Tools...What can I say. We need them to fix things but, do we have the right tool for the job? Understanding which tool is the right one for the work being done and knowing when the wrong tool could cause more problems, could be all the difference from a good job done or not. This is what we will discuss today...
There are basic tools most people probably already own. Here is a list of what I consider to be the basic four categories of tools:
Power Hand Tools
The Hammers - not really a repair tool, it's more like a demolition tool. We need it to pound in nails or remove nails, move things over a little or even close a can of paint. When in need of a hammer, first consider what is the task you are attempting. There are a lot of different types of hammers and it's good to know the differences among them. When using a hammer you need to hit what you're going to hit with a precise smack and firmness. It takes a little practice to hit the nail right on the head every time. Just keep the other hand out of way after you start the nail into the material. (ouch!) The Screwdrivers - a very busy and important tool. These tools come in a wide variety of tip configurations: (Slotted or flathead, Phillips, Square, Hex, Torx and more), Tip sizing (#1, #2, #3 and so on) and lengths: Stubby (real short), 4", 6" and so on. If you are going to do any repair work, it's a good idea to have a set of these tools handy. When using a screwdriver to put a screw into material, hold and push firmly, keeping the screwdriver straight up and down, into the head of the screw and turn the screwdriver and screw clockwise into the material. Do the opposite for removing the screw. Pliers - the grabbers and holders of what we are working with, using all kinds of materials. I suggest if you are starting out... purchase a set of adjustable pliers for a variety of uses. Keep in mind that cheap tools are exactly that...cheap! They may break right in the middle of a job and that can create situations we don't need. When using pliers, have a good grip once they are adjusted to your hand and proceed with the turning or holding. Saws- there are so many different types of saws out there that you need to pay attention to what your needs are. There are saws for wood, metal, concrete and more. Some saws only need the blade changed for the different materials to be cut, mainly power saws. Out of these basic tools, in this article, the saw is probably the most dangerous. You must learn how to use a saw (correctly) so that your cuts are of good quality and you don't hurt yourself. When using a saw, let's say a hand saw for wood, no power just yet...It's best to measure, then draw a straight line on the material first. With the line drawn...hold the saw at 90 degrees to the material and pull backwards, just to start the saw on the mark. Now proceed to push and pull the saw across the material until you conclude through the piece. It will take a little practice to get perfectly straight cuts whether you are using a hand or power saw. When using a power saw, set the table of the saw flat on the material, making sure you know it is set to 90 degrees and the blade depth is not too deep (the amount of blade that will show underneath the material, ¼" to ½" is fine). Hold the material firmly, start with the blade slightly away from the material, turn the saw on and proceed to cut through it.
With these tools to begin with, you can do lots of building and repairing around the home. There will still be tools you will need but, this list will get you started.