Tool Box Essentials for Your Home

Every home needs a tool box. You may need it every day or once a year, but make sure to have these tools on hand.

Tool Box

If you’re building up your collection of hand tools for your home, be sure to protect them by storing them in something sturdy.

When it comes to tool boxes, rugged doesn’t have to equal enormous or costly. There are a wide number of options available at all price points. There are even options for small homes or apartments where storage space is minimal.

Hammer

This is the most important hand tool of them all. It’s an absolute must to have in your tool box, as you’ll use a hammer for everything from hanging pictures to installing decorative molding.

A great option is the claw hammer. It features a steel head on one side and a claw (the crowbar-like nail-pulling lever) on the other.

Tape Measure

You can’t put a price on accuracy, especially when it comes to home improvement.

Incorrect estimates can end up costing you both time and money. So save yourself the trouble by simply keeping a tape measure in your tool box.

Level

Wondering if that picture you’re hanging or chair rail you’re affixing is straight? Sounds like you could use a level.

Today there are many high-tech laser levels available. But standard torpedo levels, which use air bubbles in three clear liquid-filled vials to give you visible proof of a surface’s level, are still a great and low cost choice.

Regardless of the type you pick, you’ll be happy to have a level in your tool box.

Screwdrivers

Because there are so many different screw designs, it’s a good idea to stock your tool kit with different types of screwdrivers.

The shape or design stamped into a screw’s head determines its “drive type.” A screwdriver blade fits into it in order to drive or extract it.

To save money and tool box space, you can always opt for a multi-bit screwdriver.

Pliers and Wrench

Both pliers and wrenches provide extra grip and leverage for projects around the house. But owning one of each is best, since they’re cut out for slightly different jobs.

Pliers are great for pulling out nails, bending, and even cutting wire.

A wrench is the tool to grab when you need grip combined with extra torque for tightening and loosening pipes. It also works well for turning nuts and bolts.

Utility Knife

A utility knife (also called a box cutter, razor knife, or carpet knife) consists of a hollow plastic or metal handle that houses a retractable razor blade.

Utility knives are incredibly useful tools for any do-it-yourself-er, regardless of his or her skill level. They make quick work of slicing through cardboard, drywall, carpet, thin plastics, and even linoleum.

Stud Finder

A stud finder is another helpful tool when it comes to hanging things on your wall. It finds studs in the wall for you, so you know the best places to hang things like pictures and shelving.

Drill

Power tools such as drills are extremely handy to have for slightly more heavy duty jobs. They can help you drill pilot holes and drive in nails and screws easier. They can also help you remove nails and screws more easily.

A good option to go with is a cordless drill. They don’t have a cord, so it’s much easier to use around the house. You don’t have to worry about plugging it in.

With these tool box basics, you’ll be prepared to tackle any job needed to be done around the house. For more tips and tool how-to’s, check out Blain’s Farm & Fleet’s Hand Tools Blog.