Even if you don’t consider yourself the do-it-yourself (or DIY) type, there are plenty of reasons to keep a toolbox around the home. You may not plan to reseat a toilet or install new windows, but lots of small, everyday jobs become much easier with the right tools. Hanging a picture, painting a wall or putting up a new shelf are simple enough, but these tasks still require a few basic items to ensure they’re done right. The list below includes essential components of an at-home toolkit as well as some of their most common uses.
- Hammer: The core of any basic DIY toolkit, this can be used to drive nails for a loose floorboard or a picture hook.
- Screwdrivers: Make sure you have a flathead and a Phillips, or a multi-bit screwdriver with interchangeable heads. These are necessary for anything from assembling furniture to prying open a paint can.
- Tape measure: This comes in handy when you’re measuring for new drapes or figuring out where a couch will fit. A 25-footer should be sufficient, but make sure the tape measure is long enough for the biggest room in the house.
- Pliers: These are a lifesaver when you have to pull out stubborn nails, staples or tacks.
- Level: Use this to make sure shelves you put up or holes you drill are in perfect alignment.
- Painter’s tape: You won’t know how important this is until you get started on a painting project. It masks areas you don’t want to paint, but it also can hold power cords in place and mark studs in the wall.
- Stud finder: Don’t forget one of these little devices when making a toolkit. It’s essential if you’re hanging something heavy and need the additional support of wall studs.
- Utility knife: Cutting a hole in drywall or removing old carpeting is much easier with a utility knife. Buy one with a retractable blade for safety, and always make sure to close it after use.
- Putty knife: The broad, flat blade of this tool makes it ideal for scraping old paint or spreading drywall patching compound. A metal blade is more durable and useful than a plastic one.
- Hardware: Have a good assortment of screws, nuts, bolts and nails. This will save you the trouble of running to the hardware store when you need to make minor repairs.
When DIY Isn’t Enough
A set of basic tools can be good in a pinch, but some jobs call for professional intervention. When you need to contact pros, you’ll rest easier with a home warranty or maintenance plan from Pivotal Home Solutions. Our plans connect you with qualified professionals nearby to repair or replace appliances or systems. Best of all, they help you avoid dipping into savings or paying out of pocket. To learn what types of coverage we offer, enter your ZIP code on our website. Then find the plan that works best for your situation.