For all the homeowners who like to do their own minor repair work, and for apartment dwellers who don’t like to wait for a maintenance visit, we have compiled a list of the 11 essential tools for any respectable do-it-yourself kit.
Depending what retail stores you have access to, and whether you can get some quality items at secondhand shops, expect to spend between $100 and $200 for your DIY tool kit. The cost will be much lower if you already own a few of the items. For example, most people have a wrench or two, a screwdriver, a hammer and a pliers. Searching through the old junk in your garage, car trunk and kitchen drawers will usually yield about half the items on the list.
Here are the “essential 11” tools for your DIY kit:
1. Safety glasses/goggles (safety first, safety always)
2. Pliers (purchase several kinds, including needle-nose variety)
3. Tape measure (retractable, metal ones are invaluable for all sorts of projects)
4. Small handsaw
5. Multi-blade utility knife (ask at the hardware store for a quality brand)
6. Awl
7. Screwdrivers (get a few sizes each of Phillips and slotted)
8. Hammer (best to opt for the 16-ounce claw variety)
9. Level
10. Wrenches (get one large and one small)
Extras (You knew there would be extras, didn’t you?)
We didn’t put some things on the main list because you probably already have them and/or they can be acquired for little or no cost. Keep a good collection of different-sized nails, screws, fasteners, sand paper and tape. Another super-handy item is super-glue, as well as an assortment of all-purpose glues.
Number 11?
Finally, are you wondering about number 11? We started out with just 10 tools in mind but, by popular demand, decided to include the one thing so many do-it-yourself enthusiasts call their “favorite tool,” a standard power drill. Shop online for a combination drill-driver and you needn’t spend more than $20 for a tool that will easily pay for itself by saving your arm and wrist muscles from injury.
Action time: You shall go into the world and… shop!
Now, it’s time to decide whether the tools you already have are in operating condition, and which ones you need to go out and buy. If you own multiple versions of one tool, offer to trade with a friend for something that’s missing from your collection. (If you collected sports cards as a child, this skill will come naturally).
With a little resourcefulness, you should be able to minimize your costs and bring the total cost of your complete DIY tool kit well under $50. Happy hunting! May all your projects be safe and successful ones.