A Guide to Construction Tools

Construction tools are required to build anything from a small birdhouse to a large office building. There are many different types of construction tools, and each has its own unique purpose.

Graana.com, Pakistan’s smartest property portal, provides an overview of some of the most common construction tools and their purpose below.

Tape Measure & Spirit Level

 

As the expression “measure twice, cut once” implies, taking precise measurements can save you time and money . The tape measure and spirit measure are extremely handy if you use them appropriately.

A level (also known as bubble or spirit level) is a device that determines whether a surface is vertical (plumb) or horizontal (level). Small vials are partially filled with a colourful liquid in these devices. You can detect if the surface is plumb by looking for an air bubble in the liquid that is centred between the markers on the vial.

Pencil

Sometimes the most basic instruments are the most important ones. A pencil is simple but one of the most important tools, whether it is for a construction foreman or  a carpenter’s pencil. From drafting a plan to taking essential measurements, it can help you to explain and write down your ideas.

A carpenter’s pencil is more sturdy than an average pencil, and a normal pencil can be used for marking measurements on building materials or finer work such as finish carpentry.

Chalk Line

A chalk line, like a pencil, is an important marking instrument. A chalk line tool consists of a body filled with coloured powdered chalk and a long reel of string. You unwind the thread after pulling it out and snap it against a surface to mark a line. It’s a useful tool for drawing a straight line when you don’t have access to a ruler, as well as for drawing a line over a lengthy distance of 30 feet and beyond.

Hammer & Nails

Hammers, along with nails, are two of the most important construction tools. While hammers come in different shapes and sizes, most of us are familiar with the claw hammer. It’s a useful tool to have because you can use it to pound nails into wood as well as remove them

Other hammers can also be handy. When breaking down a structure, you could need a sledgehammer. Rubber mallets are handy for striking a surface without destroying it, and ball-peen hammers are useful for metalworking. 

Wrenches

Wrench sets may not be necessary if you’re mostly working with wood, but every builder should have a few multipurpose wrenches on hand to drive lag screws, level equipment, and adjust fixtures and appliances. The longer the wrench handle, the more leverage it has, and the tighter the wrench head is on the nut, the better the grip. It is especially effective for loosening tricky nuts.

A wrench is a metal tool that is typically sized for a certain nut or bolt. Many wrenches are sold in kits that include a variety of sizes for various types of nuts.

Screwdrivers & Screws

The screw is an inclined plane wrapped around a cylindrical shaft. Screws are generally more effective than nails at holding objects together. They’re also less difficult to remove in comparison.

Screws and screwdrivers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers are the two of the most common types. Philips head screws in particular are preferred by many builders over slotted screws.

Electric screwdrivers are also available, and most power drills are designed to fit most screws. In any case, a toolbox isn’t complete without a screwdriver.

Saw

A saw is also a tool that is frequently required during the construction phase. A power saw is more likely to be used by a builder than a typical manual saw. Jigsaws and table saws are common tools.

Circular saws are a more portable alternative. Circular saw blades that cut through wood, metal, or plastic are also available for purchase.

Other saws that are useful include handsaws like mitre saws, hacksaws, coping saws, crosscut saws, and keyhole saws.

Power Drill

There are two types of power drills: those with power cords and those with batteries. In most cases, cordless drills are more convenient to use, but the battery life is limited. Power drill chucks exist in a variety of sizes.

Drill bits deteriorate over time, so inspect them before starting any job. You may need to repair them on a frequent basis if you work on multiple building projects.

Caulk Gun

Another very important construction tool is the caulk gun. Water penetration is prevented using silicone caulking and other types of caulks and adhesives. At least one caulking gun with a high compression ratio  is required in any construction project.

A decent caulking gun enables you to effectively keep out water. Water damage is a major issue that can be time-consuming, dangerous, and costly to repair.

Concrete Mixer

Without a concrete mixer, a worker would have to stir water and concrete in a wheelbarrow with a shovel the old fashioned way. Using a concrete mixer can save a lot of time for workers.

Concrete mixers can be large enough to have their own axle and be pulled by a work vehicle or van, or they can be small and portable. It’s critical to select the right size mixer for the job at hand. It is usually recommended to get one that is somewhat larger than required.

Ladder

Wooden ladders are often used, but they are not always the most sturdy. Thus, they would have to be replaced on a regular basis. Aluminium ladders, on the other hand, are usually less expensive and last for longer. They’re also lighter, making them more convenient to carry. In addition, aluminium ladders are less likely to rust compared to steel ladders.

Steel ladders are the most durable, but they are also the most difficult to transport. Since they’re heavy, you usually don’t need somebody to hold onto them as you climb it. You are also less prone to tripping or slipping on a steel ladder.

By understanding the purpose of each tool, you can more easily select the right tool for the job. 

To read more about the construction sector of Pakistan, visit our blog.

 

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