Basic hand tools

This series of articles will help those who are new to DIY.

There are hundreds of tools available to buy in the stores, yet most basic DIY jobs can be done with just a few. These are the tools that you will most likely need:.

Tape measure

It’s an essential tool for planning and measuring up. A 10ft or 3m tape is enough for most projects, but it’s worth investing in a longer one if you need to measure up large rooms. Always get a metal retractable tape measure.

Set square

It is two pieces of metal set into a wooden frame at precisely 90 degrees. It is used for checking right angles, marking wood etc

Spirit Level

It’s a device used to make sure that surfaces and edges are truly horizontal or vertical. It is essential for putting up shelves and cabinets. You can now get a laser spirit level, but a basic one is still recommended for your toolbox.

Cutting knife

It’s also known as Stanley knife. It’s a very useful tool to cut materials. It has replaceable blades that come in various sizes. Get one that has a good grip.

Bradawl

It’s a short tool with a chunky handle and a sharp spike. It is used for making pilot holes for screws & drilling.

Screwdrivers

There are two main types of screwdrivers – with a flat tip or with a cross-point (also called Phillips or Posidrive). The flat tip screwdriver is used for screws with a straight slot in the head; the cross point screwdriver is used for cross-shaped slots. Both are essential tools, and you might need various sizes (buy a set where you can change the tips).

Claw Hammer

Another essential tool for your tool box. It is used for knocking in & taking out nails and for general DIY jobs.

Saws

There are two main types of wood saw that you’ll need – one with a long blade for general cutting and a short, stiff-bladed tenon saw for cutting joints etc. You should also get a small hack-saw with a replaceable thin blade for cutting metal and plastic.

Pliers

Pliers are used to grip objects that you want to pull, pinch or turn. They have a hole in the centre with a blade to cut wire. The long-nose pliers are useful for fiddly things.

Spanners

They are essential for tightening and undoing nuts and bolts. An adjustable spanner is useful to fit any size, but you should also invest in a full set of spanners.

In the next article you can read about the most important basic power tools.

Don’t forget to protect your hand tools with the right home contents insurance!