Home Improvement Tools

With the current economic turbulence and uncertain real estate market, it’s always a good idea to take care of small repairs and fixes around the house. Which is why, many homeowners are beginning to take interest in buying essential tools for the job. However, these tools can also come in handy for people who live in apartments. Investing in a fully-functional and fully-loaded tool kit really has its own perks. So let’s find out what they really are.

List of Necessary Tools for Your Home



Regardless of where you live, the following tools are an absolutely necessity. Search for a tool kit that has most of the tools mentioned below. Research as much as you can for deals on tool kits or individual pieces. With an overall expense of approximately US$ 200-300, you can easily stock your garage with these tools.

* Note – The prices of the tools may vary depending on where you purchase them, and at what time of the year.

Toolbox: Instead of keeping all the tools lying around the house and/or garage, why not collectively keep them in the toolbox to make your life easier. Buy a soft canvas bag which has a lot of pockets for all types of frustration-free work. (Price – US$ 30)

Hammer: Look for a model that has a steel-shaft with vibration-dampening rubber grip. You want to keep an eye for a straight or “rip” claw, rather than a curved claw (demolition work). (Price – US$ 15)

Screwdrivers: A mixed set of magnetic heads screwdrivers is a smart purchase. Try to avoid cordless electric screwdrivers and instead, look for one with corded electric drill as it will provide more torque and won’t need to be recharged. (Price – US$ 20)

Crowbar or Pry Bar: Buy a 12″ or 15″ crowbar which is in hexagon steel. It is superior to other pry bars which are made of spring steel. The spring ones tend to bounce when you hit it with a hammer; not a good thing. (Price – US$ 15)

Needle-nose Pliers: For all kinds of electrical work around the house, office, or apartment, you will need the needle-nose pliers. This tool is long, tapered, and has forged heads which works perfectly in tight spaces. Purchase a pair which has a wire-cutting blade included near the hinge. (Price – US$ 8)

Locking Pliers or Vise-Grips: To use this tool, all you have to do is adjust the screwdriver in its handle, and clamp it over anything which requires a vise-like bracing. After the job is over, the lever on the handle will release the jaws. (Price – US$10)

Electrical Tester: This tool may intimidate you, but it really is simple to use. Purchase an inexpensive electrical tester which has 2 probes and a light that indicates an electric current when present. Always test it in a working outlet before you use it (every time) to check, if it’s still working. (Price – US$ 2)

Wire Cutter/Stripper: To speed up any electrical work, you need this plier-like tool called the wire cutter. It scores and strips off the casing on different gauges of wires. Instead of wasting your time with diagonal pliers, use a wire cutter and see the difference. (Price – US$ 10)

Tape Measure: A 16-foot good quality, easy to lock, ¾” wide model is just right for any space. Steer clear of the ½” or 1″ tape measures as they don’t work everywhere. (Price – US$ 4)

Utility Knife: Purchase a utility knife which has replaceable blades included in the kit. It is really handy and saves you money on buying a new one every time. (Price – US$ 4)

Reversible Drill: More specifically, a 3/8th reversible drill with bit set is a must have. Instead of reaching for a cordless variety, purchase a corded model as it is light, cheaper, and never runs out of juice. (Price – US$ 40)

Steel Chisel: Not the plastic or the wooden chisel, but a ½” steel chisel is what you need for any kind of work around the house. Even though it is one of the older tools, it definitely comes in handy. (Price – US$ 10)

9-inch Torpedo Level: When you wish to level a picture frame or kitchen cabinet, this palm-sized level is what you should be reaching for. It has a bubble which floats to the center for leveling everything around the house. Avoid purchasing a laser level available in the market. (Price – US$ 9)

Hand Saw: A 12″ hand saw is light, and cuts straight and faster than any other traditional hand saws available in the market. If you have a circular saw, you might want to consider buying a hand saw instead. (Price – US$ 15)

Safety Glasses: No substitutions whatsoever for an effective eye protection glasses. (Price – US$ 6)



These were some of the must-have tools to get you started on any projects around the house. If you want to begin a more specialized project, something like hardwood floors or linoleum, you will require more defined tools then. Visit your local hardware store and ask for any particular additions to your collection.

Home Improvement Tools