30 Types Of Ironmongery

Ironmongery is an old term that refers to all sorts of hardware for construction like hinges, bolts, locks, window fittings, and many other items. Do you know what are the types of ironmongery used for construction? So, this article is for you as it will discuss 30 different types of ironmongery.

30 Types Of Ironmongery That You Might Not Know

There are many different types of ironmongery, each originally designed for a specific purpose. If you have a DIY project at home, it will be useful to know what ironmongery is suitable for your needs so you can purchase the right stuff. Following are the types of ironmongery.

1. Angle Grinders

An angle grinder is a powerful tool that can cut, grind and polish. This tool has a round disk-like blade on one end and the other end, it has a handle to hold while using it. Angle grinders are mainly used for cutting metal or masonry materials.

An angle grinder is really useful for removing rust or rough spots around metal objects like before applying paint to them. You could also use this tool for smoothening wood by using a sanding disk, also you can sharpen blades with it. Keep in mind that this tool is quite dangerous so make sure to read the owner’s manual before attempting to use an angle grinder.

Types

• Small-angle grinders: Small-angle grinders are used for smaller jobs, and they have a 4 to 5-inch grinding disk. This type of angle grinder is lightweight, which makes it easy to use.
• Large angle grinders: Large angle grinders have a 6 to 7-inch disk and the blades on these types of grinder spin at a higher speed than that of a small angle grinder. These bigger types of angle grinders are harder to control, and they are also heavier than the smaller ones, so this type is better suited for professionals than home users.
• Cordless angle grinders: Cordless angle grinders a cordless angle grinder is powered by a rechargeable battery and it’s usually hand-held. Corded angle grinders: a corded angle grinder runs on electricity; it’s usually mounted on a stand.

2. Drills

A drill is a powerful tool that rotates rapidly to create holes in different materials like wood or metal. There are many different types of drills each one designed for a specific purpose.

Types

• Spade bits: A spade bit is used for making holes in wood, they’re flat-bottomed augers with sharp edges. Twist bits: Twist bits are also called brad point bits, they’re used for making holes in metal. Masonry bits: A masonry bit is designed to drill into brick or concrete surfaces.
• Hollow-chisel bits: Hollow-chisel bits are used for drilling holes that will accommodate bolts and screws with a wide head, these types of drills have a flat bottom surface and cutting edges.

3. Hinges

Hinges are metal plates with one or two pivot points that attach to a door or lid, they can be either internal or external hinges. There are many types of hinges depending on the way it attaches to your door and whether it has pivots placed horizontally or vertically.

Types

• Butt hinge: A butt hinge is the most common type, it’s composed of two plates one attached to the door and the other placed on the cabinet.
• Trundle hinges: A trundle hinge is placed horizontally instead of vertically like butt hinges.
• Lap Joint Hinge: A lap joint hinge is used for doors that are thicker than usual it’s composed of two overlapping plates.

4. Adzes

An adze is a tool with a blade on one side and a handle on the other, it’s designed to cut wood by chopping or gouging. Here we are going to discuss different kinds of adzes that are used for either rough or fine work.

Types

• Chopping Adze: Chopping adzes are used to chop wood, they have a flat blade that’s sharp on one side.
• Scraping adzes: Scraping adzes are mainly designed for fine work these tools resemble an ax but instead of having a sharp edge they have a straight cutting surface with two or three corners at the end.

5. Bolts And Nuts

A bolt is a metal rod with one end having threads and the other end having ahead, it can be tightened by using a nut or vice versa. Usually, bolts are used to hold two objects together while nuts are placed on the side of your object that’s more secure against the pull of the bolt.

Types

• Carriage bolts: A carriage bolt is used for connecting wood to a concrete foundation, they have a smooth head that’s flat and large.
• Machine bolts: Machine bolts are stronger than carriage bolts these types of bolts have a hexagonal-shaped head.
• Wood Screws: Wood screws are used for attaching wood to another object that’s thin and not too heavy unlike carriage bolts or machine bolts.

6. Rivets

A rivet is a metal pin with one end having ahead and the other end having a flat round shape, it can be squeezed by using a special tool called a “Rivet gun” to attach two surfaces. Rivets are mainly used for making furniture, you can use them for joining wood beams or wooden slats.

