The Essential Tools Every Homeowner Needs in Their Toolkit

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So, what do you need?

As a seasoned handyman, it's essential to have a well-stocked toolkit that can handle a variety of tasks. Here are my top 5 tools to always have on hand that are essential as a homeowner:

Tape measure: A high-quality, retractable tape measure is invaluable for taking accurate measurements when working on projects. It's essential for tasks such as hanging pictures, cutting materials to size, or measuring spaces for appliances and furniture.

Here’s the tape measure I never leave home without! (I actually think I have about 5 of them)

Hammer: A good-quality claw hammer is indispensable for driving in nails, removing nails, or tapping materials into place. The claw end can be used for prying and pulling, making it a versatile tool for various projects.

Here’s a great option if you’re on Amazon. Most of mine are hand-me-downs from my father or have been picked up at garage sales!

Screwdriver set: A set of screwdrivers, including flat-head and Phillips-head varieties in different sizes, is crucial for tightening and loosening screws in a variety of applications. Consider investing in a multi-bit screwdriver to save space and make it easier to switch between different types and sizes of bits.

Screwdriver sets make a GREAT gift, and you can usually find good quality on sale at places like The Home Depot and Lowes. Since I always like to give the online option, the set above is a solid choice.

Adjustable wrench: An adjustable wrench, sometimes called a crescent wrench, is a versatile tool that can be used to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts of various sizes. Its adjustability makes it a must-have for any handyman, as it eliminates the need to carry multiple fixed-size wrenches.

This multi-pack is great to make sure you’re prepared for anything!

Pliers: A set of pliers, including needle-nose, slip-joint, and locking varieties, can be incredibly useful for gripping, bending, and cutting wires, as well as holding small parts in place. Pliers are a staple in any handyman's toolkit and can be used in a wide range of projects.

These combination pliers allow for cutting, crimping and stripping wire as well as using the tool as “just pliers.” This will be handy if you take on any electrical work! If you don’t, a simple pair from Harbor Freight will do the trick just fine.

In addition to these top 5 tools, a well-prepared homeowner may also want to have a utility knife, level, cordless drill, and a variety of fasteners (such as nails, screws, and wall anchors) readily available for various tasks. With this starter set of essential tools, you’ll be prepared for countless tasks!