Jul 24, 2012, 10:40 PM
JMH's renovationsWhat tools do I need....
Hi, I recently moved out and have bought a new home that will require some renovations (I have some experience). However, I feel I will need to purchase a few tools, what are some tools that all DIYers should own. I have:
Power drill
Circular saw
Jig saw
Reciprocating saw
Hack saw
Hammer
Wrenches
other small tools
What are some other tools I should purchase? I'm going to be doing some basic construction, drywall work, laying wood flooring and quite a bit of finishing work... maybe roof work and electrical down the road? Any help is greatly appreciated
Jul 25, 2012, 09:20 AM
GardenSpriteThis from a really really amateur female DIY'er....a power screw driver. It really helps when you're drilling a lot of screws and saves on wrist and arm strain.
Jul 25, 2012, 09:44 PM
beers1the most important tool that is needed on any job is "PATIENCE" ,, for finish work a nice router would be useful...
Jul 25, 2012, 10:48 PM
JMH's renovationsThanks for the advice, any thought on table saws, nail or staple guns, or anything related to minor electrical work?
Jul 26, 2012, 06:05 AM
garethcooper9IF you ask me you better buy tools as and when needed. It might be a bit annoying and delaying the progress a little but it could save you some money.
Holland And Green Architectural ServicesJul 26, 2012, 09:11 PM
mosternazI would get a good electrical test unit. You will need it. I would buy tools as you need them. You have a very good start now.
Around the holidays there are often deals on tools at Ace, Lowes and HOme Depot. That's a good time to add to your collection.
Aug 04, 2012, 09:10 PM
swschradyou need a non-contact voltage tester (chirps with a light) if you are going to do anything with household current at all. it's a must.
you also need a 3-prong outlet tester with three lights to tell you if anything is wired backwards or missing either neutral or ground. bonus points if there is a GFI tester in there.
a plunge saw for cutting drywall might serve you well. try to get a US made job... I found a nice folding unit at the Depot a few years back, and IMPHO is worth the $20 (Lenox.)
a nice battery drill in 18 or 24 volt replaces a power screwdriver well, can be used with a "dimple bit" for installing drywall, and Is Very Manly.
Aug 05, 2012, 10:46 AM
GardenSpriteMore thoughts.... multiple drills are really handy. My father has at least 10, and keeps different bits in each one so he can just switch drills rather than bits as he's working on a project.
This really helped when we were switching out cut-in shutters and had to drill multiple pilot holes for several shutters, and fit/hang the shutters at each step.