The Essential Tools for Your Home Toolkit.
I recently purchased a home in November and while it was move-in ready, there were still projects to be done. Really there is an argument that, no matter how furnished or complete a place is, there are always a couple of projects to make an apartment or house, your spot.
With that in mind, I have compiled a list of the essential tools to add to your “Toolkit”. These are perfect for the apartment dweller with limited space or the new homeowner just starting out. Keep in mind this is coming from my experience. If you think I missed your favorite essential tool, let me know below.
Hammer – Just so classic and useful. Use a claw hammer to tap in nails/wall anchors for picture frames or pry the nails out of the wall when re-arranging. You can also use the hammer to close your laptop REALLY hard after a frustrating Zoom meeting.
Cordless drill – When you need to be able to mount something a bit heavier with a wall anchor, you will need to drill a pilot hole. A cordless drill is the best option for small projects that don’t need a lot of power because you won’t be tied down by the need for an outlet. Like not being tied down under your parent’s roof anymore.
Drill bit set – Any drill needs a basic set of bits. 3/16 is the most common size for anchor holes and screws so that’ll be the one you use. Never a bad idea to have the full set though.
Screw Drivers (Phillips and Flathead) – For when some old school arm twisting gets the job done, you need the Batman and Robin. For Phillips, the cross-shaped pattern and most likely to be Batman, you’ll be able to mend cabinet hinges, put together furniture, and a lot more. With a Flathead, the…one with the flat head, you’ll take off outlet covers and most regular door hinges.
Level – This is so people don’t have to tilt their head at an angle to admire the picture of your vacation in Cancun. As long as you keep the bubble in the lines, you’ll have satisfyingly straight wall hangings. You can also use it to notice that your floor has been slanted this whole time.
Measuring tape – Often used in tandem with the level, Measuring Tape will help you make sure that wall hangings are in the exact spot you want them. Measure from North, South, East, and West on the wall to get the perfect spot. Measuring tape can be used to confirm that your couch will not fit through your door…as you are trying to move it in.
Stud finder – It is not fun to try and hammer in a nail for a picture frame, only to throw out your shoulder when the nail meets a stud. Use a stud finder to know what is beneath the drywall before you hammer, and to determine if you’ll need a drywall anchor (hint: you don’t if there’s a stud behind the wall). Also, keep in mind that a textured wall requires some finesse to accurately find studs.
Rubber Mallet – You may be thinking…why? Well, a Rubber Mallet is surprisingly useful when you need a gentler touch when hammering away. It is especially useful to force together the snug Ikea furniture joints without damaging the finish. A rubber mallet is also super useful for sealing those paint cans after you’ve put your personal touch on a room.
