Putting Together a Basic Household Tool Kit

Toolboxes have been around almost as long as tools. Ever since stick and stones were used for hunting, a clay jar or a cloth bag was used to carry them. The first ever toolboxes were not nearly as sophisticated as their plastic counterparts we have today but they served the same reason and did so very well. But you know what's as important as a toolbox and if not more important? A set of tools. Hand or battery powered, a good selection of them has helped builders throughout the years and it can help with your household issues too. 

Essential Tools

First, we'll start with the essentials, the tools that every homeowner should have no matter how good you are at handling issues on your own. Tool kits Australia wide will include a good number of these tools if not all of them, depending on the application.

Screwdriver Set

While two screwdrivers will always need to be present in your toolbox, a set of screwdrivers in various sizes will provide you with more flexibility. This will allow you to repair audio and computer related equipment too. Start with one flat head and one Phillips screwdriver and build it up from there depending on what your needs are most of the time. Screwdrivers with magnetic strips and rubber handles are what you should look for.

Pliers

There are all kinds of pliers such as adjustable, vise grips and lever wrench pliers but what you'll need to look for at first are bolt, needle-nose and wire cutters. Needle -nose pliers are used to remove staples and nails from the wall or floor. Both bolt and wire cutters are used for home improvement projects and outdoor applications like fences or hanging decorations.

Tape Measure

This one is self-explanatory and you'll want to get measure tape that is ideally 2 cm wide and 4.8 metres long. This is so you can easily hold it with your foot or hand and have enough tape to measure the majority of jobs.

Utility Knife

Whether you're sharpening something or opening boxes a utility knife is a must. Look for a knife that has built-in blade storage and rubber handles for extra comfort.

Hacksaw

Cutting through wood or metal is best done with a hacksaw and you should look for one that allows you to easily replace new blades.

Adjustable Wrench

An adjustable wrench gives you the benefit of having multiple different wrenches in one. Look for a crescent wrench which will allow you to loosen plumbing components and tighten up regular nuts and bolts. You shouldn't leave the tool store without one.

Claw Hammer

A claw hammer is recommended not only because it's a must have but also because it gives you more to work with. On one end you have a flat solid surface to drive in nails whilst the other end has a slightly bent side to it used to remove nails.

Electric Drill

They maybe don't seem as needed at first but electric drills are very handy and you will be in the need of one sooner or later. You even have the option to go cordless which makes things more convenient especially for household repairs.

Flashlight

Light will be crucial if you are going to be working in tight dark spaces. A compact flashlight will take care of that especially when nailing and screwing in dark places.

Tools for a More Advanced Toolbox

Chisel

A set of sharp chisels will allow you to carve out certain parts when it comes to wood or a wall. While you have different types of chisels to choose from their design is basically the same even with some being made for special purposes.

Stud Finder

This handy tool is an important part of tool kits Australia wide that offer more than just the basics. A stud finder helps you find the studs in the wall so you can attach cabinets, shelves and what not without encountering surprises.

Allen Wrench

What are also know as Allen or hex keys, are tools for sale Australia wide that are used to drive in bolts ans screws with hexagonal sockets. These keys (wrenches) are used for bike repairs too and come in both imperial and metric measurements.

Ratcheting Screwdriver

With a ratcheting screwdriver you are able to lock it in place when turning clockwise and then loosen it when you turn it counter clockwise. This helps make things easy especially on your wrist and you can find ratcheting screwdrivers with various head sizes and ones bent at a 90° angle. 

Combination Square

A combination square allows you to make precise cuts at an angle as they allow you to mark and measure the squareness of corners.

Pipe Wrench

This tool is used for turning plumbing pipes and similar fittings but you can use it on small jobs like putting up a faucet. If you are encountering bigger issues it's best to call in a professional.

Crosscut Saw

The tool used for cutting 2x4s and across wood grain is the crosscut saw. This is what most people think of when they think of a typical saw shape. There are different types of crosscut saws but getting the standard one will do the job just fine.

Putty Knife

Although a putty knife is used to spread putty it can also be used to pry up nails, scrape off glue residue and old paint, remove wallpaper and clean paint smudges too.

Socket Wrench

A socket wrench is used to tighten or loosen multitude of nuts and bolts when working on large projects. You should go for a socket wrench with a ratcheting handle best in order to get the best experience.

Tools For a Skilled DIYer

Staple Gun

On top of all the above-mentioned tools a staple gun is a great addition for enthusiastic DIYers. With a heavy-duty staple gun you can do everything from upholstery to roofing and you also have the option to go manual or electric.

Crowbar

While a crowbar won't be used with everyday household issues it will make prying apart boards or removing stubborn nails a breeze.

Impact Driver

If you want to be able to fasten a lot of bolts and punch a lot of holes fast then an impact driver is what you'll want to get.

Automatic Nailer

When you want to drive in a lot of nails just get yourself a nail gun. You can use this tool with a brad nailer if you want to get more versatility – the latter is used with thinner and more delicate trims.

Rubber Mallet

If you want to do a good job when installing ceramic tiles or laminate floors you'll need a rubber mallet. This tool allows you to tap without causing