If you’re moving into a new home—or just starting out making your home repairs—you’ll need a good basic set of must-have tools.
Here are ten essential tools to start building your toolbox (plus a few extra to expand it):
Must-Have Tools for Your Home
1. Screwdriver Set
A screwdriver set is essential for home repairs like fixing loose hinges and installing fixtures. Get one with a few different sizes of Phillips head and flat-head screwdrivers.
You can also check around your home for other screw head types—like butterfly, Robertson (square), and Torx (star)—to see if you need a special screwdriver.
2. Hammer
Get a hammer with a good grip and a claw on the head for simple repairs like hanging paintings, fixing carpet tacks, and removing old nails.
3. Pliers are Must-Have Tools
A pair of long-nosed and slip-joint pliers is handy for holding hard-to-grip items and bending wire. Get pliers with a comfortable, rubberized grip.
4. Utility Knife
A sturdy utility knife is used to trim carpet, open boxes, and cut cords. Most utility knives have replaceable blades, making them long-lasting must-have tools.
5. Set of Nails and Screws
They aren’t technically tools, but a set of various sizes and types of nails and screws is still an essential part of your toolbox. These are used to replace lost or damaged fasteners.
6. Wrench Set
A basic set of wrenches can be used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts. If you’ve got the extra room in your toolbox, this can be expanded with a ratchet and socket set.
7. Must-Have Tools Include Flashlights
LED flashlights can help you see in dark corners, under cabinets, and during power outages. LEDs also last longer than standard bulbs. Be sure to keep batteries on hand, so you’re never without light.
8. Plungers
You’ll need a sink plunger and a toilet plunger to loosen clogs and get water moving down the drain. Plungers are an inexpensive way to clear minor clogs.
9. Measuring Tape
A measuring tape helps with furniture installation, shelf hanging, and other DIY tasks. Get one that has a stiff tape and rewinds itself for convenience.
10. Level
A level is used to help install shelves and cabinets, hang pictures, and level tables. Many have 90-degree and vertical levels, as well. Levels are a must-have tool for anyone who likes to ensure their wall art is hanging straight.
Other Must-Have Tools
There are a few other tools that homeowners may find that they need:
- Power drill: A power drill makes a lot of jobs faster and easier.
- Allen wrench set: Also called hex keys, Allen wrenches are used to assemble furniture and many other small items.
- Wire stripper: Wire strippers are handy if installing lights, pumps, or other hard-wired fixtures.
- Ladder or stepladder: Ladders can help you reach ceilings, roofs, gutters, and fixtures.
- Hacksaw: Hacksaws can cut wood, plastic, or metal and are handy for removing bolts and brackets.
- Stud finder: You can knock on walls to find studs, but big projects are more manageable with a real stud finder.
Sevens Property Inspections provides home inspection services to New York City. Contact us to schedule an appointment.