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Most toolboxes include the absolute essentials. However, there’s a world of lesser-known equipment out there that can help you power through projects with precision and ease, or broaden the scope of what you can tackle. Here are a few of our favourites.
Many D.I.Y. enthusiasts and Tradies consider a circular saw a must. However, when there’s a need for greater precision – for example, 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,” he explains. “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."
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,” he says. “This is ideal if you need to determine square meterage for flooring materials, wallpaper or paint.”
Tip: If you opt for a model with Bluetooth connectivity, the data can be transferred to an app and documented for easy reference.
The endlessly adaptable ‘go-to gadget’ for D.I.Y. and craft enthusiasts has to be a handheld rotary power tool. “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,” says Caroline Chagas of Dremel.
Cordless models are great for short bursts of work that need mobility, like shaving off plaster. 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.
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 a new tool bag, 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.
D.I.Y. projects can get messy, but with a wet and dry vacuum, you can clean up things like sawdust, wood shavings, rubble, 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.”
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 an adequate cord length.
Priced at under $20 and small enough to fit in your pocket, a multi-function paint scraper is a cost-effective tool that can be invaluable throughout the painting process. It’s designed to function as a chisel to scrape flat surfaces and get into cracks to remove flaky paint or debris; it 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.
Weeds are the thorn in every gardener’s side. However, 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. 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. The spring-loaded eject release is extra efficient, allowing the weeds to be dropped straight into a wheelbarrow or green bin.
Check out our range of tool storage.
Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.
Photo Credit: Ozito
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
