Top 10 Tools for the New DIY'er for less than £100

[@andrewhead6267]

Good advice. I bought my daughter most of your top 10 basic tools when she moved into her first house. Not as glamorous asa bottle of Champagne, but it has enabled her to do the jobs she needed. A few shelves, put up a garden shed and fitting it out, and maintenance and repairs around the home. I really think basic home maintenance DIY should be part of the national curriculum for all year 11 children.

[@ProperDIY]

Good stuff. Could be taught in place of the traditional woodwork - which prob doesn't even happen now!

[@happygardener3990]

My Dad did the same for me, 30 years later and he's long since passed on but I still use the tools he gave me and I treasure them.

[@colingoode3702]

Snap. I bought my daughter an 85 piece hand tool kit when she moved into her first flat. She uses it a bit but it's mainly there for when I get called over to fix or fettle something for her. Over the years I've managed to build up a collection of Worx PowerShare tools which I find are the perfect balance between top end stupid money & the bargain basement variety. I also pass on some my older tools to my son when as & when they get replaced with new ones - just as my dad did for me.

[@bluecurlygirl]

Wonderful gift for your daughter. Far more valuable than a bottle of champers. Well done. Totally agree with you about home maintenance being part of the curriculum. Everyone needs to hang a curtain pole or towel rail etc. I came from parents who hadn't a clue about home repairs or diy. My father hung wallpaper once, he hung it upside down. He put up a picture in the hall. It fell that evening and smashed. So grateful for youtube. It taught me most of what I know and I'm learning more every day.

[@fus149hammer5]

In my day maintaining military vehicles like the FV432 any sight of an adjustable spanner could get you on a charge. The right sized spanner for the right sized nut. Using an adjustable no matter how big could round off a sump plug or any nut causing thousands of pounds of damage and taking an AFV out of service. That lesson has stuck with me ever since. I always use the right tool for the job.😊

[@iainamurray]

Thanks for the tips, though you missed one! You mentioned the 90° square, but there's also a 45° one too!

[@benh1216]

Top 10 Power tools for the DIYer would be a good video next! 😄👍👍

[@charlierobson]

Solid, sensible advice. Your channel is a haven of calm. Thank you!

[@ProperDIY]

Well thank you very much - I appreciate that!

[@bluecurlygirl]

That's a great list. Over the years I've accumulated most of them. Most recent acquirement was a combi drill which had 2 batteries with it. Promotional deal. Thanks for this. Very reassuring. My wallet breathed a sigh of relief!

[@everythingisnand]

I absolutely love this video! It's realistic and downto earth. I do a lot of DIY and the only tools I had for the longest time was two screwdrivers (one flat and one star), a handsaw, An electric drill, a €1 pencil, and a 5m tape measure. They really go a long way. You can also buy screws that come with the correct bits for them. I would suggest investing in a magnetic bit holder, but you don't need one. It just makes it easier. Some clamps makes it a little easier if you're building on your own. Edit: I did have a hammer too, but I haven't needed it much as I mainly work with screws.

[@billconiston8091]

Great video, couple of thoughts: 1 - The adjustable spanner is not in my view a replacement for a proper spanner, it's too easy to round over the nuts especially with the cheap ones. 2 - 95% of home jobs with 10 tools might be a bit of a stretch...half the fun of DIY is tool acquisition! :) 3 - totally agree with the number 1, cordless drill is the essential tool! A "proper" brand (dewalt, makita, bosch...) as additional bare tools can be bought to utilise the batteries and perhaps could be a better investment than a no-name. Cheers!

[@iainamurray]

Re no 1. Smaller nuts maybe, but larger ones tend to be fine. Or get a Knipex adjustable. That won't cause any bother, though access is trickier!

[@michaeldunham3385]

@@iainamurray no you can't beat a proper set of spanners. Adjustables tend to slip

[@iainamurray]

@@michaeldunham3385 You obviously haven't used a pair of Knipex!

[@michaeldunham3385]

@@iainamurray 35 years as an electrician...... I've used knipex but they don't beat a good set of spanners

[@iainamurray]

@@michaeldunham3385 Depends on what you're doing. I'd much rather use the Knipex wrench for a lot of jobs unless it's hard to get to.

