Tools & equipment FAQs
Answering the most commonly asked questions about tools & equipment for DIY
Finding the right tools to complete DIY jobs around the home can seem challenging at first, but it doesn’t have to be. Our experts have put together this helpful guide to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about tools and equipment for DIY.
No matter what tool you’re using, whether it be a hand or power tool, always read the instructions carefully and wear protective gear if required. No home improvement project is worth an injury!
What do you use an angle grinder for?
An angle grinder has a multitude of uses, from cutting metal and grinding away excess material to removing rust and cutting concrete. Angle grinders are powerful tools and must always be used with the correct protective gear, such as safety glasses, gloves and hearing protection (they can get quite noisy!).
These handheld power tools are usually powered by an electric motor and you can attach and use different disks depending on your task.
What is an impact driver used for?
An impact driver is a power tool used for driving screws and fasteners into various materials. Impact drivers are convenient for tasks involving large or long screws and are often used in these home DIY jobs:
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Assembling furniture
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Home renovations - like installing drywall or securing fixtures
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Installing doors and windows
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Building or repairing fences and decking
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Home maintenance - tightening loose screws on door hinges or outdoor furniture
For more information on the impact driver, look at our electric screwdriver and impact driver buying guide.
What does a drill bit do?
A drill bit is a power tool accessory that essentially creates holes. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, depending on the requirement and attach to a drill. Different drill bits work for different materials and create different-sized holes.
Unsure what drill bit you need? Check out our advice on finding the right drill bit.
What drill bits are best for metal?
Having the right drill bits for working with metal is important for achieving clean and neat holes that don’t compromise the bit or material you’re drilling into. There’s a variety of different drill bits you can use depending on the metal you’re working with:
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High-Speed Steel (HSS) Drill Bits: HSS drill bits are commonly used for drilling into metal as they are designed to withstand the heat generated during metal drilling. HSS drill bits work well for various metals, including aluminium, brass, copper, and mild steel.
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Cobalt Drill Bits: Cobalt drill bits are used for drilling into harder metals like stainless steel, hardened steel, and cast iron.
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Titanium-Coated HSS Drill Bits: Titanium-coated HSS drill can effectively drill into various metals, including aluminium and stainless steel.
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Carbide-Tipped Drill Bits: Carbide-tipped drill bits are ideal for drilling into very hard metals, such as hardened steel and cast iron.
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Step Drill Bits: Step drill bits are handy for drilling holes in thin metal sheets.
What are masonry drill bits used for?
Masonry drill bits are used to make holes in hard masonry surfaces like concrete, brick, and stone. If you need to anchor a fixture to one of these surfaces, you will most likely need a masonry drill bit to securely attach or mount an item.
If you’re doing a one-off project or task using one of the above tools or something else, and don’t fancy investing in a power or hand tool permanently, our tool hire service is the perfect solution.