Whether you’re a do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiast or a professional contractor, you need the right tools for your home building and remodeling projects. This guide will help you understand what you need for any job, from basic repairs to major renovations. We’ll cover safety gear, hand tools, power tools, specialized equipment for different trades, and tips for maintenance and storage.
Safety First: Finding Protective Gear and Safe Tools
Protective equipment prevents injuries and makes your working environment safer. Here are some must-haves for your project.
Eye and Face Protection
Safety glasses are necessary for projects involving power tools or potential flying debris. Look for glasses that meet the ANSI Z87 standard. A full face shield provides better coverage for tasks such as grinding and welding.
Respiratory Protection
Protect your lungs from dust, chemicals, and other harmful particles. Paper dust masks work for tasks such as sanding wood, while respirators with properly rated filters are necessary when working with solvents or lead paint dust.
Hearing Protection
Prolonged exposure to loud noises can damage your hearing. Earmuffs offer the best protection, but earplugs are a comfortable and affordable alternative.
Protective Clothing and Footwear
Thick pants and long-sleeve shirts can protect your skin from cuts and abrasions. Steel-toed boots protect your feet in areas where heavy objects could fall or be dropped. Work gloves protect your hands and give you a better grip on your tools.
Hand Tools
A well-stocked collection of hand tools forms the foundation of any tool kit.
Screwdrivers and Wrenches
Buy a multi-bit screwdriver to save space. Include a set of wrenches and sockets in metric and imperial sizes to handle nuts and bolts and a pair of locking pliers for gripping and tightening small objects.
Measuring and Layout Tools
A 25-foot tape measure is enough for most projects and works best with a combination square. For larger projects, consider adding 4-foot and torpedo levels as well.
Hammers and Prying Tools
A 16-ounce carpenter’s hammer will work for most tasks. Complement it with a flat bar for prying and a cat’s paw for nail removal.
Cutting and Shaping Tools
Buy a quality utility knife for cutting different types of materials. Add a set of wood chisels for delicate woodworking tasks and a handsaw for quick, precise cuts when power tools aren’t practical.
Power Tools
Power tools can speed up your work and improve precision, and a core set of those listed below will cover most of your needs.
Drills and Drivers
A cordless drill is needed for drilling holes and driving screws, especially through tougher materials. For harder jobs, add an impact driver that can handle large screws and lag bolts.
Saws and Cutting Tools
Consider a circular saw for straight cuts, especially with lumber. A cordless jigsaw allows curved cuts and is more maneuverable in tight spaces. Add a miter saw to your kit for more precise angled cuts in trim work.
Sanders and Finishing Tools
An orbital sander will help you smooth surfaces quickly. A multitool with sanding attachments can be helpful for detailed work. Get hand-sanding blocks for areas that are hard to reach with power tools.
Specialty Power Tools
A reciprocating saw, often called a “Sawzall,” is helpful for demolition work. A router can add decorative edges to wood projects, while an oscillating multitool is perfect for cutting, grinding, sanding, and scraping in hard-to-reach areas.
Specialized Tools
Here’s a look at specialized tools for more advanced projects such as carpentry, electrical work, and plumbing.
Carpentry Tools
A rafter square is used for layout work in framing projects. For trim work, a cordless 18-gauge brad nailer will help. Don’t forget a nail set to countersink any proud nails for a professional finish. A block plane can smooth out wood surfaces and fine-tune fitment.
Electrical Work Essentials
Safety is the top priority in electrical work. Before you begin, use a reliable circuit tester to confirm the power is off. Wire strippers, linesman’s pliers, and a cable stripper will help you prepare and connect wires safely. For more extensive projects, consider fish tape for pulling wires through conduits and walls.
Plumbing Tools and Equipment
Along with a basic plunger, a good set of pipe wrenches will work for most plumbing tasks. For copper pipes, you’ll need a pipe cutter and a propane torch for soldering. If working with PEX tubing, invest in a PEX crimper and cutter. A basin wrench will make working in tight spaces under sinks easier, and a plumbing snake can help clear clogs in drains.
