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Getting Started

Choosing the right tool

The second stop on any project.

Tools come in two main categories, Hand Tools and Power Tools. In general, a hand tool is any tool without a motor and a power tool any tool with a motor.

In most cases a power tool has been created as a way to speed up a process that is usually carried out using a hand tool.

Key Considerations

Before buying, borrowing or renting a tool for a specific task it's worth thinking about the following:

How many times will you need to use the tool? If there are a lot of repetitive tasks a power tool may be more effective.

Evaluate the cost of a tool against how many times you expect to use it. You may want to buy a higher quality tool if you need it to withstand a lot of use over many years.

How big is your project and how long you have have to complete it? Buying or renting a power tool may be more expensive but you might save time doing so.

You may want to consider if a tool has potential to be useful for other jobs in the future. Some tools are versatile whereas others may only be useful for very specific tasks that rarely have to be carried out. If a tool is expensive and not likely to be used again it might be worth borrowing it from a friend or trying to rent it for a specific period of time.

Power tools generally offer speed and efficiency, while hand tools provide greater control and versatility. The table below highlights the general benefits and drawbacks of using power tools over hand tools to help you decide which is best for your project. 

 General Characteristics 
Hand ToolPower Tool
CostLess expensiveMore expensive
SpeedFast enough for small tasksFaster especially for jobs involving lots of repetition. Setup can sometimes be slow.
SafetyUsually saferCan be more dangerous as tools are more powerful.
AvailabilityWidely availableWidely available
DurabilityLong lastingLong lasting but may need more frequent maintenance.
AccuracyDepends on the tool and job.Depends on the tool and job.
Toolbox Essentials
A few essential tools can cover the vast majority of DIY tasks.
 By gathering the items on this list, you'll be equipped to handle jobs like hanging pictures, fixing leaks, changing light fixtures, and assembling furniture. 
 These tools will also serve as a solid foundation for tackling more complex projects. 
 The recommended variants listed here are ideal for new purchases, but if you already have similar tools, there's no need to buy alternatives that are only slightly different. 
ToolRecommended VariantUses
Pencil-Marking up wood and walls.
Permanent Marker-Marking up plastic and metal.
Ruler30cm (12") Metal Zero-End RulerMeasuring lengths precisely from the edge and marking straight lines.
Tape Measure5m or 16ftMeasuring longer lengths and around corners.
ScrewdriverMulti-bit screwdriver with bit set containing Flathead and Phillips bits sizes 1-3Driving or removing screws.
HammerClaw HammerDriving in or removing nails.
Cordless Combi DrillCombi drill with drill, torque and hammer modes.Drilling holes and driving screws.
Allen Key Set2-6mm (1/16-5/16")Assembling flatpack furniture and adjusting bolts.
Utility KnifeRetractableCutting materials like cardboard, plastic, and rope.
PliersNeedle-Nose, Slip-JointGripping, bending, and cutting wires or small objects.
Adjustable Wrench25mm Jaw (8") and 30mm Jaw (10")Tightening or loosening various sizes of nuts and bolts.
Spirit Level15cm (6")Ensuring surfaces are level and properly aligned.
Hand SawWood Tenon SawCutting wood and plastic.
Caulking Gun-Applying silicone or adhesives from a cartridge.
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