Ten must-have hardware items for every home

All homes, no matter how new, need small repairs from time to time. For new homeowners and beginning DIYers, it’s hard to know what tools are needed to get the job done. The hardware store is so full of great options that navigating the aisles can be overwhelming. The following are the ten essential tools that every homeowner needs to be prepared for everyday repairs.

1 hammer

A smooth-faced hammer with a comfortable grip is ideal for a variety of uses, including hanging pictures and assembling furniture. A curved claw is useful for removing bent nails, while a straight claw is good for occasional demolitions.

2. Screwdriver set

Lamps, cabinets, switch plates, doorknobs: houses are full of items that require screws. A mixed set of screwdrivers with a variety of Philips and flat head sizes is an excellent investment and will be used over and over again. The magnetic heads are a useful feature, as are the comfortable non-slip rubber grips.

3. Duct tape

The be all and end all home repair tools, duct tape is a quick and easy fix for rips, tears, holes, and leaks. Super sticky and thick, duct tape is great for patching, and the hardware store now offers a variety of colors and patterns. It’s also a great temporary fix for plumbing problems. Stop leaks long enough for professional help to arrive.

4. Tape measure

Available in a variety of sizes, the 16′ will get you through most household projects. A 3/4-inch-wide easy-lock design is sturdy enough to stay in place without being too bulky. Look for one with a good hook on the end for easy gripping.

5. Set of tweezers

Tough enough to pinch and bend metal, yet flexible enough to hold tiny objects firmly, pliers are necessary for a firm grip on just about anything. Look for a set that includes long-nose, tongue-and-groove, and side-cutters.

6. Long and short adjustable wrenches

Necessary for handling hex nuts and bolts, both a long and short adjustable wrench will help you do many repairs around the home. For sticky nuts, use the longer handle wrench for more leverage. When space is at a premium, the shortest handle wrench is required. The adjustable feature ensures they will fit around all size studs.

7. Utility knife

This extremely versatile tool has a multitude of uses including opening boxes, cutting carpet, scraping paint, and shaving wood. Invest in a high-quality model with a comfortable rubber grip. Blade storage is also a convenient feature and increases safety by making blade changes quick and easy.

8. Level

A must for keeping things neat and level, the hardware store has a wide range when it comes to levels. There are high-tech laser levels out there, but for most home projects, a good old-fashioned spirit level is accurate, easy to use, and gets the job done.

9. Cordless Drill and Drill Set

Electric drills make many household projects faster and easier. The wireless options are very convenient and ensure that there will be no searching for wall outlets. A bit set with a variety of metal, wood and universal options ensures you have the right bit for every need.

10. Stepladder

For those with vertical issues, a stepladder is an invaluable tool. Changing light bulbs, putting up shades, changing batteries in smoke detectors – stepladders make all height-based tasks easier and safer.

All of these options (and many more) are available at your local hardware store. With these ten tools on hand, basic projects and repairs will be a doddle!