Creating a well-equipped home toolkit is essential for tackling everyday repairs and DIY projects. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top 10 tools you should have in your home:
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Cordless Drill: A versatile tool for various tasks, the Milwaukee 3403-22 M12 Fuel 1/2 in. Drill/Driver comes highly recommended (The New York Times Wirecutter).
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Screwdriver Set: A set with various sizes and head types is crucial, including both flat-head and Phillips-head options.
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Adjustable Wrench: An adjustable wrench can stand in for an entire set, making it a space-saving and versatile tool (WIRED).
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Hammer: A claw hammer not only drives nails but also allows you to remove them, making it an indispensable tool for any home.
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Pliers: A set of pliers, including needle-nose and slip-joint pliers, is useful for gripping and bending materials.
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Tape Measure: Precision is key in DIY tasks, and a reliable tape measure is essential for measuring spaces and materials.
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Utility Knife: A sturdy utility knife is great for cutting through various materials, such as cardboard or drywall.
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Level: A level ensures your projects are perfectly horizontal or vertical, which is vital for hanging pictures or building furniture.
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Flashlight or Work Light: Adequate lighting is necessary for working in dimly lit areas or during power outages.
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Toolbox or Storage System: Keep your tools organized and easily accessible with a dedicated toolbox or storage system.
Building your home toolkit with these essentials will ensure you’re prepared for most common tasks and repairs. For more specific recommendations, consider a 14-in-1 tool featured by This Old House, which includes a variety of useful functions in one compact device. When starting out, the 65-piece Stanley 94-248 toolkit is noted as the best starter toolkit (Reviewed by USA Today).
Remember, investing in quality tools can make a significant difference in the ease and outcome of your home improvement projects. With the right tools at your disposal, you’ll be well-equipped to handle any challenge your home may present.
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