Types

• Solid rivet: Solid rivets have a round flat shape on one end and a second head on the other side these types of rivets are very rarely used.
• Toggle bolts: Toggle bolts are hollow rivets made of metal or plastic, to use them you need to drill a hole first and then insert the rivet into it. When inserted sometimes they require an extra force to close just like an umbrella handle.

7. Springs

Spring is a long piece of metal that’s coiled and can be used for both compression and extension, some people call it a coil. Springs are mainly made of metal, but they may also be made of plastic or rubber.

Types

• Spiral springs: Spiral springs are designed to fit into a specific space, it’s a long piece of wire that’s spiraled around.
• Compression Springs: Compression springs are designed to provide a push or pull force; they’re called compression because you will place them in a compressed state using an installation tool.
• Extension springs: Extension springs are used for extension purposes; it’s made of two parts the wire piece along with its holders inside which is also made of metal.

8. Screws

A screw is a coiled piece of metal that’s used to join two or more objects together, they have a sharp pointed end and are twisted into the material you’re trying to join. There are many types of screws depending on their usage but in this article, we will only discuss the common ones.

Types

• Machine screws: Machine screws are used for fastening two materials together to make a bulky object stronger, they have a pointed end and narrow threading.
• Wood screws: The wood screw is the most common type of screw especially when you’re working on wood, it’s called a wood screw because it can be inserted into wood easily and grip into it.
• Socket head screws: Socket head screws look like a hexagon-shaped screw with a flat top that has a notch, it is used as a bolt replacement because they’re both made of metal and can be tightened using nuts.
• Button head screws: Button head screws are designed to fit through the button-shaped holes on the screw heads, they are also used as a bolt replacement.

9. Spanners

Spanners are tools that have been used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts, there are lots of different types of wrenches depending on their usage but in this article, we will only discuss the common ones.

Types

• Box wrench: A box wrench is also called a “monkey wrench” because of its shape, it’s used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts.
• Open-end wrench: Open-end wrenches are designed for tightening or loosening nuts fitting into the open end these types of wrenches come in different sizes.
• Ratchet: Ratchet wrenches are used when you need to tighten or loosen nuts, it has a ratcheting mechanism that can be turned in one direction.

10. Pliers

A plier is a tool with two jaws that are used for holding objects firmly and cutting hard materials like wires or nails. Some people call it nippers but they’re the same thing.

Types

• Hose clamp plier: A hose clamp plier is designed to be used on hoses and tubing, you can use it for twisting and holding purposes.
• Lineman’s pliers: Lineman’s pliers are used as a wire or cable cutting tool, they also have a crimping function on the jaws.
• Longnose pliers: Long nose pliers are used as a wire or cable cutting tool and also for gripping purposes.
• Needle-nose pliers: Needle-nose pliers are long-nosed pliers with even more precision than their previous version, they come in different sizes.

11. Hammers

A hammer is a tool with a heavy metal head that is used for breaking objects, some people call it a mallet but there are different types of hammers depending on their usage.

Types

• Ball peen hammer: A ball-peen hammer is used to shape curved metal materials; it has a flat side and a ball-shaped end.
• Framing hammer: A framing hammer is designed for heavy-duty purposes; they have a heavy head compared to other types of hammers.
• Mallet: Mallet is also a type of hammer, but it’s used as a striking tool instead of breaking objects, the wooden part of the mallet is called the head.
• Sledgehammer: A sledgehammer is designed for heavy-duty purposes like breaking bricks or concrete, its heavyweight makes it very efficient in doing so.
• Wooden mallet: Wooden mallets are used to hit objects without causing any damage like a regular hammer would do.

12. Saws

A saw is a tool with a very sharp blade that’s used for cutting materials or objects, there are lots of different types of saws but in this article, we’re only going to discuss the common ones.

