Though every construction project is undoubtedly different, be it in scale, cost or location, there are plenty of aspects which stay the same, as well as an assortment of tools, equipment selections and components which can be found on almost any site. Whether looking for temporary additions to your toolbox, larger machinery types for significant tasks or hefty power tools to tackle specialist jobs, let Tool Care Hire guide you through an array of the most frequently selected options, with accessories and plant hire assets to boot.
The Project In Question
Before spending a penny on tool hire, permanent acquisition or any other form of equipment purchase, the project in question should be considered, and a budget established. By and large, you can save plenty of money by spending sensibly and spending sums of money on permanent purchases only when absolutely required. Conditions to consider when reviewing your project needs may include:
- The terrain you’re working on – Is your plant hire appropriate.
- The size of the team you’re working with – Are there enough individuals to operate the machinery you’ve proposed for the project?
- The space you have available for the task at hand – Do the proposed machinery hire solutions have enough space to operate?
- The budget you’ve been assigned – Can you afford to permanently acquire the utilities and tools?
- The skill level of those overseeing or working on the project – Are those involved properly qualified or trained to use cutting tools and other machinery?
Hand Tools
First and foremost, hand tools are the very basics of a builder’s toolbox, and will be most frequently used to complete manual tasks, such as chopping, screwing, hammering, tightening and securing. Most commonly coming in the form of simple tools which you use with your hands, and usually not powered by any particular outlet, these are likely to be the bread and butter of a builder or construction worker’s kit, and put the finishing touches to jobs completed by larger machinery. Below are just a few examples:
Hammers
Often used to knock nails into place, remove screws from objects and secure items to a certain spot, hammers are used across the board by workmen, and benefit from a weighted design which allows for a powerful swing. Many variations of the humble hammer can be acquired, from smaller compact tools designed for non-destructive striking applications, to two-handed sledgehammers which are designed to take apart large structures within a matter of blows.
Saws
Though powered saws exist, and can make particular jobs much easier, generally the good old hand-saw is versatile enough to find use in many situations. Mainly used to cut pieces of wood and other materials to a specified length, saws are used regularly for forestry, construction and demolition tasks among others, and retain a high level of accuracy when the user decides to measure and mark out accurately.
Screwdrivers
An all-rounder of a tool, screwdrivers are a staple of the modern toolbox, used most frequently to secure screws in a simple and easily-controlled manner. Available in a number of variations and designs, much like saws, electric screwdrivers are automated and can make particular jobs much easier. Adaptable for the situation you find yourself in, screwdrivers come with a preset head shape and size and many can be adjusted with removable parts.
Power Tools
Power tools are often carried by the individual in question, but will require a source of power to help them run, be that batteries, a mains outlet or other attachment. As the name would suggest, these useful tools often provide more power than their manual counterparts, and are used for applications including drilling, cutting, sanding, grinding, polishing, painting and more. Due to their enhanced power output, these tools are often capable of tackling tougher materials and more intensive tasks, though they may not be usable without adequate training or safety precautions in some instances.
Power Drill
A power drill is a popular tool used for making holes in surfaces, fitted with a bit to determine the size and shape of the hole. Much easier to use than their non-powered counterparts, a power drill relies on the attached motor to function correctly, and these utilities are often used on building sites to drill into wood, plastic or metal surfaces.
Heat Gun
Reliant on a source of power to function correctly, heat guns are a fantastic investment for anyone looking to strip paint and old wallpaper, remove flooring or repair furniture. Heat can of course soften some materials and substances, making them more prone to bending, moulding and shaping. Gas heat guns are less popular, but benefit from being cordless. Electric heat guns can be powered via a mains outlet, and although including a cord attachment, are considered infinitely more practical.
Pressure Washer
Loosely defined, a pressure washer is a power tool used to remove loose paint, mould and dirt from surfaces, and it does this by projecting a high-pressure jet of water onto the concerning wall or object, Often used on vehicles to remove stubborn clumps of accumulated muck and debris, pressure washers are also used in construction jobs, seen as one of the best ways to thoroughly wash a particular interior or exterior space without causing damage or disruption. Attention should be given to the output of a washer, as the high-pressure jet may damage certain surfaces.
Accessories
From PPE to practical gadgets, there are accessories worth considering for your construction task regardless of the size. You may be looking to comply with strict health and safety regulations by equipping staff with exactly what they need, or you may be looking to make a task easier by
Kitting out individuals with particular gadgets. Below are our picks:
Hard Hats
Hard hats are a piece of PPE commonly utilised within the construction trade, and worn by most responsible individuals within dangerous sites. Minimising injury from falling objects and affordable to acquire, there are plenty of convenient protective items to acquire for everyday wear.
Swiss Army Knives
Swiss army knives are designed to be multifunctional, and for this very reason they can help you to tackle a number of issues head-on. Often equipped with torches, lasers, screwdriver heads and more, swiss army knives are fantastic within any toolbox.
Work Gloves
Work gloves are often padded out with material to minimise cuts, bruises and scratches, while maximising grip so everyday construction tasks can still be completed without struggle. Stocked by plenty of recognisable brands, pick up your PPE today.
Tool Care Hire: Seamless Plant Operator And Ladder Hire
At Tool Care Hire, we were established over 30 years ago, and continue to trade under the sole ownership of Martin Phillips. Hiring out everything from carpet cleaners and excavators to cement mixers and large power tools, we’re always adding to our collection in an effort to please all clients. The company has steadily expanded to supply a wide range of plant and equipment, self drive and operated, to both DIY and trade customers, on a small-scale basis as well as at volume. From Access Platforms and Dumpers to Rollers and Telehandlers, we have it all, and can deliver to your site as standard.
Browse the wide range of useful utilities online, and consider the beneficial accessories, machines and tools you can acquire on a temporary basis. Accessible and always maintaining a friendly service, we have depots based across Devon, from Exeter to Exmouth, Torbay and Okehampton – trust our team for affordable and reliable assistance. Any questions? Looking for an accurate quote on small equipment hire? Don’t hesitate to contact us at your convenience.