Patrons learn what to do before calling the handyperson
On Tuesday, June 19, Bartlett Library patrons learned the tools of the trade from Handyman Daniel Findley, who walked them through everything they'd need in their toolbox to make easy home repairs.
Findley explained that small jobs could end up being expensive when they ultimately don't have to be. Learning to fix simple repairs now will save people money in the long run.
So which tools does one need for most home repairs? Findley brought his toolbox out and put it on the front table, showing off the tools as he explained what the purpose is of each one.
Basic tools:
-Hammer (Claw or Rip)
-Pliers (Groove Lock or Channel Locks)
-Screwdriver (Six in one)
-Tape Measure (Needs a lock and should be as long as your longest wall)
-Glue (Wood Glue, Super Glue and Gorilla Glue [white/clear])
-Level (Long=More accurate. Short=Fit in more spaces)
-Extension cord
-Paint brush (If you're only getting one, then get a two inch chisel brush)
-Putty knife
-Razor knife (Box Cutter)
-Needle Nose Pliers
-Crescent Wrench (6 inches long)
-Caulk Gun
-Allen Wrenches
-Flashlight
-Band-Aids
-Aspirin
Findley explained further on requirements for a couple of the items. For the razor knife, he said to buy one with a retractable blade, a tool less blade storage and tool less blade change. The other item was the caulk gun, which needs to have a thumb release, a hole in the handle for cutting off caulk tube tips and lastly it needs to have a sharp poker attached for puncturing the foil seal of caulk tubes.
Not included in the list for tools someone will most likely need for home repairs were power tools and safety equipment.
Findley suggested checking with the local hardware store for power tools, as they will most likely have them available to rent. Rather than buying the power tools outright, if someone isn't going to use them regularly, it's a better idea to rent. No need to worry about storing the tool, or replacing batteries, etc.
As for the safety equipment, Findley said that it would be impossible to give a list, as every job requires specific safety attire. Some repair jobs need gloves, some need kneepads, and others may require goggles, or facemasks and such. Findley simply told the audience to be aware of and use the safety equipment for the project being worked on.
Findley then ended the program by distinguishing what someone might or might not want to do himself or herself.
Some of the projects a person could do on their own would be tasks such as painting, hanging pictures, replacing cabinet doors, replacing a leaky drain trap, changing a light fixture, replacing a lockset or replacing some trim.
As for what a person might be able to do on their own, that would be tasks such as patching a drywall, hanging a towel rod, refinishing a cabinet, replacing a faucet, changing an outlet, replacing an interior door or replacing a tile.
For jobs that people shouldn't do on their own, Findley listed off tasks like hanging drywall, hanging a TV, installing a cabinet, replacing a drain line, changing a fuse panel, replacing an exterior door or replacing a shingle.
If you couldn't attend this program, an upcoming Adult program is "Heartland: A Musical History of Illinois" and takes place on Monday, June 25 at 7 p.m. Midwestern troubadour David HB Drake presents a multimedia, historical program of folksongs, stories and images that cover the width and breadth of the state of Illinois. The program is richly illustrated with over 100 slides reflecting the music, heritage and beauty of Illinois (including special "sing-along" slides and audience participation). Heartland focuses on the unique aspects of the Midwest including songs of trains, rivers, the prairies and presents songs that introduce Illinois from the first explorers and immigrants up to our present day farmers and Great Lakes sailors.
For more information and a complete listing of scheduled programs, call 630.837.2855 or visit www.bartlettlibrary.org.