The Top 10 Tools Every Homeowner Needs (or anyone, really)

Your cabinet handle is loose, or you’re trying to hang a picture, but you don’t have the tools you need to do it correctly. Walking into a hardware store may feel overwhelming. Which tools should you buy?

Well, this handyman has plenty of suggestions for those who know they need hand tools, but they aren’t sure which ones to buy.

1. Claw Hammer: A 10-ounce claw hammer can do most of what you might need. It’s not heavy, and it can pull out nails.

   

   Claw Hammer

2. Screwdriver set. I recommend two: a #2 Phillips head and a Slotted Flathead ⅛”-⅜”. These should do most everything you need in your home.

   

   Slotted/Flathead Screwdriver and 2 Phillips Head Screwdrivers

3. Utility knife. A utility knife can cut open boxes or trim something down. It’s useful and sharp.

   

   A basic utility knife will be fine.

4. Tape measure: a 16’-20’ is a good size because they aren’t too big, which makes handling them easier, and when they’re easy to handle, they are easy to use.

   

   You don't need to spend a lot of money on a basic tape measure

5. Level. A 24” is a practical choice. You want a level to hang pictures accurately and to make sure your appliances’ feet are level.

   

   A basic level will help you hang straight pictures!

6. Pliers. Pliers come in different sizes, but a Long-Nose (aka "needle-nose") plier can get into small spaces as well as other spaces.

   

   Shown are needle-nosed pliers, which easily fit into more spaces.

7. Crescent wrench. Crescent wrenches are useful for tightening or loosening bolts and for plumbing needs. An 8” or 16” crescent wrench is really all you’ll need.

   

   This one is helpful for opening and closing pipes

8. Flashlight. Such a useful tool! Make sure you have a way to keep it freshly charged, as you never know when you’ll need it.

Yes, you have a phone flashlight, but it's also helpful to keep an actual flashlight

9. Duct tape. I know, but duct tape is so incredibly useful in so many ways. It holds things together, seals things off...it's water resistant.

Plus, it comes in different colors

10. Caulking gun/Caulk: many YouTube videos show you how to recaulk bathtubs/showers, and around windows, saving you money on basic home repairs.

    

    Basic caulking gun

***You also need a toolbox, nails, a picture hanging kit, and a pencil to be kept in your toolbox.

My wife wants me to add a spackle knife and spackle in case you’re renting. Use to cover nail holes.

A basic toolbox, metal or hard plastic, will be fine for your needs.

You’re looking at an investment of approximately $200. But with these basic tools, you can take care of basic repairs and home maintenance yourself, which saves you money in the long term. Also, depending on what brand you buy, these tools can last a long time with proper care.

Do yourself a favor, and see what you have for home tools. If you’re missing some items on this list, head to your local hardware store and pick up what you need.

You won’t regret it!