Essential Tools for Homeowners and Beginner DIYers

Essential Tools for Homeowners and Beginner DIYers

1. Tape Measure

You’ll be surprised how often you’ll reach for your tape measure for one reason or another. A 25-foot long tape will cover a wide range of DIY and home improvement projects. If you’re looking for a sturdy tape measure, choose one with a nylon or acrylic-coated blade that won’t crack or split.

2. Utility Knife

A utility knife is a great basic tool to have. Cheaply-made knives are prone to problems such as blades that snap or won’t lock into place, so when shopping for one, go for a mid-range knife with a rubber grip to prevent slipping.

3. Claw Hammer

While there are several types of hammers, the claw hammer is most commonly used. Its main use is to pound or extract nails from wood. Choose one with a rubber or vinyl handle for shock absorption and an easier grip.

4. Screwdriver Set

In the current do-it-yourself age, a screwdriver set is vital to have. And most beginner DIYers learn the hard way that just one single screwdriver won’t cut it. Find a set with both flat-head and Phillips-head screwdrivers in various sizes to cover a range of projects big and small.

5. Hardware

An assortment of hardware – or nails and screws – in various types and sizes will come in handy often. Keep them in a box with compartments for easy separating and label them so you can quickly find what you’re looking for.

Projects You’ll Need It For:

•     Finishing nails are used for putting the final touches on molding, trim and hardwood flooring projects.

•      Vinyl sinkers are used in construction and carpentry projects, and help make it easier to hammer into wood.

•      Galvanized nails are used for mainly outdoor projects, specifically roofing, because they are coated in zinc to prevent rust and corrosion.

•      Drywall screws are used to secure drywall to metal studs and can be used to patch ceilings after knocking down a wall in your home.

•      Outdoor screws are typically made of stainless steel and are completely rust resistant, which make them great for building a new deck.

6. Tape

There’s a wide range of tapes that may be better suited for your project than all-purpose masking tape or scotch tape. Each type of tape has different qualities of fabric, polyethylene, and adhesive made for a variety of uses.

7. Adjustable Pliers

Adjustable pliers will make a great addition to your tool collection. Its angled jaws make this tool useful for turning nuts and bolts. Pliers can also function as clamps and wire cutters and may also be called plier wrenches, tongue and groove pliers or locking pliers.

8. Adjustable Crescent Wrench

Adjustable wrenches have a moveable jaw, allowing them to be used with different sized nuts and bolts. At the beginner level, a full set of various sizes isn’t necessary; just one large adjustable wrench will do. Make sure to store your wrench in a cool, dry place to avoid rust.

9. Allen Wrenches

An Allen wrench is a simple tool that is used to drive bolts and screws with hexagonal sockets in their heads. Choose a set with various sizes to accommodate a range of projects. Allen wrenches are also called hex keys or Allen keys.

10. Level

Levels are used to ensure that lines or surfaces are entirely straight. Levels usually consist of small tubes containing liquid and an air bubble. If the air bubble is in the center of the tube, the line or surface is level. Most can double as a ruler or straightedge as well.

11. Stepladder

This isn’t exactly a tool, but a 6-to-10-foot stepladder will allow you to reach most areas of your home. When choosing one, make sure to check the stability and always ensure you are using it on a firm, level, non-slippery surface.