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 CARPENTER’S
OR LASER LEVEL: A carpenter’s level contains two or more bubble gauges used
to check the level of work surfaces. A laser level creates level, square
lines on any surface.
HAMMER:
Designed for driving, setting, and pulling nails, hammers are essential. A
16- ounce, curved claw hammer with a high-carbon steel head and a handle
made of hickory fiberglass, or solid steel is a practical choice for typical
home repairs.
DRILL:
Variable-speed reversing drills are handy for driving and removing screws,
nuts, and bolts, as well as for drilling holes and stirring paint. For most
decorating projects, a medium- voltage cordless drill is a good choice. Look
for features such as a keyless chuck, adjustable clutch, and electronic
level.
CORDLESS
SCREWDRIVER: For small projects, cordless power screwdrivers are a great
alternative to standard screwdrivers. These tools come with a universal 1/4"
drive as well as a slotted bit and a #2 Phillips bit. Other bits, such as Torx and square drive, are also available.
POWER
SANDERS: Sanders smooth surfaces to be painted or decorated.
SCREWDRIVERS:
Standard screwdrivers--both slotted and Phillips--are essential. Choose
quality screwdrivers with hardened-steel blades and easy-to-grip handles.
Insulated handles protect you from electric shock, and oxide-coated tips
provide a strong hold on screw heads.
TAPE
MEASURES: A high-quality retractable steel tape measure will last for
decades. Choose a tape that has a locking mechanism and a belt clip. Make
sure the tape you choose has a standout of at least 7 ft.
STUD
FINDER: A stud finder has an indicator that lights up when it passes over a
stud.
AWL: An
awl is a tool that has a metal shaft with a sharpened end. It is used to
poke holes in drywall and other surfaces when drilling a pilot hole isn’t
necessary.
NAIL
SET: This is a metal shaft with a rounded end that is used to drive finish
nails below a work surface.
DRYWALL
KNIVES (“PUTTY” KNIVES): These knives have thin, somewhat flexible blades
attached to sturdy handles. They are used to spread sparkle and drywall
compound and can also be used to scrape away debris before cleaning walls or
filling holes.
RAZOR
KNIFE: A razor knife is a sharp, retractable, disposable blade in a sturdy
handle.
If you see a yellow toolbox in a materials list, it means that some or all
of the above tools are needed to get that particular job done. |
