As a new homeowner, you likely have a long list of items you need or want to purchase for your new digs. From welcome mats to plungers and wall hangings, there’s lots to buy in the first weeks after moving day. As you browse through window treatments and home decor, don’t forget to stock up on the basic tools every new homeowner needs.
A well-stocked toolbox is essential for every homeowner, but choosing which tools to pack inside that kit can be confusing. What do you need, and what’s just an extra? Can you get by with only one screwdriver, or do you have to spring for the whole set? So many questions — and we’ve got answers! We’ve compiled a guide to stocking a homeowner’s toolbox at every skill level. Happy fixing!
Basic tools
If you’ve never pretended to be a handyman, but you’d like to have basic tools in the house in case something needs minor repair, then here’s what belongs in your toolbox:
- Claw hammer. From hanging up pictures to securing loose railings, a hammer is your go-to tool for most basic jobs. Consider also getting a lightweight pin hammer for smaller jobs.
- Screwdriver set. It’s worthwhile to invest in a set of screwdrivers so you have a variety of flat-heads and Phillips heads handy for any job. You can pick up a set of 10 screwdrivers at your local home improvement or hardware store, or order one from Amazon.
- Pliers set. Different sizes and types are your best bet. Look for pliers with good grips and that are sized well for your hands.
- Adjustable wrench. If you have a wrench, you can tighten or loosen virtually anything.
- Allen wrench set. You’ll use these wrenches anytime you order a piece of furniture that requires assembly.
- Handsaw. A handsaw is great for trimming lumber and cutting through drywall, fiberglass, and other thin materials.
- Extension cord. Every house should have at least one indoor extension cord and another outdoor cord for jobs requiring electric tools.
- Utility knife. Use this handy cutter to open boxes and hard plastic packages, shave wood, and more.
- Tape measure. A retractable 25-foot tape measure will come in handy when you need to measure space for new furniture or decor items.
- Hardware. Keep a generous selection of screws and nails on hand in case you need one in a hurry.
- Level. A simple floating-bubble model will help keep your wall pictures and shelving straight.
- Flashlight. It’s always a good idea to have a source of battery-powered and rechargeable light in case of an outage.
The next step
Once you’ve filled your toolbox with the basics, and you become more skilled at around-the-house repairs, consider adding these more advanced tools to your collection:
- C-clamp. A clamp will help you hold the wood in place for woodworking projects.
- Stud finder. This ingenious tool will keep you from creating unnecessary holes or drilling where nails already exist.
- Cordless drill. A cordless drill has dozens of household uses, especially if you get into woodworking or light construction around the house.
- Hacksaw. These are great for cutting through plastic and metal pipes, tubing, conduit, and wood.
- Safety gear. You’ll need safety goggles, ear protection, and dust masks when using power tools.
- Putty knife. Designed for applying Spackle, you can also use your putty knife to remove old paint and apply grout to tile floors and backsplashes.
- Wire stripper. Perfect for cutting materials like aluminum, copper, brass, iron, and steel, wire strippers are essential for the committed DIYer.
Advanced tools
If you’re exceptionally handy, then consider adding these to your toolbox:
- Sanders. Put the finishing touches on your woodworking projects with a power sander. For best results, you may want to invest in several types of sanders and use each one when it fits the job best. For example, a random orbital sander may be best for simple home projects, while a belt sander is great for sanding rough surfaces and a rotary sander is your go-to choice for edge work.
- Carpenter’s Square. Made up of a metal ruler and interchangeable heads, a carpenter’s square is used to measure level, right angles, the center of a circle and to check depth. It can be an incredibly useful tool in complicated woodworking, metal, and masonry projects.
- Table saw. This power tool, also known as a saw bench, is a mounted woodworking tool considered the workhorse of any well-equipped wood shop. A table saw can rip, cross-cut, miter-cut, square, rabbet, and apply shapes to the edges of wood stock.
Your toolbox is all set! Now you’ll be fully prepared for anything that needs fixing in your home.
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Sources:
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/tools/21018652/must-have-tools-for-every-skill-level
https://www.homedepot.com/c/ab/must-have-tools-for-homeowners/9ba683603be9fa5395fab90de15afdd
