Understand tools before using them

Tape measure

Measure lengths, diagonals and perimeters.

Also called: measuring tape, tape

Laser distance meter

Fast room measurements; confirm critical dimensions with a tape.

Spirit level

Check level, plumb and slope.

Also called: bubble level, carpenter level

Laser level

Project reference lines on walls, ceilings and floors.

Chalk line

Snap long straight lines.

Also called: chalk reel, snap line

Framing square

Check square, stairs and framing.

Utility knife

Cut membranes, drywall, vinyl and packaging.

Also called: box cutter, retractable knife

Putty knife

Apply compound, scrape and make small repairs.

Flat pry bar

Remove trim and components with less damage.

Also called: wonder bar, nail puller bar

Caulking gun

Apply sealants and adhesives in a controlled bead.

Drill/driver

Drill and drive with suitable bits.

Also called: cordless drill, driver drill

Impact driver

Drive long fasteners; avoid over-tightening.

Also called: impact gun, impact

Circular saw

Cut sheet goods and lumber with a guide and suitable blade.

Mitre saw

Cut trim, boards and repeatable angles.

Also called: chop saw, compound mitre saw

Jigsaw

Curved cuts and openings.

Oscillating multi-tool

Flush cuts, joints and small demolition.

Shop vacuum with HEPA where required

Source capture; filtration must match the hazard.

Also called: wet/dry vacuum, shop vac

Random orbit sander

Finish sanding with dust extraction.

Drywall lift

Lift ceiling sheets in a controlled way.

Manual tile cutter

Straight cuts in compatible tile.

Wet tile saw

Cut porcelain/stone; control water and silica.

Plate compactor

Compact aggregate in thin lifts.

Also called: vibratory plate, plate tamper

Rammer

Compact narrow trenches; training required.

Also called: jumping jack, trench rammer

Mini excavator

Excavate; locate utilities and use a competent operator.

Concrete mixer

Mix small volumes consistently.

Concrete saw

Wet cutting with silica control; often professional.

Pressure washer

Clean without damaging wood, joints or siding.

Rated ladder

Short-duration access at correct angle; inspect before use.

Scaffold

Stable platform; erection and guardrails per requirements.

Basin wrench

Reach faucet nuts behind a basin or sink.

Also called: sink wrench, faucet wrench

Adjustable wrench

Hold and tighten fittings without crushing.

Tongue-and-groove pliers

Grip nuts, traps and fittings; protect finishes.

Also called: channel-lock pliers, water-pump pliers

Pipe wrench

Metal pipe; do not use on chrome finishes.

PEX cutter

Make a clean square cut before an approved fitting.

Tubing cutter

Cut copper or thin tubing without a saw.

Hand drain auger

Clear a small accessible drain; stop at abnormal resistance.

Also called: plumber's snake, drain snake

Plunger

Clear without chemicals; sink or toilet style.

Also called: toilet plunger, cup plunger

Inspection camera

View accessible cavities or piping without excessive demolition.

Moisture meter

Compare moisture; interpret for material and meter.

Thermal camera

Identify thermal anomalies; confirm with other measurements.

Rated multimeter

Electrical testing by a competent person; misuse can be fatal.

Non-contact voltage detector

Preliminary indicator only; does not prove de-energization.

Also called: voltage pen, tick tester

Receptacle tester

Basic screening; does not replace complete testing.

Differential manometer

Measure static pressure or filters by a competent technician.

Anemometer

Compare air speed; flow conversion needs correct geometry.

Refrigerant manifold and tools

Refrigerant work: certified technician, recovery and regulated procedure.

Rated DC clamp meter

PV testing by trained electrician/technician; hazardous DC voltage.

Solar irradiance meter

Compare output to solar conditions during commissioning.

Fall-arrest system

Must be designed, anchored, fitted and used with a rescue plan.

Hazard-selected respirator

See respirator centre; an N95 does not protect against vapours.

Platform cart

Move multiple boxes or a stable load on level floors.

Appliance hand truck

Move a tall load with a strap and suitable supports.

Four-wheel furniture dolly

Move low heavy furniture over an even surface.

Furniture sliders

Slide furniture a short distance using floor-appropriate pads.

Moving straps

Distribute a load between two people when the manufacturer permits.