[@stretchclogg]

My garage is stocked with Aldi/Lidl tools! They do everything I need them to do and my sliding mitre saw (also Aldi) hasn't let me down either. I had more expensive tools years ago (stolen, bastards!) and to be honest for what I need them for now I will stick with cheap. Love the videos and I have put some of your tips to good use during the past 6 months! Cheers Mate!

[@benh1216]

The Erbauer EXT range on Screwfix and B&Q are really good and not too expensive either. Have a look! I have got their impact driver and combi drill twinpack, bare circular saw and multitool!

[@s1dew1nd3r4]

@@benh1216 they are decent tbf and brushless too!

[@s1dew1nd3r4]

iv got some of the ferrex aldi stuff and its decent enough isnt it for the price point! only gripe is the battery availability from aldi has been so hit and miss, really difficult to get 20/40v batteries and for the most part also difficult to get the 20v batteries! Currently i have the impact driver, rotary sander, recip saw, air pump and the rotary SDS drill.. all been decent, the impact driver was an absolute peach of a buy - used it so much its untrue, i would highly recommend an impact driver to anybody starting out!

[@stretchclogg]

@@s1dew1nd3r4 I have a big variety and I believe Santa is buying me a Palm Router and Table Saw! The 18v Circular Saw is a bit ropey with the supplied blade so I will try a better one before I write it off completely. The Corded SDS Hammer Drill/Chisel I bought for £20 from Aldi is excellent, just needs greasing after heavy use. Love em!

[@s1dew1nd3r4]

@@stretchclogg lovely jubbly! theres a 20v ferrex circular saw in the local store near me that im going to go and pick up - seen some reviews that say its not really powerful enough and stops at times cutting through stuff but as you say, maybe a change to a better quality blade could solve the problem! The mitre saw is something i DO definitely want/need!

[@Simon-kh2dd]

Great video, The only thing I might add is one of those cheap work benches with vice. I spend years on my hands and knees and devising ways to keep whatever I was working on from moving about (money was tight! or was it just me?) I finally bought a light weight folding workbench with a vice. I think it was about £10!!! They are still about for similar money. It was very helpful. I was guilty of a lot of risky "improvisation" and looking back it is a miracle I kept all my fingers! Stay safe!

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks. So it's a top 10 so what would you remove?

[@Simon-kh2dd]

@@ProperDIY Ah Ha! good question, I had to look at the video again. For me it would be the adjustable spanner, likely because I have always had spanners due to my long held interest in car maintenance. I guess everyone will have a variation. If you start with nothing it is absolutely a strong top 10.

[@vkman34]

This is a good starting list and is pretty much the first tools I bought. But it's only a start and my advice is never struggle or try to improvise with the tools you have - if you need another tool or part to do something, or to make it easier, get it. I have an old property made of really hard, tough bricks, and I spent hours trying to drill a hole with a regular cordless drill and blunted my masonry bits. Then I bought an SDS drill and it was a revelation. When I had to screw cabinets to a wall, I was like a contortionist trying to squeeze my wrist and screwdriver right into the top corner of the cabinet. It was a nightmare, until I went out a bought a long reach screwdriver, and suddenly it was a breeze. Overall the most useful tool I own is a ratchet screwdriver; I rarely use conventional screwdrivers.

[@cr-ew8od]

Love the intro twist

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks

[@wummerG]

For a moment I thought I can justify splurging on those fancier tools :p

[@animationcreations42]

For entry level cordless tools I'd personally recommend going with LIDL's Parkside range, assuming you're not in any rush since they're usually only in stock a few weeks a year. They have a vast range of tools at really good prices, and have a 3 year warranty. I have basically their full 20V and 12V range, and can't say a bad thing about them.

[@ikabod6908]

I find macallister from b and a pretty good and reasonably priced

[@ProperDIY]

Good tip! I have a number of items form Lidl and Aldi but only having stock a few weeks of the year is a problem.

