The must-have tools to become a DIY pro in 2024

The things you need in your toolbox to transform your home

Whether you’ve been inspired by a TikTok or been to your friend’s house and seen some wall panelling you must have for your own home, there’s a variety of DIY trends and common home improvement jobs that you may want to do in 2024. To do some of the most popular home DIY you will need specific tools, so we’ve put together a guide to help you know what you need.

The basic tools everyone needs for DIY

Regardless of what job you’re undertaking, there are a few staples that should belong in everyone’s toolbox. A measuring tape, level, stud finder and screwdriver are all regularly used items for most DIY projects. But, what if you’re doing something more specific? Here are some of the most common home improvements and the tools you need to complete them.

Decking and patio construction

Adding decking or a patio to your garden can completely transform your space, and with the right tools, this is a job you can do yourself! Creating a deck or patio space typically involves power tools such as a circular saw for cutting deck boards, a cordless drill for screwing down boards, and a nail gun for securing framing or railings.

With any power tool, always read the instructions carefully and ensure you have the correct protective gear.

Panelling

Wall panelling in particular has taken the DIY world by storm as this ever-popular trend is an easy way to breathe new life into your home. Depending on the size and material you’re working with you can use a hand saw or powered one. You will also need a measurer and level to ensure your panels are straight and uniform. 

Building furniture

Buying flat-pack furniture or even creating your own designs with various materials, is a great way to transform your home. DIY furniture assembly or custom furniture projects often require power tools like a drill for making holes and driving screws, a power sander for smoothing surfaces, and a mitre saw for precise angle cuts.

Shelving & storage

You can never have too much storage and putting up shelves to create storage solutions yourself can be a quick and cost-effective way to organise your home. Aside from measuring tape and a level (we told you they’re used a lot!) to ensure your storage is straight. You will also need a drill or driver to fasten screws and anchors into the wall, a circular saw if you’re making your own shelves and a ladder.

Hiring DIY tools & equipment

If you’re planning a one-off DIY project or perhaps can’t justify purchasing a power tool that you may not use often, we offer a tool hire service so you can rent the DIY equipment you need for a weekend or a week!

For more DIY inspiration and information, take a look at our guide about how to choose the right power tools for your project.