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15 Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

The following items are essential tools but this list is by no means exhaustive.

1. Plunger
A clogged sink or toilet is one of the most disturbing
problems that you will face. With a plunger on hand,
however, you can usually remedy these troubling plumbing
issues relatively quickly. It is best to have two plungers --
one for the sink and one for the toilet.


2. Combination Wrench Set
One end of a combination wrench set is open and the other
end is a closed loop. Nuts and bolts are manufactured in
standard and metric sizes and because both varieties are
widely used, so you'll need both sets of wrenches. For the most control and leverage,
always pull the wrench toward you, instead of pushing on it. Also, avoid over-tightening.

3. Slip-Joint Pliers
Use slip-joint pliers to grab hold of a nail, a nut, a bolt, and
much more. These types of pliers are versatile because of
the jaws, which feature both flat and curved areas for
gripping many types of objects. There is also a built-in slipjoint,
which allows the user to quickly adjust the jaw size to
suit most tasks.

4. Adjustable Wrench
Adjustable wrenches are somewhat awkward to use and
can damage a bolt or nut if they are not handled properly. However, adjustable
wrenches are ideal for situations where you need two wrenches of the same size.
Screw the jaws all the way closed to avoid damaging the bolt or nut.

5. Caulking Gun
Caulking is the process of sealing up cracks and
gaps in various structures and certain types of
piping. Caulking can provide noise mitigation
and thermal insulation, and control water
penetration. Caulk should be applied only to areas

6. Flashlight
None of the tools in this list is of any use if you
cannot visually inspect the situation. The problem,
and solution, are apparent only with a good
flashlight. A traditional two-battery flashlight is usually sufficient, as larger flashlights
may be too unwieldy.

7. Tape Measure
Measuring house projects requires a tape measure, not a ruler or a yardstick. Tape
measures come in many lengths, although 25 feet is best. Measure everything at least
twice to ensure accuracy.

8. Hacksaw
These are great for cutting metal objects such as pipes, bolts and brackets. Hacksaws
look thin and flimsy, but they'll easily cut through even the
hardest of metals. Blades are replaceable, so focus
your purchase on a quality hacksaw frame.

9. Torpedo Level
Only a level can be used to determine if something, such as
a shelf, appliance or picture, is correctly oriented. The
torpedo-style level is unique because it not only shows when
an object is perfectly horizontal or vertical, but it also has a
gauge that shows when an object is at a 45-degree angle.
The bubble in viewfinder must be exactly in the middle, not
merely close.

10. Safety Glasses / Goggles
For all tasks involving a hammer or a power tool, you should
always wear safety glasses or goggles. They should also be
worn while you mix chemicals.

11. Claw Hammer
A good hammer is one of the most important tools you can own. Use it to drive and
remove nails, to pry wood loose from the house, and in combination with other tools.
They come in a variety of sizes, although a 16-ounce hammer is the best all-purpose
choice.

12. Screwdriver Set
It is best to have four screwdrivers: a small and large version of both a flat-head and a
Phillips- head screwdriver. Electrical screwdrivers are sometimes convenient, but
they're no substitute. Manual screwdrivers can reach into more places and they are
less likely to damage the screw.

13. Wire Cutters
Wire cutters are pliers designed to cut wires and small nails. The "side-cutting" (unlike
the stronger "end-cutting" style) style is handy, but not strong enough to cut small nails.

14. Respirator / Safety Mask
While paints and other coatings have become less toxic (and lead-free) over time, most
still contain dangerous chemicals, which is why you should wear a mask to avoid
accidentally getting them in your lungs. A mask should also be worn when working in
dusty or dirty environments. Disposable masks usually come in packs of 10 and should
be thrown away after use. Full and half-face respirators can be used to prevent the
inhalation of very fine particles that ordinary facemasks will not not stop.

10. Duct Tape This tape is extremely strong and adaptable. Originally, it was widely used to make
temporary repairs to many types of military equipment. Today, it's one of the key items
specified for home emergency kits because it is water-resistant and extremely sticky.
In summary, the above is a list of tools that every homeowner should have

 

9 commentsFred Hernden • July 26 2010 09:22AM

Comments

Fred`

 

Right on~!! I'm onmy way to get #9.

Posted by Asheville NC Properties of Enduring Excellence almost 2 years ago

Definitely not trying to hijack your post, what about WD-40? My rule is with Hammer, Duct tape, Crescent Wrench, WD-40, and Plunger, you are well on your way to fixing alot of things that can go wrong.

Posted by Scott Baker Realtor Homes for Sale in Cincinnati, West Chester, Mason, OH area (www.eHomeReports.com Coldwell Banker West Shell) almost 2 years ago

You need a cordless drill as well I believe.

Posted by Joe Harvey (Appsbar) almost 2 years ago

Fred, as to Number 1. Recently I threw away our plunger. I had to use it all the time, after my use. No one else had that problem.

So I went out and bought the strongest flush toilet I could find. They said it would flush tennis balls. Well I didn't try tennis balls, but I can tell you, there was never a problem with anything else. After two months testing, I threw away the plunger.

You have a great list, and I'm going to reblog for my Gilbert AZ market area.

 

Posted by Bill Travis, Broker/Owner (Captain Bill Realty, LLC) almost 2 years ago

A cordless drill is a nice luxury for sure, maybe should be added to the list. I use mine almost every day. Great idea!

Posted by Fred Hernden (Superior Home Inspections - Greater Tampa Bay Area) almost 2 years ago

Fred, great list and I will reblog for my clients, friends and family!  Thanks!  ~ Susan

Posted by Palm Properties l La Jolla Real Estate almost 2 years ago

See Bill... it's a good thing you had that plunger! Flushing tennis balls might be a little risky...lol

Glad you solved your problem. There are a lot of nice new products out there, but I'm sure it will be a while before we put the plunger makers out of business. It works well in tubs and sinks too, handy to keep around the house. The little woman can use it as a weapon as well... ouch!

Posted by Fred Hernden (Superior Home Inspections - Greater Tampa Bay Area) almost 2 years ago

Good stuff, Fred.

Don't forget Super Glue!

Posted by Brian Bean, Dream Big Real Estate & IE Short Sale Pros, SoCal, 951-778-9700 (Dream Big Real Estate) almost 2 years ago

You also have to be able to find them (not in my garage).  Have a good organization system for your tools or they'll never be ready when you need them.

Posted by Sam DeBord - Seattle Real Estate Broker (SeattleHome.com -Coldwell Banker Danforth) almost 2 years ago

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