Helpful Tips

Blog by Marty Bautista

Greenbrae, California

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Tools to Get You Started

Posted at Helpful Tips by Marty Bautista

Oct. 13, 2008

Tagged with: home maintainence, home tool set, tools

Whether you’re a renter or homeowner, a basic set of tools is an absolute necessity. Even if you are not terribly handy around the house, hanging pictures, tightening fixtures and dozens of other household chores require some standard hardware. If you keep these items around, you’ll save yourself needless trips to the hardware store.

The first step to stress-free home repair is knowing where all your tools are, so invest in a good toolbox. If you plan on expanding your collection in the future, think ahead and buy a large one. My recommendation is to purchase a Keter #17330605 Master Cart Mobile Toolbox. It can be found at OSH or online at Amazon.com.

To fill it, most experts agree on the best selection of tools to make up your starter kit. A 12- to 16-ounce claw hammer is essential for many projects. Don’t forget an assortment of nails and screws, which you can buy in prepackaged kits. You will need at least two screwdrivers, a Philips-head and a standard screwdriver but I recommend a set of five or more. Don’t try to pinch pennies here — cheap screwdrivers break easily. Having previously been in the automotive industry, my favorites are Snap-On Tools. Klein and Craftsman also make a good product.

You should also consider purchasing different types of pliers. The most versatile are needle-nose pliers, but also consider purchasing heavily-grooved pliers for removing nails, channel lock pliers, crescent wrenches and wire-cutters. Vise-grip pliers are a key tool when you need a slip-free hold.

The most used and versatile tool in my collection is my 18-Volt Makita Cordless Drill/Driver and a good collection of drills and driver accessories. Most good hardware stores will have this popular power tool available if not you can find it on-line at Amazon.com.

Round out your collection with a tape measure, flash light, safety glasses, cut resistant work gloves, hack saw, ground fault indicator receptacle tester and box cutter or utility knife. With these items in tow, you’ll be ready to give Bob Vila a run for his money — or at least hang that framed family photo that’s been sitting in the closet. It will also help your friends and family who visit to be able to help with some of those “little” projects in a timely manner.

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