[@tonyoconnor6784]

I made two doors for my lean-to from watching your video, last great advice proper DIY. Thank you 🇨🇮👍

[@gurdevbrar]

Combi drill , impact driver from Lidl Parkside with 4 ah batteries cost around £80 . Have been using them from last 1 yr also bought the grass trimmer and jigsaw which are good quality too. That Big hammer drill from Screwfix brand Titan is also a must have. As a new homeowner I found the evolution circular saw as a must have . Multi tool from lidl costs only around 20£ and is very handy. Also Facebook marketplace is a good place to look for tools.

[@deanobeany]

Glad you're enjoying your tool journey, but for diy I'm not sure powered saws are ESSENTIAL. By the time you need to cut large amounts of wood accurately goes step beyond diy lol you're an amateur carpenter😂

[@AccountantDoesDIY]

Agree with this list. The only comment I’d make is to buy the highest amp battery you can afford. My first ever DIY project was a garden office build from scratch (with hindsight quite a big job for a complete novice who’d never even hung a picture before!). Combi drills/impact drivers ran out of power far too quickly with anything less than 3amps. I’ve now got three 5amp batteries and was best investment I made (although even a 5amp is quickly drained when using angle grinder or multitool!).

[@keithfoster6000]

II remember as an apprentice electrician and the only way to fix conduit or other items to walls was the Rawl Punch, bang, bang, rwist and repeat. Then oil soaked plugs, called rawl plugs, tap in and fix, terrible things as they were prone to failure. The power driver is and was a god send...

[@ruaraidhmcdonald-walker9524]

Hehe! Multiplied by pi! 😉😂 Did not know that about saws being used as set squares. There you go, every day’s a scholl day! We’re deep down the XR rabbithole now, I think between metalwork (me) and woodwork (Mrs) we have 6 or 7 or so. Great quality tools!

[@ProperDIY]

Well done getting the Pi reference!

[@ch1proy60]

theres usually 45 and 90 degrees on the saw handle

[@bobx2387]

Hi Stuart. We often forget that people coming into any craft/DIY are not conversant with tools. A great intro video for anyone "starting up" I would say though and it has been drummed into me and I pass it on to others... Buy the best you can afford and ask others what they would buy. But, get the best as they will last. I am now passing on my tools to my son and son in law. Cheers. Bob

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks 👍. This was requested by a few people and as you say, we do forget that people are starting out all of the time hence the vid

[@TheLukemcdaniel]

Instead of buying some of these as singles, it's probably better to get a kit with most of them. Then you have a case to keep it all together without having to spend more money on a tool box/bag. It may have a few things you don't need, or at least not that often, but the price won't be that much off. Mine came with a hammer, screwdriver with 20 something different heads, 6 precision drivers for smaller screws, ratchet set including an extension, and the most common metric and standard sockets, a couple of wrenches, etc.

[@randomtask01057]

Mate, just came across your channel and have thoroughly enjoyed your content, simple approach and usage of the metric system!! Just wanted to say your doing a brilliant job and to keep cracking with the channel - thanks for all the videos and commitment so far and I wish you greater success!

[@ProperDIY]

Well thank you very much - this type of feedback really helps me to keep going!

[@Gerry2210]

Just found what I need on another of your videos, garden auger! Thanks for that Joe. 👍👍

[@marktaylor9166]

Great video as usual.one thing I would say regarding the drill is when buying power tools some manufacturers use the same batteries for years and years.I had a Bosch set of power tools and when the batteries packed up I was forced to throw them away as they no longer made them

[@typhoontim125]

Lidl or Aldi for the drill....amaaazing value!...and come to think of it....you can probably get most of the other tools in the video at Lidl & Aldi too.

[@weightcontrolandfitness442]

I liked your idea of using the Irwin spreader to push in the drill when using overhead.

[@ProperDIY]

Good, it came to me after my muscles failed me

[@deanobeany]

Not essential but i LOVE my impact driver. We overboarded over artex, tuousands of 75mm screews. The drill couldnt handle it. ID smahed them in. Bit of a luxury but if you have any project where you need to alternate drilling/screwing it makes life so much better

[@k.r.lionheart6460]

A good tip about using the saw for a marking a right angle 👍

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks 👍

[@iainpops5079]

Sorry Stuart, meant to say love the videos, and the sensible advice with none of the waffle that our cousins from across the pond inflict!,

[@GraemeMcN]

A pair of safety glasses should be on the list in my opinion. You can get rated / certified ones for cheap.