Painting and Finishing Tools
Invest in quality paint brushes and rollers for the best results from your paint job.
Brushes and Rollers
A 2 1/2-inch angled sash brush can handle most painting tasks, especially in corners and tight spaces. For larger areas, choose rollers with the right nap for your surface for even coverage. Extending paint poles can help you reach high areas without a ladder.
Surface Preparation Tools
A 1 1/2-inch putty knife and a 4-inch taping knife will work for most filling and spackling needs. Pair these with sandpaper and sanding blocks to smooth surfaces for painting. Consider a wallpaper scraper to remove old wallpaper before painting.
Specialty Painting Tools
Consider adding an edging tool to your kit for more detailed work. Paint trays and liners make the job cleaner and more efficient, and drop cloths protect surfaces from spills and splatters. Painter’s tape will also help create clean, professional lines.
Outdoor Project Tools and Equipment
Next, let’s dive into the essential tools for maintaining your home’s exterior and landscaping.
Landscaping Tools
A solid shovel, bow rake, and leaf rake are the base of your landscaping tool kit. Add pruning shears and loppers to maintain shrubs and small trees. An arborist’s saw will come in handy for larger branches. A wheelbarrow is also helpful for moving soil, mulch, and other supplies around your yard.
Lawn Care Equipment
A lawn mower is necessary for any grassy yard. Choose between manual reel mowers for small areas, electric cordless mowers for medium-sized lawns, or gas-powered models for larger properties. A string trimmer helps maintain edges and hard-to-reach areas. For added convenience, consider a leaf blower to clear leaves and debris from your lawn and driveway.
Exterior Maintenance Tools
An extension ladder will help you reach high areas safely. Buy a pressure washer for cleaning siding, decks, and driveways. Consider gutter scoops and a long garden hose for gutter maintenance.
Tool Storage and Organization
Choose the right type of storage to protect your tools and make them easier to find.
Tool Boxes and Bags
A well-built toolbox or bag keeps your most-used tools organized and portable. Look for options with multiple compartments to organize everything. Consider a tool belt for easy access while working.
Pegboards and Wall Storage
Install pegboards or slat wall systems to create wall storage and keep your most used tools within reach. Magnetic strips can also hold metal tools securely.
Mobile Workstations
If you regularly work in different areas or on larger projects, a mobile workstation will help you be more efficient. Look for options with wheels, drawers, and a stable work surface.
Storage Solutions
Storing tools in a weather-resistant container or shed can help prevent rust and other damage caused by humidity and temperature changes. Consider investing in moisture-absorbing products and keep valuable tools in a dry space to extend their lifespan.
Renting Tools vs. Buying Tools
Owning every tool is not always practical or necessary. Consider renting expensive or rarely used tools to save money and storage space.
Assessing Your Needs
Evaluate how often you will use a particular tool. Renting tools may be cheaper if they are used only once or twice a year. For everyday tools, investing in quality can save money in the long run.
Cost Considerations
Compare rental costs with purchase prices to determine the best option for your budget. Some shops also have rent-to-own programs that apply your rental fees toward future ownership.
Maintaining Your Tools
Regular care and maintenance extend the life of your tools and keep them safely performing at their best.
Cleaning and Storage Tips
Clean your tools after each use, removing dirt, dust, or debris. Store them in a dry place to prevent rust. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for lubrication and battery care for power tools.
Sharpening and Calibration
Sharpen your blades often for safety and to get the most precise cuts. Check and calibrate measuring tools such as levels and squares for accuracy. Have power tools serviced by professionals when needed.
Routine Inspections
Regularly inspect your tools to find and fix any worn or damaged parts. Replace blades, bits, and other components as necessary. Check for cord fraying or battery issues for power tools and fix them quickly to avoid safety hazards.