70+ Essential Construction Tools and Equipment Every Builder Should Own

Last updated: November 26, 2025

If you work on UK sites, you already know that poor tools cost you twice. They slow you down, create snagging issues, and in the worst cases, put you on the wrong side of HSE expectations. Between unforgiving weather, tight programmes, and strict quality standards, general builders, groundworkers and bricklayers need construction tools that are robust, accurate and safe, day in and day out.

This guide pulls together over 70 essential building tools, job site equipment and PPE tailored to groundwork, masonry and general site duties. It is not a deep dive into specialist carpentry or electrical kit. Instead, it focuses on the must‑have tools for general contractors who pour slabs, build walls, dig trenches and keep sites moving.

We are treating “construction tools” broadly here. That means everything from a bricklayer’s trowel to plate compactors and heavy construction equipment classed as site equipment. The aim is simple. Use this as a working checklist when you are setting up a new gang, kitting out a new starter, or doing an inventory audit of your own kit.


Table of Contents

Essential hand tools for UK builders

Hand tools for builders still do most of the work on site. They are the backbone of every kit, and they take the most abuse from rain, mortar, dust and being thrown in and out of vans. When you are choosing essential building tools like these, prioritise solid construction, anti‑corrosion finishes and comfortable grips that will last.

You can browse a full range of hand tools for builders including hammers, chisels, levels and trowels directly at Toolden.

1. Claw hammer

The classic claw hammer handles general nailing, light prying and quick assembly work. Look for hardened steel heads and a grip that stays secure with wet or gloved hands. Even if you use nail guns for framing, you still need at least one for adjustments and snagging.

2. Club hammer

A club hammer delivers more mass when you need to drive masonry nails, cold chisels or carry out small demolition tasks. It is a core part of must‑have tools for general contractors working on blockwork, lintels and general breaking out. Match the head weight to your typical tasks to avoid fatigue.

3. Utility knife (retractable)

A retractable utility knife is one of those small construction tools that gets used constantly. It slices roofing felt, DPC, plasterboard edges, packaging, cable ties and sealant nozzles. Choose a robust metal‑bodied knife with easy blade changes and keep spare blades in your tool bag to avoid forced improvisation with blunt edges.

4. Tape measure (8m or 10m)

Accurate tape measures are non‑negotiable for layout, setting out and checking dimensions. An 8m or 10 m metric tape is ideal for general construction work, allowing you to span most room widths and typical plot dimensions. Go for a tough, rubber‑armoured case and a standout blade that does not kink easily.

5. Brick trowel (London pattern)

A brick trowel is the signature hand tool of masonry. A London pattern trowel allows you to scoop, spread and cut mortar efficiently when laying bricks and blocks. The balance and handle comfort matter as much as the steel. A cheap, badly balanced trowel will tire you out and slow your production.

6. Pry bar / flat bar

Pry bars provide the leverage you need for demolition, lifting heavy items slightly to shim them, or tweaking timbers into position. A good flat bar will slide into tight gaps, pull nails and lift boards without bending. These are the quiet heroes of demolition and remedial work.

7. Cold chisel set (masonry)

A masonry cold chisel set lets you cut bricks, blocks and chase out old mortar or render. For UK sites where wet cutting is not always practical, sharp chisels and a club hammer often give cleaner results in tight spaces. Look for ground cutting edges and hardened striking ends that will not mushroom quickly.

8. Screwdriver set

A quality screwdriver set covers slotted, Phillips and Pozi drive as a minimum. Even with impact drivers on every site, there are times when manual fastening is safer or more controlled, especially on delicate finishes, door ironmongery and electrical back boxes. Insist on hardened tips that resist cam‑out and rounded heads.

9. Adjustable wrench

An adjustable wrench handles a wide range of nut and bolt sizes on fixings, plant, scaffolding components and plumbing. Smooth jaws and a mechanism that does not slip under load are essential. It is one of the simplest but most essential building tools for day‑to‑day maintenance on site equipment.

10. Level (spirit level, 1200mm)

A 1200mm spirit level is standard for checking horizontals and verticals on longer runs of wall, frames and lintels. Accuracy is crucial. A warped or low‑quality level will build errors into every course you lay. Protect your levels during transport and avoid using them as a straightedge for cutting.

