Even if you’re not a professional builder or even a self-described “Mr. Fix It,” you should still keep a variety of basic tools and hardware on hand in your home. Whether for basic home decor installation or more complex repairs and maintenance, having a selection of supplies is crucial for getting the job done successfully.
Tools to Keep on Hand
While there are numerous tools you may need as a homeowner, there are some basic items that will come in handy for a wide range of projects that come up. A few simple tools to add to your arsenal include:
Cordless Drill
Having a good cordless drill is indispensable for everything from hanging curtains to assembling furniture. They’re available at a wide range of prices, so you can go as rugged or as simple as you want.
Screwdrivers
A basic screwdriver set will also come in handy for a number of household projects. Be sure to have at least a Phillips-head and a flat-head screwdriver. Specialized sizes and shapes are also available if you decide to purchase a full set.
Tape Measure
Accurately measuring furniture, wall space, and other items before completing a project is crucial for getting it done efficiently. Having a tape measure in your tool bag is an inexpensive way to ensure you never have to guess.
Wrenches
It’s a good idea to keep a set of wrenches on hand for simple repair projects around the house. This can include basic wrenches as well as Allen wrenches to tighten or loosen certain bolts when needed. If you don’t want to keep a full set available, you can buy a single adjustable wrench to accommodate most projects.
Pliers
You should keep, at a minimum, needle-nose pliers, locking pliers, and slip-joint pliers to grip, bend, and cut wires, hardware, plumbing, and other small items when you need a tight grip.
Stud Finder
Whether you’re hanging a large picture or mounting new cabinets, it’s important to have a stud finder so you can ensure a stable hold by drilling directly into the wood versus drywall.
Hammer
No toolbox is complete without a small hammer. They’re not only useful for driving in nails, but they can also be used for prying boards, flooring, trim, and other items.
Painting Supplies
Keep paint trays in various sizes, brushes, rollers, and touch-up paint at the ready for making small repairs or repainting areas of your home when needed.
Hardware and Fastener Supplies
While different jobs will require different hardware, there are a few necessities you can keep on hand for completing many jobs. When choosing hardware, be sure you keep various sizes of each type on hand to complete different jobs. You should also keep a range of finish options available for various applications, such as outdoor and indoor use. Fasteners may include:
Wood Screws
Keep a collection of wood screws available to complete a range of household tasks. Be sure to maintain a selection of sizes, such as 2-½ inch and 1-¼ inch sizes.
Drywall Screws
Drywall screws are made specifically to go into drywall, so the head fits just below the surface for smooth finishing. Keep a range of sizes on hand to accommodate different drywall depths.
Lag Screws
These are heavier-duty screws for applications that need to be able to hold more weight.
Box Nails
Basic nails can be used for rough construction, such as assembling a wall or wood project, where the nails won’t be seen. They’re long and durable for a heavy-duty hold.
Finish Nails
These have a smaller head for completing trim, baseboards, and other projects where a larger nailhead would be noticed.
Nuts and Bolts
Keep a variety of nuts and bolts on hand for areas where you need a strong hold that can be removed when needed.
Other Supplies
A few other basic supplies and accessories you should consider keeping on hand may include:
Safety Goggles
Eye protection is necessary when cutting wood or using cleaning and other chemicals, which may cause eye injury.
Drop Cloths
Plastic or fabric drop cloths will help keep surfaces safe when painting, sanding, or staining surfaces nearby.
Gloves
A variety of gloves may come in handy when working around the house. Rubber gloves protect your hands while cleaning with harsh chemicals and solvents. Wood gloves prevent callouses and blisters when completing more strenuous construction or gardening projects.
Ear Protection
Sound-lowering earplugs or earmuffs can protect your hearing when using lawn and garden equipment and power tools.
Selecting the Right Tools and Hardware
There are an almost endless number of options when it comes to tools and fastener suppliers, so making the right selection can feel daunting. You want to choose items that combine durability with the right price point for your budget. A few points to keep in mind:
Go with Trusted Brands
There are a few tool brands that are household names, and that’s for good reason. If the budget allows and you will be completing a lot of projects, going with a quality, name-brand tool is a good bet. High-grade tools will last longer and can typically handle more strenuous projects than lower-priced options.
Read Reviews
Whether you’re going with a known brand or not, reading customer reviews is a good way to get a feel for how a tool operates before you buy. You may also read about pitfalls or warnings that may come up for specific projects, so you’ll have a better idea of whether a specific tool is what you’re looking for.
Shop In-Person
While fasteners are usually safe to buy online, power tools are another story. When selecting your tools, it’s a good idea to view them in person so you can hold them, inspect the build quality, and see how items feel in your hand for comfort and ease of use.
Building Your Collection
Buy a few basic tools to start, and then upgrade as you get comfortable doing more detailed or complex projects. The tools detailed here will allow you to complete a wide range of common household projects, and you can add more specialized tools as you go along if they’re needed.
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