15 Essential Tools for Every DIY Enthusiast

When it comes to home improvement, many people are at a loss.

They don’t know where to start and when they do find something that interests them, it can be tough for them to know what tools they need in order to get the job done correctly.

As a result, we created this list of essential tools you will need if you want to take on a project around your house. This way you can make sure you have everything before starting up any new projects!

1) Tape measure

You may not think this is an essential tool but trust us-you’ll thank us later when your measurements turn out perfect! You should also invest in a tape measure that has plenty of inches marked off so that it doesn’t get too hard to use.

2) Hammer

You can do pretty much anything with a hammer, from hanging pictures to putting together furniture.  Make sure you get one that is comfortable in your hand and easy to grip.

3) Drill bits

If you are planning on doing any drilling, make sure you have some drill bits so that the job gets done quickly and correctly! But remember-the bigger the bit, the bigger material it can bore through so keep this in mind while making your selection. Be sure to avoid purchasing drill bits made of poor quality steel because they don’t last long and will end up costing you more money in the long run anyway. We recommend using HSS drill bits for this.

4) Utility knife

A utility knife may not look like a multi-tool but it does have quite a few uses! You can use it to cut through paper, cardboard, or plastic-whatever the job demands!

5) Screwdrivers

These are essential for anyone who wants to get anything done around their house, whether you’re just screwing in some screws or doing some light drilling. We recommend using slotted or Phillips head screwdrivers since they are more appropriate for most jobs.

6) Pliers/tweezers

Pliers have so many handy uses that it would be silly not to own at least one pair! Use them to bend wires back into place, grip something while you’re working on it, or even pick up paper clips. Tweezers are also handy when you’re trying to work with small objects like nails or screws.

7) Levels

If you want your shelves and pictures to look straight, then you need these! Just remember that the closer the level is to vertical, the better job it does so be sure not to hold it too far above an object in order for them to be able to do their job well.

8) Diagonal cutting pliers/cutters

These aren’t strictly necessary but they can come in real handy when you want something cut perfectly!  But once again-be careful using these since they can damage materials if misused. Do some research and find out how to use them properly in order to get the most out of them.

9) Drill bits

Along with screwdrivers, drill bits are possibly one of the hardest tools for people who are just starting out.  This is why you should invest in high-quality drill bits since they will last longer, won’t strip screws, and provide a better finish! We recommend using HSS drill bits for this task.

10) Allen wrenches

An Allen wrench set has so many uses that it almost seems silly not to have them around-especially when you need something done quickly but don’t want to go hunting for all your individual tools. Use these whenever you are making furniture or putting together appliances since they are used for just about everything.

11) Sandpaper

Sanding makes everything go faster and it gives you a smooth surface too! You should have various grades of sandpaper in your toolbox including #100, #120, #150, #180, #220, and #320.  But remember to avoid using any type of steel wool on wooden surfaces since it can damage them after time.

12) Nails/staples/glue

Wooden and metal projects alike will benefit from these materials that give whatever you’re working on stability and structure. Just be sure that whatever project you choose doesn’t require drywall because the glue on top of this material won’t hold it in place.

13) Paintbrushes and rollers

These will be your best friends when you want to paint or wallpaper a room, but they can also be used for other things like spreading glue. Use high-quality brushes and rollers since these will give you better results than those made from poor-quality materials.

14) Hacksaws

When you have to cut something that won’t fit in a saws-all or would be otherwise difficult, using a hacksaw is your best option. These are also useful for cutting through plastics and other materials since they don’t cause any damage.  If you do decide on getting one of these though, make sure to practice with it before working on an actual project.

15) Putty Knives

These tools will come in handy when you need to fill any cracks or holes and can also be used as scrapers. Just remember that putty knives with wider blades are more useful for this purpose than those with smaller ones since the former gives you better coverage.

Conclusion

If you have these 15 tools then your toolbox is already loaded and ready to go whenever something needs fixing around the house.

Since they are essential items, it is best to either get them all at once or prioritize which ones you need the most. Be sure to do some research on these tools before purchasing so that you won’t waste your money on something useless.