Tips & Advice Crafts & DIY · Home & Garden

Must-Have Tools for DIYers

For Whom/What:

First time home buyer

Budget:

Willing to invest for quality tools

Requirements:

general purpose

not too complicated to use

easily overlooked essentials

Extra Details:

What are some essential tools every homeowner should own? I'm moving into a fully furnished home (all the appliances and electrical stuff) but no furniture. I foresee that I'll need to install some furniture, and wall decor (clocks, paintings and such). The house doesn't need any major renovations, so nothing too heavy-duty or specific.

Here are three must-have tools for home maintenance that will make a big difference in tackling everyday repairs and DIY tasks. 

1. Cordless Drill: A versatile cordless drill is essential for everything from hanging shelves to assembling furniture and drilling pilot holes. Look for one with adjustable speed settings, a long-lasting battery, and a set of interchangeable drill bits to handle a variety of materials. It’s the workhorse of most home projects and is compact enough to store easily.

2. Multi-Bit Screwdriver: A high-quality multi-bit screwdriver set consolidates various screwdriver types and sizes into one convenient tool. It’s perfect for smaller tasks, like tightening screws on cabinet doors or assembling appliances, without having to search for the right screwdriver. Some models also come with ratcheting capabilities for easier use.

3. Stud Finder: For safely hanging heavy items like mirrors, shelves, or TVs, a stud finder is a lifesaver. It helps locate studs behind drywall, so you know exactly where to drill without damaging walls or risking an unstable mounting. Many modern stud finders also detect live wires, which adds an extra level of safety. If you get something that doubles as a line laser, it's even better. 

These tools are versatile, easy to use, and cover the basics of most home maintenance needs, making them must-haves for any well-equipped toolbox.

20V Max Cordless Drill/Driver Kit
Brand: Dewalt
Ratcheting Screwdriver Set: 56-Piece Magnetic Multi Bits Tool Kit with Case
Brand: Ironcube
Line Laser, Auto-Leveling with Stud Finder
Brand: Black + Decker
happymommie
4 weeks ago

I suggest the following as your very basic set and build on to it as you start a new project or repair. 

1. Socket set: It lets you tackle different types of bolts and nuts. It lets you work so much faster. 

2. Stud finder: For any secure needs, save yourself the hassle and use a stud finder. 

3. Level

4. Hex key set: Surprisingly many installations require hex keys. 

5. Drill: Get the best one your budget allows. This will last for years. 

Socket Set
Brand: Stanley
Hex Key Set
Brand: Husky
ProSensor Stud Finder
Brand: Franklin Sensors
Level
Brand: Craftsman
20V Max Cordless Drill
Brand: Dewalt
cocobella
3 weeks ago

If you're going to be hanging a lot of things, laser level. 

This came in so handy when I was hanging gallery wall frames. It would've been a nightmare doing all the measuring, lol. 

100 Feet Self Leveling Laser Level
Brand: Motovera
Jacky Leal
3 weeks ago

[The Ultimate Screwdriver Bit Set - the Swiss Army Knife of Screwdriver Bits] 

It's an essential tool for any home improvement, installation other miscellaneous home projects. The set contains 236 pieces of nut drivers, security bits, torx, slotted, Phillips, square, Pozi, hex, socket ... it's practical and useful. 

This bit set even includes hard-fo-find security bits and micro bits, so you won't have to run to a hardware store when you encounter an oddball. 


[Screw Assortment Set] 

Furniture requires different screw lengths, diameters, and head types depending on the material (wood, metal, etc.) and design. A set gives you access to multiple options, so you can pick the right screw for the task without having to make extra trips to the store. 

I don't usually like the hardware that's included in the furniture. If a furniture kit is missing screws or if the provided screws don't seem strong enough, an assortment set allows you to replace or upgrade them with better-fitting, higher-quality ones.

236 Piece Ultimate Screwdriver Bit Set
Brand: Jason Palmer
Phillips Flat Head Self-Tapping Screws Assortment Set
Brand: Kaibced