Measuring and marking out
Tape measure, spirit level, square, pencil and chalk line. A laser level is handy for large rooms. Accurate marking out matters when hanging wallpaper, laying tiles and putting up shelves.
Tools
Tools
A good tool will not do the renovation for you, but it makes the work much easier and reduces mistakes. It is better to build a kit gradually, for specific jobs, rather than buy everything at once. Below are the tools most often needed for simple jobs around the home.
A spirit level and a tape measure save more time and materials than any powerful power tool.
How this section works: we list tools by task and explain what they are for, without brands, models or prices. Before using a power tool, read its manual and always use protective equipment.
Basic kit
Six groups of tools that cover most jobs around the home.
Fixing and drilling
A drill or drill driver, a set of bits for different substrates, wall plugs and screwdrivers. Before drilling, make sure there are no hidden cables or pipes at that spot: detectors exist, but a drawing of the services is the most reliable.
Painting
Rollers with different pile lengths, brushes for corners, a roller tray, an extension pole, masking tape and dust sheets. The roller pile is chosen to suit the paint type and surface texture, following the paint manufacturer's advice.
Tiling
Tile cutter, notched trowels, rubber grout float, spacers and a rubber mallet. Shaped cuts need tile nippers or a tool with a diamond blade — always wear safety glasses when using one.
Sanding
A sanding block with mesh or paper, and a sander for larger areas. Sanding produces a lot of fine dust: wear a respirator and safety glasses and close the doors to other rooms.
Protective equipment
Safety glasses, gloves, a respirator for dusty work and solvents, and ear defenders for noisy jobs. Ventilate the room when painting or working with adhesives and solvents.
Related sections
- How-to
Step-by-step guides for simple jobs: painting a wall and preparing a surface for wallpaper. Plus what you should not do yourself.
- Materials
Paints, decorative plasters, tiles, wallpaper, flooring and ceilings: types and properties in general terms. The article catalogue lives here too.
- Care
How to care for painted walls, wallpaper, tiles, floors, ceilings and furniture, and what to check each season.
Sources
- EMERCOM of Russia — safety leaflets
- Manufacturers' technical documentation
Information on materials and works is given in general terms, based on manufacturers' technical documentation, the Housing Code of the Russian Federation, EMERCOM of Russia safety leaflets and encyclopaedic sources. Coverage, application conditions and drying times for a specific product are set by its manufacturer — always check the packaging and instructions.