Want to join the legion of do-it-yourselfers who take care of those small jobs around the house such as putting in a light switch or replacing a door hinge? Well, as the old saying goes, you need to begin with the right tool for the job.
We polled some professionals for advice on how they would equip a tool belt for beginners. What we came up with is mostly common sense, but when it comes to home projects, good judgment is sometimes absent.
DIY expert Lou Manfredini, Ace Hardware’s home expert (and host of “Mr. Fix It” on WGN Radio in Chicago), says a basic mix of tools should simply “help you maintain stuff around the home. This isn’t for building a deck or adding a room. You just need a small collection of tools to repair, assemble and tweak the comings and goings.”
His most important tip: “Life is too short to drink cheap wine and buy cheap tools.” Manfredini says those bargain bins with $3 tools up by the cash register are great if you’re going to use a tool once and throw it in the recycling. But if you’re going to become a real DIYer, spend enough to get quality tools that can last a lifetime.
Mark Clement, who hosts a DIY website (MyFixItUpLife.com) with wife Theresa, adds that any tool collection should begin with a notebook and a pencil. “The best and worst part of many DIYers’ approach to tools and projects is passion,” he says. “Projects large and small need to be thought through. Once you’ve planned, the notebook is ideal for materials lists, measurements or little sketches that’ll help you see it through.”
Ask 10 people, and you’ll get 10 different lists, but here is a solid, basic foundation on which to build, with some brand suggestions from our experts:
1. Finishing hammer with claw Plumb. Reliable and built to last with a great grip, fiberglass handle.
2. Tape measure Stanley. Durable steel exterior, easily retractable.
3. Battery-powered cordless drill Black & Decker. Invaluable for small repairs and quick fixes; doubles as a screw gun.
4. Duct tape Holds the world together; provides a strong, flexible hold, good tensile strength; water and tear resistant.
5. Level Johnson. Determines whether a surface is horizontal or vertical.
6. Pliers Klein. Hold objects firmly, for cutting, bending; many types for specific uses.
7. Utility knife: Preferably one that retracts; for cutting carpet, scoring drywall, opening packages. Any decent brand will do.
8. Adjustable crescent wrench Klein. Removes or tightens bolts of all sizes.
9. Mini crowbar Hyde. Takes off old trim and molding; doesn’t mark up walls; easy to keep in your tool belt.
Before you begin
What experience (if any) do I have? Just because you’re not afraid to take on a project doesn’t mean you should. Be realistic about your skills. Not having the expertise could lead to additional costs and work. Also, you might find it difficult to find a contractor who will fix your snafu.
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Do I have the time? Many home-improvement projects take weeks rather than days. Measure the inconvenience against the cost of hiring a professional.
Do I have the right tools? Consider what special tools you’ll need. If you have to buy a power saw but don’t plan to use it again in the near future, it probably won’t be a very good investment.