If you own a home, there will undoubtedly come a time when you will have to hang, loosen, nail, measure, or drill something. And while your shoe might be able to double as a hammer in a pinch, you’re far better off investing in a toolkit that can tackle some of the most common household repairs.
So if your rusty tool stash needs a revamp or you’re just starting out, here are 10 tools that every homeowner should own.
- A good, sturdy ladder is a homeowner’s staple. It’s much safer than using a chair to change a ceiling fixture light bulb, edge paint a wall, or string outdoor lights during the holidays.
- Skip the chemicals and unclog drains with a good quality plunger. A flange style plunger can tackle tough toilet clogs while a cup style plunger can help clear sink, shower, and tub clogs.
- Inexpensive and very versatile, a 4-in-1 screwdriver is a must. No more looking for the right size Philips-head in your junk drawer.
- Technically not a tool, a 5-gallon bucket can help you with some major messes. Use it to easily spread mulch, keep it filled with sand to de-ice steps and walkways, turn it upside down for a temporary step stool, and so much more. Come to think of it, you might just want to invest in two or three.
- Whether you’re hanging a heavy flat screen TV or a new towel bar, a stud finder can sometimes by your best friend. It’s a sure-fire way to locate – or avoid – studs in walls.
- If you’re determined to own just one basic hammer, choose a light-weight model with a curved claw for removing nails.
- Sooner or later, you’ll need to cut something. Having a saw on hand will make that task so much easier. A hybrid saw is a good option, as it slices on both the push and pull stroke.
- Not all pliers are created equal, so invest in a set that will cover most of your needs. Just avoid using pliers to loosen or tighten bolts as you might strip them. That’s where an adjustable wrench comes in.
- No tool kit is complete without an adjustable wrench. Invest in both a crescent wrench for smaller bolts and pipes, and a larger monkey wrench for those larger pipes and fittings.
- And finally, talk about a home owner’s best friend: how about a 25’ tape measure?! It’s a must have for measuring anything and everything.
Of course, even such a diverse and nicely balanced tool set won’t get you through all home repairs and upkeep, especially when it comes to plumbing, heating, and cooling. That’s when you need a true professional in your corner, someone you can turn to on a moment’s notice, if need be.
In and around Kansas City, that company LBA Air Conditioning, Heating & Plumbing is here to answer the call, 24/7, no matter how large or small the job might be.