11. Waterproof marking crayon set

Waterproof crayons mark concrete, steel, bricks and damp timber where a normal pencil fails. They are vital measuring tools for construction work in real UK weather where surfaces often stay wet. Use them to mark cut lines, fixing positions and datum points that will not wash away in the first shower.

12. Hacksaw

A hacksaw gives you controlled cuts on metal such as rebar, threaded rod, pipe and conduit. Even where you have cordless grinders, a hacksaw is quieter, safer in confined spaces and less likely to damage adjacent materials. Stock different blades for mild steel and non ferrous metals.

13. Hand saw

A traditional hand saw is still a core part of hand tools for builders. It is ideal for quick trimming of carcassing timber, shuttering and packers without firing up a circular saw. Keep a sharp general‑purpose saw in the van for snagging and the inevitable “one last cut” when the power tool batteries are flat.

14. Tin snips

Tin snips are essential for cutting thin gauge sheet metal, flashings, straps and metal lath. They offer better control than a grinder and avoid sending sparks everywhere. Choose snips that match the cuts you make most often, such as straight‑cut or left and right‑cut aviation snips.

15. Caulking gun

A smooth‑action caulking gun lets you apply sealants, fire‑rated mastic and foam in a controlled bead. On UK sites, this is important for meeting airtightness, fire‑stopping and weatherproofing requirements. A strong frame and trigger mechanism will handle heavy sealant tubes and thick materials without bending.

16. Wire brush

Wire brushes clean off excess mortar, rust and loose debris from steel and masonry. They are basic but essential construction tools for surface preparation before painting, sealing or applying new mortar. Choose rust‑resistant bristles and a handle that does not slip when wet.

17. Vise grips (locking pliers)

Locking pliers clamp awkward items, hold steel in place for welding and rescue rounded bolts or fixings. They act as a third hand when working alone. Go for hardened jaws and a strong adjustment screw so they do not slip under pressure.

18. Pointing trowel set

Pointing trowels are used for jointing, patching mortar and finishing work such as tuck pointing. Keeping a small set with different profiles lets you match brickwork styles and repair joints neatly. Stainless blades resist corrosion when repeatedly exposed to wet cement.


Recommended hand tool construction brands

For hand tools that stand up to daily site use, it is worth sticking to proven construction brands rather than bargain‑bin imports.

When you are assessing hand tools, be honest about how often you will use them. It is better to buy one solid version of a core item than several cheap alternatives that fail under site conditions.

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Shop all Hand Tools!


Power tools and site machinery for builders

Power tools for builders multiply your output and are fundamental to modern construction equipment. For most trades on UK sites, 18V or 20V class cordless platforms have become the standard, with heavier kit stepping up to 36V or 40V systems or mains power.

You can browse the broad Power Tools range at Toolden.


When you are choosing power tools and job site equipment, always factor in dust control and vibration levels. HSE treats silica dust and HAVS exposure as serious long‑term risks, so pairing tools with the right extraction and using them within the manufacturer’s duty cycle is part of good practice.

19. Cordless combi drill

A cordless combi drill is usually the first power tool in any kit. It handles drilling into wood, metal and masonry, and drives screws with adjustable torque. On UK sites, an 18V brushless combi with decent torque and impact function is a staple of builder tools for beginners and old hands alike.

20. Impact driver

An impact driver is designed for high‑torque fastening. It drives long timber screws, coach bolts and heavy fixings without stripping heads. Compared to using a combi drill for everything, an impact driver reduces wrist strain and speeds up structural fixing work.

21. Circular saw

Circular saws deliver fast, straight cuts in carcassing timber, shuttering, decking and sheet materials. Cordless 165mm or 190mm saws on an 18V platform are versatile enough for most site work. Combine with a straight edge or track for accurate rips on sheet goods.

22. Cut‑off saw (disc cutter)

Cut‑off saws, whether petrol or cordless, are heavy construction equipment used to cut paving slabs, kerbs, concrete and asphalt. They should always be used with appropriate diamond blades, water suppression or a suitable dust control method to comply with HSE expectations around silica.

