Having a well-stocked set of basic tools is essential for every homeowner. Whether you want to fix a loose cabinet door, hang a picture, or tackle small repairs, having the right tools on hand can save you time, money, and frustration. Here’s a friendly guide to the basic tools every homeowner should have for repairs, along with some simple tips on how to use them.
Basic Tools Every Homeowner Should Have
1. Hammer
A hammer is the most common tool for driving nails into walls or wood. A claw hammer is especially useful because one side is for pounding nails, and the other side is for pulling nails out. It’s great for hanging pictures, assembling furniture, or small carpentry jobs.
2. Screwdriver Set
Screwdrivers come in different types, mainly flathead and Phillips head. Having a set with various sizes helps you tighten or loosen screws on cabinets, appliances, and light fixtures. A multi-bit screwdriver can be handy because it lets you switch heads easily.
3. Pliers
Pliers are great for gripping, bending, or cutting wires and small objects. Slip-joint pliers are versatile for many tasks, while needle-nose pliers help with precision work in tight spaces.
4. Adjustable Wrench
This tool allows you to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts of different sizes without needing a full wrench set. It’s useful for plumbing fixes, assembling furniture, and bike repairs.
5. Tape Measure
A tape measure is essential for measuring spaces before buying furniture or hanging shelves. A 25-foot tape measure with both inches and centimeters is ideal for most household projects.
6. Utility Knife
A sharp utility knife is handy for opening boxes, cutting drywall, trimming wallpaper, or slicing carpet. Look for one with a retractable blade for safety.
7. Level
A level helps you hang pictures, shelves, or curtains straight. Even a small torpedo level will make sure your work looks professional.
8. Cordless Drill
While a bit more of an investment, a cordless drill makes driving screws and drilling holes much easier and faster. It’s very useful for assembling furniture, hanging heavy items, and other DIY projects.
9. Small Hand Saw
For cutting wood or plastic pipes, a small hand saw is useful. It’s perfect for minor repairs and craft projects.
10. Toilet Plunger
Not a tool for fixing walls, but a must-have for clearing clogged drains and toilets quickly.
11. Chalk and Small Ladder
Chalk helps mark walls for accurate drilling or nailing, and a small ladder helps you reach high places safely.
Simple Repairs You Can Do Yourself
With these tools, you can handle many common home repairs:
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Fix a dripping faucet by tightening loose parts with a wrench.
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Hang pictures or shelves using a level and hammer or drill for straight, secure placement.
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Tighten loose cabinet knobs or drawer handles with a screwdriver.
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Unclog drains using a toilet plunger.
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Fix squeaky doors by tightening hinges or applying lubricant.
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Measure and cut materials accurately for small woodworking or craft projects.
When to Call a Professional
Some repairs need expert help. If you’re dealing with electrical work, major plumbing issues, or structural repairs, it’s safer and more efficient to hire a professional handyman or contractor. Complex jobs like remodeling, concrete work, or dryer repair often require specialized skills and tools.
Need Help? Contact Anything Possible Handy-Man Service
If you ever feel unsure about a repair or want the job done quickly and right the first time, Anything Possible Handy-Man Service is here for you. Their team of skilled professionals can handle everything from small fixes to larger home improvement projects with care and expertise.
Visit their website: anythingpossiblehandyman.com
Phone: 636-633-6051
They offer reliable, friendly service to make your home repairs easy and stress-free.
Owning a basic set of tools empowers you to take care of your home and save money on small repairs. Start with the essentials like a hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, and a tape measure. As you get more comfortable, you can add tools like a cordless drill or hand saw. Remember, having the right tools makes all the difference, and when in doubt, professional help is just a call away.
Source: anythingpossiblehandyman.com
Header Image Source: Kenny Eliason on Unsplash
