Some essential tools for your holiday DIY.

The end of the year is drawing near, and so too has the list of things that your were supposed to fix for your spouse around the house. The holidays, give you just the opportunity to get the long DIY list done. It doesn't matter if you are a pro or a first timer, us guys, find great solace in knocking in a few nails, or fixing things around the house. The time will soon come when you need to break out the toolbox. Every person should have a set of tools handy around their home as quick repairs often prevent the need for costly fixes. So how does your toolbox currently look? Should you find yourself lacking in this department, take a look at 10 essential tools we think you should always have.

1. Flat and Phillips screwdrivers. Screwdrivers are all important, we know the perils of tightening a screw with a knife or twisting it in with your fingers.  Flat screwdrivers not only lock in flathead screws, but can also help you with prying and scraping. Phillips screwdrivers, on the other hand, have a four-star point that allows for more torque to be applied. They are a preferred screwdriver for many home improvements. Here is a handy guide to make sure you have the right screwdriver.

2. Tape measure.  Guys are pre-occupied with measuring stuff, and before you think I'm headed for the gutter, think about it? The size of your mags on the car 13",14" 19"? The size of the flat screen on the wall, the distance to the beer fridge. Choose one that is spring-loaded so it can quickly retract when not in use. I find one that has cm and feet are quite handy.

3. Safety glasses. Ok so this is a no brainer. (Like the famous helmet saying: If you have a 10 dollar head buy a 10 dollar helmet), it's all too late when you realise you needed eye protection - after an accident, rather just have a pair in your toolbox as standard, and when you work wear them.  Full stop. Safety glasses can not only protect you from unexpected debris, but also harmful irritants.

4. Hammer. There is no better tool, when a DIY job is going south!  I'm teasing, a Hammer is a must have, and can be used to hammer in nails, remove unwanted nails, shaping (soft) metal, chipping out plaster / tiles, etc. Idealy choose one that suits your hand weight and function wise, you need a hammer that is the right choice for the job at hand.

5. Electric drill and bits. What would home improvements be without a power drill? I have spent many a happy day up a ladder drilling stuff.  Surprise the Mrs, when you put up the curtains and there is no "F'ing and blinding" because the right drill works wonders, and enables you to drill with ease 9 times out of ten, secure a picture to the wall or a curtain rail, or even an electric fence.  Another firm favourite is battery operated drills, but be well advised make sure the batteries are charged, there is nothing more frustrating than reaching for a drill and its batteries are dead flat. Remember to chose the correct drill bits, masonary for brick and concrete, HSS (high speed steel) for metals, and wood drills for wooden applications.

6. Adjustable wrench / Shifter. This guy is so handy to use, and by just adjusting it, takes the place of a whole set of spanners, it can be used in the kitchen or bathrooms, or garden sheds / fences, anywhere there are nuts and bolts of different sizes.

7. Toolbox. Keeping your tools organised and together makes such a difference, when trying to find the right tool for the job at hand. It also assists you in not losing tools on site. It enables you to reach into the cupboard take out one bag (toolbag) and have all your tools at hand on site.  When you are finished you can return it to the cupboard safe in the knowledge that your tools are all accounted for.

8. Combination pliers. A pair of pliers always come in handy, whether it is pulling a wire through a wall and you need just that little but of purchase, or straightening out a nail, pulling out staples.  You can even use it to cut wires or strip them preparing them for installation. (please remember the safest electrical jobs are done with the power OFF) 

9. Pocket knife.  While you might think that it's because I live in Johannesburg, I don't go anywhere without my knife clipped into my pocket, I'm that guy always on the ready, when boxes arrive and need to be opened & unpacked, or that piece of string cut. Most DIY projects and repairs tend to have things that need to be cut, it is best to keep this knife in your inventory. Truth be told I have even used it to cut chocolate cake and the most showy trick, opening a beer with the knife (practise makes perfect), and did I tell you? it buys you lots of credo, when your friends see it's a Bear Grylls. 

10. Level. Watching the Boks trounce Scotland, or the Boks downunder scuttling the Aussies on your home Flat screen, is just that much more enjoyable, when you mounted it level, this stops the crick in your neck. Using a level correctly can be the difference between hanging a crooked picture or flat-screen TV on the wall. They also keep things level when you replace windows or install a new door. Levels will help ensure your projects are properly installed.

While many of you might be going away for the holidays, please ensure your valuables are well secured, if you need any assistance with good quality padlocks, please give us a shout

One last thing, and a cause close to my heart is OUTA, they are fighting to have the tolls scrapped, please support them click HERE for more info.