If you own a home, you know that there’s always a potential for something to break. And unlike living in a rental, the responsibility of finding a fix falls on you. Whether you’re a dedicated DIYer or someone who cobbles together a short-term fix before calling in the professionals, a home toolkit is a key part of homeownership. Here are a few essentials that no home toolkit should be without.
Flashlight
While it might not be a traditional tool, the importance of a flashlight in your home toolkit cannot be overstated. Whether it’s pulling out an appliance to check under or behind for problem areas, following pipes or duct work, or lighting up the house after a blown fuse, a flashlight is a vital addition to any home toolkit. A flashlight will allow you to pinpoint problem areas and provide the light you need to start repairs. For home toolkits, a rechargeable LED flashlight is the best option, as it allows you to store the flashlight for long periods of time without having to worry about having replacement batteries on hand. Rechargeable headlamps are also a good option as they allow for hands-free lighting, though they may take up more space in a toolkit than a regular flashlight. If you experience power outages, some Fenix lights and headlamps are built with power discharge options, allowing you to charge the batteries of other devices in a pinch.
Multi-Headed Screwdriver
When things come loose, a quick turn of the screwdriver is often enough to tighten things up and prevent small problems from becoming big repair projects. A screwdriver with a few different head attachments is a great tool to have on hand to tackle wobbly doors, squeaky hinges, and more. By having a screwdriver with a few head options, you’ll be prepared to tackle most small projects. You might not always have the right tool for the job on hand, but with a multi-headed screwdriver that allows you to switch between different sizes of philips and flathead, your chances go way up.
Duct Tape
There’s not much duct tape can’t do with a little creative thinking, and no home toolkit is complete without it. Dropped a screw somewhere you can’t reach? Duct tape attached to something long can help you retrieve it. Need a makeshift clamp as you glue or screw two items together? Duct tape will hold fast as you work. It might not be the most glamorous solution to a problem, but duct tape can help mitigate problems as you research your solutions or call in an expert.
Tape Measure
A tape measure might not be the first thing you pull out to fix a leak, but when you need it, you really need it. And really, there aren’t any good substitutes. Rulers and yardsticks aren’t flexible enough to get into tight spaces or around corners, and you run the risk of inaccurate measurements as you move along a surface. A tape measure can be an invaluable tool before starting a repair or renovation project. By having a tape measure on hand, you can collect all of the numerical information you need before ordering supplies or making material cuts. Being accurate in your measurements will allow you to save both time and money – two things you can bank for the next home repair project.
Homeownership is an exciting endeavor, but it’s one that comes with a lot of responsibility. Be prepared to tackle any problem with a well-stocked home toolkit and get ready to learn the unique ins and outs of your appliances and home.