Owning a home comes with a unique set of responsibilities, including maintenance and repairs. Having the right tools on hand can make these tasks much easier and more manageable.
In the video above, This Old House experts Tom Silva, Richard Trethewey, and Jenn Nawada share their top tool recommendations for new homeowners. Whether you’re a first time do-it-yourselfer (DIYer) or looking to upgrade your toolkit, this guide will help you identify the essentials.
Assessing Your Skill Level and Needs as a Homeowner
Before purchasing tools, it’s important to consider your skill level and the projects types you’re likely to tackle. This will help you make informed decisions about which tools to invest in and how much to spend.
Matching Tools to Your Abilities
When selecting tools, consider your experience and comfort level with various home improvement tasks. Silva says you should understand the skill level of the person who will be using them. Beginners may want to start with basic, user-friendly options, while those with more experience might benefit from more specialized tools.
Identifying Common Household Projects
If you’re buying for yourself, think about what you’re likely to encounter as a homeowner. Common tasks include the following:
- Assembling furniture
- Basic plumbing repairs
- Hanging pictures and shelves
- Minor electrical work
- Yard maintenance
By anticipating your needs, you can prioritize which tools to acquire first.
Essential Power Tools for Every Homeowner
Power tools can significantly speed up many home improvement tasks. Here are our experts’ recommendations for must-have power tools for new homeowners.
Drill/Driver
A drill/driver is perhaps the most versatile and essential power tool for any homeowner. A good drill driver can both drill holes and drive screws, making it indispensable for a wide range of projects. Look for a cordless model with a rechargeable battery for maximum convenience.
Other Useful Power Tools
When choosing power tools, opt for those with rechargeable, interchangeable batteries to save money and storage space. Most major power tool manufacturers like DeWalt, Ryobi, and Milwaukee offer some kind of combo set that includes a drill/driver and is likely to include some of the following as well.
- Circular saw
- Cut-off grinder
- Impact driver
- Jigsaw
- Orbital sander
- Oscillating multitool
- Reciprocating saw
Even if you’re not ready to purchase the combo set, we recommend starting with a drill/driver that includes a battery that can be used with these other tools.
Must-Have Hand Tools
Hand tools are the backbone of any homeowner’s toolkit. They’re essential for both small repairs and larger projects. Here are some hand tools every homeowner should have.
Screwdrivers
A set of quality screwdrivers is indispensable. As Silva says, you’ll need various sizes, including small precision screwdrivers for delicate work. Consider getting a multibit screwdriver with interchangeable heads for versatility.
Tape Measure
A good tape measure is crucial for any measuring task. Silva recommends getting a tape measure that’s at least 16 feet long to handle most household measuring needs.
Level
A level helps you find true horizontal and true vertical, ensuring that your shelves, pictures, and other installations are straight. Invest in a quality torpedo level, as Silva advises against cheap options that may not be accurate.
Utility Knife
A sharp utility knife is useful for a variety of tasks, from opening packages to cutting drywall. Look for a model with replaceable blades for long-term use.
Pliers
Pliers help you grip, bend, and manipulate various materials. Plier sets vary but may include the following:
- Adjustable/slip-joint pliers: General purpose gripping
- Combination pliers: Gripping and cutting
- Diagonal pliers: Cutting
- Linesman’s/electrician’s pliers: Gripping, twisting, and cutting wires
- Locking pliers: Hands-free gripping
- Needle-nose pliers: Precision work
Home Plumbing Tools
Even if you’re not a plumbing expert, having a few basic plumbing tools can help you handle minor issues and emergencies. Here are Trethewey’s recommendations.
Wrenches
As Trethewey says, wrenches are essential for many plumbing tasks like tightening or loosening nuts and bolts. He recommends having either a couple of adjustable wrenches or a full set of box (fixed) wrenches. This will ensure you have the right size for the task whenever you need it.
Plumber’s Pliers
Also known as channel-lock or tongue-and-groove pliers, these are specifically designed for plumbing tasks. These pliers’ jaws are set at an angle to the handle, allowing you to work on pipe connections in tight spaces. A plier set may include plumber’s pliers or you may need to purchase them separately.
Plunger
While not mentioned in the video, a good plunger is an essential tool for every homeowner to clear minor clogs in toilets and drains. Make sure to pick a plunger that has a flange, or soft rubber flap, extending from the cup for use on toilets. A standard plunger is only useful against flat surfaces like the bottom of a kitchen sink.
Backyard Landscaping and Gardening Tools
Maintaining your outdoor space is an important part of homeownership. Here are some essential tools for landscaping and gardening.
Pruners
As landscape expert Jenn Nawada demonstrates, a high-quality pair of pruners is essential for maintaining your yard. Look for heavy-duty pruners that can handle both perennials and woody shrubs.
Other Important Landscaping Tools
While not specifically mentioned, these tools are also crucial for yard maintenance:
Investing in quality landscaping tools will make outdoor maintenance tasks easier and more efficient.
Multitools and Versatile Options
For homeowners who want to maximize utility while minimizing storage space, multitools can be an excellent option.
Multitool
Trethewey highly recommends a multitool, which he carries with him at all times. These compact tools often include pliers, knives, screwdrivers, and other useful implements in one portable package.
Tool Sets
Consider purchasing comprehensive tool sets that include a variety of commonly used tools. These sets often come in a carrying case, making storage and organization easier. However, if budget is an issue, it’s typically better to purchase a few quality tools rather than a full set of cheaply made ones.
Investing in Quality Tools for Your Home
Throughout their discussion, the experts stress the importance of investing in high-quality tools. While it may be tempting to choose cheaper options, quality tools offer the following advantages:
- Better performance
- Improved safety
- Longer lifespan
- More comfortable user experience
By investing in quality tools, you’ll save money in the long run and be better equipped to handle a wide range of home maintenance tasks. When shopping for tools, consider the following tips to ensure you’re getting high-quality options.
- Read reviews: Look for tools with positive reviews from other homeowners and professionals.
- Pay attention to materials: Tools made of metal are far more likely to hold up to years of use than those with plastic casings or handles. However, plastic is substantially lighter than metal, and the best tool is one you’ll use.
- Check warranties: Quality tools often come with warranties that protect against defects and guarantee performance.
- Consider brands: Some brands are known for their commitment to quality and durability. While brand name isn’t everything, it can be a helpful indicator.
Read our comprehensive tool-buying guide for more detailed information.
Resources
All the tools described above can be found at the Home Depot.