I'm lucky I've always grown up around tools and learned a few tricks from my Grandpa and Dad along the way. I have even done some of my own projects including building a new coffee table, replacing door knobs and some small maintenance around the home. I surprise a lot of people with my independence and I'm going to share five basic tools I think every home should have!
1. Hammer
There's no doubt about it – a hammer is one of the most important tools you can have around the house. The most versatile type of hammer is a claw hammer, which has two flat prongs on the end. The flat prongs work like a claw and can be used to pry out a nail or other things, like tiles from a bathroom wall or linoleum from the kitchen floor.
2. Screwdrivers – Phillips and Flat Head
What surprises me the most is using a screwdriver to change the batteries on a kid's toy. Screwdrivers come in many sizes but traditionally three sizes of each Phillips (cross) and flat head will work perfectly. You can use the screwdrivers for assembling furniture, changing switch covers and even hanging pictures! You can always go with a multi-head screwdriver if you don't have to have a large collection.
3. Needle-Nose Pliers
I have to admit I use needle-nose pliers all the time! These pliers are great for anything from jewelry making to working on your home's wiring (do so at your own risk though). You can get these in multiple sizes sometimes smaller is better for tight places while larger ones are great for any job where you need to grasp and move something within a small space.
Some needle-nose pliers come with a wire-cutting blade at the base near the plier's hinge. This makes a 2-for-1 tool if you can find it. Speaking of wire cutters…
4. Wire Cutters
Even if you have the cutters on the needle-nose pliers, it's a good idea to have another set of wire cutters. You can more easily “nip” a wire in a tight place if you need to without the “nose” of the pliers in the way. Wire cutters are very handy, even for decorating (like cutting floral wire).
5. Tape Measure
A good tape measure with a lock feature (so the tape doesn't zip back into the case the moment you take your finger off of it) is useful around the house. You'll use this tool to center pictures, measure furniture, and determine the size of any room. If you're thinking about getting windows replaced, fencing put in, carpeting put down, or any similar job, you'll need a tape measure.
These are my five basic tools I use a lot on top of these I like to have a few power tools around the home because they make everything a lot easier and you can easily tackle big projects.
What's in your toolkit?
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