Must-Have Tools for a Homeowner’s Toolbox

As a homeowner, you’ll find there are always things to do, whether regular maintenance projects, renovations, or repairs. To keep on top of all the necessary tasks in your home, you’ll need a few basic tools for homeowners. If you haven’t yet purchased a toolbox, check online or at your local hardware store. It will be a convenient place to store your tools and fasteners.

Screwdrivers are Helpful Tools for Homeowners

Screwdrivers are available in different sizes and with various heads. You’ll need one for situations where installing or removing screws is involved. You might use a screwdriver to assemble furniture, remove the cover from the remote control, tighten a loose cabinet handle, and hang curtains.

When shopping for a screwdriver, you’ll find there are different types such as Phillips, Flat Head, Robertson, Torx, Hex, etc. It’s best to buy an assortment or choose a handle with interchangeable heads, so you’ll always have the right tool for the job.

Tools for Homeowners: Pliers

Pliers are used for gripping objects such as pipes and wires. Some pliers also have a blade for cutting wire. You might use pliers to tighten a bolt or remove a nail that is stuck in a wall.

There are a variety of pliers, each designed for a specific purpose. Slip joint pliers, needle nose pliers, locking pliers, wire strippers, linesman pliers, and fencing pliers could come in handy during home improvements.

Wrench

Wrenches are a basic tool every homeowner should have. They are essential for fixing plumbing fixtures such as leaking sinks and toilets. Wrenches tighten or loosen nuts, bolts, pipes, and pipe fittings. Like screwdrivers and pliers, there are many kinds of wrenches for your toolbox.

Claw Hammer

A claw hammer is the most common kind of hammer you’ll find in a homeowner’s toolbox. This tool is good for both installing and extracting nails as well as for minor demolition. Hammers come in different weights for different jobs requiring more or less force. There are several types of hammers, however, for regular, all-purpose home use, a 16-ounce claw hammer will suffice.

Tape Measure

No toolbox is complete without a tape measure. They are useful for measuring spaces and furniture. If you’re buying a new refrigerator, use the tape measure to determine how much space you have available for the appliance. When building a deck, the tape measure will help you calculate how much decking board to purchase. Tape measures are available in many lengths, but the 25 feet tape measure is standard.

Stud Finder

A stud finder is a handheld device that detects the framing studs present in the walls. This is convenient when you want to mount a television on the wall or hang shelves in the living room.

Other Useful Tools for Homeowners

Other commonly used tools are utility knives, staple guns, drills, levels, sanders, and metal shears. Purchase the tools you need to complete a project and keep them in good shape. A well-made tool can last a lifetime.

Dave Holt Home Inspections offers home inspections to customers in New Orleans and the surrounding areas. Contact us to request our services.