23. Reciprocating saw

Recip saws are demolition specialists. They cut through mixed materials including timber with embedded nails, plastic and light steel. They are invaluable when breaking out old frames, cutting pipes in situ or trimming rafters where access is tight.

24. Portable table saw

Portable table saws are used for ripping and crosscutting sheet material and timber with repeatable accuracy. On construction sites, they often sit in a central cutting area with proper guarding and extraction. They are particularly useful on new build and timber frame projects where throughput is high.

25. Paddle mixer (power)

A powered paddle mixer is a massive time saver for mixing mortar, render, plaster or large quantities of paint. Compared to mixing by hand, it gives a more consistent blend and reduces physical strain on the operator. Match paddle size and motor power to the material you use most often.

26. Wet tile cutter (small)

A small wet tile cutter is ideal for cutting ceramic and porcelain tiles, especially for bathrooms, steps and cills around masonry work. Water cooling reduces dust and keeps cuts clean. These are often shared assets between trades on finishing phases.

27. Angle grinder (115mm / 125mm)

Angle grinders are incredibly versatile construction tools. They cut steel, trim rebar, chase out shallow channels and clean up welds or concrete edges. With the right blades, they handle almost anything. However, they must be used with guards, correct discs and, ideally, dust extraction.

28. Rotary hammer drill (SDS‑Plus)

An SDS‑Plus rotary hammer drill is the workhorse for drilling into concrete and masonry for fixings, anchors and small penetrations. It hits harder than a standard combi drill without destroying the chuck. Most gangs will carry at least one corded or 18V SDS for structural fixings.

29. HEPA dust extractor

A HEPA dust extractor connects to saws, grinders and drills to capture silica and wood dust at source. From an HSE perspective, this is critical when cutting or drilling concrete, brick and many manufactured boards. Investing in a proper extractor is as important as the cutting tool itself.

30. Job site charging station

A dedicated charging station keeps batteries organised, charged and safe. On construction sites with multiple trades, centralising chargers reduces lost batteries and prevents unsafe improvisation with trailing extension leads. Many crews integrate this into their construction site storage solutions.

31. Air compressor (portable)

Portable air compressors power nail guns, air blow guns and inflators. On some sites, pneumatic tools remain the standard for framing and roofing, especially where speed is essential. Choose a unit with appropriate air delivery (CFM) for the tools you intend to run.

32. Pneumatic framing nailer

A pneumatic or gas‑powered framing nailer drastically speeds up structural timber work. Used correctly with appropriate PPE construction measures, nailers can significantly increase productivity while maintaining strong fixings. Training and regular maintenance are essential to keep them safe.

33. Battery platform and chargers

Your battery platform is the backbone of your cordless ecosystem. Standardising on one or two platforms simplifies charging, reduces downtime and allows you to use body‑only tools effectively. Many leading construction brands now offer extensive 18V and 40V line‑ups that cover drilling, cutting, grinding and measuring.

34. Demolition hammer

A demolition hammer or breaker is used for breaking out concrete floors, chasing large channels or removing sections of blockwork. It sits between a rotary hammer and a full‑size road breaker. On domestic and light commercial jobs, a 110V or heavy cordless breaker is often enough.


Recommended power tool brands for builders

When you are picking power tools for builders, battery ecosystem and warranty support matter as much as raw performance.

If you are setting up builder tools for beginners, it often makes more financial sense to buy into one good cordless platform and add body‑only tools later, rather than mixing lots of cheap, incompatible kits.

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Shop all Power Tools!


Measuring, layout and testing tools

Accurate measuring tools for construction work save huge amounts of time and money. Getting levels, angles and moisture content right first time means fewer call‑backs and less wasted material.

35. Chalk line reel

A chalk line lets you snap long, straight reference lines on slabs, floors and walls. It is ideal for marking brick lines, timber positions and cutting paths. On rough site surfaces where tapes and lasers struggle, chalk lines are quick and reliable.

