TO DIY FOR

HAVING THE RIGHT EQUIPMENT ALWAYS MAKES A JOB EASIER, BUT SOME TOOLS CAN BE GAME CHANGERS

Words KYLIE JACKES

While your toolkit probably includes the absolute essentials, there’s a world of lesserknown equipment that can help you power through projects with precision and ease, or broaden the scope of what you can tackle. Check out a few of our surprise favourites.

Plunge saw

Many DIYers and tradies consider a circular saw a must, but when there’s a need for greater precision, for example when trimming millimetres off a door, laying a floating floor or starting a cut in the middle of a material, Andrew Murray of Ozito recommends using a plunge saw. “The addition of a straight track for the saw to run along allows for a perfectly straight cut, even when cutting a bevel,” explains Andrew.

“And, unlike a circular saw, a plunge saw has an accurate depth stop to achieve a plunge cut without kickback, making tasks like cutting a hole in a timber benchtop for a sink achievable,” he adds.

Laser measurer

To gauge distances or spaces, a laser measurer is much easier to use and more accurate than a traditional tape measure, according to Vindi Chathrine of Bosch. “With the click of a button, a laser measurer can be used to accurately measure distances up to 150m, with the ability to store and transfer data and calculate volume and area,” says Vindi. “This is ideal if you need to determine square meterage for flooring materials, wallpaper or paint.” If you opt for a model with bluetooth connectivity, the data can be transferred to an app and documented for easy reference.

Handheld rotary tool

The endlessly adaptable ‘go-to gadget’ for DIY and craft enthusiasts has to be a handheld rotary power tool. As Caroline Chagas of Dremel explains, “Rotary tools can be used for cutting, sanding, engraving, cleaning, polishing, sharpening, grinding, routing and drilling holes, making them one of the most flexible pieces of equipment in a home workshop.” Cordless models are great for short bursts of work that need mobility, like shaving off plaster, whereas for hobbyists who want to use the tool for prolonged periods, a corded solution may be preferable. You can change the function by adding accessories, with each serving a specific purpose, from tile cutting and buffing metal to grout removal.

Tool bag

A sturdy tool bag allows you to take stock, gather everything you need for a project and cart it from your tool area. Alternatively, use it as a ‘go bag’ stocked with regularly used tools and accessories. When choosing, consider which size suits your tools and look for a bag made from durable material with multiple organisational pockets and a wide, easy-access opening.

Wet and dry vacuum

DIY projects are prone to mess, but with a wet and dry vac, you can suck up everything from sawdust, wood shavings and rubble to soil, leaves, grass clippings and water with ease. “Being so powerful and versatile, they allow you to clean all areas of the home, outdoors and garage in a way a stick vac can’t,” explains Mark Giannakopoulos of Karcher. “You can also add accessories like a car cleaning attachment kit,” he says. Some models have a blower function and, with suitable attachments, can even inflate air mattresses. Mark recommends choosing a machine with good suction power and manoeuvrability, a great accessory range and adequate cord length.

Multi-function scraper

Priced at under $20 and small enough to fit in your pocket, a multi-function paint scraper tool can be invaluable throughout the painting process. Designed to function as a chisel to scrape flat surfaces and get into cracks to remove flaky paint or debris, this handy tool can also be used as a putty knife to smooth gap sealant into cracks. The blade’s point easily lifts paint lids, the curved scraping edge is ideal for removing excess paint from rollers before washing, and some include a hole which acts as a lever to remove nails. For added functionality, look for a scraper with a metal end, which can be used for hammering and firmly securing paint lids.

1 Trojan ‘6 In 1’ multi paint scraper, $8.65, I/N: 0093215. 2 Poly ‘7 In 1’ paint tool , $19.53, I/N: 0073975. 3 Monarch ‘Razorback’ multi-function paint scraper tool, $18.55, I/N: 1661977. 4 Bosch ‘Professional’ 50m distance measurer, $230, I/N: 0400973. 5 Dremel ‘7760 Lite’ 4V cordless rotary tool kit, $109, I/N: 0191737. 6 Cyclone ‘Extract’ weeder, $59.98, I/N: 0242146. 7 Ozito 1400mm x 180mm plunge saw guide rail, $54.98, I/N: 6290616. 8 Ozito 165mm 1200W plunge saw track kit, $229, I/N: 6290615. 9 Irwin ‘Pro Plus’ 18" (450mm) tool bag, $127, I/N: 5821071. 10 Sidchrome 19" (483mm) open mouth tote bag, $104, I/N: 5820776. 11 Karcher ‘WD 3 P S’ wet and dry vacuum, $239, I/N: 0391328. Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.

Weed extractor

Pesky weeds are the thorn in every gardener’s side, yet with the right tool, removing them can be surprisingly quick and satisfying. Weed extractors such as Cyclone’s ‘Extract’ weeder make light work of plucking weeds from lawns and garden beds. Far easier than digging or pulling, the device has tines and a foot grip that allow you to lever weeds and deep roots from the ground without having to bend or kneel. Then, thanks to a spring-loaded eject release, the weeds can be dropped straight into a wheelbarrow or green bin.

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bunnings.com.au/handy-tools