At times, buying a tool is not worth the expense because of the limited use you will get from that purchase. It may be highly specialised, you may need i t only once, and sometimes storage can present a problem.
In some cases, it may be a good idea to hire a tool before you buy to find out whether it will do the job, which size is easiest for you to use, and whether or not it would be better for a professional to do the work. Tools that are usually available for hire include most power tools, both electrically and petrol driven. They tend to be of a heavier duty than the normal ‘specials’ advertised and available through hardware outlets. Equipment may also include props, trestles, barrows, skips, and so on. Here are some of the most common tools.
Acrow Props - These are temporary supports for beams, verandahs, door and window openings, available in three sizes. If needed for long periods, second-hand purchase is an economical alternative to long-term hire.
Chainsaw - If trees need to be lopped, or felled timber needs to be cut up, the most useful tool is a chainsaw. There is probably no more dangerous tool than chainsaw. If you want to use one, have its operational and safety features carefully explained to you. Make sure the chain is sharp, and ask for a spare chain in case the first is blunted during operation.
Floor Sanders - These are heavy-duty machines for resurfacing floors. Not easy to use and often best operated by a tradesperson
Generators - When working where there is no electricity, a petrol-driven generator is most useful. Just make sure its rated output is sufficient for the demand being made upon it.
Hammer Drill - The hammer drill you have may not be heavy enough for the purpose in hand (for instance, drilling 22 mm holes in walls for a chemical damp-proof course).
Jackhammer - Used with a compressor, this is a heavy-duty, air-driven machine for breaking rock, concrete and hard earth for excavations or demolition.
‘Kanga’ Hammer - This is an electrically operated machine similar to a jackhammer but lighter duty, and slower in operation.
Ladders - There is a range of types of ladders available, including plain, step and extension, made of timber or aluminium.
Masonry Saw - These are available as both static and portable, for cutting bricks, chasing into walls, or trenching into concrete or asphalt driveways.
Mixers - Mixing cement by hand is worthwhile in small amounts, but beyond this, either a petrol- or electric-driven mixer will be most useful, and it will save your back.
Pipe Cleaner or Electric Eel - This is a plumbers’ ‘snake’ for drilling blockages out of pipes. Care should be taken with this machine.
Scaffolding - Scaffolding is needed where extended work is done at a height above the ground. In many instances scaffolding will need to be approved by the local industrial department.
Welding Equipment - This is available as both oxyacetylene or electric for brazing or welding of metal, or cutting of heavy metal. Operation is generally not easily ‘picked up’ — some training is desirable.