[@norfolkhall]

Noticed the UK link to the screwdriver set. Only flat and Philips head screwdrivers. Would have thought the majority of screws you are likely to come across in the UK would be Pozidrive. To my knowledge Philips and Pozidrive are not interchangeable.

[@anyvers]

Pi (at 9:07) is another clever multiplier in your tool arsenal.

[@smithy3269]

As an engineer I’m offended by the recommendation for an adjustable over a set of spanner’s lol Like a flathead to the heart 💔

[@idi0tdetectioninprogress]

Adjustable for plumbing, spanners for engineering! I only use Bahco, cheap adjustables move and have too much play in them.

[@bartoncessna1]

You suckered me with the intro. I was feeling pleased with myself when I saw I had everything on the table - except for the rubber mallet!! 🤣🤣🤣 Another great vid matey.

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you

[@duncanmacleod7283]

I'd have added a small number 4 hand plane, and although technically speaking not a 'tool' I'd also add safety specs /dust masks. I think you'd still be under £100. By the way, that handsaw will also allow you to mark a 45 degree cut.

[@velocgee2874]

I would class this list more under ‘home essentials’ as everyone home owner ought to have them 😉

[@typhoontim125]

Great video..great advice...and like the line at the end about the Laser level!

[@TheFazer1992]

Great video, went for proper items that others miss on these videos. One thing I would add is to try to shop at bootsales, and it goes for anyone tbh. Bought a circ saw on the cheap from Screwfix (30/40 quid evolution) , within a month found a virtually knew track saw with track for 30 quid which has made the evo circ redundant except for reclaimed wood and the other things that the multi blade cuts. While over kill for most DIYers it's great for someone who wants to build something most days off, and a great place for building up a few more "specialised" tools.

[@ProperDIY]

That's a good tip. Funny though I haven't actually watched any other 'new DIY'ers tool vids' so this list is purely mine

[@raphaelbenson8526]

Could you do a video about *wall plugs* ? What to use when, measures relating plug size to screw size, etc. ? Thanks!

[@jasonmartin5430]

I have only recently found your channel, and I must say I am most impressed! Your top ten is pretty much the same as the contents of the tool box i keep available in the house - all the good toys are safely locked elsewhere and not always that accessible on demand. I would add one item to this list and that is a Speed Square; they really are the most useful of items - though is one really a tool?

[@j17patel1]

Multiplied by 3.1415927 at the end, must mean your sums are bang on!

[@marks-0-0]

Totally agree with your choice but just as a cordless drill is an essential item nowdays i would say a cheap mitre saw is a must too. For any kind of finish work only a mitre saw will give you a square straight cut plus angles. Its also invaluable for finely trimming wood if your first cut is too long.

[@ProperDIY]

For me a mitre saw would definitely be the next purchase after a drill but I couldn't suggest a mitre saw to a new DIY'er and then drop a Stanley knife or spirit level - only allowed 10 in a top 10!

[@marks-0-0]

@@ProperDIY fair enough 👍

[@notnow12345]

Love the idea of drilling an RSJ with a cordless drill and a couple of quick grip clamps. Just found your channel and subscribed, now for the binge watch.

[@ProperDIY]

Welcome on board - enjoy!

[@Dog-whisperer7494]

Great video mate some very good advice there. My cordless drill cost me £28 from home nave twenty years ago and my mains powers drill was from B&Q cost me £70 again twenty years ago and as an electrician they have done a lot of work and they are still going strong but I did have to get a new battery for the cordless. I don’t have never have gone for the fancy overpriced brands and I have never had any problems with what I have . Great video 👍⚡️❤️

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks! Good advice and feedback!

[@MarkiiiRust]

Love your videos. Just got our first home in the uk moving in next year when built. Planning to make a lot of the furniture and two wardrobes that fit into walled areas myself. If u got any of that sort of thing to do, whack it on here😛

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks. I have a new home too and planning to do the same over the winter (most current jobs are outside while I have the opportunity) so you may find some coming up interesting.

[@EM-fh2tx]

All useful stuff; great gift set for a new home owner!

