The Well-Stocked Toolbox

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

23 Jun 2008 11:25 AM

If you perform your own home repair or do it yourself (DIY) projects then a well-stocked toolbox is a must. The nice thing about having a toolbox is that you can build it up as needed, depending on your level of skill and the size and types of projects you do. Whether you simply want to hang a few pictures or whether you want to rewire some cable, having the right tools always makes the job easier.

Here is a guide to the basic tools you should have. Make sure that you don't purchase cheap tools, or you will pay for it later with replacement costs.

The Toolbox itself should be sturdy and easy to carry. Choose a toolbox made out of plastic or metal, and make sure that it has drawers and dividers for small items as well as larger ones.

Pick a 16-ounce curved claw hammer for pounding in nails and removing them as needed.

A pair of pliers will come in handy for many jobs. You can hold items in place as well as pry them out. Choose a tongue-in-grove pair for the most versatility. A pair of needle-nosed pliers are great for stripping wires and doing other electrical work.

A utility knife can slice through carpet, cut boxes, trim wallpaper and cut out items that can't be reached with scissors. Look for a standard retractable utility knife (box cutter) with storage for extra blades.

A tape measure that is 25 feet long is ideal for most home improvement projects, from putting up kitchen cabinets to measuring a room to see if your furniture will fit. Any larger, and the tape measure may sag when it is pulled out more than a few feet.

A good level is a must for many projects. Although our eye may think our homes are level, the truth is that walls, ceilings, floors and doors are rarely truly level. Look for a torpedo level that can measure both level and plumb lines.

You know that you will need a screw driver for everything from changing batteries out of toys to building shelves, but where do you start? Choose a ratcheting screwdriver with multiple bits. This way you will always be prepared, whether you need a flat head or a phillips.

Want to know what additional items should go into your toolbox? Check back soon.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, technology in the Computing Blog, and creating a home in the Home Blog. Starting June 1st, don't miss her articles in the Baby Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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