Every home should have a kit with all the important home improvement tools, for emergencies, minor repairs, or fixes. Nobody likes to wait around for professionals in case of a minor repair or replacement. DIYing can help save money and time. With a few important tools handy and a bit of “can-do” attitude, you can DIY minor tasks at home. The blog describes some of the most essential tools that you must have in your home.
11 Home Improvement Tools You Need
Here are certain important home improvement tools you must have in your kit-
25-Foot Tape Measure
Even if you don’t do DIY, a tape measure is a nice-to-have tool for several reasons. You might have to measure the size of the room so that you can buy the perfect rug. Or, you might have to measure the corner so that you can decide which chair would fit in the best.
A tape measure is a very important tool, and when purchasing one, ensure it has a good and comfortable grip, with a retractable blade. This makes it easy to use. Some homeowners prefer the 25-foot tape measure, as it helps with longer measurements. You can also get a handy mini tape measure to carry around, if needed.
Screwdriver Set
Another one of the most important home improvement tools is a set of screwdrivers. It is recommended to have a flathead and Philips head screwdrivers. You can also consider buying a multi-bit screwdriver with one handle and several heads.
The flathead is also known as a slotted screwdriver, which is not as often used as the Philips head, but some of the furniture and fixtures might need it. On the other hand, the Philips head screwdriver is named after Henry F. Philips, the man who invented it. The tip has a “plus” sign and is most commonly used in households. This helps in tightening a doorknob, assembling furniture, installing wall anchors, etc.
Flashlight
A flashlight may not be considered a tool, but it is one of the most essential items that you must have at home. When the power goes out, you need a flashlight handy. Other than functional purposes, it can also be used during recreational activities, such as making shadow puppets on the walls and telling ghost stories.
Also, it is important to ensure that the flashlight has new batteries. In addition, keep in mind to have some extra batteries handy, in case the current one goes out.
Hammer
Keep hammers in your home improvement toolbox, as it comes quite handy when pounding a nail into the wall or anywhere you would like to hang things. But when you are buying a hammer, ensure not to buy the small, lightweight one, as it is not very functional.
Instead, buy a medium-sized claw hammer with a rip claw and a handle with a good grip. This is the perfect size to keep inside the toolbox and is also easy to carry around.
Adjustable Wrench
A wrench is very useful when you’re doing plumbing work. A medium-sized adjustable wrench is good for various projects. With an adjustable one, you can adjust the jaw size to easily work around the nuts and bolts of any size. You can also invest in a wrench set with various sizes.
Box and Hardware
Hardware, such as nails, screws, and anchors, can create a mess when accumulated for a long period of time. Also, if you don’t keep them arranged in a hardware box, you might lose them over the years. A proper hardware organizer box is very important to have to make sure all your screws and nails are in place, and you don’t have to run to the store each time you need them.
Utility Knife
A utility knife may not be seen as an effective tool, but its replaceable blade without having to use screwdrivers is one of the best advantages. It is easy to fold, and can flick open and close without putting much effort. Some of the variants also have a built-in gut hook that can cut through strings and plastic ties, while keeping the blade closed.
Step Stool
If you mostly work indoors, then you don't need a big ladder. A step stool is perfect for any indoor home improvement job, as it is slim enough to fit through anywhere, such as behind the couch.
Also, you won’t have to worry about carrying it around as it is lightweight and small in size. You can get several options that can bear different weight loads. It is advised to understand your weight load requirement and the weight load the stool might have to bear before purchasing.
Precision Knife
A precision knife is not a substitute for a utility knife, so having it in the home improvement toolbox is important. It helps in precision cutting and other delicate work, where a pair of scissors or a utility knife won’t suffice.
A precision knife can be used to trim off the edge of the painter’s tape, cut decals, and backing papers. It comes in the size and shape of a pencil, which is easy to carry around. Also, the blades are easy to swap and readily available in the market.
Stud Finder
If you want to attach something heavy to the wall, you must mount it to the vertical structural pieces of wood (studs) behind the wall. But the trick is you have to find them without seeing them, and the best way to find studs is with a stud finder. When you hold and rub a stud finder against a wall, it will light up when it passes over a stud. This will help you understand where you should drill to mount an art or a photo frame on the wall.
In many homes, electrical wires run along the studs, so you should be cautious while drilling to avoid damaging them and causing a short circuit. A good stud finder will warn when it detects a wire.
Power Drill and Bits
You should invest in a good power drill in which various drill bits to be adjusted. Ensure that the drill machine you buy is of an 18V or 20V, as this helps drilling ½ inch holes into wall studs. Also, when you purchase bits, consider buying the one with a black oxide coating. This is because it reduces friction and speeds up drilling and prevents rusting.