Top Tools Every Homeowner Should Have

Whether you’re performing regular maintenance or adding new features to your home, you’ll need the right tools to get the job done. Among the many tools you can invest in, a few basic ones should be at the top of your list. From screwdrivers to wrenches, these trusty instruments will make repairs manageable and the space you’ve dreamed of possible. Here are the top tools every homeowner needs.

SCREWDRIVERS 

Every homeowner should have a screwdriver set with a variety of sizes and head styles on hand. There are plenty of options to choose from, but a sampling of flat-head and Phillips-head screwdrivers is a great place to start. Electric screwdrivers also work for those who want a faster, more effortless solution.

HAMMERS 

A necessary tool for tackling both simple and complex maintenance tasks, hammers are an invaluable addition to any kit. A standard, mid-sized claw hammer with a comfortable grip is ideal for smaller projects, but consider purchasing a heavier sledgehammer for bigger projects, like demolishing walls or breaking down concrete.

NAILS & SCREWS 

You can’t use a hammer or screwdriver without nails and screws. Just like screwdrivers, get an assortment of sizes and shapes. You’ll usually reach for common nails, box nails, and finishing nails or wood screws, drywall screws, and self-tapping screws, but these little helpers are must-haves for everything from hanging art to assembling furniture.

Read more: Five Tips for Choosing the Right Kitchen Countertops

MEASURING TAPE 

Especially important for limited spaces, a measuring tape is non-negotiable. This rather straightforward item will probably end up being one of your most-used tools as you measure out space for paintings, appliances, and rugs. Grab a sturdy, easy-locking one to keep at home and a softer fabric one for on the go.

PLIERS 

Mainly used to remove nails and handle wires, pliers provide a wide range of functions. Slip-joint pliers are the most versatile and perfect for gripping and bending hardware, and needle-nose pliers are best for manipulating wires and retrieving parts.

WRENCHES 

Wrenches give you a way to tighten bolts in hard-to-reach areas without getting too uncomfortable. For tightening and loosening nuts and bolts, use adjustable and combination wrenches. For metal objects, a pipe wrench will be your go-to.

UTILITY KNIFE 

Living up to their name, utility knives offer an array of capabilities, including cutting flooring and scraping paint. The quality of the knife is all in the blade, so purchase one that’s sharp enough to handle what you’re cutting. Take extra care to ensure this tool is secured properly and never gets into the hands of children.

BONUS: WIRE CUTTERS

You’ll need these for anything you’re doing that involves electricity. Trying to make electrical repairs without them could spell great danger. Instead, make sure you always have some wire cutters on hand to cut aluminum, copper, brass, iron, and steel as needed.

BONUS: CORDLESS DRILLS AND DRILL BITS

Cordless drills are extremely versatile, making them an essential addition to homeowner toolkits. Used the same way as a traditional drill but without the hassle of a cord, cordless drills are exceptionally convenient.

Along with the right drill, you’ll need drill bits. Drill bits are available in a variety of selections, including metal, wood, and universal bits. Choose one that works with your project material.

BONUS: TOOLBOX

What good are all your tools if you don’t have a toolbox to organize them in? You don’t need anything too special; an inexpensive, standard set is perfectly fine, especially if you’re just getting started on your DIY journey. However, you should confirm that it has a variety of openings and compartments to keep things easily in sight and space to add other construction accessories, like glue and tape.

BONUS: POWER WASHER

Taking things up a level into the world of power tools, power washers are a valuable homeowner investment. They make cleaning your home’s exterior areas easy by using pressurized water to get rid of dirt, dust, and grime in no time. With the right application, power washers can breathe new life into various areas of your home, from the gleaming exterior walls to the intricate details of backyard structures like fences and decks.

While power washers are extremely helpful, they can do more harm than good if used improperly. Check out these power-washing tips for beginners. 

Picking Tools You Need for Success

Having the right tools is essential for any homeowner looking to tackle maintenance tasks or enhance their living space. From screwdrivers and hammers to measuring tape and pliers, the highlighted tools form the cornerstone of a well-equipped toolbox. Whether you're a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting, investing in these trusty instruments ensures that repairs become more manageable and your home improvement aspirations can become a reality.