It’s tool time
How many screwdrivers does the average homeowner really need?
Dan McLoughlin, a sales representative, has a dozen; just don’t ask him to find them. Mark Vandine, a teacher at Lewis and Clark High School, has 15. Paul Didier, a church administrator, has 36. “Hey,” Didier said, “When you need ‘em, you need ‘em.”
John Mashtare of Country Homes Building Supply said new, multi-use tools make a cluttered toolbox – or time wasted looking for lost tools – a thing of the past. Mashtare sat down with HOME to show what’s new and what is still essential for a home toolbox.
A better screwdriver
“The new six-in-one screwdrivers are a big seller here at Country Homes. They’re so handy,” said Mashtare.
The screwdriver sets come in several sizes and styles. An all-in-one package means no more digging through the toolbox to find the right size Phillips or flat-blade screwdriver.
The new way to saw
A traditional hacksaw is always useful, but the new multiblade saws are even better. Most come with a standard blade and a rugged blade that will cut through wood. The interchangeable blades come with a lightweight rubberized handle, making the tool very easy and more comfortable to use.
No more batteries
Another hot item to have around the house is the “shake and charge” flashlight. It doesn’t require batteries, and offers an endless self-generating light source. The new LED flashlights also are popular. They’re much brighter and last far longer than traditional flashlights.
Not your father’s tools
Every well-stocked toolbox should have an assortment of wrenches and pliers. Now there’s a selection of self-adjusting tools, like ratcheting pliers. These really save time and energy. With brightly colored rubber grips, they don’t resemble your dad’s old metal tools.
The right tape
Some essential items are impossible to revamp. “What can you say about duct tape?” quipped Mashtare. “You’ve got to have it. It can do about anything.”
Also important is plumber’s tape, a waterproof tape used to patch leaks. Does it work? Mashtare has had some wrapped around a leaky nut under his bathroom sink for 15 years. “It’s still holding, not a leak or a drip,” he said.
Measure it twice, staple once
Every toolbox needs a tape measure. Now, you can buy auto-extend and auto-retract styles. No more calling for someone to hold the other end of the tape.
Staple guns can be used for everything from hanging Christmas lights to tacking down carpeting. Newer models are lighter and easier to use.
A good stud is important to find
Not all homeowners have a stud sensor in their toolbox, but they should, according to Mashtare. “You need to use this to hang anything that’s going to bear weight like towel bars and curtain rods,” he said. He doesn’t advise using the hit-and-miss method. That’s a sure way to be left with holes, dents and dings in your plaster or drywall.
Quality counts
“Quality and brand name often go hand in hand,” Mashtare said. When shopping for tools carefully compare generic tools to brand name items. Look for quality and durability. Most of the time, Mashtare said, you get what you pay for.
Get what you need
Mashtare made the point that the biggest mistake most homeowners make is that they’re “undertooled.” “Before you start a job at home, make sure you’ve got the tools you need,” he said.