7 Tools Every Builder Needs

When your friend invites you over to see their brand-new kitchen remodel, do you ever stop and think about the work it took to get that finished product? Building any type of structure is no easy task. Construction is a major hands-on industry and involves all kinds of cool tools to do the job right. 

If you’re considering taking on your first project, here are 7 tools every builder needs,

Pencil & Tape Measure
Just like peanut butter and jelly the pencil and tape measure is an essential combo for any construction project. A pencil will help you record important information, like measurements and ideas. It can really come in handy when you need to write a quick measurement on a scrap piece of wood! They help you work faster and more efficiently. Additionally, they come in big when needing to cut wood or tile. You’ll need a tape measure to ensure you get the cut right every time.

Speed Square & Level

With almost every cut and measure, you'll need a speed square and level. These are both tools you will use constantly. A level helps you achieve a perfectly level line. Most builders use a spirit level. If the air bubble in the liquid is in the middle of the vial, it is level with the earth. In addition to the level, most carpenters use a 7-inch speed square for 90-degree and 45-degree cuts.

Utility Knife
A good heavy-duty multipurpose knife will save you time while you work and will be much safer than a regular pocket knife. With a good utility knife, you can cut through drywall, boxes, rope, sheet plastic, and more.

Hammer
Hammers will always be an essential hand tool in every builder’s tool belt. Different kinds of projects require different kinds of hammers, but every builder should own a classic claw hammer. But if you're looking to flex on your carpenter friends, look no further than the Stiletto 15 oz. TiBone 3 Milled face Titanium Hammer. It gives you the most lightweight and efficient swing. In addition, different projects call for different types of nails. Make sure you have a couple of different options to choose from.

Power Drill
When a project requires more than just a few nails, a power drill will come in handy. You have the choice between an impact driver or a drill. There is a push in the industry to use an impact driver for everything that a drill can do. There are very reputable brands, but the two most reliable are Milwaukee and Dewalt. Going with a battery-operated drill will be easier to move around your space. Just make sure you charge it or have a power cord option nearby. 

Saw
To make sure all of your materials are cut to the exact length that you need for your project, you will need a saw. You’ll find there are different types of saws you can go with. Power saws can go through materials quickly, but miter saws, sawzalls, jigsaws, table saws, and circular saws can also come in handy. Blades can be swapped out to cut through metal, plastic, or wood.

Safety Equipment
Safety Equipment is often overlooked but is actually the most important tool of all. Without it, you can’t even walk onto a job site. The Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) recommends Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for your eyes, face, feet, head, hands, and hearing while working in construction. We highly suggest you invest in safety glasses, gloves, a hard hat, sturdy footwear, earplugs, and a respirator mask and replace them regularly. This will ensure you are working safely and smart on your project.