[@ProperDIY]

I think so too!

[@craigbeas6111]

A junior hacksaw would be good too 👍👍👍

[@lesthiele4921]

That wax some great advice, one of my favourite tools is my late fathers spirit level, it3a german brand and would be at least sixty years old, as I am sixty-fuve. Keep safe and well.

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks for sharing!

[@lewisreeves9843]

This was a great video!

[@russellguyver7746]

Have you done a video on the best Dremel drill. Are they worth getting? Are the cheaper ones worth it? Wired or wireless?

[@terryconehead2007]

Thanks I’m new to regular DIY and finding a fun hobby more than a task these days, your videos have been a great help setting up my new workshop / Den 👍👍👍

[@ProperDIY]

That's really good to hear

[@contessa.adella]

I love power tools, well all tools really. Finding a use for them is almost secondary….Is that bad?😁 All,I would say is…a good drill lasts years for DiY, so do spend the extra on a top brand (not necessarily top of the range) and you’ll never regret the outlay long term.

[@alimahmood4422]

Super videos. Your content is really good and I learn a lot. I was wondering if you had a video on how to fix/top-up pointing on brickwork. Or replace blow bricks. I have no clue where to start or what the correct ration and consistency the mortar should be.

[@andrewwilson3663]

Probably worth adding that as far as a cordless drill / driver is concerned, many of the supermarket specials are pretty asthmatic, especially when it comes to drilling masonry. Might be OK in a newer house, but will get you nowhere drilling older and engineering bricks, or concrete lintels to put the curtains or blinds up.

[@tyrekycker]

Brilliant video...!!.. I went down the power tool (Ryobi) route of the saw, only due to amount of wood, pallets etc, I'll cut up for firepit.. just need a good spirit level now... Thank you!! 👍👍👍

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks

[@johnm3413]

I think you nailed it with those 10 items. I had a quick look around my tool shed and couldn’t come up with anything else I’d suggest in a first 10 items. Good job. I have recently treated myself after 30years of DIY to a Dewalt cordless drill and impact driver. Should have got them years ago.

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you. I could have come up with another 20 but have to stop somewhere for the new DIY'er. I really like my Dewalt drill and impact driver and, as you said I should have invested in them earlier.

[@BrianSmith-ow9gy]

Can you advise re tool belts for the diyer? And can I suggest a mains tester screwdriver is a must when buying a set of screwdrivers.

[@wcompto]

Always good videos, plus it’s like listening to Roger Daltrey!

[@grotekleum]

Great video. I was taught never to bang two hammer heads together. Thanks for sharing.

[@ProperDIY]

Urban myth

[@grotekleum]

@@ProperDIY I bow to your greater knowledge.

[@Gerry2210]

Great advice for the beginner, however what I am looking for is what bit you used on your drill to get the hole for planting bulbs! I have bought various items from garden centres, with very little success. Just came across your channel, nice bits of info you are putting up. Hoping you can let me know where to purchase one. An Auger?? Greetings from Ireland.

[@valborchardt3596]

Thank you kindly, very useful info you gave today, but all your videos are very informative…..take care from South Africa

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks - nice to have you here!

[@michaeldesouza4911]

Great video Stuart, always so clear and concise. Out of interest what tool box or tool bag would you recommend. I currently have a Stanley Fatmax tote but debating swapping to one of the back pack style ones ! Not because I carry it but just to keep all the tools in place.

[@ProperDIY]

I have a Stanley back pack and really like it when I need to pop somewhere to do a bit of DIY. I also have a Stanley pull along tool box (B&Q) which is good for heavy tools but not for taking anywhere

[@robcarroll6105]

A few years back I was off work with far to much time on my hands. Ended up splashing out on a veto pro pac ( they do back packs ) expensive but excellent bag. Looks small but is like the Tardis. Real top quality

[@anneparker5378]

@@ProperDIY this has got me thinking. I have to go up a ladder to fix a bit of fascia that is flapping in the high winds we have here in North Pembrokeshire. Was thinking I would wear a jumper with a hand pouch to carry the tools and fixings I need to take up there with me - but maybe a small backpack worn on my front would work too!

