How to Refresh Your Toolkit for 2026

The start of a new year is a good time to take a proper look at your toolkit. While bigger tools tend to grab the attention, it’s often the consumables and everyday essentials that quietly wear out over time - and they can have a bigger impact on the quality of your work than you might think.

Fresh, well-maintained consumables don’t just perform better, they also make jobs easier and, for trades especially, give a far more professional impression on site.

Drill bits – a simple upgrade with immediate results

Drill bits are one of the most-used consumables and one of the easiest to overlook. Over time, even good-quality bits dull, making drilling slower and putting extra strain on both the drill and the user.

A mixed set, such as a 17 Piece Metal & Masonry Drill Bit Set, is a great example of a small refresh that makes a big difference. Sharp metal bits start cleanly and accurately, while carbide-tipped masonry bits handle block and brickwork with ease. Whether you’re working at home or on site, fresh drill bits give cleaner holes and a far tidier finish.

Drills – reliable power makes everything easier

The drill is often the backbone of a modern toolkit, but performance drops gradually, so it’s not always obvious when it’s time to upgrade. Batteries that don’t hold charge, reduced power or constant bit changes can all slow jobs down.

A twin pack setup, such as a DeWalt drill driver and impact driver combination, gives flexibility for drilling and driving without interruption. Compact, lightweight designs are also far more comfortable for longer jobs, making them a worthwhile upgrade as part of a new-year refresh.

Screwdrivers and blades – precision tools that wear quietly

Hand tools may seem indestructible, but consumable elements wear down over time. Screwdriver tips that have rounded off are more likely to slip, damaging fixings and finished surfaces.

A good-quality slotted flared screwdriver, used when precision matters, gives far better control than a worn tip. The same applies to blades. Utility knives and jab saws rely on sharp edges, and once cutting starts to feel forced, it’s time to replace.

A jab saw with a hardened blade and protective holster, for example, is ideal for clean cuts in drywall, plastics and light timber, while also being safer to carry around.

Saws – clean cuts reflect quality work

Hand saws are often expected to last forever, but even hardened teeth eventually lose their edge. When a saw starts tearing rather than cutting cleanly, accuracy suffers and more time is spent correcting mistakes.

The Bahco 244 hard point handsaw, designed for both cross-cutting and ripping, gives smoother cuts and lasts significantly longer than conventional saws. Clean cuts don’t just make fitting easier – they also leave a more professional finish.

Sealants, cartridges and application tools

Sealants and adhesives are classic consumables that degrade with time. Old cartridges can stiffen or apply unevenly, making it difficult to achieve a neat bead.

Pairing fresh cartridges with a reliable sealant gun helps deliver smooth, consistent results, particularly in kitchens, bathrooms and external work. A clean sealant line not only performs better but looks far more professional. 

Storage, handling and keeping things tidy

Looking professional isn’t just about the work itself – it’s also about how materials are handled. Flexible tubs, such as a Rhino Flexi Tub, are incredibly useful for carrying materials, clearing waste and keeping work areas tidy. They’re tough, easy to clean and ideal for both site and home use.

For larger jobs, a galvanised wheelbarrow remains a builder’s favourite for good reason. Strong, well-balanced and easy to manoeuvre, it keeps materials moving efficiently and helps maintain a cleaner, more organised workspace. 

A smarter refresh for the year ahead

Refreshing your toolkit doesn’t always mean replacing everything. Often, it’s about updating the consumables and everyday essentials that wear down quietly over time – drill bits, blades, saws and accessories.

For DIYers, this makes projects quicker and more enjoyable. For trades, it helps maintain a professional appearance on site and supports better-quality results.

At Pearsons of Duns Builders Merchant, we’re always happy to help you review your kit and choose practical upgrades that suit your work and budget. A small refresh now can make a noticeable difference all year round. 

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