Top bits of kit to Simplify your DIY
Here’s a shortlist of those things that we find we just can’t do without…
Decorators’ Caulk
As always, the difference between a good job and a great job is in the time-consuming (isn't it ALL time consuming!?) finishing efforts.
Wherever you have a ‘seam’ between one surface and another, for example after fitting new skirting boards to your walls, run a bead of caulk along the join to get that seamless finish. Decorators caulk can be used internally and externally, includes an anti-mould agent and resists cracking. Once you’ve applied a bead of caulk to your join, run your finger continuously along the length to get a smooth finish and wipe any excess away with a damp cloth.
It takes about an hour to dry when it can be painted over and requires no sanding beforehand.
A great way to get that really professional finish.
Two Workbenches
Two chairs just won’t cut it – in fact, there’s a good chance you’ll end up cutting the chairs.
Whatever material you’re working with, balancing long, bulky or heavy pieces across a makeshift platform is not a recipe for a good finish or safety.
No matter how resourceful you’re feeling, a couple of these workbenches make everything so much easier. They fold flat for storage and have helpful adjustable surfaces to help hold your material secure. Costing just over £15 a piece, it’s a small price to pay to avoid inadvertently modifying your furniture (or your fingers)!
Cordless drill
OK, so a cordless drill requires a slightly bigger investment that our first two ‘must haves’, but they’re just so handy and make lots of DIY scenarios safer too.
Whether you’ve turned the electrics off, you’re working in the garden where there’s no power supply, or you’re just working at height, a cordless drill avoids all that faffing with extension leads that can trip you up.
Selection of screws
Just like trying to do a job with the wrong tools, the wrong screw will let you down in the long run too.
It’s not expensive to stock up on a variety of screws types and sizes to make sure you’ve got the right one for the job every time.
Digital Camera
Erm, yes! Odd as it might sound, a digital camera can be your saviour when you’ve taken something to pieces and want to know how to put it back together again.
Whether it’s rewiring a ceiling rose or re-assembling that flatpack furniture, a few quick snaps as you undo will make the subsequent redo job a cinch.
- SimplifyDIY Recommended Buy: Digital Camera
Further information and useful links
- Basic toolbox
- Basic decorating kit
- Basic plumbing tools & materials
- Choosing the right power drill
- Find the right tools & materials for the job
- Find a Power Tools supplier near you
- Find a Tool Hire Centre near you
- screwfix.co.uk
Everything for the trade - next day!
Site Pages
Featured Articles