[@stevenfromleicester2529]

I wondered if you'd mention the square on the old saw. And regarding Power drills. Getting a decent battery is key to especially if you only use it now and then. My first drill years ago the battery stopped holding a charge. Despite not using it that often. Then I purchased a JCB cordless with (I think) a Lithium ion bat and that's lasted years and used sparingly. (And always has charge when I go to use it too) Great video 👍😊👍😊

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks

[@fdkelly]

Truly Great Advice...

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you

[@somewhereelse3813]

Great stuff as usual. 10/10 for me this time. That said, as I get better and more confident, I'll also go for the selection of sunglasses to hang up in my workshop. Mr cool DIY 😎

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks

[@baselabuobeid3801]

Good video, good advice, good man

[@andrewdale5473]

Hi. Is there a correct way round to use an adjustable spanner? E.g. hold it one way when tightening a nut and the opposite way for undoing?

[@sasharose2963]

Still very relevant thank you

[@michaelhannard7342]

Probably worth noting that the average DIYer would be better suited to buying into the Ryobi ONE+ system as for a couple of £100 that will get you a jigsaw drill circular saw and 2 4ah batteries from Ryobi for £99.99 at most major UK Holidays the Ryobi ONE+ system is excellent on the 18v platform as you can get various tools even including a decent Lawnmower 31cm width version and a decent 18v strimmer i reckon for about £450-550 that you can get most of the Ryobi 18v tools that the average DIYer would ever need including an SDS!

[@essexbarnworkshop8578]

Good choices, particularly the budget cordless drill. My only proviso would be buying into a battery set, so if you do buy the cheap one, as you progress and potentially improve your tools you couldn't buy a bare unit and would end up with additional chargers. Not a major headache, but I prefer one (Bosch)

[@ProperDIY]

Great tip!

[@alan-sk7ky]

Agreed drill/driver is so universal going too cheap is counter productive and replacement with better inevitable, pay once cry once for cordless drill. I went Worx, no regrets at all ;-)

[@MrJokerh61]

Number one in my book..is the Hammer 🔨 without it no job gets done...

[@DjGiluk]

Great video thank you. I was hoping you would do something like this as I am moving into a property soon. The good thing is… I have watched your other videos that many times I created my own list and already purchased some of what you mention. Love the tip about the 90 degree saw as that will do the job for me instead of buying a combination square! Keep up the great content - roll on next week

[@ProperDIY]

Thank you. I'm glad to help - pick up as much info from everywhere and then do your own thing!

[@duncanmcewan1049]

@@ProperDIY Is the lower part of the saw handle not also a 45 degree measure?

[@robertmeek7661]

Hi, love your videos, could you do one on ladders, particularly telescopic ladders. I am a silver diyer and have difficulty with the weight of standard ladders.

[@idi0tdetectioninprogress]

Domestic rated ladders would be your best option. Lightest in weight and you should be able to get a set which split into single sections. If you're struggling with those, then respectfully, maybe its time to consider your safety and physical limits. Telescopic ladders are an awful idea, great for trapping fingers and hands though!

[@londislagerhound]

I'd add in an impact driver too. So much better than using a drill.

[@k.r.lionheart6460]

Are you doing any vids on hanging doors?

[@peem1244]

Hi Stuart, hope you are well and behaving. Surprised you carry that folding locking craft knife, and surprised you didn't mention UK knife laws. Recently heard about a chap done for carrying a scalpel in his shirt pocket. He was a lab assistant using the blade in his everyday work - just forgot to check his pockets before leaving work. I think you're a stanley man at heart...how did I know? Thanks for sharing. Stay safe and keep up the good work. ;)

[@ProperDIY]

I really meant all the time while at home doing DIY. I don't carry a knife when I'm out - the have the gun for that.

[@MrSmid888]

I’ve read the laws on knife carrying before as I often have my Stanley in pocket. And I’m quite sure as long as you have reasonable excuse for carrying it for work purposes you’re fine. A scalpel in a shirt pocket sounds strange? It’s hard enough to bump into the Police these days, he must of been very unlucky. He didn’t happen to be carrying a bottle of Chianti did he? Th th th th th th

[@cameronfisher6409]

Can we have a review of the unbranded drill

[@micdev42]

And the key bit about the cost was multiplying by Pi! LOL

[@grahamhunt1169]

Great video. Is there enough change left over to buy a camera to film yourself on, I assume that’s also essential?!

