Make Sure You Have These Tools In Your Home

When you own a home, it seems like there's always something that needs to be fixed or a project that needs to be done. Having the right tools on hand will make every job easier and save you a lot of frustration. If you don't already have a well-stocked toolbox, now is the time to start building up your collection.

Tools can be expensive, so it's important to know which ones you definitely need and which ones you can probably wait to buy. Start your collection with these "must-have" tools.

1. A Selection of Hand Tools
   Chances are, you'll use your hand tools more than any other tools. Since they're relatively inexpensive, you'll want to start collecting them right away. Before you buy anything else, make sure you have a set of screwdrivers, a set of pliers, at least one hammer, a utility knife, and a tape measure.
   
   You'll use these items for everything from hanging art to assembling furniture or even opening Amazon boxes.

2. Ladder
   There will be plenty of times when you need to reach something up high, making a ladder another one of the most important items for a homeowner to have. Whether you need to replace your smoke detector's battery or change a lightbulb, when the time comes, you'll be glad you have a sturdy ladder on hand.
   
   If you're on a budget, choose a basic 6-foot ladder. Or, if you can spend a bit more, splurge on an adjustable multi-position ladder. This will give you additional versatility.

3. Cordless Drill
   A drill will come in handy for all kinds of home projects. You can use it for making holes, driving nails, and more. Opting for a cordless model will make all of your projects much easier.
   
   Remember that you'll need a good set of drill bits to go with your new drill. Choose an assortment and you'll be ready to take on a range of both indoor and outdoor projects.

4. Level
   Whether you're hanging a framed picture or a towel bar, you'll want to make sure it's not crooked. A level is a super-simple tool that can be a life-saver. If you have the money, pick up both a 6-inch and a 12-inch option, as this will give you additional flexibility.

5. Stud Finder
   When you're hanging mirrors or heavy wall decor, you want to make sure they're secure. A stud finder will help you find sturdy beams inside your walls. You can get one for about $10, and you'll find that it's well worth the money.
   
   You may also want to pick up a few drywall anchors. These will help if you can't find a stud and need to secure a heavy item into the drywall.

6. Adjustable Wrench
   From fixing the toilet to putting together a swing set, there are many times when you'll need an adjustable wrench. It's a good idea to get one with a 6-inch handle and one with a 10-inch handle. The longer handle will give you more leverage when you need to deal with a nut that's stuck, while the smaller one is perfect for when you're working in a tight space.

7. Miscellaneous Items
   While not necessarily "tools," there are some other important items you'll want to keep in your toolbox. This includes a sturdy flashlight, duct tape, and basic safety equipment like work gloves, safety glasses, and some dust masks. You never know when you'll need these items, so it's always good to have them on hand.
   
   Don't let this list overwhelm you! Simply start buying a few items at a time when you can. There's no reason to stress, but you also don't want to wait until you need a tool to head out to the store looking for it.

When the skink is dripping or the smoke detector won't stop chirping in the middle of the night, you'll be glad you have what you need to quickly and easily solve the problem.

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