THE GRIT AND POLISH GUIDES
Garrett’s Favorite Tools
Starting a renovation? After more than a decade of fixing up old houses, Garrett has tried a lot of tools. Some have earned a permanent spot in our toolbox, while others are better borrowed or rented for the job.
We gathered our tried-and-true favorites here, including the everyday tools we reach for again and again, specialty tools that make hard jobs easier, and the safety gear we wouldn’t renovate an old house without.
More good things for your next project
Explore our guides here for practical advice, favorite sources, and ideas for your renovation.
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Garrett’s Favorites
THE TOOLS WE REACH FOR AGAIN AND AGAIN
Everything here has earned its place through years of old-house renovations, everyday repairs, and more than a few ambitious DIYs. These are the tools Garrett owns, uses, and would recommend to another homeowner.
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Cordless drill and impact driver
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Compound Miter Saw
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Angle grinder
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Quick-grip clamps
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General-purpose hammer
See the Tools in Action
Wondering which tools you need for a particular project? These posts take you behind the scenes of our renovations, with the tools, supplies, and hard-learned tips we picked up along the way.
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All About Demo: Tools & Tips
We’re sharing how we demo: the tools and supplies we use, our hard-learned tips, and when to seek professional help
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Garrett Built Me A Garden Bed Cover!
Garrett’s ready to show you how he built our garden-bed cover and talk about the metalworking tools he used along the way.
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Paint! (The Tools And Process We Use With A Paint Sprayer)
There’s a lot that goes into using a paint sprayer, so we’re sharing the tools, products, and process behind our kitchen’s smooth finish.
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How To Install A Tiled Shower Surround
Garrett walks through exactly how he installed this tiled shower surround, including the tools and products we used.
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How To Build A Curved Plaster Hood Vent
Garrett takes us through the tools and process he used to build this curved plaster hood vent from scratch.
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How To Build A Hanging Laundry Rack
Garrett worked through the design of our hanging clothes airer and built it with simple materials and just a few hardworking tools.
Should You Buy It or Rent It?
Not every useful tool needs a permanent spot in your garage. We buy the tools we use from project to project and rent larger specialty equipment when it makes more sense. A cordless drill, miter saw, grinder, and good hand tools will earn their keep, while tools like drum sanders and heavy-duty tile saws may be better rented for a single project.
Before You Pick Up a Tool
The right tool can make a project faster, safer, and a whole lot less frustrating. Here are a few things we’ve learned through years of renovating old houses, including what to buy, what to rent, and the safety gear we won’t work without.