Shop all DIY & Tools — Page 5

Pros

• Magnetic tip hooks onto steel studs and joists single-handed
• Stainless steel blade resists kinking and corrosion
• 8m length suits most room and joinery measuring tasks

Cons

• Bulkier casing than a basic pocket tape

Pros

• Box beam construction resists twisting for accurate readings
• Shock-absorbing end caps protect the level on site drops
• Backed by a 5-year accuracy guarantee

Cons

• Shorter 400mm length limits use on longer runs

Pros

• Converts between step, extension and staircase configurations
• Rated for professional trade use with a high load capacity
• Wide, flared base improves stability on uneven ground

Cons

• Significant investment compared with a single-purpose ladder
• Heavier and bulkier to store than a domestic stepladder

Pros

• Lightweight aluminium build is easy to carry room to room
• Compact folded size stores away in a cupboard
• Affordable enough for quick jobs around the home

Cons

• Domestic-rated only, not suited to trade use

Pros

• Wide platform gives a stable standing area for decorating and shelving jobs
• Safety lock and 150kg capacity suit trade and DIY use alike
• Folds flat for storage in a van or shed

Cons

• Lower working height than a stepladder for taller ceilings

Pros

• Blocks nicotine, water and smoke stains before topcoat paint
• Touch dry in around 15 minutes, recoatable in 45
• Seals bare plaster, MDF and knots so topcoats go on evenly

Cons

• Strong odour while wet needs good ventilation

Pros

• Diamond Hard protection resists scratches, heat and water marks
• Touch dry in around 20 minutes for same-day second coats
• Satin finish suits doors, skirting and furniture

Cons

• Needs light sanding between coats for the smoothest finish

Pros

• Ready-mixed formula needs no measuring or mixing before use
• Smooth, creamy consistency spreads easily into cracks and holes
• Sandable and paintable once dry for a neat wall finish

Cons

• Tub can dry out if the lid is not resealed tightly

Pros

• GS38-compliant fuseless design gives instant AC/DC voltage indication
• Four-stage LED display shows voltage bands from 50V to 400V
• Trusted by UK electricians for safe isolation checks

Cons

• Should be used with a proving unit to confirm it is working correctly

Pros

• 30m high-visibility cable reaches from the house to the far end of most gardens
• Thermal cut-out and power switch protect against overload
• Winding handle keeps the cable tidy for storage

Cons

• Bulky reel takes up more shed or garage space than a coiled lead

Pros

• Integrated USB-C and USB-A ports remove the need for separate plug adaptors
• Switched 13A sockets handle everyday appliances up to 3120W
• Slim faceplate fits standard 25mm twin back boxes

Cons

• Must be fitted by, or notified to, a qualified electrician under Part P

Pros

• Tool-free compression joint needs no solvent cement or soldering
• Standard 15mm size fits the most common UK copper pipe runs
• Demountable if a pipe run needs altering later

Cons

• Olives and nuts can crack if overtightened

Pros

• Isolates a section of pipework for repairs without shutting off the whole system
• Solid brass body resists corrosion in damp under-sink cupboards
• Compression ends suit standard 15mm copper pipe

Cons

• Gate valves can seize if left unused for long periods

Pros

• Caps off pipework instantly without tools, glue or hot works
• Demountable and reusable if the system needs extending later
• Works with both hot and cold push-fit pipe runs

Cons

• Only suits Speedfit-compatible push-fit pipework

Pros

• Oscillating blade plunge-cuts flush to walls, skirting and door frames
• Tool-free accessory change speeds up switching between cutting and sanding
• Body-only option runs on any battery in the Makita LXT range

Cons

• Battery and charger sold separately for first-time LXT buyers

Pros

• SDS tool-free accessory change for fast swaps between blades and sanding pads
• Variable speed dial suits both delicate sanding and aggressive plunge cuts
• Mains power gives unlimited runtime for longer renovation jobs

Cons

• Mains lead limits reach away from a socket

Pros

• Seven sizes cover most door lock, cable and pipe-hole cutting jobs
• Induction-hardened teeth stay sharp through repeated use
• Fits any standard power drill for quick, clean holes

Cons

• Not intended for cutting through metal or masonry

Pros

• Advanced KneeGuard pockets hold pads securely in the correct position
• Stretch fabric panels improve mobility when kneeling or climbing
• Holster pockets keep tools within easy reach on site

Cons

• Premium price versus a basic pair of work trousers

Pros

• Full-vision design fits over most prescription glasses
• Anti-fog coating copes with hot, dusty or humid work
• Flexible full-seal frame improves comfort over long sessions

Cons

• Wider frame than standard safety glasses for storage

Pros

• Nitrile foam coating gives 20% more breathability than standard gloves
• FORTIX abrasion resistance technology suits assembly and mechanical work
• Thin profile keeps good dexterity for handling small fixings

Cons

• Not rated for heavy chemical or cut-resistant work

Pros

• Three common sizes in one pack cover most household fixing jobs
• Universal Uno design fixes into masonry, brick and plasterboard alike
• Trusted Rawlplug brand widely stocked by UK trade merchants

Cons

• Screws sold separately from the plugs

Pros

• Compartmentalised case keeps panhead screws and matching nuts sorted
• Wide range of sizes covers most household assembly and repair jobs
• Handy for workshop, van or garage storage

Cons

• General-purpose steel, not rated for outdoor exposure

Pros

• 304 stainless steel resists rust for damp sheds, garages and outdoor projects
• Transparent box with labelled compartments makes sizes easy to find
• Covers three common metric sizes with matching washers included

Cons

• No branded warranty behind the fixings

Pros

• Sprayable format gives fast, even coverage over large surfaces
• Instant grab bond suits carpets, foam, laminate and upholstery
• Rated for both internal and external use

Cons

• Overspray needs masking off surrounding areas before use