A good tool is only as good as the worker who uses it. This is perhaps nowhere truer than it is in the areas of home improvement. Having the proper tools can save one time, energy, and maybe most importantly, save one from damages and accidents, both to the house and the worker. When walking up and down the aisles of a hardware store, one can be overwhelmed by the selection of kinds, brands and models of tools. Some are absolutely necessary, while others are simply more convenient. Finally, while some tools may look attractive, they can turn out to be utterly useless.

It is a good idea to research tools before buying. Don't stick to product descriptions on brand or store websites. Read comparative reviews and blogs from professionals and everyday users as well to get an unbiased opinion. If possible, borrowing tools from someone else to try them out is an even better way to determine their use and efficacy.

Once a tool has been purchased, you might be excited to go ahead and start using it. It is always recommended, however, to take the time to read the accompanying instruction manual first. Another great way to get the most out of your tools is to see if there are instructional videos online that you can watch. This is also useful for product reviews.

Home improvement courses are often the first place one learns about the necessary tools for a job, such as for plumbing or roofing. Even better than classes are plumber or roofer apprenticeship programs, for here one gets the chance to put their tools to work.

Here is a list of some of the tools required for these trades:

Plumbing Tools

- Tongue and groove pliers

- Basin wrench

- Compression sleeve puller

- Pipe wrench

- Adjustable wrench

- Hacksaw

- Plumber's putty

- Sink auger

- Flange plunger

- Valve reseating tool

- Tubing cutter

Roofing Tools

- Ladder

- Razor Knife

- Speed square

- Shingle sheers

- Tin snips

- Flat bar

- Roofing shovel

- Circular saw

- Roofing jacks

Always check your tools before beginning a new job at least one day in advance when stores are still open, just in case you need something fixed or replaced at the last minute. Always clean your tools properly after use, and if necessary, tighten any parts or replace any components right away if you notice it is needed. Any roofing or plumbing apprenticeship will enforce the importance of these steps before and after a job. Doing so can save you from wasted time, thereby guaranteeing you complete your job satisfactorily and efficiently. This will leave not only solid roofs and smooth plumbing, but happy clients as well.

Visit Mohawk College for more information on plumbing, roofing and other apprenticeship programs.



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