Homeowners need a basic household tool kit for simple home repairs and maintenance tasks. You can treat your toolbox like a first aid kit should already have for emergencies. You should have at least a set of essential tools for emergency fixes and DIY projects. Avoid any frustrations on home repairs by stocking up on these basic tools:
Pliers
Having different sets of pliers in various sizes and shapes is recommended. You can purchase a pair of needle-nose pliers, slip joint pliers, and tongue-and-groove pliers for home repairs and general handyman tasks. A needle-nose plier is used in bending, stripping, and shaping nails and wires. It can also work in tight places and tiny crevices in your walls.
On the other hand, tongue-and-groove pliers are useful in fastening nuts and bolts as well as clamping materials. You might also need a slip joint plier due to its versatility. It has an adjustable pivot point or fulcrum to increase or decrease the thickness of the jaws. It is usually used to grip objects securely, cute wires, and bend flat or round stocks.
Screwdrivers
This basic yet essential tool is used to tighten hardware and tools by turning the screws and nuts. You will need at least two types of screwdrivers: a flat head and a Phillips-head screwdriver.
As its name suggests, a flat-head screwdriver has a wedge-shaped flat tip for tightening or loosening screws. Meanwhile, a Phillips or crosshead screwdriver allows a tighter fit and quick adjustment. If you have the budget, you can have a set of tiny screwdrivers and nuts in your tool chest. An assortment of nails and screws will come in handy when you hang pictures or do quick fixes.
Toolbox Level
This optical device is used to establish an accurate horizontal plane. A level is required in measuring flat surfaces, drilling holes, checking the alignment of various objects, and more. There are different types of toolbox levels that you can use to ensure that all of your home repair projects are done right.
Measuring Tape
A tape measure is a portable measurement device that you need more than you know. It is a 25-foot flexible ruler that works in measuring curtains, tablecloths, furniture, wall décor, and so much more. Always keep it on hand to measure the size or distance of anything from the wall to the floor area.
Blue Painter’s Tape
If you are planning to tackle a DIY painting job, make sure that you have blue painter’s tape inside your personal toolbox. This will help protect your furniture, cabinets, windows frames, and other interior elements. It can help you create smooth, clean paint lines that will not bleed or leave a residue. Compared to masking tape, the blue painter’s tape can be removed easily. Be sure to stock on this special tape to avoid constantly touching things up and cleaning the leftover residue.
Duct Tape
When it comes to quick fixes and emergency home repairs, duct tapes are always there for the rescue. This long-lasting adhesive tape can temporarily patch things up without making holes. Whether you want to stick two monopoly boards or cardboard boxes, high-quality duct tape will work fine. This super-sticky tape is easy to tear and wraps nicely around anything kind of surface until the issue has been fixed.
Claw Hammer
This type of hammer is used to drive and pull nails from walls or any other object. Claw hammers are a necessity in covering most household tasks. If you’re planning to buy one, choose a medium-weight claw hammer with a sturdy handle. Repairing broken furniture or hanging pictures can be done easily when you know how to use a claw hammer and balance the weight and grip in your hands.
Utility Knife
Folding and retractable knives are great in cutting and scraping materials. Most utility knives are suited for use in general jobs around the home. You can quickly change the blades depending on the thickness of the materials you will change. The go-to knife is one with a rubber-covered handle and built-in blade storage for comfortable grip.
Flashlight
We never know when the electricity gets cut off. This is why it’s always great to have a flashlight that can last for long power outages. LED flashlights are the best choice because they use less energy than other options.
A rechargeable work flashlight is also recommended for quick repairs. When you use this, you don’t need to look for fresh batteries. LEDs last for up to 8 hours per charge or 100,000 hours in total. With a good-quality flashlight, you don’t have to worry about your torch running out of power after several uses.
Cordless Power Drill
Increase your productivity and mobility when doing repairs by simply going cordless. We all know the hassle of untangling wires and cords. A compact cordless power drill is the answer to your dilemma. This high-performance power tool is perfect for your DIY repair work. Since it is rechargeable, cordless drills are designed for longer run time and more efficient performance. Drill holes for nails and screws without having to work with awkward angles or long extension cords.
We recommend that you find a brushless compact drill with an ergonomic handle for increased comfort and ease of use.
Count on Your Local Handyman in Pittsburgh, PAIf you need something fixed around the home, you can contact Handyman Pittsburgh & Co. today! From electrical to general handyman services, we are ready to fulfill your home repair needs! Send us a message today if you would like to view our full list of handyman services.