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D.I.Y. and home maintenance projects are so much easier if your tools are organised. If sorting them seems like a daunting task, don’t worry – these clever storage solutions will make getting – and staying – organised simple and easy.
Keep tools that are in regular rotation (like your hammer and screwdrivers) on a pegboard. Pegboard holes are arranged in either a diagonal or square layout, so think about which hooks and accessories are best for your needs and make sure they are compatible with the board you pick.
A workbench with an integrated pegboard can be a good combination. “When planning your pegboard layout, think of what tools or accessories you use most often,” says Andrew Derer of Pinnacle Hardware. “Try grouping your tools based on what they are used for, allowing you to easily access everything you need depending on the project. Another tip is to arrange tools in straight lines.” While you might be keen to maximise every inch of space on your pegboard, Andrew says to be mindful not to overload it.
Tote boxes come in a variety of sizes to provide versatile storage for hardware such as nuts and bolts, hinges and brackets. It’s simple to hang them off a backing plate attached to the wall, and they can be rearranged as needed.
For even smaller bits and bobs, compartment organisers are ideal for items like screws, nails and driver bits. Larger versions are great for medium-sized stalwarts like drill bits, nail punches, pencils and marking tools.
For collections of hand tools (such as spanner sets and chisels), a chest or trolley might be best. Drawers allow you to keep your tools neatly arranged, and chests of drawers (especially ones on castors) can be easier to transport. “Review the size of the tools you’ll need to fit into your new tool box,” says Gary Schoch of Kincrome. “For example, hand tools will be easy to access in shallow drawers, whereas power tools require deep drawers.”
Lockable cabinets are perfect for power tools or items you want to store safely. “A lockable metal cabinet can be a more secure, clean storage solution,” says Andrew. “Also, locking up items such as paints and cleaning equipment can offer peace of mind that these are not easily accessible to young children or pets.”
The Ryobi hanging wall cabinet has a pegboard on the side for blades and attachments. You can choose a locking door or open shelves, and both versions feature hanging rails that let you slot in One+ tools for easy access.
Storage rails are good for getting larger objects off the floor. You can add compatible hooks and hangers for everything from bikes to ladders. For example, just slot the hook onto the rail where you need it to hang long-handled tools such as rakes and brooms. When mounted on the wall with the correct fixings, the system should be sturdy enough to hold up bulkier items (like the lawnmower).
Tool bags are usually made from heavy-duty Nylon and have plenty of pockets for tools, fasteners and other hardware. A solid toolbox with integrated sorters is also a great way to store your gear on the go. For larger jobs, or if you’re using your tools professionally, a stackable, rolling multi-box system provides even more space and versatility.
Tradies who take their livelihoods out to job sites need an ambitious space allocation. “A ute tool box made from durable aluminium checker plate is the perfect choice,” says Ben Kissell of Rhino, adding that a 900mm-wide box fits neatly between the wheel arches of a styleside ute tray.
Another durable option is a cargo case made from polyethylene plastic. Look for one with a weather-resistant seal, such as those from Rhino.
When you’re on a work site, give your tools the security they deserve by locking them up any time you’re not using them. Stow your gear in a heavy-gauge steel site box with a high-security locking system that encloses the padlock. For padlocks, choose one with a boron-carbide shackle that is almost impossible to cut. For tools that can be chained up, opt for braided steel cable. (Unlike ordinary twisted cable, this type tends to squash rather than snip cleanly when attacked with bolt cutters.)
Check out our step-by-step guide on how to set out tools on a pegboard.
Photo Credit: Cath Muscat, Ryobi and Pinnacle Hardware.
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.
