Tools for building: A basic guide to home improvement tools

by Lisa Duguay, ABR, SRES 10/16/2022

Person using a power tool

Tools for building and home improvement projects are a must-have. You may work in a field on construction sites or enjoy DIY projects at home, but if there’s one thing you know for sure, it’s that tools are a homeowner requirement. 

Safety equipment & recommendations

Safety is always a primary component when building or improving on anything. For example, before you start a new project, make sure you have a firm grasp of the tools, surfaces and best practices. Even something as small as a utility knife can be dangerous when mishandled. 

Be sure to wear protective gear, too. Safety glasses are among the top pieces of protection to keep, especially when working with fine particles and power tools. Cut gloves and aprons designed to withstand heat and potential debris should also be part of your arsenal.

If you plan to do any wood working or work with circular saws, dust-producing cordless tools or anything else capable of generating fine particles, you may want to consider wearing a mask. Fumes and chemicals may also require a mask, though these are often referred to as respirators.

For work involving electrical tools, plumbing systems, HVAC maintenance or any other in-depth foundational system, it’s best to give a professional a call if you don’t have the training and understanding needed to maintain and enhance these systems. 

Be ready for outdoor projects

Outdoor projects are a bit heftier in what they require, since many of the materials used are heftier or in a different class than those used for internal projects. Most outdoor projects require those materials to either be weather-resistant or treatable to become weather-resistant.

Make sure you have the space for concrete surfaces when dealing with hefty power tools such as lawnmowers, concrete mixers, jackhammers, electrical saws or any other tool designed to manipulate dense material.

Also consider outdoor storage for projects too large to be stored in your home. For example, if you’re building a mantle for your fireplace, but have no room in your garage, an outdoor shed or temporary popup can protect your work against the elements and keep the clutter to a minimum.

Having the right basic construction tools can lead to success with your next remodeling job. Keeping these tips in mind will help you start those projects off right. And, as always, if you have any questions while gathering your materials, ask anyone at your local home improvement store for a bit of guidance, especially when searching for a particular tool or tool set.

About the Author
Author

Lisa Duguay, ABR, SRES

Lisa is a sales and marketing professional with over 20 years of experience representing buyers and sellers throughout Fairfield County. Her deep understanding of local residential markets and current trends along with the exceptional local and global networking resources of Berkshire Hathaway allow her to provide the highest level of personalized, professional and confidential services to her clients. An experienced listener and negotiator, she works with her clients to thoroughly understand and achieve the results they desire. Dedicated, discreet, ethical, honest and principled, Lisa has been consistently recognized as a top producing agent and is a trusted resource within her communities. * Certified Relocation Specialist *Accredited Real Estate Buyer’s Representative (ABR) *Accredited, Senior Real Estate Specialist Council (SRES) *Member, National Association of Realtors *Member, Connecticut Association of Realtors *Member, Greater Fairfield Board of Realtors * Member, National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Lisa is a lifelong area resident who grew up in Westport and currently resides in Southport. She is actively involved as a volunteer for several local organizations including the CT Alzheimer’s Association.