Essential Tools Every Homeowner Should Have for Small Projects and Repairs

One of the biggest misconceptions that more and more Australian homeowners seem to buy into is the fact that attempting a DIY repair always results in more damage than it does good. This makes them contact professionals such as contractors, electricians and plumbers every time they need to handle anything in their respective fields. Nevertheless, should you call a contractor in order to hang a picture frame? Should you contact an electrician to replace a light bulb and do you really need a plumber to unclog a toilet? There are so many minor projects and repairs that you can handle on your own, but in order to face them, you need some essential tools. Here are some of them.

1. Tape measure

In order to make sure everything is in order, you need to measure, measure and measure some more. Just because something was measured once and the result was satisfying, this doesn’t mean that you’ll get the same results the next time around. This is why, when you’re unsure, you just need to measure things once more. With a tape measure on your side, you’ll always have the means to do so at the reach of your hand. A tape measure can fit inside a pocket and this is one item that you need to have in your inventory whenever you start working.

2. Claw hammer

The majority of small projects and repairs still function on the basic principle of hammer and nails. A claw hammer is practical seeing as how you can just hang it on a utility belt and carry it around. It’s made to be practical and simple, meaning that it won’t add a lot of weight to the belt. In fact, for most of the tasks you’ll need it for, less than 16 ounces is more than enough. Also, you can use it to pull nails, meaning that it has its uses in construction, correction and demolition. A must-have tool either way.

3. Screwdriver

A tool as simple as a screwdriver can help you make some adjustments to various elements of your home. Other than this, it can help you out with maintenance due to the fact that it will help you fasten loose elements of the furniture. Keep in mind, however, that a screwdriver on its own isn’t the ultimate home maintenance tool. For this to be effective, you need to have a set. Generally speaking, there are over 14 major types of screwdrivers, but you can easily get by with just four of them. This kind of set seldom exceeds $5 dollars at any hardware store (unless you’re going for a high-end one), which means that there’s really no excuse for not having one.

4. Power tools

When it comes to the power tools you’ll need, the first suggestion is that you should go cordless. Circular saws, drills and jigsaws are no longer optional, seeing as how not much can be done around the household without them. However, those who expect to encounter a lot of woodwork in their field of activity might want to consider purchasing a table saw. When composing your list, it might be worth to check out your local options in order to see if there’s a special offer that you simply need to consider. For instance, when looking for Sydney power tools specialized stores, you probably need to consider future projects, as well. Unlike screwdrivers and claw hammers, power tool purchases are not something you make every single day.

5. Wrench

The next item you need to have in your DIY arsenal is definitely a wrench. First of all, this is the most essential item when it comes to any self-attempts at plumbing, meaning that it’s something you’ll definitely have to possess at least in case of emergency. When it comes to the variety that you should possess, at very least, you need one crescent wrench and one monkey wrench.

6. Utility knife

It goes without saying that a utility knife is, by far, the most important non-kitchen blade in your household. This is a compact, sharp blade that can be used in many different tasks around your household. Most commonly, this is used in combination with measuring and molding. Furthermore, even though its primary purpose is not in the kitchen, you can still use a utility knife to cut cheese, slice small sandwiches and cut through limes.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, completing this self-made toolbox doesn’t take much investment. Moreover, it’s an investment that you’re only expected to make once. Sure, tools get lost, broken and misplaced, but this is not something you can count on from the start.