Every home should have a well-stocked toolbox, and while you can buy one pre-stocked, it might only have some of the tools you should keep handy. It might sound like an easy list, but it might be a tad more challenging than you realise. Often, you only realise how much you need a tool once you need it!
Must-Have Tools For Every Toolbox
The right equipment is essential to tackling DIY around the house and handling emergencies. With a well-stocked toolbox, you will have everything you need to handle when dealing with various DIY situations.
Snips are one of those must-have tools a lot of people overlook. But they are ideal for cutting plastic, heavy paper, thin wire, sheet metal, and thick textiles. If you look after them properly, they will last for decades, which is impressive considering their affordability. They belong in every toolbox.
You may also know them better as aviation snips because they originated in the aviation industry and were designed to cut plane parts when constructing aeroplanes. So, you can rely on them to quickly work on thick material without much effort. The best way to describe snips is as high-powered scissors. From snipping through that pesky plastic trapping your new purchase to cutting ductwork, moulding, gutters, flooring, or even jewellery-making.
- Screwdrivers
The screwdriver might be one of the more humble tools, but we would be lost without them. From tightening the toilet roll holder to jamming open stubborn pots of paint, you will use your screwdriver set regularly. But you need a selection of slot or flat heads, and Philips heads to cater to every screw and avoid stripping them.
- Spanners
A socket spanner is a quick win for DIYers; it’s easier to handle than a traditional spanner and fits into smaller spaces. It can’t do everything a traditional spanner can, though, so it’s important to have one on hand. Whichever tool you use, be sure to take it slow and steady.
- Hammers
While there are a variety of hammers, the old-school claw option is your best bet. It can handle hammering nails, the claw can remove them or help lift floorboards and carpeting. If you often work with smaller nails, you may want to invest in a ball pein hammer.
With the basics covered, you can branch out to some other must-have items, such as a 5m measuring tape, pliers, a utility knife, a good torch, and a spirit level to make hanging shelves a cinch. Don’t forget to stock up on personal safety gear – gloves, safety glasses, and ear protection if you often use power tools. Whatever gear you purchase, be sure it’s the right protection for the tools you plan to use and the project you are working on.
Final Thoughts
With a well-stocked toolbox, you won’t need to worry about things going wrong in your home. Whatever pops up is something you can handle. Just be sure you invest in high-quality tools that will last for years.