Your A to Z guide to tools

The right tools can make jobs around the home much easier. Picture by Shutterstock No matter what task you undertake at home, there is usually a long list of tools that'll make the job possible, or at least easier. Subscribe now for unlimited access .

Login or signup to continue reading All articles from our website & app The digital version of Today's Paper Breaking news alerts direct to your inbox Interactive Crosswords, Sudoku and Trivia All articles from the other regional websites in your area Continue And while we can't all have sheds the size of Bunnings equipped with everything we'll ever need, it's always handy to own an assortment of tools to help you complete odd jobs and keep up with maintenance. Allen keys - perfect for building anything from furniture to sheds, the advantage of an Allen key is its ability to do screws up tighter and not strip them. Batteries - there are plenty of brands that have a "one battery fits all tools" approach.



Grab a spare and have a charger ready. Caulk gun - these handy guns will allow you to easily apply adhesive to any surface or fill annoying gaps in your home. Drill set - a good drill and sharp drill bits will make the world of difference.

Cordless drills are a must-have. Ear plugs - often forgotten, ear protection is important when using loud power tools. Flashlight - in any dark space a flashlight (or torch) is your best friend.

Better yet, get a head-mounted light to keep both hands free. Grinder - can be used for cutting, sanding, cleaning and polishing on a variety of materials and surfaces. Hammer - the oldest of tools comes in a range of sizes and uses, from woodwork and metalwork hammers, to claw hammers and sledge hammers.

Impact driver - while less versatile than a drill, an impact driver has a higher torque output to get the job done quicker. Jack - good for the car, but can also be useful around your property when repairing or building. Always place additional supports when lifting.

Knife - always a handy tool to have with their thin, retractable blades making them the perfect cutting tool for a wide range of materials. Ladder - one of the most used tools around your home. Accessories such as leg levellers, gutter protectors, roofing hooks and work platforms are a must.

Mower - whether it's hand pushed, petrol, electrical, or a ride on, if you've got grass you'll need one. Nail gun - while not everyone will need a nail gun for simple jobs throughout the home, for larger jobs they can save you a lot of time and energy. Orbital sander - a terrific tool that will not only get rid of rough patches but also provide a much smoother finish compared to other sanders.

Small and easy to use. Pliers - have three pairs. Linesman pliers are the most common, however needle-nose pliers and tongue-and-groove pliers (or multigrips) are handy to have.

Quick set concrete - a special blend of fast-setting cements, sand and gravel, quick dry concrete is designed to set in 15 to 40 minutes. Simply add water and mix. Router - using a spindle it allows you to rout, or hollow out, areas in material like wood or plastic.

They are also great for creating stunning edging and patterns. Stud finder - helps you find the studs within your walls allowing you to accurately drive nails and install hooks. They can also help you find, and avoid, any electrical wiring and pipes.

Tape measure - self explanatory and always useful, a tape measure is an essential. Utility belt - allows you to carry a number of tools, fittings, and materials such as screws and nails and make everything accessible. Vise grips - useful because they can lock in and keep pressure attached and are great for plumbing and metal work.

WD40 - its main use is to dispel moisture, but it also helps to lubricate parts, break down rust and protect from further corrosion, cleans and removes dirt, grim and grease. X-ray vision - this would be an extremely useful tool to have! Hopefully in the future you'll be able to pick up a pair of high tech goggles at your local hardware store. Yakka - the hard kind.

Zip ties - can solve a problem short term, until you can find a more permanent solution. Share Facebook Twitter Whatsapp Email Copy More from Canberra US rate cut puts pressure on RBA - and things could get heated 32m ago No comment s Your A to Z guide to tools 33m ago All aboard: free travel across ACT public transport begins No comment s Reproductive leave, menopause flexibility for APS proposed in union talks No comment s 'Couldn't care less': Cost-of-living war heats up over pensions, rents No comment s 'A scary incident': children leave school unnoticed amid teacher shortage Newsletters & Alerts View all DAILY Your morning news Today's top stories curated by our news team. Also includes evening update.

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