Building A Tool Kit For Beginners

Maintenance DIY tools in tool bagFor a new and inexperienced homeowner, it can be handy to make a small investment in a home tool kit. Overtime, as you do more projects and gain experience, your tool kit will naturally grow. For now, here is a list of some important tools you should have in a basic tool kit!

Screwdriver Set

Screwdrivers are a great place to start. Having a set of various sized screwdrivers can help you tighten loose cabinets, install or take off light switches, or crack open paint cans. You may want to find a set that includes all common slotted, Phillips-head sizes, and the smaller stub versions to fit into smaller spaces.  

Tape Measure

Tape measures are nice to have to measure walls for paint projects, the length of any space when purchasing furniture, the width of lumber at the home center, and much more. Most tape measures come with a thumb lock, hook, and belt clip.  

Hammer

There is more than one type of hammer out there, and the one you will want to start off with is a 16-ounce smoothed-faced claw hammer. This hammer will be more versatile for hanging pictures, putting together furniture, and various building projects. The curved side of the hammer will be good for removing nails.  

Flashlight

This could be any flashlight, but the flashlight you want is a rechargeable work light, as it can be plugged in, so you don’t need to use batteries. Flashlights are great to have on hand for power outages, breaker trips, or inside work under sinks, etc.  

Utility Knife

Utility knives are perfect for opening boxes, sharpening pencils, and shaving wood. You will have the option to invest in one with a rubber handle for grip and built-in blade storage. This may cost more up front, but in the long run, it’s worth it. Forcing a dull blade can be dangerous, so always pop in a fresh one.   

Set of Pliers

Pliers can be used to bend or straighten power-cords, plugs, replace shower heads, slice wiring, or just to get a better grip on pretty much anything. Find a kit with lounge-and-groove, side-cutting, and split-joint pliers. 

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Toolbox

After you acquire your tools, you’ll want a designated place you can store them to keep everything organized. Collecting your drivers, screws, and bolts in a toolbox will be more handy and less of a hassle. Most toolboxes are large, hard plastic boxes with a metal latch and handle for safe keeping and easy traveling.  

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