Let’s face it, repairs are expensive.
Whether it’s plumbing, electrical, flooring, or furniture, hiring contractors can get pricey. Which begs the question, to DIY or not to DIY?
It’s no question that getting your hands dirty and tackling the project yourself will save you a bundle, but before you find yourself knee-deep in a new DIY project, you might want to make sure you’ve got all of the basic tools you need first.
Keep reading for our list of DIY essentials that everyone needs to keep on hand.
1. Screwdriver Set
You might be thinking, ”but I have a screwdriver. Why do I need a whole set?”
Screws come in all different shapes and sizes, and that means that you’ll need all different shapes and sizes of screwdrivers.
Think about this: you wouldn’t use the same size screwdriver for building a cabinet drawer and repairing a pair of glasses.
Invest in a nice set of multi-sized screwdrivers.
2. Assortment of Glues
No DIY kit is complete without several different types of glues.
The best DIYers know that all glues are not created equal. There are special glues that are recommended for certain materials, like wood, metal, fabrics, etc. Using the wrong glue can quickly lead to a failed project and a big mess.
We’re not suggesting that you go out and buy 10 different types of glues you don’t need right now, just that you should be mindful when choosing the glue for your project, and always keep any leftovers in your DIY kit.
3. Power tools
Certain projects will require special power tools.
If you’re working with screws, you might want to invest in a power drill. Using a power drill to drill a hole into a board before using a screw will keep your wood from splitting.
If you work with a lot of wood, it would be a good idea to invest in a miter saw. There are several different brands, so be sure to check out some miter saw reviews before purchasing.
4. Small Flashlight
You never know when you’re going to find yourself in a situation where lighting is limited. Projects in small spaces such as cabinets, closets, underneath sinks, etc. can restrict light and make it more difficult to work.
Keep a flashlight in your DIY kit at all times so it’s handy when you need it.
5. And Finally, a Tool Box to Hold Everything
And of course, no DIY kit is complete without the bag to hold it all.
You can use anything from an old shoebox to a fancy toolbox. As long as your items are secure and you can easily get to them, you’ll be good to go.
These Basic Tools Will Carry You a Long Way
Whether you’re doing it for the financial benefit or the pure thrill of completing a DIY project, there’s one thing everyone can agree on: you don’t want to be halfway through a project, only to find out you’re missing several tools to finish it.
Not only can this end up costing you more money than if you had just called the repairman, but it can be extremely frustrating to have to stop what you’re doing and run to the department store.
Our suggestion is to slowly collect as many basic tools as you can over time.
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