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Owning a home comes with its own responsibilities, and one of the most important ones is maintenance. While some tasks can be left to professionals, there are certain tools that every homeowner should have on hand to tackle common home repair and improvement tasks. As a construction manager and a homeowner, I know firsthand the importance of having the right tools for any job.
Using tools can sometimes feel challenging but with little practice, you will be far better off than many!
Here are my top 5 tool recommendations for any homeowner starting out:
1. Hammer:
A versatile tool for driving nails and breaking things apart, a hammer should be a must-have in every homeowner’s toolkit. Look for one that has a comfortable grip and is the right weight for the job at hand. A good starter hammer doesn’t have to be expensive, just something with a good comfortable grip. I have used many hammers, here’s the one that I like: Milwaukee Framing Hammer
2. Screwdriver set:
A set of screwdrivers that includes both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers, in various sizes, is essential for any homeowner. It will come in handy when you need to tighten or loosen screws on a wide variety of objects. There are numerous sets available online and in big box stores, I love this screwdriver and level set. It comes with all the different screwdriver heads you will need for your project and a very reliable level: Milwaukee Level and Screwdriver set.
3. Tape measure:
A tape measure is a crucial tool for taking accurate measurements for various projects. Look for one that has a locking mechanism to hold the tape in place and a sturdy construction that will withstand repeated use. A good tape measure can be used for various purposes with a little practice, use it to measure, scribe, a protractor, or even a straight edge! Over the years I have owned Stanley and Milwaukee tapes, and I am a fan of both. A good starter tape is this Milwaukee 16ft tape.
4. Level:
A level will help ensure that everything is straight and level, from hanging pictures and shelves to installing a new toilet. Look for one that is easy to read and has both horizontal and vertical bubbles to ensure accuracy. My recommended bubble level is: Milwaukee Level and Screwdriver set.
Don’t know how to use a level? Thats ok! we all started somewhere, check out this video from my favorite YouTube channel :
5. Power drill:
While not essential for every homeowner, a power drill can make many tasks much easier and faster, from drilling holes in walls for hanging pictures to assembling furniture. Look for one that is lightweight and easy to handle, with a comfortable grip and variable speed settings. While I am recommending Milwaukee products above, I am a fan of the DeWalt power drills as they are well-made and budget-friendly. Its the first thing I bought after buying our house and its been also my dads favorite gift to give to new home owners! DeWalt Cordless Brushless Power Drill comes with a set of drill bits too.
Don’t forget to get the Screwdriving Set with your power drill. I recommend the DeWalt 40-piece set, I bought it 3 years ago and I still have all the pieces and I use them regularly.
With these top 5 tools on hand, homeowners will be well-equipped to handle a wide variety of home repair and improvement tasks with ease and efficiency. So go ahead, invest in the right tools, and ensure that your home stays in good condition for years to come and have fun!