36. Speed square (rafter square)

Speed squares, or rafter squares, provide fast marking of 45 and 90 degree angles. They double as a saw guide for cutting timbers to length. Because they are compact, they live in your tool pouch for constant use.

37. Builder’s level

A builder’s level or dumpy level is used for establishing consistent levels and gradients across larger areas, such as foundations, drainage and landscaping. They require a tripod and some training, but they are essential when you need to manage falls and ensure compliance with design drawings.

38. Laser level (green beam)

Green‑beam laser levels give a bright, easy‑to‑see line indoors and outdoors. They project horizontal and vertical datums that help with brick courses, stud walls, soffits and setting out openings. Many builders now treat a good laser as essential building equipment rather than a luxury.

39. Water level / hose level

A water level is a simple but effective way to transfer levels around corners or across distances where you cannot see a laser. It is cheap, robust and does not require batteries. On some sites, an old‑school hose level still outperforms electronics.

40. Infrared thermometer

Infrared thermometers are useful for checking surface temperatures, for example during concrete curing, screed drying or insulation checks. They help you decide whether conditions are suitable for applying coatings or floor coverings.

41. Moisture meter

A moisture meter checks timber, plasterboard and screeds before you cover them up. Trapped moisture is a common cause of flooring and joinery failures. Using a meter helps prove you have followed best practice and reduces callbacks.

42. Plumb bob / plumb line

Plumb bobs provide a reliable vertical reference that is not affected by electronic drift or accidental knocks. They are particularly useful for checking tall masonry walls, steel columns and façade elements for plumb.

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Shop all Measurement Hand Tools!

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Shop all Laser Measures!


Workwear and personal protective equipment (PPE)

On any UK construction site, PPE is not optional. Under HSE guidance, employers and workers have legal obligations to assess risks, control them at source and then supplement with appropriate PPE construction gear where necessary. PPE must be CE or UKCA marked, fit the wearer properly and be used as part of a wider safe system of work.

Toolden stock a wide range of PPE equipment and safety workwear for construction, including helmets, high‑vis, gloves, eye protection and more.

43. Safety glasses / goggles

Impact‑rated safety glasses or goggles protect your eyes from flying debris, dust and splinters. Use sealed goggles for high‑dust tasks like grinding, cutting concrete or mixing powdered products. They should carry CE or UKCA markings and be comfortable enough to wear all day.

44. Hearing protection (earmuffs / plugs)

Exposure to loud tools such as cut‑off saws, breakers and compressors can permanently damage hearing. Earmuffs or earplugs reduce the exposure to safer levels. Keep a set with you and normalise wearing them whenever noise levels rise, rather than only for “big jobs”.

45. Respiratory protection (RPE)

Respiratory protection protects your lungs from silica dust, wood dust, solvent vapours and other airborne contaminants. For cutting or drilling masonry, a minimum of P3‑rated filters, combined with on‑tool extraction and good ventilation, is often required to meet HSE expectations.

46. Hard hat (helmet)

A safety helmet protects against falling objects, impacts and some electrical risks. On most UK construction sites, hard hats are mandatory. Check that your helmet is compliant with relevant standards and replace it after significant impacts or when it passes its recommended lifespan.

47. Steel‑toe safety boots

Safety boots with protective toecaps and midsole protection guard against crush injuries and punctures from nails or rebar. For groundwork and heavy construction equipment areas, good grip and ankle support are just as important as the toe cap.

48. Cut‑resistant gloves

Cut‑resistant gloves protect hands during demolition, handling sharp offcuts and working with metal or mesh. Choose gloves that balance dexterity and protection so workers actually wear them instead of ditching them when doing fine tasks.

49. High‑visibility vest / jacket

High‑vis clothing keeps workers visible around plant, vehicles and cranes, particularly in poor light or bad weather. Many sites specify minimum high‑vis standards and colours for different roles. Make sure your outer layer meets those requirements.

50. Knee pads

Knee pads reduce long‑term damage when kneeling for bricklaying, paving and floor work. Well‑fitted pads or trousers with integrated pads are more comfortable than cheap strap‑on options that slip out of place.

