While unexpected expenses are one of the downsides of owning a home, not all home repairs need to cost a fortune, notes Limestone Country Properties Services. With a little research, effort, and the right tools, many household problems can be solved without calling in the professionals. Here’s our list of the top tools every homeowner should own.
Cordless Drill
A cordless drill is indispensable for quick drilling and screw-driving tasks around the house. From assembling furniture to mounting shelves, it simplifies many DIY projects. Choose one with multiple speed settings and good battery life.
Hammer
A solid hammer is useful for everything from hanging pictures to small demolition tasks. Choose one with a comfortable grip and a claw for removing nails. It’s indispensable for everyday fixes.
Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is a must-have for plumbing jobs and any task that involves tightening or loosening nuts and bolts. Keep a couple of different lengths on hand for those hard-to-reach places.
Screwdriver Set
A set of durable screwdrivers in various sizes and types is useful for many different projects. These tools are essential for assembling or repairing appliances, electronics, and furniture.
Pliers
Pliers are necessary for gripping, bending, and cutting. A good set includes needle-nose pliers for precision work, standard slip-joint pliers for general use, and locking pliers for extra grip.
Tape Measure
A reliable tape measure is critical for accurate measuring whether you’re building, hanging, or planning space layouts. Get one that locks and retracts smoothly, with at least a 25-foot length.
Utility Knife
A utility knife allows for easy cutting of a variety of materials, including cardboard, drywall, and vinyl. Look for one with a comfortable grip and replaceable blades, ideal for precision cuts and everyday tasks.
Level
A level ensures everything you install is perfectly horizontal or vertical. This tool is crucial for hanging pictures or installing cabinets and countertops. Laser levels provide higher accuracy for more complex projects.
Flashlight
A high-quality flashlight is essential for emergency situations or any job that requires extra light. Choose one that’s durable and waterproof, ideally with LED lighting for better energy efficiency. Rechargeable models are more environmentally friendly and economical in the long run.
Stud Finder
A stud finder helps locate studs in the walls for secure mounting of shelves, TVs, or large artwork. It prevents potential damage from nailing or drilling into pipes or wiring. Electronic stud finders provide more precise detections.
Electric Sander
An electric sander is perfect for smoothing surfaces for painting or refinishing. It saves time and effort compared to manual sanding. Use it for large, flat surfaces like tables and decks.
Paint Brushes and Rollers
High-quality paint brushes and rollers make any painting job easier and more professional-looking. Invest in various sizes for different types of paint jobs, from detailed trim work to large wall spaces.
Safety Gear
Basic safety gear includes goggles, ear protection, and work gloves. Protecting yourself during any home maintenance task is essential to prevent injuries. Consider a respirator for projects that generate dust or fumes.
Plumber’s Tape
Plumber’s tape, or Teflon tape, is used to seal pipe threads against leaks. It’s particularly useful for DIY plumbing repairs, ensuring a watertight seal. It’s an inexpensive tool that can prevent costly water damage.
Caulking Gun
A caulking gun is used to apply caulk around windows, doors, and other gaps to improve insulation and waterproofing. Choose one with a smooth pressure trigger for better control.
Chisels
A set of wood chisels is invaluable for any woodworking project, from adjusting doors to creating custom cabinetry. They’re also useful for intricate carving and other detailed work.
Ladder
A sturdy ladder enables safe access to high places, crucial for cleaning gutters, painting, or changing light fixtures. For most homes, a multi-function ladder that adjusts to different configurations offers the best versatility.
Garden Hose with Attachments
A durable garden hose facilitates watering, cleaning, and other maintenance tasks outside the home. Attachments can adjust the spray for different uses, from gentle watering to powerful cleaning.
Wire Strippers
Wire strippers are essential for any electrical work, allowing safe and accurate stripping of electrical insulation. They’re needed for installing light fixtures or updating outlets.
Allen Wrench Set
An Allen wrench set is crucial for assembling furniture and bicycles or working on anything with hexagonal bolts. These come in metric and imperial measurements. They’re often required for items that come flat-packed or need occasional tightening.
Vise
A vise is a mechanical device that is used to secure an object to allow work to be performed on it. Perfect for holding objects firmly in place during work, it is an essential tool for any workshop.
