Setting up a Household Toolbox. Many of the simple repairs you need to do around your home can be done by yourself. There is a huge number of "Do It Yourself" TV programs, videos, books and web pages. But in order to do these tasks you need a basic tool box of tools. If you are a novice you might ask; What do I need? How do I do this economically? Are cheap tools ok, do I need expensive power tools, table saws and specialty equipment? I hope to give you some helpful hints to get started.
Basic Tool Box: You need a rugged tool box, it can be made of metal or heavy plastic, it can even be a canvas carpenter’s bag. It should be large enough to hold basic tools but not so large as to be a storage and carrying problem. I personally like the heavy plastic ones that are available that have snap boxes for some basic wood screws and nails.
Basic Tools Everyone Should Own:
Buying Tools: Tools can be expensive. Specialty and craftsman tools can be outrageously expensive. Remember this, a good tool should last a lifetime. Don’t by cheap discount tools at box box stores. You are better off buying from a hardware store or home center. These tools may not be the cheapest but are generally better quality. Generally leave the $1.00 tools alone, this is a guide not a rule. Tight budget? It still pays in the long run to buy quality over quantity. Buying hammers that constantly break or chip is not frugal or safe. A screw driver that breaks in your hand or twists out of shape, will cause you to delay your repair, make a trip for another one and may cause more damage to what you are working on! Where is the value in that!
Buying Tools 2: Look for brand names and "China" is not a brand name. When it comes to tools a name still means something. As hardware clerks to aid you if you want good "basic" tools. They know what good tools are and what level you need. They can also point you to sale items and sets that might save you money. Buying kits and sets usually saves you money comparison shop. Wait for sales for specialty items and powered tools. Right after Christmas the Home Centers have great power tool sales, discounting the Christmas specials. Also check out garage sales, flea markets and resale shops, old hand tools in good shape can be a bargain!
Tools You Must Have:
Hammer: Recommend an oak, metal or fiberglass handled carpenters claw hammer. Great for pounding nails and pulling them.
Screwdriver Set: You need several sets of Phillips and straight edge screw drivers. Usually you can get a set cheaper than individuals. Stay away from gadgets that let you change screw driver shafts. Stick with basic hard plastic handled screw drivers. Screw drivers tighten and remove nuts and screws.
Hand Saw: You need a full size hand saw for cutting wood with a wooden handle. This saw will cut dimensional lumber up to 4" by 4" timbers. Most home repair cuts are for 2"x 4" boards or smaller.
Hack Saw: A hack saw is used for cutting PVC pipe, aluminum, copper and other metals. Comes in handy for plumbing, crafts, metal gutters and down spouts, etc..
Power Drill: Many relieable, inexpensive power drills are available at Home Centers and Hardware Stores. Buy one with an electric cord to save money. Cordless drills are more convienient but a good one will be over $100.
Drill Bits: At a minimium you need drill bits for metal and wood. Sets are more reasonably priced than individual drill bits.
Crescent Wrench: An adjustable wrench for some plumbing connections and tightening and removing nuts.
Pliers: Adjustable by gripping, pliers aid in gripping pipes, materials and tightening and removing nuts.
Putty Knife: Used for applying putty, spackling and scraping off old paint.
25′ Tape Measure: Retractile metal tape in inches and feet.
Razor Knife: Retractile razor knifes have razor blades that can cut string, rope, screening, insulation and other materials.
Duct Tape Roll: Universal heavy duty tape for repairing plastic, taping duct work, hundreds of uses.
Electrical Tape: Black insulated tape for minor electrical repairs
Fasteners: An assortment of nails, picture hooks, picture wire and wood screws comes in handy for basic home repairs.
This has been a list of basic tools. There are endless tools for special jobs and needs. As you become more interested in tools and projects, you can add tools you need and will come to understand what you want or need to add to your tool kit.
Additional Savings on Buying Tools:
Big job or small, you might need special tools form a cement mixing machine to a sledge hammer. Check with friends and borrow tools, just make certain you return them clean and undamaged. Returning them this way in a timely manner will encourage your friends lend you again. You can also rent items from a tools and equipment center. If you must buy a tool you will not have use for in the future, sell it online on Craig’s list, EBay or another auction. You can also sell it on consignment at a resale shop or sell or trade it at your local flea market.
