Filling up that toolbox? Here are the tool must-haves!

With a handful of certain tools, you should be able to fix just about anything in your home and take on tasks without needing to call the handyman. Let’s take a look at what you should have.

Hammers

A good old-fashioned claw hammer is a mandatory tool for any toolbox. Hammers help with woodworking, furniture assembly, picture hanging, and anything that just plain needs a firm, solid nudge. You can purchase a basic claw hammer at any department store such as Wal-mart or Target and definitely at a hardware store such as Lowe’s or Home Depot for under $10.

Some Claw Hammers

Nails

If you are going to have a hammer, you’re going to need some nails! It would be wise to have an assortment of sizes and types to choose from. A box of 8 or 9 gauge nails is probably sufficient for everyday necessities. You should be mindful that nails that have no finish on them are susceptible to rusting, but if you are only using them indoors, unfinished nails should not be a problem. A box of nails should only set you back a few dollars.

Screwdrivers

So many tasks require a screwdriver. Many of the toys and appliances in the average home need one just to change the batteries. Every toolbox should be equipped with a selection of flathead and Phillips head screwdrivers. You should at the very least have a small, medium and large screwdriver of both of these types. In most hardware stores, you should be able to find a set of screwdrivers for $10 or less. Another thing to consider is a small power screwdriver with removable ends. If you want to go easy on your hands and wrists you can find a power screwdriver for $20 to $30.

Some Power Screwdrivers

Screws

The perfect accessory for your screwdriver, it wouldn’t hurt to have some spare screws around the house. As with nails, a diverse selection of width, length, and finish is good to keep in mind while purchasing. Your average box of screws should only run a couple of dollars.

Allen wrenches

If it doesn’t require a screwdriver, it probably needs an Allen wrench. Allen wrenches fit into hexagonal sockets of Allen screws and bolts. Essential for assembling furniture and other items out of a box as well as working on bicycles, the Allen wrench should be your friend. Make sure to pick up a set of these often used wrenches. A trip to the store should yield you a set of these for around $10 to $20.

Some Allen Wrench Sets

Awl

Some people forget about this little guy, but the awl is extremely handy. Used for marking and gouging wood, when a screw or a bolt won’t quite fit, an awl can definitely be a life saver. This small purchase will save you much frustration and headache through the years. Your basic scratch awl is quite easy on your wallet as it typically will cost you a paltry $2 to $6.

Various Awls

Measuring tape

Another necessity in the world of tools, a retractable tape measure can be found in 12 to 100 foot lengths or more. A good tape measure will clearly mark 1/8 and 1/16 of an inch for the best accuracy and also lock into place for your convenience. You should be able to find a tape measure for $5 to $20 dollars depending on the length and quality.

Some Retractable Measuring Tapes

Adjustable wrench

Instead of buying an entire spectrum of wrenches, a single adjustable wrench should do the trick for your basic home needs. Unless you are planning on being a do-it-yourself mechanic, this single wrench should be able to tighten everything that needs tightening and handle your simple plumbing emergencies. A decent adjustable wrench should set you back about $10 to $25.

Some Adjustable Wrenches

Power drill

While this may seem a bit excessive for this simple list, a power drill will come in handy more often then you’d think. Whenever you need to make a hole, you’re going to need one of these. While you’re at it, be sure to pick up a set of drill bits if your drill does not come with any to be prepared for every situation. If you can afford it, it is also recommended that you buy one which is cordless and has a rechargeable battery pack. Be prepared to spend $40 to $150 on a drill and around $30 on a good set of drill bits.

Level or leveler

This simple device can help to make many household tasks simple. Most people would find that the majority of usage of this tool comes from hanging pictures, lighting fixtures, and shelving. Some levels can be a yard or so long, but for around the home a six inch one should be sufficient. Some levels feature a laser that projects onto the wall for ease of use especially when hanging multiple objects. Your average level should run you $5 to $20.

Nuts, bolts, and washers

You never know when you might need hardware like these three items. It would be a good idea to keep some of these on hand. What’s that? Your toolbox is getting too heavy? Well, it is much easier to have a few extra things on hand than to go to the store for every little thing. This way you’ll be prepared no matter what project comes your way.

Well, there you have it. The great thing about tools is that if you buy quality goods, you should only have to buy them once in your life. If you have all or even the majority of these items, your everyday tool needs should be easily met, not to mention the fact that your level of preparedness will impress. Have fun and be safe!