1. /
  2. Blog
  3. / 10 Must-Haves for Your Toolbox

10 Must-Haves for Your Toolbox

Woman using a level to make a wall mark
  • Written on June 20, 2022 By Stanley Martin Homes

Whether you are an experienced handyman or a novice DIYer, a well-stocked toolbox is a must-have in every home. But, before you run to the hardware store and pull items off the shelf to fill your toolbox, there are a few necessities that you’ll want to be sure to grab. Let’s face it, browsing the endless aisles of expensive gadgets, tiny screws, and heavy-duty electrical equipment can feel overwhelming, not to mention costly. To ensure that you have everything you need for quick fixes around the house, we’re rounding up a list of 10 items that everyone should keep in their home’s toolbox.

  1. Hammer:A claw hammer is a must-have for a variety of home repairs and DIY projects, from hanging picture frames to building swing sets. When buying a hammer, it’s important to consider the size and material. While a standard hammer is 16 oz, a hammer of a lighter weight may suit one’s strength better. For ultimate comfort and shock absorption, opt for a tool with a rubber, plastic or vinyl handle rather than one made of wood or steel.
  2. Tape measure: Whether you are measuring for a new window treatment or spacing picture frames on a wall, a tape measure is a necessity. Although tape measures can be anywhere from 12 to 100 feet in length, a 25-foot measure works for most household projects.
  3. Screwdrivers: Every toolbox needs two types of screwdrivers:a flathead and a Phillips head. Both types are necessary for day-to-day repairs, as they are each suited to different kinds of screws. Screwdrivers are also handy for tasks beyond tightening screws, such as scraping and opening paint cans.
  4. Pliers: Pliers are a multi-purpose tool that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. However, the handiest models for basic home repair are needle-nose and slip-joint. Needle-nose pliers are perfect for delicate tasks such as repairing jewelry and cutting wires, while slip-joint pliers are helpful for larger projects such as installing hoses or repairing the kitchen sink.
  5. Picture hanging kit: Commonly sold in home improvement stores, picture hanging kits include everything you need to add some flair to your home. Prepackaged kits include an assortment of picture hooks, wire and nails. Time to redecorate? Not to worry. Stock your toolkit with a putty knife and spackle to fill in any holes that may result from old nail holes in the walls.
  6. An assortment of nails and screws: It’s essential to keep a variety of nails and screws in your home in case you need to make a quick repair. Conveniently, most hardware stores sell kitswith nails and screws in various shapes and sizes.
  7. Level: If you’ve ever tried to hang a picture frame or adjust a table, you know how difficult it can be to ensure that something is perfectly horizontal. Levels help take the guesswork (and stress) out of household tasks by showing when its frame is precisely even. A 2-foot level is a perfect size for most home projects.
  8. Wrench: An adjustable wrench is used to tighten and loosen nuts and bolts and is an essential tool for tasks such as assembling furniture or adjusting a hose. Purchasing an adjustable wrench with a movable jaw ensures that your tool can be used for a variety of nut and bolt sizes.
  9. Cordless drill: Feel the power of a cordless drill! Useful for small and big tasks alike, the cordless drill is a basic power tool that even beginners can use. Electric cordless drills eliminate safety hazards presented by long cords. These tools vary in size, but a 12-volt drill is typically the perfect model for home repair.
  10. Safety gear: To avoid the dangers of using tools, such as flying debris and loud noises, it is vital to keep protective equipment on-hand. Gloves, goggles, face masks, ear plugs, and a flashlight are just some of the essential safety tools that every DIYer should have. Remember, safety first!

At Stanley Martin Homes, we know that even the smallest home repairs can feel intimidating to tackle. But, with these tools at hand, you’ll be ready to conquer redecorating, minor repairs and those unknown everyday tasks that pop up around your home. Visit your local hardware store and start stocking your toolbox with the items on this must-have list.