(NewsUSA) – In today’s economy, homeowners feel reluctant to take out new mortgages – instead of finding a new dream house, they want to make their existing home everything they need. And as more homeowners attempt maintenance and upgrades, they also discover the sense of accomplishment only a DIY job can provide.

But those attempting a DIY home project would do well to look through their toolbox first – you need the right tools to create professional-looking results.

Here are some tools you might not have thought to stock, but that can make DIY projects easier:

* Caulking gun and adhesives. While everyone knows to keep a hammer and nails on hand, they may not realize that adhesives are sometimes a good alternative or compliment to fasteners. “Adhesives can be used in applications where mechanical fasteners are not practical, such as in the installation of tub surround or a tile backsplash,” said Mike Goldstein, senior brand manager with Liquid Nails Brand Adhesives (www.liquidnails.com). He added that adhesives are also more forgiving than mechanical fasteners, such as nails and screws, in the installation process.

“Once something is screwed, nailed or stapled in place, it is very difficult to re-adjust its position,” said Goldstein. “With an adhesive, there is some amount of open time, approximately 10 minutes, allowing you to reposition the substrate immediately following installation.”

Adhesives are useful for projects around the house. For example, they can be used to fasten a piece of loose laminate on a countertop or even repair smaller items, such as a piece of furniture, heirlooms or metal parts. For more information about adhesives, visit liquidnails.com.

* Multimeter. You’re not planning on doing electronics work, so you don’t need to measure voltage, right? Well, you might be surprised by how many projects will put you in contact with electrical systems. For minimal investment, a multimeter can keep you from finding out the hard way that an outlet is live.

* Digital camera. You don’t actually have to keep it in your toolbox, but a digital camera can be invaluable whenever you have to take something apart. Before disassembling an IKEA bedroom set or a light fixture, snap a picture so you’ll know what it’s supposed to look like when you’re finished. That way, you have an image to consult while you put the object back together.


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