors, and removing large objects from the ground.
Screwdriver
You should always have a good screwdriver on hand before starting any home improvement project. Screwdrivers come in either flathead or Phillips head varieties. You typically find Flathead screws on older furniture and appliances, while you can use Phillips-style heads for both new and old items.
Regardless of which type you get, it is important to get a screwdriver that feels comfortable in your hand and fits the screws on the project you are working on. This will help prevent unnecessary strain while completing your task.
Investing in both flathead and Phillips-style heads can save money, as this eliminates the need to purchase two separate tools for one job. Be sure to place these screws into a secure spot in your toolbox so that they are easy to find when you need them.
Drill
A drill is an extremely useful tool that drives screws into objects like wood and drywall. These types of drills, often called power drills, come with rechargeable batteries.
The advantage of this type over manual screwdrivers is that the torque created by the battery will help you complete your project faster while putting less strain on your arms.
When purchasing a drill, it is important to find one that has a variable speed setting. This will allow you to adjust the speed of the drill according to the type of material you are working with.
For example, if you are using a drill bit to drive screws into wood, you will want to use a slower speed. If you are working with concrete, however, a faster spin will be needed to break through the surface. Before investing in any drill bit, make sure that it is compatible with your drill by checking what size of screwdriver head your device uses.
When using one of these tools for the first time, always read all safety instructions carefully. Be sure to wear safety goggles and gloves while working with power tools to reduce the risk of injury.
Safety Goggles
When working on home improvement projects, it is important to keep safety in mind at all times. By investing in a pair of safety goggles before starting any project, you will be able to reduce the risk of getting debris or chemicals into your eyes which can cause damage and pain. Ideally, these eye protectors should also come with a strap that will keep them in place while you are working.
If you use chemicals in your home improvement project, get safety goggles specifically made for chemical protection. These will help shield your eyes from any harmful substances that may come into contact with them.
In addition to wearing goggles, always make sure to read all warning labels on any chemical products that you are using. Follow all instructions closely to ensure your safety and the safety of those around you.
Gloves
When working on home improvement projects, it is important to keep your hands safe. Wearing a pair of protective gloves will help protect you from cuts and chemical burns that can occur while using various types of tools or materials. These should be long enough so they cover the entirety of each hand but remain flexible for ease of movement.
Always measure the circumference of each wrist before purchasing to ensure your gloves fit correctly. Gloves should not feel too tight or loose on your hands; if they do, then try another size until you find one that is just right.
Remove these safety measures once you complete your project and store them carefully in a safe place for future use.
Now that you understand the essential tools for any home improvement project, start your next task! Remember to always use caution when using any type of tool and consult an expert if you are unsure about how to use any of these tools properly.
Thank you for reading!