Types

• Hacksaw: A hacksaw is designed for cutting metal and plastic things, they have two types of hacksaw the regular and keyhole hacksaw.
• Keyhole saw: A keyhole saw is a type of hacksaw that has a pointed end to cut through thin materials with narrow areas, some have interchangeable blades.
• Circular saw: A circular saw is designed for cutting through objects in an arc-like motion, it’s like a power saw the version of a hand saw.
• Coping saw: Coping saws are used to cut curves and shapes, it’s very useful when cutting through wood materials because of its design.
• Hand hacksaw: Hand hacksaws are the most common type of hacksaws, they’re designed for light-duty purposes which include wood or plastic cutting.

13. Chisels

A chisel is a tool that’s designed to cut through the material using its sharp end, they’re made out of metal and come in different shapes and sizes. Chisels can be very useful for woodcraft and carpentry applications.

Types

• Wood chisel: Wood chisels are designed to cut through woods, it has a sharp blade on one side and a flat end on the other side.
• Carving chisel: Carving chisels are similar to wood chisels but they’re designed smaller for more accuracy when carving.
• Brick chisel: A brick chisel is used on bricks and stones, it has a sharp end that’s specially designed so the material won’t slip off during usage.
• Cold chisel: Cold chisels are another type of brick chisel that’s used to break up the material, they have a sharp end too.
• Drywall chisel: Drywall chisels are made exclusively for drywalls and plasterboards; it has a sharp edge that can easily fit into narrow spaces.

14. Plane

A plane is a tool with a long and thin metal blade that is used for smoothening surfaces, it can be either made out of wood or metals such as aluminum or brass.

Types

• Block plane: A block plane is designed to work on things like cabinet doors or wooden boxes, they have a flat edge on one side which makes it easier to work with.
• Jack plane: A jack plane is designed for rough purposes but can still be used in smoothening surfaces, it’s also good for shaving down wood materials.
• Jointer plane: Jointer planes are made long just like other types of planes; it’s used for smoothening surfaces and tapering edges.
• Smoothing plane: Smoothing planes are designed to smoother down surfaces; it has a sharp edge on both sides which is what makes them different from other planes.
• Scraper plane: A scraper plane isn’t as common as the others but can still be found, it’s designed for scraping surfaces instead of smoothening them.

15. Files

A file is a tool with a long and thin metal blade that is used for smoothening surfaces, as planes files come in different shapes and sizes. Most files are made out of metals like brass or steel but there’re also plastic ones available.

Types

• Half-round file: A half-round file is a type of file that’s used on things like nails and screws, it has two flat surfaces on each end with a curved edge in the middle.
• Square file: A square file looks exactly like what its name suggests, this kind of file comes in different sizes and shapes.
• Three-square file: A three-square file looks different compared to a square file because it has more sides, they’re also used for smoothening surfaces.
• Needle file: These files are designed the same way as half-round or round files but are smaller in size, these are one of the most common files for precision purposes.
• Rasp: A rasp is another type of file that’s shaped like a block, it can be used on materials like wood and metal to give them fine finishes.

16. Coping Saws 

Coping saws are used to cut curves and shapes, it’s very useful when cutting through wood materials because of its design. Coping Saw Blades  Coping saw blades come in different shapes and sizes just like other types of files, the smallest type is called a pin-end blade followed by an inside-cut blade then finally an outside-cut blade.

Types

• Compound-action coping saw: these types of coping saws are designed to cut through materials like wood and plastic, it’s equipped with a toothless blade that makes the process easier.
• Coping saw frame: a coping saw frame is a hand tool used for cutting shapes out of different materials, they come in different sizes and have a removable blade.
• Tenon saw: This type of coping saw is great for cutting through wood materials because it has a thin metal rod connected to the handle, they’re commonly used by carpenters.

17. Hole Cutters

Hole cutters are designed to work for more practical purposes like making holes in various materials, there’re different kinds of hole cutters but they all serve the same purpose. Hole Cutter Bits When using a hole cutter bit, you must put it into your power drill, you can’t use a bit from a hole cutter with a power drill because it’s not the same size.

 Types

• Hole saw: A hole saw is shaped like a wheel and can be cut through wood materials, plastic, metal, and other harder surfaces.
• Spade bit: Spade bits also look like a wheel but are square and used for drilling into harder surfaces.
• Twist or spiral drill bit: A twist or spiral drill bit is used for drilling into wood materials, it has an extremely sharp edge that makes drilling easier.

