How to use these basic DIY tools

You might have a few basic tools in your toolboxes for odd jobs around the house, but do you know how to use them? With over four out of five British adults assembling and installing their own furniture, it’s important to learn the techniques needed to help you get the job done quickly. 

In this guide, we’ll outline four of the tools most frequently used during DIY jobs, with a quick user manual to help point you in the right direction. 

1. Screwdrivers 

According to an exclusive study by SGS Engineering, over a third of people don’t know how to use a screwdriver properly. The good news is that within just a few simple steps, you’ll be ready to go: 

• Always ensure that the head is the right size and shape to match the screw.  
• Once you’ve gripped the surface, insert the screwdriver, and turn clockwise. 
• To stay safe, make sure that your other hand is away from the screw in case of any slips. 

2. Spanners 

Spanners are an integral feature in all kinds of toolboxes. The best method to make sure you’ll be using a spanner safely is to pull it towards you, rather than forcefully pushing it away from you.  

3. Hand saws 

Handsaws have the potential to be incredibly hazardous if they’re not used correctly. To saw as accurately as possible, it’s a good idea to use a pencil to draw out a line where you’d like to cut. Always either firmly hold or fasten the piece of wood still and start sawing with a short stroke at first. Once the saw is firmly wedged into the wood, it’s safe to go faster. 

4. Tape measure 

Surprisingly, tape measures can cause injuries too! While they can’t cause severe damage or cut off a limb like a hand saw could, the tension behind the tape measure still demands care and attention.  

Since the tape retracts very quickly, it could also pose a threat to breakable items in your home. Try to make sure that you: 

• Secure it, especially if you’re working at a height 
• Be aware of any electrical items around you – a steel tape measure conducts electricity, making it a shock hazard 
• Retract it slowly to avoid whacking yourself in the face or damaging its internal mechanism 

With any new DIY venture, don’t start working if you’re at all unsure on how to use your equipment – it’s always a good idea to ask for help, first. Above all, never DIY with gas – call in a Gas Sage registered engineer to carry out the work properly and safely.