Ward Schraeder Shares His Best Advice For Buying A New Set Of Tools
When you think about household necessities, does a toolkit come to mind? According to The Home Depot, a toolkit is a non-negotiable item when owning a home. Even if you don't foresee a major home improvement project in your future, you're going to need something to help you hang that bathroom shelf and measure the space for your new TV. Of course, purchasing tools can be overwhelming, especially with so many options and varying prices. Fortunately, Ward Schraeder of HGTV's "Bargain Mansions" knows a thing or two about home improvement projects and the tools they require.
When you have the correct knowledge and guidance, purchasing new tools isn't all that scary. It's a simple list of do's and don'ts to keep in mind as you shop. Whether you're just starting your collection or your kit is in need of an upgrade, Ward Schraeder has the tips and tricks you need when buying a new set of tools.
Talk to professionals
Before starting your DIY project, Ward Schraeder recommends seeking advice from the professionals about which tools will suit your needs. Take a trip to your nearest home improvement store and explain your project to one of the experts. They'll be more than happy to walk you through the tools you'll need. If you want to save yourself some time, you can do your own research at home. The Home Depot offers a hardware and tool guide for all types of home improvement projects, from kitchen renovation to hanging decor in your living room.
The internet is filled with home improvement professionals — all you have to do is look for them. Protool Reviews is just one of many expert resources that can assist you in purchasing a new set of tools by offering up-to-date reviews on the latest tool releases. If you end up consulting with professionals, you can walk in with some idea of what you'll need.
Take 'em for a test run
If you haven't looked at a tool catalog recently, you might be in for a shock when you check out the prices of tools these days. That being said, Ward Schraeder suggests borrowing tools from your neighbor, friend, or family member to test out the tool before you commit to buying one yourself. You can actually rent tools from home improvement stores as well. The Home Depot has a rental program that allows homeowners to rent outdoor tools, indoor tools, and even large equipment (using professional assistance, of course).
Once you've had some time to get acquainted with the tool, you can decide for yourself if it's worth the investment. Don't feel pressured to make a decision right away — tools aren't something you should purchase on a whim (again, they are quite expensive). Even if you end up liking the tool, you should still do your research before choosing a brand.
Opt for a starter kit
If this is your first toolkit, where better to start than with the basics? For example, The New York Times suggests a few must-haves for your toolkit, including a tape measure, multibit screwdriver, and 16-ounce hammer. Ward Schraeder recommends having a couple of power tools at your disposal as well, such as a power drill, circular saw, and nail gun. These items are most commonly used in DIY projects around the house, which is why they are essential to any homeowner's toolkit.
By purchasing a starter kit from the store, you are ultimately saving a good amount of money by bundling the tools together. Most (if not all) home improvement stores provide homeowners with the opportunity to purchase a set of essential tools, which sometimes come complete with their own toolbox. This is a great option for those first-time homeowners that have no tools and no clue where to start.
Keep an eye out for sales
As we just mentioned, tools are not cheap. This is especially true if you're in the market for a power tool, like a cordless drill or a belt sander. If you don't have the option of continuously borrowing a tool from someone, and you foresee yourself using the tool on a regular basis, keep your eyes peeled for deals. Ward Schraeder says to wait to purchase tools until they go on sale (that is if you don't absolutely need them and have the option to wait).
You can expect to find great deals on tools around the holidays, but there are certain days of the year to keep an eye out for as well. Father's Day and Black Friday are known for their sales on tools, and you may also see end-of-the-summer sales, which typically offer major discounts on some of the most popular tools and accessories.
Become a one-brand household
Before you go blindly running down the tool aisle and start grabbing a handful of different brands, consider sticking to just one. According to Ward Schraeder, many brands offer deals as a way to say thank you for your loyalty (another easy way to save yourself some money). Protool Reviews says choosing one tool brand offers the benefit of needing just one charger for all your power tools. Often, homeowners will select tools from different brands, only to realize later that they need to purchase several chargers, whereas they could have had one charger for everything.
Additionally, by sticking to one brand, you develop a relationship with them by gaining trust in their products. If you notice a positive consistency in their tools, we don't recommend branching off to other brands. As the old saying goes, if it's not broken, don't fix it (unless you have a great set of tools to use).