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.
A drywall repair kit (spackling, putty, and sanding block) and wall paint. If you have rented before, you are probably familiar with patching up walls, and I find myself constantly filling nail holes. I like the DAP DryDex as it comes with a time indicator. The paste goes on pink and dries white, indicating that the surface is ready to be sanded and painted. I recommend a sanding block with a handle.
Always have an extra pint of wall paint ready. You don't want to run out and go through the process of matching the paint. If you bought a new house, the builder probably left you some paint used for the house. Bring the fresh pint to a paint store and get an extra. With it, they can match the color easily.
And since you mentioned you'd be installing wall decor, an oversized level will come in handy.
Must-Have Tools for DIYers
First time home buyer
Willing to invest for quality tools
general purpose
not too complicated to use
easily overlooked essentials
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.
If you're completely new DIY, maybe consider a tape measure.
You'll be measuring everything when you're building anything by yourself, and I like Stanley's Fatmax Tape Measure.
It measures up to 30' and lives up to the Stanley name.
Stanley tools are of high quality, and a lot of professionals use them as well.
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.
A drywall repair kit (spackling, putty, and sanding block) and wall paint. If you have rented before, you are probably familiar with patching up walls, and I find myself constantly filling nail holes. I like the DAP DryDex as it comes with a time indicator. The paste goes on pink and dries white, indicating that the surface is ready to be sanded and painted. I recommend a sanding block with a handle.
Always have an extra pint of wall paint ready. You don't want to run out and go through the process of matching the paint. If you bought a new house, the builder probably left you some paint used for the house. Bring the fresh pint to a paint store and get an extra. With it, they can match the color easily.
And since you mentioned you'd be installing wall decor, an oversized level will come in handy.