You’ve made a plan. The blueprints are in place, and starting next month, the DIY home renovation is on. Nothing can stop you except for not having the right tools. Trying to install new wall shelves can be a hassle without a level. And sometimes you need a cordless drill instead of a hammer if you want to put up curtain rods.
Undoubtedly, some DIY jobs are more complex and require as much determination as a toolbox overflowing with devices. What qualifies as a handy device, however, may come as a surprise. Whether you’re redesigning your bathrooms or outdoor space, here are four tools you probably haven’t thought of.
1. Portable Work Lights
What’s wrong with relying on natural sunlight and the light fixtures in your home? After all, you’ll be doing the lion’s share of the work during the day. Just pull up the blinds or open the curtains. And if it’s cloudy outside, simply flip on the light switch for whatever room you’re in.
But DIYers with foresight realize a room’s lighting isn’t always enough. Sometimes you need to illuminate with more precision than what the sun’s rays and preinstalled fixtures will provide. Using a portable, rechargeable work light ensures you can increase visibility in every nook and cranny.
Additionally, if the power goes out, you’ll be covered. You’ll be able to see better while working in dimly lit areas, such as garages and outdoor sheds. Hanging versions are ideal for tough-to-reach areas, especially if you’re up on a ladder. Replacing your home’s siding and brightening up the exterior with a fresh coat of paint come to mind. With portable work lights, you’ll be prepared no matter what.
2. Pot Scrapers
Most people think of pot scrapers as a way to clean pots. Sometimes a good overnight soak with dish detergent doesn’t quite do the trick. You need a tool with a bit more grit to scrape off the tough residue from last night’s dinner.
Yet, pot scrapers have additional uses beyond their original design. These tools will get the job done when it’s time to remove grout and wall decals. Pot scrapers are also great for removing old contact paper and stickers.
It’s better than using a knife or even a putty knife in some instances. Pot scrapers may not be an obvious choice for a remodeling project. But it doesn’t hurt to keep a set in the toolbox instead of just under the kitchen sink.
3. Hex Keys
DIY pieces, such as furniture you assemble yourself, tend to come with hex keys. However, these sets are flimsy. They’re not the easiest to maneuver, leading to frustration and, at times, physical pain. Who wants to waste time fighting with a hex key that won’t seem to turn, no matter how hard you try? Or break out the band-aids and Neosporin?
Getting your own set from the local hardware store is a better bet. These devices tend to be longer, easier to grip, and won’t take the skin off your fingers. By having a high-quality hex key set in your toolbox, you’ll also ensure you have the right size on hand. There’s nothing more exasperating than finding out you must hit pause on your project.
For those concerned about space, hex key sets come in folding versions, too. Folding sets are similar to a multi-tool. All the different hex keys fold into a single apparatus. You can extend the key you need on demand, without searching for it in the toolbox. For convenience, folding sets come in mini and standard sizes.
4. AI Design Apps
With all the buzz around AI, you might automatically associate the technology with how it will change your office job. You’re not necessarily thinking about how it could benefit your next remodeling project. But before you take before-and-after pics, you might want to consider an AI design app.
These apps offer virtual staging features, letting you see exactly how your design ideas can come to life. Want to see how your outdoor patio will look with a pergola? You no longer have to rely on your imagination and online photos of possibilities. You can experiment with various measurements, colors, design features, and materials to assist in your planning process.
If you’re short on ideas, AI design apps can help generate them. Say you know you need to change your primary bathroom. The tub needs to go, along with the dated light fixtures. Yet you’re not exactly sure what type of stand-in shower fixtures and tiles will work best. Use the app to see what your options could be, along with whether they’ll be practical for your space.
Tools for Redesigning Your Home
Homeowners are completing more improvement projects than they did a decade ago. In 2015, the average number of projects per year was around two for the majority of households. That average is now three or more DIY jobs. While homeowners get busy improving how their properties look and feel, it’s hard to ignore the need for proper foresight.
That visionary mindset includes assembling an array of tools from the no-brainers to the not-so-obvious. Don’t assume you’ll be able to pull off your next remodeling project with a hammer and a screwdriver. Admittedly, some of the less obvious tools you may need aren’t necessarily fancy. But there’s no denying these devices can be invaluable when your project’s in full swing.