Owning a home can be an exciting journey, and so can all the do it yourself (DIY) projects that come along with it! Whether it’s custom cabinet installation, adding a tile backsplash, or just performing routine maintenance and home improvements, it’s important to know what tools can help you along the way. Read more about eight essential tools every DIY homeowner should own.
1. Drill And Drill Bits: A drill has immense power, and a multipurpose function that can be used for just about any task around the house. When choosing drill bits, it’s best to get a variety like Phillips-head, slotted and square-drive bits in a variety of sizes for whatever job pops up.
2. Crescent Wrench: This type of adjustable wrench does the job of many in one handy tool. One or two of these will be all you ever need to tighten or loosen sturdy bolts. They have jaws that can adjust in size to fit different nuts and bolts. Some are even self-ratcheting.
3. Hammers: Heavy and powerful, they are used to punch nails in, and to pull them out. A set of two is perfect — one heavyweight and one lightweight. A hammer’s size should match the size of the nail. Claw hammers are good for outdoor projects or big construction jobs. Pin hammers are great when used on small fasteners, like wall hangers and brads.
4. Tape Measure: A retractable and lockable tape measure is small enough to hook in your pocket, and long enough to reach any place in the home that needs measuring. To get your money’s worth, choose one that’s at least 25 feet, so you can also use it for room’s square footage or the back yard.
5. Screwdriver Set: Very valuable in both battery-operated and manual form, these are great for simple, quick jobs like changing a light switch plate or tightening hardware after your custom cabinet installation. Try to get a variety of sizes and screwdriver types, such as Phillips, slotted, square, and Pozidriv, or get a screwdriver that comes with interchangeable heads.
6. Pliers: Get a grip! Pliers are the perfect tool for locking in a good grip on anything. Channel-lock pliers are great for large valves and pipes. Needle-nose pliers are best for small objects or tight spaces — even crafts. Electrician’s pliers can cut or strip wires.
7. Safety Gear: It’s important to protect yourself while doing DIY projects around the house. These basic items can mean the world in the long run. Invest in a quality pair of plastic work gloves for cleaning and refinishing, and a pair of heavy-duty leather gloves for dirty work and gardening. Goggles are necessary when sawing, or working with glass or chemical solutions. Ear mufflers are great when using loud power tools like mowers, leaf blowers, or saws. Try to wear a dust mask when doing almost anything.
Miscellaneous Items
You never know what you may need until you need it in the middle of your next DIY project. Some other useful items to have on hand include:
- Duct Tape
- Extension Cord
- Flashlight
- Hand Saw
- Hex Keys or Allen Keys
- Level
- Nails and Screws
- Paint Brushes
- Pruning Shears
- Scraper/Putty Knife
- Socket Wrench Set
- Step Stool
- Stud Finder
- Tool Box
- Utility Knife
- Wheel Barrow
At The RTA Store we help make your dream kitchen a reality with RTA (Ready To Assemble) and Pre-Assembled kitchen cabinets, and accessories with the same (if not better) quality you would find at any retail store but for a fraction of the price. Stop by our website or give us a call and let us make your kitchen dreams come true with the help of our free kitchen design tool!
Resources:
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/must-have-tools-every-skill-level
