Tools Every Homeowner Should Have
As a home inspector, I met many new home owners who have very few or no tools. Some of my clients have a few tools but are not sure how to properly use them. Below is the list of tools that every home owner should have: many of them are multipurpose tools. Always remember to use the right tool for the job.
Plunger:
A plunger is your best friend when it comes to a clogged sink or toilet. Every household should have two plungers: one for the sink and one for the toilet.
Claw Hammer:
A hammer is one of the most important tools for any household. They come in many sizes, but a 16-ounce claw hammer is the best for general use. Besides the usual use for driving and removing nails, or prying loose siding, wood, etc., in combination with other tools it can have many more uses.
Wrenches:
A combination wrench set and an adjustable wrench should be in everybody’s tool box. Combination wrenches come in standard and metric sizes, so it’s advisable to have have a set of both types. An adjustable wrench can be adjusted to almost any nut or bolt. Make sure to screw the adjustable jaws all the way closed to avoid damaging a bolt or nut. For the best and strongest leverage, always pull the wrench toward you, but be sure to never over-tighten nuts or bolts.
Slip-Joint Pliers:
These are designed to grab hold of a nail, nut, bolt, pipe and much more. These pliers are versatile because their jaws feature both flat and curved areas for gripping various shaped things. They also have a built-in slip-joint, which allows you to quickly adjust the jaw size.
Tape Measure:
Every household should have at least one measuring tape. A 25-foot tape measure is the best, but an additional one of 6-10 is helpful for measuring smaller projects is helpful. Rulers and yard sticks might be helpful for projects that don’t require precision. A tape measure is always a better option. Measure everything at least twice to ensure accuracy, regardless of the project.
Screwdriver Set:
It’s best to have at least four screwdrivers: a small and large version of both a flathead and a Phillips-head screwdriver. Electrical screwdrivers are sometimes convenient, but they're no substitute. Manual screwdrivers can reach into more places and they’re less likely to damage the screw.
Power Drill:
A power drill can handle everything from drilling and screwing to sanding and buffing. A cordless drill gives you all these benefits without the hassle of a cord. It’s good to have a spare battery.
Hacksaw:
A handsaw is a versatile tool and in addition to cutting metal objects, such as pipes, bolts and brackets, hacksaw blades are also available for wood and plastic cutting. Blades are replaceable, so focus your purchase on a quality hacksaw frame. Always use a stable surface for cutting, because a hacksaw injury can be painful and deep.
Combination pliers:
Combination pliers are designed to perform multiple tasks as a single tool. They can be used for gripping and cutting, but also for bending and cutting metal wire and electrical cables.
Torpedo Level:
Using this tool is the easiest way to determine if something, such as a shelf, appliance or picture is level or plumb. The torpedo-style level is unique because in addition to showing if something is straight horizontally and vertically, it also has a gauge that shows when an object is at a 45-degree angle.
Caulking Gun:
Caulking is an easy way to seal up gaps and cracks in various materials such as concrete or tile, as well as leaks in certain types of piping. Caulking can also provide thermal insulation and control water penetration. To ensure proper adhesion, aways apply caulking to areas that are clean and dry.
Flashlight:
None of the tools mentioned above are of any use if you have a power outage and cannot visually inspect the problem. This is why every household should have at least one flashlight. Always have a backup flashlight at home close to the electrical panel and in all of your vehicles.
Duct Tape:
This tape is extremely durable, strong and water resistant. It was developed for the military to make temporary repairs to military equipment. Every household should have one in their home emergency kit for temporary fixes to broken equipment, siding, etc.
Safety Equipment such as Respirator or Safety mask and Safety Glasses:
A Mask should be worn any time while painting to avoid accidentally inhaling fumes. Most paints are manufactured to be less toxic bust can still contain dangerous chemicals. A mask should also be worn when working in dusty and dirty environments to prevent the inhalation of fine particles, such as insulation fibers and sawdust. Disposable masks should be thrown away after use.
Safety Glasses or Goggles should be used while performing any tasks involving a power tool, hammer or saw. They should also be worn while you mix chemicals, install insulation, and tear-downs of building materials such as drywall, because particles can go airborne and wind up in your eyes, causing irritation or injury.
Ear plugs should be used while using any loud power equipment such as table saws, lawn mowers, etc.
Zip ties:
These ties can be used to hold two pieces of material together while gluing or for wire management to make sure the wires are tied together neatly. It could also be used as a temporary holding device for broken pipe holders, as well as many other uses.
If you, as a homeowner, have any problems, and you don’t know how to fix them yourself without causing more damage, please call a professional. This will ensure your home and family will be safe.