18. Plug Cutters

A plug cutter is a tool used to cut clean round wood plugs, it enables the user to leave a good surface for further work. A hole cutter is another type of tool that can be used to create holes in different surfaces, it’s mostly used on sheet metal and wood.

Types

• Single-cutter plug cutter: A single-cutter plug cutter enables you to cut around a wood plug with the use of a drill bit.
• Double-cutter plug cutter: A double-cutter takes two drill bits and creates 2 holes on each side of the material, this is mostly used for making plywood plugs.

19. Socket Spanners, Extensions & Universal Joints

Sockets spanners are the most common types of tools used for fastening and removing nuts, they can also be found in different sizes which makes them easier to work with. A socket wrench is another form of a spanner that comes with interchangeable bits used for opening different sized nuts, it can either come with a ratchet handle or not.

An extension bar is used to extend the reach of a socket wrench, it’s thinner than a ratchet and socket wrench but can break easily. A universal joint or u-joint is used on both ends of the extensions, so every direction becomes accessible with one socket wrench.

Types Of Sockets Spanner

• Box-end wrench: A box-end wrench is shaped like a ring which makes it easier to work with, but they can break very easily.
• Combination spanner: Combination spanners are used for tight spaces, it has one open end and one closed so you can fit cords or hoses through it.
• Open-end wrench: An open-end wrench is shaped like a U and used for spaces where the box end won’t fit.

20. Crank Handles & T-Bars

A crank handle comes with a T bar which enables you to open objects from a wider angle, they’re mostly used for opening doors or gates. Crank Handles are attached to the door by putting it into the hole above where you would put a handle, it enables the user to open doors even though there might not be any handles.

Types Of Crank Handle

• Single-action crank handle: A single-action crank handle is used for one piece of metal which is attached to a single object, this handle is mainly used on gates.
• Double-action crank handle: A double-action crank handle can open two pieces of metal which are attached from one side, it enables objects to be opened from either

Types Of T-Bars

• Single-action T-bar: A single action t bar is used on one piece of metal which is attached to a single object.
• Double-action T-bar: A double-action t bar can open two pieces of metal that are attached from one side.

21. Screwdriver Bits & Drill Chucks

Screwdriver bits and drill chucks are designed to work for different purposes but they’re both used on the same thing, which is making holes bigger or smaller.

Types Of Screwdriver Bits

• Twist drill bit: A twist drill bit is used for drilling into wood or other materials because it has an extremely sharp edge that enables the process.
• Forstner bit: Forstner bits are designed to cut special shapes on different surfaces, this kind of drill bit works well with wooden materials.

Types Of Drill Chucks

• Keyless chuck: A keyless drill chuck is shaped like a regular drill bit, without the handle part. What you do to use it is push down on the chuck and move it in different directions until you find the right one.
• Split-point drill bit: A split-point drill bit is used to make holes on hard surfaces like metal or plastic, this kind of drill bit can’t be changed once it becomes dull.

22. Ratchet Handles & T-Bars

A ratchet handle comes with a T bar which enables you to open objects from a wider angle, they’re mostly used for opening doors or gates. Ratchet Handles are attached to the door by putting it into the hole above where you would put a handle, it enables the user to open doors even though there might not be any handles.

Types

• Single-action ratchet handle: A single-action ratchet handle is used for one piece of metal which is attached to a single object, this handle is mainly used on gates.
• Double-action ratchet handles: A double action ratchet handle can open two pieces of metal that are attached from one side, it enables objects to be opened from either direction.

23. L-Keys

An L-key is a tool that works like pliers, it’s used to tighten or loosen bolts and screws.

Types

• Hex key: Hex keys are designed for hexagon shapes on hardware, you can use them on almost all different sizes of nuts or bolts. The one thing you have to be careful about when using them is the amount of force you apply to them.
• Allen key: An Allen key is a less popular version of an L-key, they’re used for hexagon shapes too, but they only work on specific sizes of hardware.

24. Crowbars

A crowbar is a heavy iron bar with thick, flat ends that’s used for pulling nails or moving objects without bending them. A Punch comes in different shapes which makes it unique, but it works the same way as other tools do.

