If you are a new homeowner or even a "veteran" homeowner there will come a day when you will need to wield a tool - whether you like it or not! It is no fun to have to wait around for someone to help you with even the smallest of projects just because you do not have the right tool for the job at hand. Working with simple tools and doing your own projects can be quite satisfying. It will also save you money.
In my business I have taught many adult education classes where the subject of tools always comes up. Many of the participants in these classes are first-time homeowners. I tell them that just by having certain tools available will allow the average homeowner to be prepared and react quickly to specific household issues. Many household emergencies, repairs, and routine upkeep can be addressed with the right tools. These tools do not require any great skill but common sense needs to be applied when using them.
It is wise to stay with well-known tool manufacturers. Below is a list of 22 easy-to-use household tools that will not break the bank nor require you to take a course in tool usage.
Tool Bucket - buy a 5 gallon plastic bucket and a tool organizer that fits in it. Plenty of room, easy to carry and should handle all the tools you'll need.
Hammer - a 1 lb claw hammer with a fiberglass handle is your best bet and should last a long time. It is used to pound nails and remove them. Also used to pry wood.
Putty Knife - used to repair small nail holes and other simple sheetrock repair. Come in various sizes. Great for scraping too.
Slip Joint Pliers - adjustable pliers that are used to grab and hold nails, bolts, nuts, or anything that you cannot turn with your own hands. Good for bending objects too.
Long Nose Pliers - used to grab small nails and screws. Great at bending wire and often used in tight work areas.
Crowbar - a heavy bar used to pry up boards and pull out large nails.
Combination Wrench Set - used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts. It is best to invest in both a standard and metric set.
Adjustable Wrench - a finger roller allows you to set the wrench to the size you need. Often come in sets of 2 or 3 different sizes.
Tape Measure - a 25 foot tape is perfect for measuring most household projects.
Handsaw - a stainless steel crosscut handsaw is your best bet. Saves you from digging out a power saw for small cutting projects. Great to have if you lose power.
Hacksaw - used to cut metal, bolts, and pipes. Buy one with a 24 tooth blade and a solid steel frame.
Flashlight - a basic flashlight is all that you need.
Drop Light - most have a built-in hook to hang it and also has plug outlets. Acts as a second pair of hands.
Screwdrivers - buy a combination set that will include different sizes and lengths of both slotted and Phillips head drivers.
Hand Level - a 2 foot long level is just right for many projects. Used to level pictures, appliances, and other items. Smaller levels are easier to handle and may be better for certain projects.
Caulking Gun - used to dispense products that come in tubes such as caulk, glue and other sealants.
Wire Stripper and Cutter - used to remove insulation around wires and cut wires to correct length.
Duct Tape - probably the most used tool in my home.
Plunger - it amazes me how many people do not consider this a tool. Do not move in without it!
Safety Glasses or Goggles - you have one pair of eyes. Use goggles when working in dirty or dusty areas or around.
Safety Mask - disposable facemasks are needed in dusty settings and for use with various paints. Respirators may be required depending on the paints being applied.
Earplugs - perfect for when mowing the lawn or when using the snow blower.
As with any tool read all directions and use with caution. Purchase good quality tools. Always clean your tools after using them and they will give you years of quality service.