Whether you are really into DIY projects or just starting out, here are some tools that every homeowner should have. You can complete about 90% of all home maintenance with just a handful of tools. Tools really are an investment so be sure to buy good quality basics as they will last you a lifetime. While you don’t need a toolbox per say, having a container or heavy duty canvas bag to organize all of the tools is a good idea.
Here are the basic tools that every homeowners needs to own:
- Hammer. Seems simple enough but the one that is most versatile is a steel 16-ounce rip hammer. With the straight claw, you can use it to pull out nails or rip out a wall.
- Screwdriver. A 4 in 1 screwdriver is preferable as you can switch between a small and large Philips-head and a small and large flat-head bit.
- Tape Measure. Go for the 25 footer as it is the perfect length when you’re measuring solo.
- Level. Because sometimes eyeballing it isn’t the best option.
- Cordless drill with bits. We use this all the time. Whether you are hanging pictures, curtain rods or putting together furniture, this is a must for all homeowners. Some more experienced DIY’ers may prefer a corded drill since it never loses its charge. We just have a spare battery so if it cops out mid job, you just snap the replacement in and keep going.
- Pliers. Channel-lock, lineman’s, vise-grips (locking pliers) and needle-nose are 4 most used. The channel-lock pliers are adjustable and good for gripping nuts. Lineman pliers cut and twist wires. Needle-nose pliers are great for those hard to reach areas while many people find vise-grips helpful for clamping. Just be careful with the vise-grips as they can cause you to mangle nuts and bolts if you aren’t careful. Grab a pair of needle-nose pliers with a wire cutting blade near the hinge for more bang for your buck.
- Utility Knife. You know, the one with the retractable blade that goes into the handle.
- Adjustable crescent wrenches. If you get them in 6 and 14 inch sizes, you should be all set for most household jobs.
- Hex key. Otherwise known as an Allen wrench. I have sort of a love/hate relationship with this tool. Can’t live with it, can’t live without it. If you have ever put together furniture, you know why.
- Staple Gun. The quickest way to reupholster anything.
- Handsaw. Even if you own a circular saw, there may be instances where you need a handsaw.
- Electronic stud finder. Takes the guess work out of hanging heavy objects.
- Protective eyewear and gloves. For safety sake.
- Electrical tester. Again, for safety sake.
- Caulking gun. A great way to save money and upgrade your home’s efficiency is by caulking the areas around windows and doors.
- Ladder. Great for indoor and outdoor use. Can be used to clean the gutters (unless you have Gutter Helmet, then you Never Have to Clean your Gutters Again).
- Drywall knife and a putty knife. To do all of the patch work necessary prior to painting a room.
- 9 inch roller frame and roller brushes. I like the one where the handle comes off so you can use it in high areas and then remove the handle for places within your reach.
- Assorted paint brushes. Get a 2 ½ inch angled brush for interior cutting and trim and a 3 inch rectangular or oval brush for exterior cutting and trim. We buy good quality brushes, wash and reuse.
- Paint tray with liners. Liners make clean up quick and less messy.
Did we miss any tool essentials? What tool can’t you live without?