15 Essential Trade Tools That Will Make Your DIY Life Easier

A DIYer’s toolbox must be well-equipped with various trade tools for trade like the automotive, hand, diagnostic and cordless. Holding a suitable set of tools can make all the difference to your project. From minor home improvements to large renovation projects, your toolbox can be your best friend or your worst enemy.

15 Essential Trade Tools for DIY Projects

Cordless Drill

A cordless electric drill is preferred over an electric drill in a toolbox as it is compact, lightweight, power-efficient and saves us from the hassle of long cords. This mobile and versatile tool can drill holes, drive screws, and even mix paints. Additionally, it makes the work easier, faster, and enjoyable, with professional-like results proving to be an essential tool for DIY projects. 

Measuring Equipment

Precise measurements are a vital aspect of any DIY project. A tape measure is indispensable to ensure error-free measurements and accurate results. Known for its flexibility and durability, it can measure up to 100 feet, depending on the measuring tape. Since it is compact and lightweight, it is mobile. These are available in various materials, including fibreglass, cloth, plastic, metal ribbon or strip.

Hammer

This is one of the oldest and most reliable tools for a DIYer. A hammer is a must for hanging posters on a wall, assembling furniture, and undertaking a significant construction project. Different types of hammers serve different purposes varying in weight and size. One must use suitable hammers for carpentry, mechanical jobs, blacksmithing or other jobs. One needs to be careful while choosing the correct hammer, as misuse of them or using the wrong one can cause severe injury and damage to your work.

Pliers Set

This versatile tool is useful for multiple tasks, including gripping small objects, bending wires, or cutting cables. A set of pliers that includes needle-nose and wire-cutting pliers would be most beneficial. Used to grip, position, tighten, loosen, and cut, it comes in various shapes and sizes helping complete multiple tasks. However, not every set of pliers is suitable for every job, so choose the one as per your requirements.

Extractor

This tool, also known as a puller, is programmed to help remove objects stuck or fitted tightly in a place. It is used the most when using components like gears, bearings, pulleys, or even damaged screws and bolts. The primary purpose of the extractor tool is to exert force in a controlled manner to separate or extract these objects without causing damage to the surrounding parts.

Screwdrivers

It is a hand tool designed to fasten and remove screws. A DIYer must have these four types of screwdrivers- Phillips, Flathead, Torx and Hex for faster and more efficient working. Utilising the wrong one can strip and damage the screw and whatever is being affixed.

Work lights

Working lights in a toolbox illuminate the tools and the work area, enhancing visibility. This leads to improved safety, accuracy, and productivity for DIYers. The lights also aid in identifying tools in low-light conditions and enable work in darker spaces, saving time and effort and expanding project capabilities. The best lights a DIYer can use for maximum output are portable floodlights, torches, headlamps, slim work, and telescopic lights with LED functionality. Adding lighting to your toolbox is a relatively simple and inexpensive upgrade that can provide many benefits.

Ratchets

This tool offers efficient, simplified fastening or unfastening of nuts and bolts in a confined space with little rotation opportunity. They enable continuous rotary motion in one direction, eliminating the need to reposition the tool after every turn. Ratchets enhance manoeuvrability in tight spaces, improve the speed of operation, and reduce user fatigue, contributing to a more comfortable and efficient DIY experience.

Torque Wrench

This tool ensures precision in locking and unlocking screws and bolts from materials, avoiding over or under-fastening, which might lead to equipment damage or failure. It’s a handy and versatile tool for plumbing, assembling furniture, or repairing your car. With its accuracy, it promotes reliability and safety in projects.

Spanner Sets

A spanner set in a toolbox equips a DIYer with versatile tools for various fastening needs. It allows precise fitting of nuts and bolts, reducing the risk of stripping or damaging them. Spanners of different sizes ensure compatibility with diverse hardware sizes. A spanner set increases efficiency and versatility and promotes safety during DIY tasks, which is essential for successful projects.

Multi-Tool Oscillating Kit

A comprehensive DIY toolkit should ideally be replete with multiple specialised equipment tools and safety equipment to save time, ensure efficiency and protect the operator during critical tasks. A multi-tool oscillating kit provides a versatile option for precision-oriented capabilities for sanding, cutting, grinding, and scraping different materials, including wood, metal, and plastic. Its compact design is invaluable when working in confined spaces, such as trimming door frames or removing grout between tiles.

Spirit Level Gauge

In order to ensure professional-quality results, you need accurate alignment, for the task to be completed on time and without glitches. This fundamental tool helps maintain perfect positioning when installing shelves, laying tiles, or assembling furniture. Modern variations include digital and laser models that offer enhanced precision for more demanding projects.

Safety Gear Kit

Safety should always be the primary concern in any DIY endeavour. A complete safety gear kit incorporates essential protective elements such as safety goggles, work gloves, dust masks, and ear protection. These items create a secure working environment and protect against potential hazards when operating power tools or handling dangerous materials. Proper safety equipment prevents injuries and builds confidence in tackling challenging DIY projects.

Cordless Nail Gun

If your task predominantly involves construction and assembly work, a cordless nail gun will substantially enhance operational efficiency compared to traditional hammering. This portable power tool excels in decking, framing, and panelling projects. This efficient tool ensures consistent results and reduces physical stress. The wireless design allows for unobstructed mobility around the workplace.

Adjustable Wrench Set

An adjustable wrench set proves highly useful when working with fasteners of different sizes. These versatile tools can accommodate various dimensions of nuts and bolts, making them essential for plumbing work, vehicle maintenance, and furniture assembly. Investing in high-quality adjustable wrenches ensures long-term reliability and comfortable operation.

Conclusion

Thus, having the proper set of tools for trade in a toolbox for DIY projects can make all the difference. Now you know all the ten essential trade tools you must have in your tool arsenal. So, when it’s time to choose the right tool for the job, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to do it right.

All these toolkits mentioned above are available with Norva Tools. Browse our complete range online today. If you need guidance selecting the right toolkit, speak to one of our specialists on 03 9793 3558; we would be happy to assist you.