Your First Tool Kit: New Homeowner
Featured pro: Eric Stromer
Category: Home Improvement
Every new homeowner needs a good set of tools, but figuring out which ones are necessary can be overwhelming. Here, Eric Stromer breaks down the best items to have on hand, including a framing hammer, a utility knife, a torpedo level and a hacksaw. For about $200, you'll have a nice set of essentials for any home.
Step 1: Basic Tools
Every home can use a framing hammer and slip joint pliers. A smaller hammer will also do if you're only hanging pictures.
Step 2: Screwdrivers
A good set of screwdrivers will go a long way. You'll need a Phillips head, slot head and stubby screwdriver for tight spaces.
Step 3: Drills, Knives and Saws
A power drill is essential -- you can put any kind of attachment on it for your various needs. A utility knife will come in extra handy, and a hacksaw is great to have to cut through metal, plastic or wood.
Step 4: More Great Tools
Grab a square for perfect right angles; a professional flashlight; and a torpedo level. A 25-foot tape measure will be rigid and extremely helpful around the house. Also pick up a Channellock wrench and a stud finder to complete your set.
Step 5: Tool Box
Of course, you'll need something in which to store your new tools, so find a nice, sturdy box that will fit everything.
Items You'll Need for this GMC Trade Secret
- Framing Hammer
- Slip Joint Pliers
- Screwdriver Set
- Power Drill
- Utility Knife
- Hacksaw
- Square
- Flashlight
- Torpedo Level
- Tape Measure
More Trade Secrets
Add a Comment
for sure to tell him/hir to wet a finger when checking alight for power1
May 06 2012 at 9:11 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down ReplyWhat about duct tape,wd-40,and a vise grip?
May 06 2012 at 7:36 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down ReplyI am hard of hearing. When you post an answer to the subject, you put on a video which I cannot hear. Maybe it's my speakers, but I would rather read the answer.
May 06 2012 at 11:52 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down ReplyImportant fact about simple tools is learn to use the proper tool for the job and buy quality tools is you can. Tool wise, usually you get what you pay for.
May 06 2012 at 10:20 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down ReplyNever, never let a woman use your tools (no pun intended). I don't have any real organization plan for my stuff. But I mostly know where my drill bits are, for instance. My wife and her sister always get into my tools for little and sometimes big projects. So, a day comes when I need my, lets say, tape measure (I have 2, once I had 3) So in my fuzzy head, I picture where to look, at least first. I go to my bench and guess what, oh my, no tapes in the drawer. I should have known, and was afraid that would happen. Next I try to remember the last time I used a tape, 'cause hey, I do misplace things. Heck, you guys know what I am saying here so I shouldn't have to go any further. Just don't let any women use your stuff. Period.
May 06 2012 at 8:43 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down ReplyThat's funny...I have the same problem. But I'm a woman and it's the men in my family not just misplacing but actually losing or not returning my tools. So I say don't let anyone use your tools. Let them get their own. :o)
May 06 2012 at 10:04 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down ReplyNever let your husband use your drill. It's never there when you go to use it.
May 06 2012 at 12:12 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down ReplyFraming hammer for a homeowner? You have to be nuts,there would be waffle marks on any interior woodwork from them trying to set the nail with the hammer. How about a nail set. better yet keep the home owner away from any finnish work.
December 03 2011 at 1:41 PM Report abuse Permalink +1 rate up rate down ReplyI once hosted a Groom's Tool Shower for a buddy of mine who was getting married. It was a huge success. Why should the ladies get all the gifts? A surprising number of young men do not have a good tool chest or kit and this was a great way to start off the future household with a solid set of tools you need for everyday repairs, maintenance and picture hanging. Eric's video gave a pretty good list, but I'd definitely include needle-nose pliers, a set of various picture-hanging hooks, a drywall saw, a couple putty knives, a file or two, a decent socket wrench set, Allen wrenches, wire-strippers, and a paint can opener.
November 11 2011 at 3:29 PM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down ReplyAlso wire cutters and a set of hex keys. And some sand paper and plunger...lol
May 06 2012 at 10:08 AM Report abuse Permalink rate up rate down ReplyGet our latest tips in your inbox
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