51. Site work trousers

Durable work trousers with reinforced knees and pockets improve comfort and make it easier to keep essential tools on you. Look for rip‑stop fabrics and triple stitching that stand up to real‑world site abuse.

52. Weatherproof site gear

Waterproof jackets, over‑trousers and insulated layers are a reality of UK construction. Staying dry and warm is not just about comfort. Cold, wet workers make mistakes and are more likely to rush tasks to get finished.


Recommended PPE and workwear brands

Toolden stock PPE and workwear from leading construction brands, including:

The best safety gear for construction is the gear that actually gets worn. Prioritise comfort, correct sizing and compatibility with other kit, then build PPE into your standard method statements and inductions rather than treating it as an afterthought.

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Shop all Workwear!


Specialised and heavy job site equipment

Beyond basic tools, full‑scale projects rely on larger site equipment and heavy construction equipment. These are often shared resources that require trained operators and planned maintenance. Many items sit within the Site & Industrial Machinery category at Toolden which includes plate compactors, mixers, compressors and more.

Always check that anyone operating this type of job site equipment is competent and, where necessary, formally trained. Correct guarding, inspections and safe systems of work are just as important as the machine itself.

53. Concrete mixer (portable or towable)

Concrete mixers allow you to batch concrete, screeds and mortar on site, essential when ready‑mix is not economical or access is tight. Portable electric mixers suit small pours and patching, while towable diesel mixers handle larger jobs and heavier mixes.

54. Wheelbarrow

A strong wheelbarrow is still one of the most important pieces of job site equipment. It moves concrete, spoil and aggregates where machinery cannot get. Look for heavy‑gauge trays, strong handles and puncture‑resistant tyres to avoid constant repairs.

55. Scaffolding and tower access

Scaffolding and mobile towers provide safe access to elevated work areas. They must be erected, altered and dismantled by competent people and comply with UK regulations and standards. For smaller jobs, branded mini towers like Alto Access systems offer a compact, compliant solution.

56. Temporary generator (inverter)

Temporary generators keep lights, tools and welfare facilities powered when mains supply is not available or not yet live. Inverter types provide stable power suitable for sensitive electronics and chargers. Position generators to manage noise, fumes and refuelling safely.

57. Plate compactor (wacker plate)

Plate compactors are used to compact hardcore, MOT type 1 and soil before you pour slabs, install blocks or lay tarmac. They are vital for achieving specified compaction levels and preventing settlement. Choose plate sizes and compaction forces appropriate to the area and material.

58. Diamond core drill rig

Diamond core rigs create large, precise holes in brick and concrete for services such as soil pipes, flues and ducting. They can be hand‑held or rig‑mounted. Proper water management, electrics protection and slurry control are important safety considerations.

59. Trowel and float set

For concrete finishing, a set of hand trowels and floats helps you achieve the required surface finish on slabs, screeds and steps. From initial bull floating to final steel trowelling, having the right tools makes a huge difference to quality.

60. Bolt cutters

Bolt cutters quickly cut rebar ties, chain, fencing and heavy gauge wire. Choose sizes that match your typical material. Oversized cutters can be heavy and tiring, while undersized ones will not bite through thicker steels.

61. Rebar cutter / bender (manual)

Manual rebar cutters and benders let you cut and bend reinforcement on site to suit actual conditions, while still meeting design intent. They are especially useful where pre‑cut bars do not quite fit due to ground deviations.

62. Tarmac / road rake

Specialist road rakes help spread and level hot asphalt and loose aggregates. Their long handles and robust heads are designed for heat and abrasion, making them more suitable than general landscaping rakes.

63. Trenching shovels and digging bars

Narrow trenching shovels and heavy digging bars are essential groundwork tools. They let you dig and tidy trenches around services without over‑excavating, and provide leverage in hard or stony ground.

64. Sledgehammer

Sledgehammers handle heavy demolition, driving pins and breaking up smaller concrete elements. Use them in controlled ways and ensure work areas are segregated to prevent strikes on other workers.

65. Adjustable support props

Adjustable props provide temporary support for walls, beams and floors during alterations and remedial works. They should be used with proper head and base plates and installed according to calculations or manufacturer guidance.

