Whether you’re hanging a picture frame for the family, assembling new furniture, or tackling a weekend renovation project, having a well stocked home toolbox is essential. The right tools and materials can make DIY tasks quicker, safer, and far less frustrating.
Among the basics like a hammer and screwdriver, make sure that you also keep an assortment of screws on hand. These tiny components can make or break the success of a project quite. Here are some of the top things that your home toolbox should always include to cover most common household jobs.
- Screwdrivers. Both Flathead and Phillips screwdrivers are necessary, and a reliable set of screwdrivers is non-negotiable. Many household items, from the doorknobs to the light switches, require either one of these screws, Flathead or Phillips. It’s a good idea to have various sizes to fit different screw types. Magnetic tips are especially helpful, making it easier to keep track of small screws during tight or overhead jobs.
- A hammer. A classic claw hammer can handle a wide range of tasks, from driving in nails to pulling them out. If you do a lot of work that involves delicate materials, consider adding a rubber mallet to your collection as well. Not only will you deliver force, but you’ll do it without damaging any surfaces.
- An assortment of screws and nails. No toolbox is complete without a mixed set of screws and nails. Keep a variety of lengths and types, from wood screws and drywall screws to masonry anchors. These are some of the most useful that you’d need, and having the right fastener on hand will save you a trip to the hardware store in the middle of a project. A small organizer box will help you to keep them sorted and easy to find.
- A measuring tape. In any DIY job, accuracy matters. Whether you’re hanging curtains or cutting lumber, a sturdy 25 foot measuring tape with a locking mechanism is versatile enough for most home needs. This way, you’re not going to be caught short if you need to go and upgrade some furniture, you’ll know it will fit.
- An adjustable wrench. A plumbing job and a bolt tightening task often requires a wrench, and that includes bicycles in the garage. An adjustable wrench, also known as a Crescent wrench, saves space and is perfect for handling a variety of nut and bolt sizes.
- A spirit level. A spirit level ensures shelves, pictures, and other fixtures are perfectly aligned. Even a small 9 inch level can be a lifesaver when you’re trying to hang up something straight.
- A utility knife. From opening boxes to trimming materials, a sharp utility knife is a must have. Keep extra blades in the toolbox, you’re never stuck with a dull one in the middle of a project.
- Safety gear. Don’t forget the safety essentials like gloves, safety glasses and ear protection. Accidents can and do happen even during simple jobs, so it’s very smart to be prepared.
A properly equipped toolbox allows you to be ready for nearly any home improvement task. While tools get most of the attention, small items like screws are equally vital to your DIY success. Stock your toolbox and you’ll be well prepared for this.
The Coastal Mummy 