Shop all DIY & Tools — Page 9

Pros

• Slim head reaches into tight spaces where a wheel cutter will not fit
• Leaves a clean, square, burr-free cut ready for compression fittings
• Trade-grade build handles daily use on copper pipework

Cons

• Only cuts 15mm pipe — a separate tool is needed for 22mm

Pros

• Push-fit joint needs no solvent cement, soldering or specialist tools
• Joint recognition collar shows at a glance the pipe is fully home
• Pack of 10 covers a full bathroom or kitchen pipe run

Cons

• Push-fit joints are generally accessible only, not for chasing into walls

Pros

• 1100W motor with a 29mm stroke powers through demolition and pruning jobs
• 4-position blade clamp allows flush cutting close to walls and floors
• Lever-action keyless blade clamp speeds up blade changes

Cons

• Mains lead limits reach away from a socket
• Heavier than a cordless equivalent for overhead cutting

Pros

• Multi-material TCT blade cuts wood, steel, aluminium and plastic without changing blades
• Folding stand with wheels makes it portable between site and van
• Bevel and mitre capacity handle angled cuts on skirting and box section

Cons

• Bulkier to store than a standalone circular or mitre saw

Pros

• FFP2 rating with 94% particulate filtration suits sanding and plastering dust
• Cup shape holds away from the mouth for easier breathing
• Lightweight enough to wear for a full day of DIY

Cons

• Non-valved design can feel warm on hot days

Pros

• EN397 certified for construction, loft and site work
• Vented shell keeps the head cooler on warm days
• Slip ratchet adjustment gives a secure, custom fit

Cons

• Vents reduce protection against liquid splashes compared with an unvented shell

Pros

• Anti-rotation ribs stop the plug spinning as the screw is driven in
• Large 288-pack keeps a trade or renovation project stocked
• Suits masonry, brick and solid block walls

Cons

• Not rated for use in plasterboard or hollow walls

Pros

• Self-drilling metal plug needs no pilot hole in plasterboard
• Holds picture frames, mirrors and light shelving securely
• Supplied complete with matching screws

Cons

• Not intended for heavy items — use a cavity fixing for higher loads

Pros

• 100% waterproof bond suits indoor and outdoor repairs
• Expands into the material for an incredibly strong hold on wood, stone and metal
• Withstands temperature extremes from -40°C to 100°C once cured

Cons

• Expands as it cures, so excess needs trimming or masking away

Pros

• Instant grab holds skirting boards and coving in place without props
• Bonds wood, ceramic, metal and most building materials
• No nails or screws needed, so no wall damage or filling

Cons

• Indoor use only — needs the waterproof formula for exterior jobs

Pros

• Syneon chip electronics adapt torque automatically to the material
• Lightweight body reduces fatigue on overhead or repetitive jobs
• Single 18V battery keeps the price down versus twin-battery kits

Cons

• No hammer action, so unsuitable for masonry drilling

Pros

• 2-speed transmission and 40Nm torque handle drilling and driving alike
• Batteries work across the whole Einhell Power X-Change tool range
• 64-piece accessory set covers most first-time DIY jobs out of the box

Cons

• Torque is lower than premium brushless combi drills

Pros

• High-velocity head design drives nails with less swing effort
• AntiVibe technology cuts shock transferred to the wrist and elbow
• Magnetic nail starter holds nails one-handed for overhead work

Cons

• Pricier than a basic claw hammer for occasional use

Pros

• Combination open and ring ends cover most household nuts and bolts
• Chrome vanadium steel resists rust in a shed or garage toolbox
• Compact 6-piece set fits easily into a small toolbox tray

Cons

• Imperial (AF) sizing only, no metric equivalents included

Pros

• Converts between stepladder, extension ladder and stairwell modes
• EN131 light trade rating suits regular DIY and occasional trade use
• Box-section stiles add rigidity versus basic domestic ladders

Cons

• Heavier to manoeuvre than a single-purpose stepladder

Pros

• Combines stepladder and extension ladder in a single purchase
• Extends to 4.23m for guttering, fascias and roofline access
• Suitable for both trade and domestic use

Cons

• Bulky to store compared with a standard stepladder

Pros

• Blocks stains, tannin and nicotine bleed before top-coating
• Bonds to gloss, tiles and other tricky surfaces without sanding
• Quick 35-minute touch-dry time speeds up redecorating jobs

Cons

• Strong odour while wet needs good ventilation

Pros

• Seals gaps around skirting boards, coving and window frames before painting
• Flexible, paintable finish stops hairline cracks reappearing
• Cartridge fits a standard sealant gun for neat application

Cons

• Needs a sealant gun, sold separately

Pros

• Dual voltage range detects both low and standard household voltages
• Bright flashing LED and audible alarm confirm live wires at a glance
• Auto power-off extends battery life between jobs

Cons

• Non-contact testers should be checked against a known live source before relying on a reading

Pros

• Brushed stainless steel faceplate suits modern kitchens and hallways
• Slim, rounded profile matches British General accessory ranges
• Colour-matched fixing screws for a neat finish

Cons

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

Pros

• Tool-free push-fit joint installs, demounts and refits in seconds
• Pack of 10 covers a full bathroom or kitchen pipe run
• Works with copper, PEX and polybutylene pipe without solvent or solder

Cons

• Push-fit joints need the pipe end cut square and deburred to seal properly

Pros

• 1200W motor cuts up to 55mm deep in a single pass
• Affordable way into a corded circular saw for occasional joinery
• Parallel guide included for straight rip cuts without a track

Cons

• Mains lead limits reach away from a socket
• Heavier and noisier than premium brushless alternatives

Pros

• 500W motor cuts up to 65mm deep in wood and 4mm in steel
• Tool-free blade change speeds up switching between materials
• Compact and lightweight for curved cuts and tight corners

Cons

• No pendulum action adjustment compared with premium Bosch jigsaws

Pros

• Heavy-duty twill fabric with stretch panels for freedom of movement
• Holster pockets and reinforced knee pad pockets built for trade use
• Two-layer reinforced seat extends working life over standard trousers

Cons

• Sizing runs slightly small according to some buyers