66. Submersible water pump

Submersible pumps remove standing water from excavations, basements and foundation trenches. Keeping work areas dry reduces slip hazards and allows you to pour concrete or place reinforcement without contamination.

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Shop all Site Equipment!


6. Tool storage and organisation

Tool theft is a major problem on UK sites, and poor organisation wastes time every single day. Good construction site storage solutions protect your investment, make it easier to track kit and help you comply with COSHH and security requirements.

Toolden carry a wide range of tool storage boxes and secure van and site storage options, including heavy‑duty steel vaults with anti‑jemmy features and robust locking systems.

67. Heavy‑duty site tool vault

Site tool vaults are steel boxes with reinforced lids and high‑security locks designed to resist prying and drilling. They can often be bolted to floors or vehicles. For high‑value power tools for builders, a proper vault is far more effective than relying on cheap boxes.

68. COSHH cabinet

COSHH cabinets store fuels, adhesives, solvents and other hazardous substances in a controlled way. They usually offer spill retention, clear labelling and lockable doors. Using a dedicated COSHH cabinet helps you demonstrate compliance with UK regulations around storage of hazardous materials.

69. Van racking system

Van racking keeps smaller tools, fixings and spares organised in transit. It prevents damaged gear, loose items becoming projectiles in an accident and wasted time hunting for consumables. Good racking is almost essential building equipment for anyone who lives out of a van.

70. Tough storage totes and boxes

Stackable totes and organiser boxes keep screws, anchors and small hand tools protected and easy to move between van and site. Weather‑resistant designs protect contents from the typical UK rain, while clear lids make it easy to see what is inside.

When you are reviewing storage, be realistic about site risks. A decent site box or modular system is often far cheaper than replacing a full set of cordless kit after one theft.

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FAQs

What are the essential tools needed for beginner builders?

For builder tools for beginners, start with a solid base of hand tools such as a claw hammer, tape measure, brick trowel, screwdrivers and a 1200 mm level, then add a reliable 18 V combi drill and angle grinder. Combine this with basic PPE construction gear, including safety boots, helmet, eye and ear protection, and you will be able to tackle most entry‑level site tasks safely.

Which power tools are most useful for new construction workers?

The most useful power tools for new site workers are usually a cordless combi drill, impact driver, circular saw and SDS‑Plus hammer drill, all on the same battery platform. These cover drilling, fastening and cutting for most day‑to‑day tasks. As your role expands, you can add specialised tools like a recip saw, paddle mixer or wet tile cutter.

Is it better to buy hand tools individually or as sets?

Buying high‑quality hand tools individually allows you to prioritise the items you genuinely use every day. However, carefully chosen sets from reputable construction brands can offer better value and ensure you have all common sizes. Avoid large, cheap sets full of tools that will never leave the box.

What is the best brand for construction tools?

There is no single “best” brand for all construction tools, but sticking to established construction brands like Makita, DeWalt, Milwaukee, Bosch Professional, Stanley, Faithfull and Sealey is a safe approach. They offer reliable performance, strong warranties and broad ranges across hand tools, power tools and site equipment, all available through Toolden’s brand pages.


Conclusion

Equipping yourself with the right construction tools is not about ticking a box or filling a shiny toolbox. It is about working faster, producing higher quality work and staying on the right side of UK safety and regulatory standards. From simple tape measures and brick trowels through to plate compactors, HEPA dust extractors and secure tool vaults, each item on this list earns its place by solving a real site problem.

There will always be personal preferences and trade‑specific extras, so do not treat any 70‑item checklist as gospel. Instead, use this guide as a practical framework to assess where your current kit is strong, where it is weak and where better investment in essential building tools will have the biggest impact on productivity and safety.

If you keep your tools well maintained, store them securely in appropriate construction site storage solutions and pair them with compliant PPE construction gear, you are not just protecting your income. You are investing in the long‑term success, safety and credibility of your business.

Next time you are reviewing your kit or taking on a new starter, run through this list and cross‑check it against the ranges of hand tools, power tools and site equipment, and PPE and storage available from Toolden. That way you can upgrade or fill any gaps with proven, site‑ready gear backed by established construction brands.

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