10 Must-Have Tools

Introduction

Owning a home comes with the responsibility of maintenance, minor repairs, and occasional upgrades. Whether you're fixing a leaky faucet, assembling furniture, or hanging shelves, having the right tools on hand can make the job easier and more efficient. A well-stocked toolkit saves time, money, and the hassle of calling a handyman for small fixes.

Not sure where to start? Here’s a list of 10 must-have tools every homeowner should keep in their DIY toolkit!

1. Claw Hammer – The Essential Tool for Every Job

A claw hammer is one of the most versatile tools in any toolkit. It’s used for driving in and removing nails, breaking objects apart, and even light demolition work. Look for a hammer with a comfortable grip and a balanced weight to make handling easier.

2. Screwdriver Set – A Must for Every Fix

Screws are everywhere in a home—cabinets, furniture, light switches, and appliances. A quality screwdriver set will help you tighten loose screws, assemble furniture, and open battery compartments.

• Flathead screwdriver – for older screws and prying objects apart.
• Phillips-head screwdriver – for cross-shaped screws commonly found in household appliances and electronics.
• Magnetic-tip screwdrivers – to keep screws from slipping.

3. Adjustable Wrench – Perfect for Plumbing and Bolts

An adjustable wrench (or crescent wrench) is crucial for loosening and tightening nuts and bolts of various sizes. It’s especially useful for plumbing repairs, furniture assembly, and bike maintenance.

4. Pliers – Grip, Cut, and Twist with Ease

Pliers come in different shapes and sizes, each serving a unique purpose.

• Needle-nose pliers – for gripping small objects and working in tight spaces.
• Slip-joint pliers – for general gripping, holding, and bending tasks.
• Cutting pliers – for cutting wires, nails, and small metal components.

5. Tape Measure – Accuracy is Key

From measuring furniture placement to cutting materials, a tape measure is essential for any home project. A 25-foot retractable tape measure is a good all-purpose choice.

6. Utility Knife – A Sharp Tool for Every Task

A utility knife (or box cutter) is perfect for opening packages, cutting through drywall, trimming materials, and scoring surfaces. Look for one with a retractable blade and extra blade storage for safety and convenience.

7. Level – Keep Everything Straight

A bubble level (also called a spirit level) ensures shelves, picture frames, and furniture are installed straight. Whether you're mounting a TV, hanging artwork, or building a deck, a level guarantees professional-looking results.

8. Cordless Drill – The Power Tool You’ll Use Most

A cordless drill is one of the most useful tools a homeowner can own. It makes installing screws, drilling holes, assembling furniture, and mounting fixtures much faster and easier than using a manual screwdriver.

9. Stud Finder – Avoid Costly Mistakes

A stud finder helps you locate wooden beams (studs) behind your walls. This is crucial for hanging heavy objects like TVs, cabinets, or shelves without damaging drywall.

10. Duct Tape – The Quick Fix for Everything

Duct tape is an all-purpose repair solution. It can temporarily seal leaks, hold broken objects together, patch holes, and even act as emergency insulation.

Conclusion

With these 10 essential tools, you’ll be ready to tackle common household repairs, DIY projects, and unexpected fixes with confidence. Investing in quality tools saves you time, money, and frustration in the long run.

If you need help with bigger projects, HandyHelp is always here for expert home repairs, installations, and renovations. Browse our shop for top-quality tools and kits, or book a professional handyman today!