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What Basic Tools Should I Have in my Tool Box?

By Sherry Holetzky
Updated: Jan 22, 2024
Views: 17,641
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Do-it-yourself home improvement has become quite popular. Even if you’re not exactly a DIY kind of guy or gal, there are some basic tools you should have in your tool box. Making minor repairs or improvements can save you a lot of money and can also add value to your home. Doing so can also help you avoid incurring major repair expenses, by not allowing minor problems to grow into larger issues. Tools are also helpful in many home decorating projects.

Every homeowner needs to keep at least a few items handy. A hammer is a good place to start, although you may want more than one. A lightweight hammer is quite versatile for various projects and repairs from removing a bent nail to hanging a picture, but a heavier option may be necessary to tackle bigger jobs.

Screwdrivers are another essential. While you don’t necessarily need an elaborate set, it is important to have a good assortment. You will need both flat head and Phillips screwdrivers for various tasks. It’s also good to have different sizes from which to choose. You can find a basic screwdriver set at any hardware store.

A sturdy set of pliers should also be included when building up your toolbox. Pliers can be used for many different things both inside and outside the home, such as loosening, tightening, bending, and grasping different objects. Don’t forget a pair of needlenose pliers for more delicate jobs. Tin snips and wire cutters are also good ideas when filling up a new tool box.

Wrenches are another good option when it comes to loosening and tightening nuts as well as other fasteners or connectors. Include a decent crescent wrench as well for minor plumbing projects and repairs, such as minor leaks or clogs.

Something many people don’t consider is adding a tool belt to the basic tools you should have in your tool box. With a tool belt, you won’t have to carry the entire toolbox with you as work; you can simply grab the items you need and place them in the belt. This is especially helpful if you’re going to be climbing up and down a ladder.

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Discussion Comments
By chicada — On Feb 03, 2011

One of the most important tools is the tool box itself. It should be large enough to hold all your tools, and it should have enough compartments to keep things out of reach. It should also have a lock if you have kids so that they cannot access dangerous items without your permission.

Quality should also be a concern when buying a tool box. Good tools are not cheap, so your box should be of good enough quality to protect them for as long as you own them. If money is an issue, buy a good used tool box over a mediocre new one.

By Babalaas — On Feb 01, 2011

@ Submariner- There are two other essential items that I always have in my tool box. I keep a hacksaw, and a simple hand saw. With these two saws, I can cut trim boards, siding, and pipe. It would be easier if I had a reciprocating saw, but I use my tools so infrequently that I can't justify the expense.

By submariner — On Jan 30, 2011

One of my most essential pieces in my toolbox is a cordless drill. I mostly use my tools for small around the house jobs, so I just have a small Porter Cable lithium ion cordless drill. I have a set of bits, screwdrivers, and an attachment that allows me to attach 1/4 and 3/8 inch sockets.

Besides this, I keep a universal screwdriver handle, a hammer, and a ratchet. With these tools, I can accomplish almost any job around the house. I can repair holes in the wall, hang pictures, repair towel racks, or install new fixtures. These tools are absolutely essential, and the drill allows me to get the job done quickly.

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