How to Save Money on Tools and Yard Equipment

Have you ever started a home improvement project and found you needed a special tool to complete it? A trip to the hardware store lets you finish the job, but puts a dent in your bank account for a tool you may never use again. The
 same issue arises with yard tools that are used only occasionally, such as hedge trimmers or edgers.

These things can cost big money. But you can you save money on tool and yard equipment purchases if you follow some of the ideas listed below.

Save Money on Tools - Buy Used

Yard sales and flea markets are full of tools and yard equipment that people bought for one project and never used again. Even if the item is older, it can still have a lot of life left if properly cared for. As long as you can test the item before purchasing, buying used tools and gardening equipment is a great way to save money. If you are not handy enough to fix a simple problem or clean and renew the tool or equipment, you can always learn. You might still be able to save money on repairs over purchasing new items.

Save Money on Tools - Share

People who have family or close friends that live nearby can share tools and yard equipment quite easily. Approach the subject with family or friends to see if they are interested. Divide the cost of the tool or equipment evenly among the households. Also, be sure to write up a usage contract before purchasing. This insures that everyone has a chance to use the tool.

Save Money on Tools - Minimize Types

An obvious way to save money on tools and yard equipment is to minimize the number of tools you buy. Unless you are a woodworker or craftsman, there is no need to buy four types of electric saws.

Save Money on Tools - Repair and Maintenance

People throw away things when they do not work anymore. This wastes money on replacing the equipment or tool. Find a reputable fix-it shop and take your tools there to save money. Properly maintaining the equipment will also increase its life. The longer you have a working tool, the more money you can save.

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Good ideas. I'd add the following. Buy quality tools, preferably Craftsman due to their lifetime replacement policy (verify if this applies to power tools - I'm not sure if it does). If you need a tool for a short term project, check if a friend has it and can lend it to you, with the understanding that you're responsible to return it in the same condition. This includes e.g. replacing a saw blade if the job you used it on has degraded it. It also assumes you're willing to lend them a tool you have and they don't. Finally, a brief word in the opposite direction. Having exactly the right tools for a job could mean the difference between great and mediocre ones, between maintaining safety and risking yourself, and between spending an hour on the project and spending a day. If a job calls for 3 types of saws, make sure you have all 3. Finally, always get and use the appropriate safety equipment and procedures.

Posted on 03/04/2008 at 12:03:55 PM

Great article :-)

Posted on 02/06/2008 at 9:02:27 AM

We bought a riding tractor with a mower attachment at a garage sale. The seller said they used it one season and then it didn't work. We took the chance, replaced plugs, found a broken belt, and generally cleaned it up. We now have a riding tractor for under $100.

Posted on 02/04/2008 at 10:02:27 PM

Great Article!

Posted on 02/01/2008 at 2:02:56 PM

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