Today’s economy makes it difficult for homeowners to get new mortgages. Instead of searching for a dream home, they want to improve their current residence. Homeowners are discovering the joy that comes with a DIY job, and they’re also more willing to tackle maintenance and make improvements.
DIY home projects are best if you have the right tools.
These tools are great for DIY projects, even though you may not have considered them.
* Caulking gun and adhesives. Although everyone is familiar with the importance of having a hammer, nails and a caulking gun on hand for emergencies, some people may not know that adhesives can be an excellent alternative or complement to fasteners.”Adhesives can be used in applications where mechanical fasteners are not practical, such as in the installation of tub surround or a tile backsplash,”Mike Goldstein is senior brand manager at Liquid Nails Brand Adhesives.www.liquidnails.com). He also said that adhesives are more flexible than mechanical fasteners like screws and nails in the installation process.
“Once something is screwed, nailed or stapled in place, it is very difficult to re-adjust its position,” says Goldstein. “With an adhesive, there is some amount of open time, approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to reposition the substrate immediately following installation.”
For projects around the home, adhesives are useful. You can use them to fix loose laminate pieces on countertops or to repair small items like furniture or heirlooms. For more information about adhesives, visit liquidnails.com.
* Multimeter. You’re not planning on doing electronics work, so you don’t need to measure voltage, right? You might be amazed at how many projects you will come across electrical systems. A multimeter is a cost-effective tool that can help you determine if an outlet is active or not.
* Digital camera. Although you don’t have to keep it in the toolbox, a digital camera is invaluable when taking apart something. Snap a photo before you begin disassembling an IKEA bedroom or light fixture. This will help you to see how it should look when you are done. You will have a picture to refer to while you put it back together.
