DIY Starter Kit: The Basic Tools That You Need To Own
Regardless of if you are a renter or a homeowner, you should own a basic set of starter DIY tools to complete small jobs and tasks around the house. Hanging pictures, mirrors or putting together flat pack furniture will always rely on you having a few key tools to hand, so here is a list of the most essential items you should invest in for a beginner toolbox:
Screwdriver
A DIY essential, you’ll need a screwdriver for the most simple of tasks. A screwdriver is required for everything from removing the cover on household items to replace the batteries, to screwing in and securing items hosted on your walls. Unfortunately, there is not a ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to screwdrivers - some screws need a flathead slot driver and some need a criss-cross driver in all sizes - so it is best to buy a multi-functional screwdriver that can adapt to all of your needs.
This Stanley Multibit Screwdriver Set is a great buy at £8.99 as you can change the head of the screwdriver for each job, avoiding the need for you to collect multiple screwdrivers or invest in a huge set that you might not have the space to store. Buy it now via Amazon.
Hammer
A hammer comes in handy more than you think. Rather than just for knocking in nails, you might need a hammer when two parts of flat pack furniture do not meet and it requires a gentle tap to push them together (always place a piece of thick card between the hammer and the furniture before you do this to avoid any dents!) A hammer is just one of those tools that you’ll find you end up using for a multitude of DIY jobs.
Electrical Cable and Stud Detector
Before you start making any kind of hole in the wall you should always check to see what is behind it: pipes, studs or electrical cables should not be drilled into, so use a wall scanner first to inspect that it is completely safe.
This YeBetter 3 in 1 Metal Detector is a good buy for under a tenner.
Proper Picture Hooks And Hangers
While I absolutely love the no-damage sticky strips for hanging up light pieces of art, large or heavy pictures (especially those containing glass) should be hung with proper picture hanging kits. I use a mix of the plastic drywall hooks and the gold hooks for hard walls in my house and they are both really strong. Simply tap in the accompanying nails with a hammer for a super-secure grip.
A Drill
If you want to erect a shelf or hang something really heavy like a mirror you’ll need to use a drill, some screws and some raw plugs. A drill really isn’t as scary as it seems and once you get used to it you’ll gain so much confidence in using other power tools. Invest in a cordless drill so you do not have to also invest an extension cable and make sure that it comes with a selection of Drill Bits so that you do not have to buy them separately. This Terratek 13Pc Cordless Drill Driver is a good buy.
Don’t forget to stand on a stable surface and wear protective eye equipment when drilling. When working with electrical tools and batteries, remember to store them safely. A fireproof battery charging cabinet can help minimise risks and keep your property safe.
Buy this Terratek 13Pc Cordless Drill Driver for £39.99 via Amazon
Hex Key Set
So many pieces of furniture are now built in the home using hex keys which come supplied in the box; the trouble with this is that the keys are often thrown out or misplaced after the build! If you need to take your furniture apart to move it to another room or to a new house, having a hex key set to hand is incredibly helpful as there are so many sizes of hex. This simple Rolson Hex Key Set is a great buy to store away.
Rolson Hex Key Set available via Amazon
Pliers
I find these an essential for two reasons: to tighten on or off nuts and bolts and also fix DIY mistakes (like the removal of folded nails or failed wall plugs.) Keep a pair of pliers stored in your toolbox for when they are needed!
Presch Combination Pliers - £11.99
Spirit Level
An absolute essential in getting pictures, mirrors and shelves level, invest in a spirit level that takes a reading both vertically and horizontally. For advanced DIYers, I find a builder’s level so helpful when applying wall panelling or wallpaper.
Aluminium Ruler
A long metal ruler is invaluable when trying to measure and mark on walls. It is much better than using a tape measure which bends and folds. This Silverline ruler also has a built-in handle and spirit level making it so easy to use.
Silverline 571509 Aluminium Rule with Spirit Level 900mm
Sanding Block
Want to paint that second-hand set of drawers you purchased on eBay? You’ll need to give them a light sand first. A sanding block is easier to use than a sheet of sandpaper and a cheaper alternative to an electric sander.
A sanding block is an easy-to-use pice of DIY kit!
All these DIY tools are staples in my home kit for basic everyday tasks. If you are someone who has never done DIY before or even a pro who installs crawl space waterproofing - you’ll need these tools!
