You might have noticed a common scenario in your household: each new maintenance task or home improvement project prompts a hurried trip to the local home improvement store.
Need to seal some cracks around the windows? It’s time for caulk and a caulk gun. Have a leaky pipe to fix? Duct tape is the solution. Want to hang up some pictures? Now you need hooks and picture wire.
While some of these impromptu trips are inevitable, it’s also true that no homeowner can have every tool readily available at all times. Many people gradually accumulate tools over time. However, if you’re looking to bolster your toolkit in advance, Experts in Your Home suggests including these 20 essential tools on your shopping list:
- Caulk gun: Provides better leverage for sealing leaks and blocking moisture than simply using a tube of caulk.
- Duct tape: Water-resistant and adhesive, duct tape can quickly repair various surfaces like window screens, metal pipes, and hoses.
- Flashlight: A household staple, traditional two-battery flashlights are easy to handle while working.
- Hammer: Opt for one with an anti-vibration rubber grip and a claw end for removing stubborn nails.
- Hand saw: Ideal for small DIY projects, a cross-cut saw with smooth edges is versatile.
- Ladders: A short step ladder for indoor use and an extension ladder for outdoor tasks like reaching second-story gutters.
- Level: Essential for ensuring straight alignment when hanging pictures or shelves.
- Picture-hanging tools: Simplify picture hanging with a box containing hooks, nails, screws, and wire.
- Pliers: Offer a firm grip for handling bolts, wires, and screws, as well as cutting or bending wire.
- Plungers: Essential for unclogging sinks and toilets; consider having one for each fixture.
- Power drill: Speeds up various tasks such as installing shelves, window treatments, or cabinet knobs.
- Putty knife: Handy for managing caulk, plaster, and lifting tiles.
- Safety glasses: Protect your eyes while sanding, cutting, or handling chemicals.
- Screwdrivers: Both flathead and Phillips-head screwdrivers of different sizes for versatile use.
- Staple gun: Useful for reattaching cushions or reupholstering furniture.
- Stud finder: Helps locate sturdy wooden studs behind walls for anchoring heavy items securely.
- Tape measure: A heavy-duty, 25-foot tape measure ensures accuracy in home projects.
- Utility knife (or box cutter): Essential for cutting materials where scissors may not suffice.
- Wrench set: Includes both open and closed-end wrenches for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts.
- Experts in Your Home: While not a physical tool, our team of skilled carpenters, electricians, and plumbers is here to assist with any home improvement project. Contact us for reliable help today.