Handyman Tools You Need to Get the Job Done
Many handymen specialize in specific areas. They may install an electrical outlet or sink faucet without a license but will need a licensed professional for specialized work like plumbing.
Most states require business registration and licensing before providing services. It’s also important to have insurance in case of property damage or injury.
The humble tape measure is the world’s most commonly used measuring tool, accompanying millions of tradesmen to work every day. Designed to be portable and easy to use, it consists of a flexible strip of fiberglass, plastic, or metal ribbon that can be coiled up for storage yet extends when pulled and is marked in length increments (see the image above).
Most American tape measures are marked with imperial measurements on one side of the blade and metric measurements on the other, while some are dual-purpose. The increments of measurement are straight lines running perpendicular to the edge of the blade and are usually printed in black or red.
Metric measuring increments are usually labeled in centimeters and millimeters, while inch increments are typically marked as either “inches” or a numeral system (1-, 2-, 3-, etc.). Most modern tape measures also have a small marking that indicates whether the next increment is in inches or centimeters, which can be helpful for international users.
When taking internal measurements, the tip of the tape’s hook must be pressed against or hooked over the object that is being measured. When doing so, the tab at the end of the tape will move out slightly, known as a true zero reading. This movement is normal and allows the tip of the hook to take into account any thickness in the object being measured.
Chalk Line
A chalk line is one of the most basic and useful tools a Handyman needs to get the job done. It’s a taut string coated in loose dye, usually chalk, that’s laid across the surface you want to mark and pulled tight. Then, when the string is plucked or snapped sharply, it transfers the chalk to the surface along a straight line where it struck. This makes it easy to see and use for measuring, alignments and other tasks.
Chalk lines come in different colors and styles, so choose one that best suits your needs. For example, white chalk leaves a light line that wipes away easily and is great for finish work. Blue chalk is a bit easier to see and won’t stain, but it can leave a blue residue on some surfaces. Red chalk is a good choice for tougher conditions because it’s formulated to last longer and can withstand wind and light rain.
To use a chalk line, first mark two end points on the surface you’re marking. Then, hammer in a nail for the hook at one of the marks and attach the end of the chalk line to it. Then, reel out the string to the other end point and snap it. As you pull the string, make sure it is tight enough to give a good snap. Keep the line tight as you walk to the other end and repeat the process.
Claw Hammer
This hammer has one side with a smooth striking face for pounding nails and the other side has a V-shaped claw head for pulling out nails. It is used to hang pictures, build fences and sheds, split wood and similar household tasks. It is also useful for removing nails that are firmly embedded in the workpiece.
A standard claw hammer weighs about 16 ounces and has an elongated neck that gives the user leverage for nail-pulling. It may have a checker-board pattern on its face that reduces glancing blows. Some have a straight claw, known as a ripping claw, that creates more leverage for prying apart fastened boards.
If the hammer has a flat striking head, it can leave harsh, gouge-like marks on the workpiece. It can also misstrike and bend a nail, so if you’re using it for rough framing, consider a curved head. A curved nail puller also provides more leverage, while a small v-shaped notch in the claw can help you remove stubborn nails.
Choose a high-quality claw hammer made of forged, solid steel with a permanently attached handle. Fiberglass handles offer the most durability for frequent use, but can be heavier and less comfortable to hold. Some manufacturers design their hammers with a shock-reducing molded grip to reduce vibration and hand and arm fatigue. Other popular hammer types include:
Cordless Driver
Handyman often work on home repair, installation or maintenance projects and need the right tools for the job. A cordless driver is one such tool that is useful for a variety of tasks. It’s basically a power drill that isn’t connected to a cable and instead uses an internal battery or a combination of batteries for operation.
A cordless driver also has the benefit of being able to take a wide range of accessories, such as brushes, rotary sanders, hole saws and more. It’s a great choice for someone who only occasionally works as a Handyman, such as students who rent apartments and need their own basic tools or young couples that are just moving into their first home.
While a standard drill is still more popular than an impact driver, the latter has become increasingly popular in household settings as it’s seen as more versatile and powerful. This is because an impact driver has a strong, high torque power-train system made up of its namesake components, the hammer and anvil. Combined, they produce more than 3,350 pounds-per-square-inch (lb-ft) of power. Most models are smaller and lighter than drills, making them ideal for tinkering in tight spaces where more torque is required.
Adjustable Wrench
The adjustable wrench, also known as a crescent wrench or adjustable spanner, is one of the hand tools most handymen use. Unlike regular wrenches that can fit only a specific size of bolt, the adjustable wrench has movable jaws that can hold a wide range of sizes. This makes them a valuable tool for handymen who frequently encounter bolts of different sizes.
Its light weight and small size make it easier to maneuver than other wrenches, especially when working in tight spaces. It is often used to open gas pipes and repair leaky faucets, but it can be useful for many other tasks. Handymen also commonly use them to remove nuts from other objects.
While the adjustable wrench is very versatile, it can also be dangerous if not handled properly. Using it to apply too much pressure can cause the jaws to loosen or break off the fastener head. This can lead to serious injury. It is important for handymen to follow the safety guidelines when using this tool and any other power tool.
To avoid injuring your hands, use the adjustable wrench with a long handle and angle it toward your body. This will help you get leverage and keep your knuckles out of the way of the jaws. If you need to apply extra force, try to grip the handle with your nondominant hand. This will protect your fingers and reduce the amount of stress you need to exert.
Gloves
Handymen use gloves for many different projects, and a great pair of work gloves will help protect your hands from blisters, cuts, scratches, and soreness while working. Whether you’re repairing a refrigerator, chopping wood, or trying to follow a tutorial video online, having a good pair of gloves will make the job much easier.
One of the best pairs of gloves for handymen are the Ironclad Gloves. These durable gloves are shrink-resistant and stretchable to fit your hand, allowing for improved dexterity. They also feature a wing closing strap to keep the gloves from falling off or moving around while you’re working. A terry cloth material on the back of the thumb allows you to wipe away sweat.
Another great pair of gloves for handymen are the DEX FIT Lightweight Nitrile Work Gloves. These gloves have a snug “second skin” fit and are made from soft Polyurethane, Polyester, Nylon, TDI and Spandex materials that are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. They are also dipped in latex to help prevent tears and offer reinforced padding on the knuckles and fingers for added protection.
Customers who have purchased these gloves said that they were able to handle tools without losing their dexterity, and they have a breathable back for comfortable wearing over longer periods of time. They also are machine washable, which is perfect if you’re doing several jobs in a row or need to clean your gloves frequently.