[@ProperDIY]

I'm afraid using £700 of camera and audio equipment means if difficult to get it all for £100!

[@RFC3514]

I think one of the reasons why a lot of British people still stick to inches is that they seem unaware of *centimetres.* Saying that something is "one hundred and twenty millimetres" (when the accuracy of that measurement is nowhere near 1mm) is really inefficient compared to saying "12 cm". And this is even weirder when 99% of rulers and tape measures come numbered in *cm,* not mm. You look at the number and (if necessary or relevant) add the (marked but not numbered) millimetres as a decimal (i.e., if it's 4 little ticks after the big "12", then it's "12.4 cm" - the .5 is typically even marked with a slightly taller line so you can approximate as "twelve and a half", if you need slightly better precision than one centimetre but know your measurement isn't millimetre-accurate). Millimetres are used in contexts where a +/- 1 mm difference actually matters. If you're saying something is "about 110 or 120 mm long", you should probably be saying "11 or 12 cm".

[@barryroberts6470]

You forgot to mention that the saw also has a 45 degree edge on it as well. Great video though. Stay Safe, Barry (Wirral)

[@ProperDIY]

I did forget

[@robcarroll6105]

You can’t please all the people all the time as the comments show. Personally I think you should continue with higher / mid level diy videos. Someone of your expertise and attention to detail is wasted in this type of video. We watch your vids for aspiration and something to aspire to. Your garage project was amazing and we pick up tips from smaller projects

[@ProperDIY]

Do the comments show that - really? When I put out a 'Mortise and Tenon Door' video I get comments asking for more 'down to earth' videos that don't need many tools and the other way around. Over time I will try to appeal to the whole range of DIY'ers from new to experienced. As for current projects, I still have the rest of the garage conversion to complete, block paving, security cameras, garden projects and a large shed build etc,etc but unfortunately cannot necessarily complete one of these each week so sometimes I have to interject something a bit more straight forward.

[@robcarroll6105]

@@ProperDIY I wasn’t being critical. , obviously you need to fill in to keep the channel going. I reckon some good fill in videos on how to properly use power tools like routers , table saws , circular saw for cutting fine without chipping, etc etc. Also quick honest reviews on tools. Just my opinion. As I say I wasn’t being critical ( maybe constructively ) . Ive watched all your vids to date and find them interesting and helpful

[@Nickpaintbrush]

Good list, I`d add a speed square!

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks. It's a top 10 so what would you remove?

[@Nickpaintbrush]

@@ProperDIY Nothing really, might have to include it if you do a top 20?

[@mkingscott]

Hi there - would you have a recommendation on a circular saw that can also do miter cuts, or is it better to have a circular saw for straight cuts, and a miter box? Thank you 👍

[@ProperDIY]

If you are in the market for your first saw I would highly recommend a mitre saw. As well as mitre cuts in it you will find your DIY life changes when you can cut quickly and accurately. See my new video out tomorrow which will also show you how to accurately trim timber in a way only a mitre saw can do.

[@awantamta]

Great advice

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks

[@RhysMogg]

Worth noting that Stuart's DeWalt drill here does not include the battery for £43. You may want a spare battery for larger jobs, too.

[@johnrich6928]

Great advice, although desperately wanted a Tony Blackburn voice-over and the theme from his Pick of the Pops😃.

[@ProperDIY]

That would have been good - and the music!

[@kanedNunable]

i wish id bought a track saw and router years ago. use them all the time now. most of my tools are dewalt but i couldnt afford their track saw at 700! so i got the erbauer for 160 and its a great bit of kit for the cash. i have had cheap routers and all been crap so i got the dewalt tho.

[@cuebj]

Glad to hear Erbauer track saw is good for you. Erbauer and Evolution seem to vary quality control. When good, very very good; when bad, lethally dangerous - I've returned examples of both when I spotted flaws before using and shops grateful I hadn't found the flaws the hard way!

[@andrew14729]

Hi, I followed links to amazon, a few items no longer sold, but followed amazon for alternatives but cordless drill..... nope no clue, any suggestions?

