The Right Tool for the Job

Whether you are just planning to be the
basic at home handyman or you are
planning home renovation projects, there
are some basic tools you need. Your tool
box or tool drawer should contain a hammer,
pliers, screwdrivers, a utility knife, an
adjustable wrench, hand saw, sandpaper,
electricians tape, duct tape, package of
fasteners, a flashlight and of course the
plunger. If you are only doing the minimum
fix-up jobs, you can purchase these at a
discount store. However it is well worth your
time and dollars to buy good quality tools. I
do not mean that you need to buy top
professional grade tools, just that you get
handyman grade at the local tool store or
building supply store.

For the hammer I suggest a 16 oz claw
hammer. Pick one that feels comfortable in
your hand (good balance). You may want
three different kinds of pliers, a set of
adjustable, a set of needle nose and a set of
plumbers (pump) pliers. With the
screwdrivers, you can choose between a
variety set and an all in one multi-driver
whichever you prefer. Each has its own
advantages. A 10-inch adjustable wrench
will probably handle most jobs you will wish
to tackle. A 15-inch combination handsaw
will be best for most homeowners. There are
variety packages of fasteners (nails and
screws) and are the handiest way to have
the right size when you need it. I suggest that
you have a flashlight that can be set down
and aimed at the job site. These will do for
fix-it-up jobs.

For renovation projects you will need to add
some power tools to the list. As with all
tools, it is best to figure out what level of
work you are going to expect the tools to
perform before purchasing them. Cordless
tools are very attractive and they will do
most of the handyman level jobs. It is only
wise to make sure that you buy same brand
and voltage tools. If your drill and reciprocal
saw have the same size and shape
batteries then you can use either of them
where you need it now and not have to wait
for the battery to charge. If you are doing
larger projects, like a basement renovation,
you will need a corded circular saw because
a cordless saw will not handle that workload.
If you will only need one of the heavy-duty
tools once in a long while consider renting it.