A well-equipped toolbox can keep your house running smoothly.
Here's a nuts-and-bolts list of what you need:
Adjustable wrench.
One adjustable wrench can perform all the functions of
a set of socket wrenches, and takes up a lot less
space. Wrenches are handy for loosening tightly
screwed bolts and for the lid on the spaghetti sauce.
Screwdriver.
In this case, several heads are better than one. Many
screwdrivers come with an assortment of
interchangeable heads so you only need one handle.
Magnetized heads are handy when using miniscule
screws.
Level. A must
if you're hanging anything, from pictures to curtains
to shelving. Laser levels have just come onto the
market and are a lot smaller and lighter than
traditional ones.
Tape measure.
You can use a simple cloth tape you roll by hand. A
retractable steel measure with locking mechanisms and
grip is more expensive but also easier to use and
store.
Cordless drill and
bits. This tool is great for everything from
putting up shelves to more ambitious projects like
building a deck or installing hardwood flooring.
Hammer.
Hammers come in different sizes and weights and with
different faces and ends. But for most projects, the
traditional claw-end style will work. Consider also a
non-marking rubber mallet, which is good for tapping
stubborn windows open and fixing minor dents.
Pliers.
Again, there are many different types, but the most
useful are adjustable and needle-nosed pliers. These
can be used for tightening or loosening nuts and
bolts, as well as for bending wires, small pipes, etc.
Clamps. These
keep your projects from moving while you paint and are
essential when you glue something.
Safety goggles.
Geeky they may be, but you need them for most home
cleaning, repair or building jobs. They protect your
eyes from nails, screws, bolts, wood, plastic or
liquids.
Toolbox. Your
toolbox can be a simple plastic bucket or six-quart
basket or a heavy-duty steel chest with storage
drawers for all your tools, screws and whatnots.
Whatever you choose, make sure you return tools to it
after each picture you hang or light fixture you
tighten -- otherwise, you'll spend more time searching
for your hammer than using it.
You can probably get all of these items for less than $100, but
don't skimp on quality. If you start out with the right stuff,
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