[@MarcraM82]

what's better a 60cm level or 80cm? Price difference is minimal on the Stabila brand...

[@SmithyScotland]

Think I'd replace the spirit level with a sanding block and replace the putty knife with a set of drill bits.

[@fistachpl]

With the handsaws the handles are 90 AND 45 degrees :)

[@vic6820]

I would add a basic but extremely handy item...a head torch....and a b&q orange pencil.

[@ProperDIY]

As it's a top 10 what would you remove?

[@vic6820]

@@ProperDIY you got me there 😄

[@vic6820]

@@andymerrett I could but the pencil isn't allowed though! That would be 11 items.

[@gdent8300]

@@ProperDIY The hammer because everyone knows thats what the adjustable spanners for :)

[@samrix5793]

Hi, would you ever paint the internal brickwork of your garage white? Are there any issues with painting garage ceiling timber white?

[@ProperDIY]

I wouldn't do it as I've already noticed that my one white wall causes the exposure on my camera to play but there is no reason you can't - either the walls or ceiling timber

[@samrix5793]

@@ProperDIY thank you for the reply I didn't know if there was a civils reason you shouldn't paint garage roof timber

[@samrix5793]

I'm guessing it just makes it a bit harder to reuse if you ever wanted to as they'd be painted

[@patburke5740]

Great video for someone who has just bought their own home, standing in the middle of b and q with a basket in their hand wondering, where do i start?

[@kiwifruitpoo]

All the tools are correct, but much better to buy once, cry once and buy the best quality branded tools you can afford. There’s a world of difference between a trade quality handsaw or adjustable spanner or spirit level or pliers and their cheap pound shop version. I’d add a combination square and slip joint pliers to this kit too.

[@ProperDIY]

Thats fine if you have the money and therefore choice. It's a top 10 so if you are going to add 2 you need to take 2 away as well!

[@davidhorobin1060]

Superb video

[@pureretro5979]

Some great advice. As a seasoned DIYer I'd be inclined to add in a cheap pair of goggles and face mask. Trust me, when you get a lump of plaster in your eye or a lung full of dust you'll regret not getting them.

[@MrSmid888]

Good video. I’ve acquired loads of tools over the years and I need every one of them. 😂 Surprised you didn’t mention the 45 degree on the saw handle. I’ve an WORKX 20V MAX Lithium drill driver at home, metal head on it. Love it, light and powerful. Use Dewalt at work. Buying a drill drivers only the start, you could do a Top 10 drill driver bits video. Drilling n driving, it’s legal honest 🍺✌🏻**edited as I put the wrong drill name 🤭

[@ProperDIY]

Thanks. Drilling and driving - that's catchy - maybe after the summer projects

[@duncanmcewan1049]

Hah - I just commented about the 45 deg saw handle as well. Amazing the things you pick up ...

[@mikeburditt7360]

There's also no point buying a cheap drill from Aldi which fails to recharge after not being used for a while. The more you can afford a big Ah battery the better.

[@petervisor]

“times 3.1415926” is funny

[@frankspencer6935]

It's a good starter list. I would add locking pliers, a more extensive bit set than is with the budget drill, a set of spanners/sockets because an adjustable can round off bolt heads, a hacksaw and a cheap tool box to keep all the stuff in one tidy place. One more thing is, the budget drill has a weaker battery and my Ryobi cordless tended to cut out, a safety feature, when pushing it a bit on half a dozen masonry fixings. A 3 or 4.5 ah battery or better brand like Dewalt is worth the money, but it really depends on what you need it for. Luckily I had my cheap corded one as backup to do the meat of the work.

[@ProperDIY]

So you have just added in 5 new items. Which 5 would you delete? This is a top 10.

[@dougsaunders8109]

Agreed on the the battery stuff. DeWalt Milwaukee Festool? Going to put the price up. If you are dipping your toe in the water. Buy budget, if you kill it, buy long term? No point having Festool cordless sitting in the cupboard for 11.5 months a year

[@frankspencer6935]

@@ProperDIY 10 is too limited, like songs. Which 50 to leave off the list? Didn't even get onto chisels:)