Why Every Home Needs A Tool Kit With The Basic Set Of Hand Tools
No matter how big or small your home is, it’s always a good idea to have a basic toolkit that contains a set of essential tools that you'll want for easy DIY projects or emergencies.
Not only will it make life easier when it comes time to complete small repairs or maintenance tasks, but it will also give you a sense of empowerment knowing that you can take care of things yourself instead of having to wait for someone else to do it for you.
As a tenant, you are responsible for helping keep your apartment or residential rental well-maintained. As part of your Tenancy Agreement, undertaking minor repairs and maintenance to the property is included. You don't need to be a DIY master, but having a toolkit with a set of basic hand tools will help you with this responsibility.
Putting Together The Hand Tools You'll Need Around The House
A home tool kit can vary widely, depending on which friend, family, or website you ask advice from. And there are many tool kit sets that you can buy online as well. If you're a newbie to owning one, your basic tool kit should contain the following items:
A tape measure: Accurate measurements are important for home repairs or DIY projects, whether you're hanging pictures or renovating your kitchen.
A level: Speaking of hanging pictures, a level is essential for making sure that your picture frames are straight.
A hammer: Hammering in nails is an essential part of many home improvement projects. Don’t start a tool kit without a hammer.
An adjustable spanner: Adjustable spanners function the same way as any other regular spanner, except that they can be adjusted to work with different-sized nuts and bolts.
A utility knife: A utility knife can be used for cutting carpets, opening packages, and a variety of other tasks around the house. But be sure to keep this tool tucked away and out of reach of children.
A flathead and a cross or Phillips screwdriver: You'll need these for minor repairs around the house, like tightening door hinges or assembling furniture. Be sure to get big and small ones.
A set of pliers: Pliers can be used for gripping, twisting, and bending objects—they're especially handy for electrical work. Get a set that includes multi-purpose pliers, long-nosed pliers, and side cutters.
A set of hex keys: Hex keys are used to tighten or loosen bolts and screws with hexagonal heads. Just like screwdrivers, get the big and small hex key sets.
Can I Expand On This Basic Tool Kit? Absolutely!
While the above list contains all the essential hand tools you may need around the property for minor repairs and DIY emergencies, there are other items you might want to consider adding to your toolbox as your needs change.
Considering a bit of carpentry? Consider adding a hand saw and some chisels. Do you have pets? You might want to add a pet brush and nail clippers. Do you have young children living in your home? Items like childproofing products and devices and a first-aid kit will be handy to have on your list.
The best way to determine what else you might need is to think about the types of DIY tasks and repairs you see yourself completing around the house and then find the tools necessary to complete those tasks.
Better To Have It And Not Need It, Than Need It And Not Have It
A tool kit is a must-have for any home—you never know when you'll need it. It doesn't have to be expensive, just solid basic gear that you can rely on.
And as always: Be sure to keep your tool kit in a safe and accessible place, out of reach of young children, but easy to get to when you need it.