Ways to Save Money on Tool Purchases

Do-it-yourself enthusiasts can find themselves spending a fortune on tools. Just going into a hardware store for a box of nails can turn into adventure totaling hundreds of dollars. While it is possible to rent many tools that are not going to be used frequently it takes some of the fun out of doing jobs yourself.

One of the best ways to save money on tools is to consider buying many of them used. You do not want to purchase junk but you can find great bargains at yard sales and thrift stores. Many times older tools can also be a better quality. People will be selling new items that they received as gifts and have no use for. Contractors may sell off older tools after purchasing new models.

Look for older chisels that only need to be sharpened and screwdriver sets with one or two pieces missing. Power tools can also be a great buy but check them out before you buy them. Older hammers should be checked for handle quality and sockets should be checked to make sure they are not stripped. Even rakes and brooms may only need a new handle attached to provide you with years of good use.

The next thing to watch for is sales at hardware and building supply stores. From Thanksgiving through Christmas sales can be found on all kinds of hand tools, tool sets and power tools. Memorial Day weekend, Father's Day and even Labor Day are also times when home repair items go on sale. Look for sales on discontinued, one of a kind or display models. As long as the original quality was good you can end up with a great bargain.

While you are at a building supply store you might also want to check if they do equipment repair. If they do, find out their policy on unclaimed items. Many times items are brought in for repair but are never picked back up. Most stores have a time limit for storage and will then sell the items for the repair costs involved. You can also ask at local repair shops as they may very well have unclaimed items as well.

Finally consider pooling purchases with family or friends. Tools and equipment that are expensive but not used frequently can often be shared. Make sure that the person or group you will share with will all take proper care of the item. Loaning and borrowing can have drawbacks but many times it is also a way to have more tools available than you would have on your own.