
How to become a locksmith
If you’re ready to start a locksmith business, but struggling to decode the first steps, this guide can help. Follow these simples steps and open the doors to your own business.
There’s nothing worse than showing up to a handyman job without the right tool. Best case scenario, you can jerryrig the situation with a few other trusted tools from your toolbox. But sometimes, you have no choice but to tell the client you’ll need to come back at another time, which can cause frustration on both sides of the equation.
Whether you’re just starting your handyman business or you’re a seasoned professional whose toolkit needs a serious upgrade, the right tools can simplify your job.
We surveyed experienced handymen to get their best recommendations on toolkit essentials, highly recommended add-ons, and the most trusted brands for tools. Find out what they said are their must-have tools.
Whether you’re installing shelves, putting up drywall, or assembling furniture, you need a drill. This is one of the most versatile, dependable tools in your kit. To make sure your drill is always ready when you need it, opt for:
Don’t forget to bring a spare battery and charger!
While impact drivers are similar to drills, it’s helpful to have one on hand for any task where you’re repeatedly driving in fasteners, bolts, or screws. Due to their lightweight design, impact drivers are easier to hold for long periods of time.
For bonus points, get a battery powered impact driver/drill combo. Once again, remember to keep your batteries on hand!
No kit is complete without a hammer. This pound-and-pull tool is your go-to solution for driving in nails, pulling up hardware, bending metal, assembling furniture, and more.
One of the most essential tools in your kit, a measuring tape ensures that you take reliable measurements and complete projects with a perfect finish.
Will any old tape measure do? We have a few tips from handyman:
Like a tape measure, a level ensures that your finished work project looks professional.
When you’re undertaking woodworking projects, you need a saw. Depending on your specific needs, consider the following four options:
It goes without saying that you need somewhere to store your tools while on a job. Make sure your essentials are always within reach, invest in a comfortable tool belt where you can hold a few different tools:
Over time, you can add other helpful tools you often find yourself needing.
If you have a tight, organized toolbox, it may be easy enough to place it in the trunk of your car. But a professional handyman business often has more than the essential tools on hand. And you’ll inevitably need to haul tools and materials to and from your job sites.
A truck enables you to transport materials and even attach a trailer if you need extra space.
When you’re out on the job, there’s always the risk that something can go wrong.
General liability insurance provides coverage for claims that arise from third-party bodily injury, property damage, and personal and advertising injury.
“It is the tool that enables you to keep on working when claims, lawsuits and companies try to prevent you from your next job” – Thimble customer
Thimble’s Handyman Insurance is specifically designed to meet your needs. Take out coverage by the hour, day, or month so that your insurance is only working when you are. Our monthly general liability insurance plans come bundled with business equipment protection which means you can protect your growing tool collection as well!
Beyond the common must-haves tools, there are numerous other tools that can streamline your handyman work.
Below are some of our surveyed handmen’s other favorite tools:
When you’re browsing the aisles at the local hardware store, it’s helpful to have a sense of the most reputable brands. Our survey of handyman recommended the following three brands as the most trusted:
When in doubt, you can usually benefit from asking the nearest salesperson (or other contractors in your industry)!
Having the right toolkit is the first step to success as a handyman. Beyond the tools you pick up at the hardware store, the last essential tool for handymen is common sense.
At the beginning of any job, your task is to understand what needs to happen and how to go about making it happen. Then, make sure your client is on the same page to avoid any miscommunication.
To prepare for handyman jobs:
After all, errors cost time and money. But with time and experience, you’ll find it’s easier and easier to identify the right tools to get any job done.
Our editorial content is intended for informational purposes only and is not written by a licensed insurance agent. Terms and conditions for rate and coverage may vary by class of business and state.
If you’re ready to start a locksmith business, but struggling to decode the first steps, this guide can help. Follow these simples steps and open the doors to your own business.
Before starting your own handyman business make sure you know the difference vs. general contractors and what you can legally do. Learn more.