Types

• Curved crowbar: A curved crowbar is designed to pull out nails from wood and sometimes even metal, they have a sharp side that enables you to remove things without worrying about breaking them.
• Straight crowbar: A straight crowbar is designed for removing nails and packing stuff, you can also use it to lift objects or open doors. They’re not as sharp as curved crowbars so they’re safe to use without worrying about damaging what you’re trying to remove.

25.Tack Lifts & Pins

A tack lift is a tool used for holding fabrics together, it’s not dangerous so you can use it without being scared of getting injured.

Types

• Plastic tack lifter: A plastic tack lifter is used to hold up two pieces of fabric or any other material together, they’re usually used to keep fabrics in place while sewing them.
• Metal tack lifter: Metal tack lifters are designed the same way as plastic ones but they work better and last longer.

26. Bar Pulls And Door Levers

A bar pull is a curtain rod holder which helps you open or close curtains or drapes easily, door levers are used for the same purpose.

Types

• Curtain rod holder: Curtain rod holders are designed with a long bar at one end and a little hook on the other side that latches onto the edge of the curtain. This enables you to open or close them with one hand.
• Door lever: Door levers are used to hold a door either fully opened or closed, they have a small little hook at the bottom which latches onto the ground, so it doesn’t move.

27. Putty Knives

A putty knife is mostly used for applying putty onto surfaces, it can also be used to scrape things off.

Types

Lambs’ wool tool: A lambswool tool is a putty knife that has soft fabric attached to one end, it’s used for applying and scraping off putty without damaging the surface.

Scrapper: Scrapers are designed like a normal putty knife but they’re made with sharp materials at the end so they can remove things or cut them easily.

Glass putty knife: A glass putty knife is used for applying or removing substances from glass surfaces, it’s not very sharp so you don’t have to be worried about breaking the surface.

28. Sheet Metal Cutters & Nibblers

Sheet metal cutters are mainly used for cutting through sheet metal but sometimes they can be used as scissors too. Shears are used for the same thing, but they’re not very commonly used.

Types Of Sheet Metal Cutters

• Hand shears: Hand shears are used for cutting sheet metal and sometimes even fabric, they don’t take much effort so if you want something really precise you should use a pair of scissors.
• Pneumatic sheet metal cutters: Pneumatic sheet metal cutters work like hand shears, but the only difference is that they run on air which makes them a lot more powerful.

Type Of Nibblers

Cable nibblers: Cable nibblers are used for cutting sheet metal, plastic or fiberglass. They’re not very sharp so you don’t have to worry about the material getting damaged unless it’s really thin.

29. Glass Pliers

Glass pliers are used for holding and bending glass, they’re not very dangerous so you don’t have to be worried about injuries.

Types

Inside glass pliers: Inside glass pliers are designed to hold small pieces of glass inside them, you just need to open them up and place them onto the glass.

Outside glass pliers: Outside glass pliers are designed to hold small pieces of glass outside; you just need to open them up and place them onto the glass.

Shear cutter: A shear cutter is used for cutting through tempered glass which would be dangerous with other tools, so you need to be careful while using it.

30. Carpenter’s Axe

A carpenter’s axe is used for cutting wood, sometimes they’re used as a weapon too. They come in different shapes and sizes, but the basic concept is still the same.

Types

• Handaxe: A hand ax is used for chopping wood, it’s quite thin and can be handled with one hand.
• Hatchet: Hatchets are designed the same way as axes but they’re a lot smaller, so you don’t have to worry about the damage being too much.
• Double bit axe: Double bit axes are both used for chopping and splitting wood.
• Single bit axe: Single bit axes are mostly used as a weapon but they’re still really useful for cutting and chopping wood too.

Types Of Ironmongery – Conclusion

This article divided ironmongery into different types, each type has its functions and characteristics. You have to remember that ironmongery is dangerous, and it should only be used by professionals or people who know how to do it safely and responsibly.

If you don’t know which type of ironmongery fits your need the best, we recommend contacting a professional for advice.

References

• https://www.sashed.com/window-door-options/ironmongery-options/
• https://moviecultists.com/what-are-the-types-of-ironmongery
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ironmongery