Nail It! Essential Tools for Everyday Tasks
Everyone who has a home – whether a house, townhome, dorm room or apartment – eventually encounters minor repairs and tasks that do not require professional help. Even if you are not a master DIYer, having a small collection of basic tools on hand can save time, money, and a lot of frustration. Not only do these tools empower you to handle quick fixes, but they also help maintain your home and keep it in good condition.
Why a Small Tool Collection is Essential
Immediate Solutions: When something simple breaks, such as a loose cabinet handle or a squeaky door hinge, you can address the issue immediately instead of waiting for professional help or seeking tools from a neighbor or friend.
Cost-Effective: Taking care of minor repairs on your own helps avoid labor costs and service fees.
Home Maintenance: Regular maintenance is key to preventing bigger, costlier problems. With the right tools, you can stay on top of simple upkeep tasks like measuring spaces around your home, hanging items, using drywall anchors, and replacing batteries.
Self-Sufficiency: Knowing that you have the tools to handle small jobs boosts your confidence and can be enjoyable as you learn new skills.
Some Assembly Required: If you have ever purchased furniture or toys that require assembly, then you already know that the “tools” included with these sets are woefully inadequate, if not pitiful. Having quality, proper tools will make these adventures far less stressful, easier and less time consuming.
Out-of-the-box Support: Keep a simple toolbox in your car for any unforeseen emergencies. You can purchase a small toolbox kit or upgrade to a battery-powered toolkit.
Basic Tools Every Homeowner Should Have
These days, it is easy to find affordable tool kits designed with the homeowner in mind. These basic kits range in price from $30 - $150 on average, depending on what is included and the overall quality of the tools. You will find these in well-known home centers, hardware stores, and on Amazon. If you are building or assembling a tool kit from scratch, these are our suggested must-haves for your collection, which could cost anywhere between $200-$400.
Hammer: Essential for driving nails, assembling furniture and hanging pictures.
Screwdriver Set: Both flathead and Phillips-head screwdrivers are crucial for tightening loose screws, adjusting door hinges, changing light bulbs, and doing other basic tasks. Every Wolfe crew member keeps a 9-in-1 Lenox screwdriver on hand. It serves many purposes and is often easier than keeping up with a full screwdriver kit.
Adjustable Wrench: Versatile for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts of various sizes.
Pliers: Useful for gripping, bending, or cutting wires. A pair of needle-nose pliers is handy for more delicate tasks.
Tape Measure: Accurate measurements are vital for everything from hanging pictures to buying furniture that fits the space.
Level: Ensures that shelves, picture frames, and other installations are straight.
Utility Knife: A sharp knife is invaluable for cutting through boxes, opening packaging, and trimming materials.
Hand Saw: Great for cutting wood, plastic, foam board, or drywall.
Tape (Duct and Electrical): Duct tape is a quick fix for many temporary repairs, while electrical tape is crucial for minor electrical jobs.
Allen Wrenches: Often needed for assembling flat-pack furniture or tightening fixtures.
Flashlight: A reliable flashlight is essential for working in dark or dimly lit spaces, especially in emergencies.
Extension cord: A decent heavy-duty extension cord will come in handy more often than you think.
Power Drill: While a good, rechargeable, battery-powered drill is not essential for your home tool kit, you will be surprised at how often you will put it to good use. A quality power drill can run from $75 - $125 but will be well worth the investment. We prefer Bosch and DeWalt for power tools brands as they are priced fairly and have proven more longevity and life over other brands.
Toolbox: A good quality toolbox is essential for keeping your tools organized and in one place. An alternative to pricier heavy metal toolboxes with drawers is to use storage bins with drawers, dividers and compartments.
Mastering Your New Tools
Just because you may not have much experience using tools does not mean you cannot master them quickly. Do not be intimidated. These tools are much easier to use than you may imagine. Countless how-to online videos can show you how to use the tools in your collection. For those more adventurous, taking a basic carpentry class will quickly take you to the next level of tool expertise.
Be sure to keep tools away from moisture and water to keep them from rusting and to make them last for many years.
So, while you never want to be a tool, owning a small, well-rounded tool collection allows you to do minor home tasks without hassle. With these basic tools, you can handle everything from hanging pictures to making quick repairs, ultimately making your home safer, more functional, and well-maintained. Investing in these essentials is a smart move and investment for any homeowner. As always, please let us know if we can help.