The DIY Tools You Can’t Be Without

As we grow up, unless we are really into DIY or making many things ourselves, we might only collect a few screwdrivers, a hammer and some nails. 

That limited supply can do much of what is needed around the home most of the time. But the older we get, and the older our homes and cars get, the more likely it is that we will need more DIY tools in our supply – or at least know where to get them. 

Note: Some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I receive a commission if you make a purchase. Affiliate relationships include, but are not limited to Amazon Associates, Walmart.com, and Etsy.

Photo by Cesar Carlevarino Aragon on Unsplash

Wrecking Bar

Assuming you have the basics like a claw hammer, some nails, and a screwdriver – a wrecking bar can be handy. The wrecking bar can put a lot more power in your pull. They are usually equipped with multiple nail pullers and a curved end for pulling the trim off or slabs up. 

 

Hex Keys

More commonly known as Allen Keys or an Allen Wrench, hex keys are a must-have. Some furniture companies provide a small selection of the keys with the furniture, but they can be used on kids toys, furniture, and more. 

 

Get a kit that has multiple sizes, and you’ll never worry about losing the one that came with the coffee table again. 

 

Tape and Glue

Tape and glue are the saviors of most DIY projects. And, in a pinch, while waiting for parts to arrive from Mark's Plumbing Parts – watertight tape can come in handy. As a rule, you should have a stash of duct tape, electrical tape, double-sided tape and a few rolls of brown tape. They will always come in useful and can help provide a short stop-gap before the tools or item you need arrives. 

 

Glue is another must-have item. No nails, Gorilla Glue, super glue, a mouldable glue called sugru and others can help you tackle a myriad of jobs around the home. These can help you fix items so there is no need to buy a new one.

 

 

 

Locking pliers

From time to time, you are going to come across a nut that feels like it is welded in place – you just need a really tight grip on something. Locking pliers that have a wire cutter included can make a huge difference to how easy the job at hand will be. 

 

Pliers, in general, are a good idea, so while you are investing in pliers, get some long-nose pliers and some groove lock pliers. These three tools alone can tackle many of the most important jobs at home. 

 

Drain snake

While a plunger is often enough to do the trick, there are times when the toilet or your outside drains are wedged and it needs some finesse. The drain snake is also called a hand auger. Opt for one with 25 feet of snake and drill-compatible to make the job faster. 

 

Light

Having a few torches around the home can be a lifesaver in the face of adverse weather or any electrical issues that impact your home's lighting. 

 

They can also be useful if you just have some dark corners that need some light for DIY or cleaning. 

 

Once you’ve done your DIY – you must clean up the mess correctly. This post can help: How to properly dispose of waste from your DIY home projects. 

 

This is a contributed post.

 

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