Shop all DIY & Tools — Page 12

Pros

• High handrail gives extra confidence and support when working at height
• Compact 3-tread size stores easily in a cupboard or shed
• EN131 rated aluminium construction from a trusted ladder brand

Cons

• Limited reach compared to taller platform steps

Pros

• Fibreglass stiles are non-conductive, so safer for work near electrics
• 8 treads give useful reach for ceiling and loft-height jobs
• Wide, slip-resistant treads improve stability and comfort

Cons

• Heavier to carry and move than an equivalent aluminium ladder

Pros

• Large platform tread gives a stable, comfortable standing area
• Trade-rated build stands up to daily professional use
• High handrail all round for extra confidence at height

Cons

• Bulkier to store than a standard domestic stepladder

Pros

• Protects exterior wood for up to 10 years without rotting or flaking
• Rich walnut colour enhances doors, sheds and fences
• No basecoat or primer needed before application

Cons

• Two coats recommended for full colour depth

Pros

• Long-lasting dark oak finish protects fences, sheds and gates
• Weatherproof in around 1 hour after application
• No need to strip or sand old Ronseal woodstain before recoating

Cons

• Dark shade shows brush-mark unevenness if applied too thickly

Pros

• Weatherproof in 1 hour, so less risk of rain spoiling a fresh coat
• No primer or undercoat needed on bare or previously painted wood
• Satin black finish suits fences, sheds and outdoor furniture

Cons

• 750ml tin covers a limited area — larger fences need more than one tin

Pros

• Built-in USB-A and USB-C ports charge devices without using a plug socket
• Child-resistant shutter system on both outlets for household safety
• From a trusted UK electrical accessories brand

Cons

• Deeper back box needed to fit the USB circuitry

Pros

• Screwless, click-fit rear termination cuts fitting time by up to 45%
• Colour-coded terminals make wiring straightforward for DIYers
• Standard 2-gang 13A moulded socket fits any UK back box

Cons

• Requires a compatible socket back box for the click-fit terminals

Pros

• Non-curing cord seals threaded joints instantly, no waiting to cure
• Reusable joints stay easy to dismantle for future maintenance
• 50m length lasts through many plumbing and gas jobs

Cons

• More expensive per joint than basic PTFE tape

Pros

• Yellow gas-rated tape suitable for gas, water and air line joints
• Cheap essential for any plumbing or heating toolkit
• Compact roll fits easily in a pocket or toolbox

Cons

• Single roll — buy multipacks for regular tradesperson use

Pros

• Variable speed up to 2,600 SPM with 3 orbital settings for clean cuts
• Bevel cuts to 45 degrees left or right for angled joinery
• Body-only option works with any battery in the Makita 18V LXT range

Cons

• Battery and charger sold separately

Pros

• 85mm cutting depth handles thick timber and worktops in one pass
• Corded professional motor gives consistent power on long jobs
• Robust build quality suited to daily trade use

Cons

• Corded design and heavier body than compact cordless saws

Pros

• Leather palm gives good grip and abrasion resistance for general site work
• Reinforced double palm and thumb stand up to daily wear
• Recognisable DeWalt branding and sizing for trade buyers

Cons

• Leather is less breathable than fabric work gloves in warm weather

Pros

• Universal nylon plug works in brick, block, concrete and plasterboard
• From Rawlplug, the trusted originator of the wall plug
• 50-piece pack covers most household hanging and fixing jobs

Cons

• 10mm size only — larger fixings need a bigger plug

Pros

• Trade-grade C2 coating resists corrosion better than basic zinc screws
• Countersunk gold finish suits general timber and manmade board fixing
• 200-screw trade box represents good value per screw

Cons

• Single size only — a mixed assortment needed for varied jobs

Pros

• Mixed sizes in one tray cover most common household woodscrew jobs
• Compartmentalised tray keeps sizes organised and easy to find
• 1200-piece count lasts through many projects before running out

Cons

• Bulkier to store than single-size screw boxes

Pros

• Waterproof seal suits kitchens, bathrooms and general glazing
• Interior and exterior use covers most household sealing jobs
• Standard 280ml cartridge fits any skeleton or frame gun

Cons

• Needs a sealant gun, sold separately

Pros

• Butyl-based formula gives instant, permanent weatherproofing on roofing joints
• Adheres to bitumen, asphalt, felt, metal and wood
• Excellent weathering properties for long-term outdoor use

Cons

• Black colour only — not discreet on lighter roofing materials

Pros

• XR Li-ion delivers fast cutting up to 3000 strokes per minute
• Keyless blade change for quick T-shank blade swaps
• Supplied with 2 x 5Ah batteries, charger and case

Cons

• Higher price than a bare-unit jigsaw

Pros

• Fuel brushless motor gives corded-level cutting power
• 165mm blade copes with common timber and sheet materials
• Carry bag included for site transport

Cons

• Body-only pricing on some bundles — check battery inclusion

Pros

• Twin safety handrails give extra support at height
• Integrated tray holds up to 12kg of tools and materials
• Large platform adds comfort for longer jobs

Cons

• Bulkier to store than a basic step stool

Pros

• Telescopic sections collapse flat for compact loft storage
• Auto-lock rungs and wide treads for a secure climb
• Rated to carry up to 150kg

Cons

• Manual telescoping takes a little practice to smooth out

Pros

• 10-pack keeps a roll in the van and one at home
• Watertight seal on standard water-pipe threads
• Compact rolls take up little toolbox space

Cons

• Not rated for gas pipework

Pros

• Cheap, no-frills tape for everyday plumbing joints
• Single roll is easy to keep in a toolbag
• Works on water, oil and general threaded fittings

Cons

• Basic packaging compared to branded alternatives