Top 5 Tools Every Homeowner Should Have for Basic Repairs
As a homeowner, having the right tools for basic repairs on hand can make all the difference when it comes to handling common household tasks. Whether you’re fixing a leaky faucet, assembling furniture, or patching up a hole in the wall, the right tools can save you both time and money. Instead of calling in a professional for every small fix, you can tackle a variety of tasks yourself—comfortably and confidently.
In this blog, we’ll cover the top 5 tools for basic repairs every homeowner should have. These essential tools will help you address a wide range of issues around the house, giving you the independence to keep your home in tip-top shape.
Tool 1: Hammer
A hammer is one of the most versatile and essential tools for basic repairs every homeowner should have in their toolkit. There are several types of hammers, each suited for specific tasks, making it important to choose the right one for the job:
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Claw Hammer: The most common type of hammer, featuring a flat striking face and a claw on the opposite side for removing nails. This is ideal for tasks like hanging pictures, assembling furniture, and performing minor repairs.
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Sledgehammer: A larger hammer with a heavier head, perfect for heavy-duty jobs like basic demolition, breaking up concrete, or driving large nails into tough materials.
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Ball-Peen Hammer: Often used for metalworking, its rounded head is great for shaping or bending metal. Though less common for general repairs, it can be useful for certain specialized tasks.
A hammer is essential for a wide range of tools for basic repairs. From hanging artwork to fixing loose floorboards or assembling furniture, it’s a tool you’ll reach for frequently. Whether you’re driving nails, pulling out stubborn ones, or completing a small demolition job, having a reliable hammer on hand is crucial for any homeowner.
Tool 2: Screwdriver Set
A screwdriver set is another essential tool for basic repairs, and having both flathead and Phillips screwdrivers ensures you’re prepared for a variety of tasks around the house. Each type of screwdriver is designed for specific screw heads, and having both in your toolkit helps you tackle more repair projects with ease.
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Flathead Screwdriver: This tool has a single flat blade and is designed for screws with a straight, horizontal groove. It’s perfect for tasks like adjusting door hinges, removing outlet covers, or working with electrical components.
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Phillips Screwdriver: With a cross-shaped tip, a Phillips screwdriver is designed for screws with a cruciform pattern. It’s commonly used for tasks like assembling furniture, tightening screws on cabinetry, or fixing appliances.
For more advanced tasks, consider investing in a multi-bit screwdriver or a power drill with screwdriver bits. These tools for basic repairs allow you to switch between various bit types and sizes, providing extra versatility for more complex repairs.
Some common repair tasks that require a screwdriver include:
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Tightening loose screws on furniture, cabinet handles, or door hinges
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Assembling flat-pack furniture or installing shelves
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Fixing electrical outlets or replacing light fixtures
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Installing or removing hardware from appliances or electronic.
Having a reliable screwdriver set will save you time and effort when it comes to tackling these everyday tools for basic repairs and improvements around the house.
Tool 3: Adjustable Wrench
An adjustable wrench is a versatile tool for basic repairs that is perfect for a range of tasks. It can be adjusted to fit different bolt sizes, making it ideal for plumbing and mechanical repairs.
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Tightening Bolts: Use it to tighten bolts on furniture, appliances, or machinery.
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Fixing Plumbing Leaks: Great for tightening pipe fittings or repairing leaks.
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Assembling Appliances: Ideal for securing parts on appliances or fixtures.
Having an adjustable wrench in your toolkit ensures you’re prepared for these common tools for basic repairs.
Tool 4: Tape Measure
A tape measure is an essential tool for basic repairs, helping you ensure precision in your projects. It’s crucial for tasks like furniture assembly, home improvement, and checking appliance sizes.
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Furniture Assembly: Measure parts accurately to avoid mistakes.
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Home Improvement: Essential for measuring spaces when installing shelves or curtains.
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Appliance Sizing: Use it to confirm appliance dimensions for a proper fit.
Having a reliable tape measure ensures you get the correct measurements for both small and large tools for basic repairs.
Tool 5: Utility Knife
A utility knife is a must-have tool for basic repairs, perfect for cutting materials like drywall, carpet, or packaging. It’s an essential tool for various home repairs and DIY projects.
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Cutting Drywall: Ideal for trimming drywall for repairs or installations.
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Carpet Cutting: Use it to cut carpet for flooring installation or removal.
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Packaging: Handy for opening boxes and cutting through packaging materials.
Having a sharp, reliable utility knife ensures precision and safety for your tools for basic repairs.
Bonus Tools (Optional)
While the core tools are essential for most tools for basic repairs, certain additional tools can enhance your ability to tackle more complex tasks around the house:
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Level: Ensures installations like shelves and artwork are perfectly horizontal.
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Pliers: Versatile for gripping, bending, and cutting tasks.
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Power Drill: Speeds up drilling and screw-driving tasks, especially in tougher materials.
According to The Spruce, a basic household tool kit should also include items like a 25-foot tape measure, medium-sized screwdrivers, needle-nose and wire-cutting pliers, and an accurate level. These tools allow for easy handling of repairs, measurements, assembly, and maintenance tasks around the home.
Investing in these additional tools for basic repairs can provide the versatility needed for a wider range of home improvement projects.
Having the right tools for basic repairs is essential for maintaining your home and handling everyday fixes. With these 5 tools—hammer, screwdriver set, adjustable wrench, tape measure, and utility knife—you’ll be prepared to tackle a wide range of tasks, from furniture assembly to plumbing repairs.
Start building your toolkit with these essentials to improve your home maintenance skills and gain more confidence in DIY projects.
Call a Professional
However, if you ever find yourself facing more complex repairs or prefer expert assistance, don’t hesitate to contact Argenta Restoration Ltd. for professional repair services. We’re here to help with any project, big or small.