Top 5 Pieces of Equipment Every DIY Project Needs
- Equip Rentals
- 2 days ago
- 4 min read
DIY home projects are more popular than ever, with Ontario homeowners tackling everything from backyard renovations to basement finishing. While creativity and planning are essential, the real difference between a frustrating project and a successful one often comes down to having the right equipment.
The good news? You don’t need to own every tool in the hardware store to get professional-quality results. By renting equipment, you can access the exact tools you need—without the high cost or long-term storage concerns. At Equip Rentals, we provide homeowners and DIY enthusiasts across Ontario with reliable, affordable tools that help transform visions into reality.
Here are the top five pieces of equipment every DIY project needs, along with tips for making the most of them.
1. Power Drill and Impact Driver
Almost every DIY project—whether it’s building a deck, hanging shelves, or assembling furniture—starts with a power drill. For tougher fastening tasks, an impact driver provides extra torque to drive screws into dense materials like hardwood or concrete.
Why it’s essential:
Versatile for drilling holes, driving screws, or mixing materials.
Saves hours compared to manual screwdrivers.
Compact and easy to use for beginners.
DIY project examples:
Mounting a TV on the wall.
Building custom storage shelves.
Installing drywall or cabinets.
Pro Tip: If you’re working on multiple projects, rent a cordless drill kit with extra batteries. This ensures continuous workflow without waiting for recharges.
2. Pressure Washer
For outdoor DIY projects, a pressure washer is a game-changer. It quickly removes dirt, mildew, and old paint, making surfaces clean and ready for refinishing or sealing.
Why it’s essential:
Prepares decks, siding, and driveways for staining, painting, or sealing.
Restores outdoor furniture and fences to like-new condition.
Saves hours compared to scrubbing by hand.
DIY project examples:
Deck and fence cleaning before staining.
Power-washing siding for improved curb appeal.
Cleaning stone patios, walkways, or driveways.
Pro Tip:Â Rent a washer with adjustable PSI settings so you can safely clean both tough concrete and delicate wood.
3. Floor Sander
If you’re tackling an indoor project that involves hardwood flooring, a floor sander is non-negotiable. Sanding by hand is nearly impossible for large areas, while a professional-grade sander makes the job smooth and efficient.
Why it’s essential:
Strips old finishes and prepares floors for staining or sealing.
Levels uneven boards for a smoother, more attractive surface.
Produces professional-quality results.
DIY project examples:
Refinishing hardwood floors in a living room or dining area.
Sanding stairs before painting or staining.
Smoothing reclaimed wood for custom furniture.
Pro Tip:Â Pair your sander with dust collection accessories and wear proper protective gear. This keeps your space clean and minimizes health risks.
4. Nail Gun
For carpentry-heavy projects, a nail gun can save enormous amounts of time. Instead of hammering nail by nail, this tool drives fasteners quickly and securely, making it perfect for both structural work and finishing details.
Why it’s essential:
Speeds up construction compared to manual nailing.
Creates precise, professional-looking results.
Reduces fatigue on large projects.
DIY project examples:
Installing baseboards, crown molding, or trim.
Building decks, sheds, or fences.
Assembling furniture or cabinetry.
Pro Tip: Match your nail gun to the project—framing nailers for heavy-duty construction, finish nailers for trim and detail work.
5. Ladder or Scaffolding
Safety is one of the most important aspects of any DIY project, and the right equipment makes a big difference. A ladder or scaffolding setup is essential for tasks at height, such as painting walls, installing light fixtures, or repairing siding.
Why it’s essential:
Provides safe, stable access to high areas.
Prevents accidents caused by makeshift solutions.
Allows for better visibility and control when working overhead.
DIY project examples:
Painting ceilings or two-story walls.
Installing new lighting or ceiling fans.
Repairing or cleaning gutters and siding.
Pro Tip:Â For larger projects, scaffolding offers more stability than ladders and gives you space for tools and supplies.
Why Rent Instead of Buy?
Many homeowners wonder whether it’s better to buy or rent equipment. While basic tools like hammers and tape measures are worth owning, larger or specialized equipment is almost always better to rent. Here’s why:
Cost savings:Â Why buy a floor sander or pressure washer that you might only use once a year? Renting gives you access to high-quality equipment at a fraction of the cost.
Storage: Large equipment takes up valuable space in your garage or basement. Renting means you return it when the job’s done.
Professional quality:Â Rental tools are often higher-grade than consumer models, meaning better results and fewer frustrations.
Flexibility:Â Different projects require different tools. Renting lets you match the equipment to the task without committing to ownership.
Bonus Tools Worth Renting
While the top five pieces of equipment are must-haves, there are a few bonus tools worth considering for DIY projects:
Tile cutter/wet saw:Â Perfect for bathroom or kitchen remodels.
Air compressor and spray gun:Â Achieves a professional paint finish on cabinets or walls.
Demolition tools (reciprocating saws, hammers):Â Essential for tearing down old materials safely and efficiently.
Final Thoughts
Tackling DIY projects is an exciting way to improve your home, but success depends on having the right tools. From the power drill and pressure washer to the floor sander, nail gun, and scaffolding, these five pieces of equipment form the foundation of most DIY tasks.
By renting instead of buying, you’ll save money, avoid storage headaches, and gain access to professional-grade tools that make your work easier and more efficient.