When you become a homeowner for the first time, one of the initial things you realize is that every house requires handiwork—even if you buy a turn-key home. From hanging pictures on the walls as you personalize your space to fixing leaky sinks and tightening loose door handles, your household projects will require several must-have tools.
This guide from Compass Self Storage highlights some of the best tools for homeowners so you can enjoy less guesswork and more confidence as you handle life’s unexpected repairs or upgrades.
Measuring Tape
Whether your home improvement skills rival those of Chip and Joanna Gaines of the show “Fixer Upper” or your handiwork confidence ends at hammering a nail, you should always have a measuring tape on hand.
From determining if a new couch will fit through the doorway to spacing artwork evenly across a wall, a measuring tape is your go-to for precision. You’ll also need it when mounting TVs, planning storage solutions, and making sure everything from rugs to shelves aligns just right.
Level
When you’re mounting curtain rods, installing floating shelves, or hanging framed photos, a level keeps you from finding out the hard way that things are crooked. Without one, even the most carefully measured placements can end up looking off. It’s a simple addition to your basic toolkit that makes a noticeable difference in how polished your space feels.
Pliers
Pliers come in handy more often than you’d expect. From gripping stripped screws to tightening plumbing fixtures and snipping wires, they can handle a variety of household tasks. Needle-nose pliers are especially helpful for reaching into tight spaces, while slip-joint pliers offer extra grip and torque for plumbing jobs and general maintenance.
Wrenches
Adjustable wrenches are a go-to for assembling furniture, tightening bolts under the sink, or fixing a squeaky bike. They’re perfect for plumbing repairs and assembling bed frames or other pieces with nuts and bolts. As long as you’ve got a standard adjustable wrench and an Allen wrench set, you’ll be surprised at how many home fixes you can accomplish.
Hammers
A classic claw hammer is one of the first tools any homeowner should own. It’s useful for everything from hanging wall decor to pulling out old nails and tapping wood into place during minor repairs. While it might seem like a basic tool, it gets regular use, especially as you tackle your laundry list of things to do after buying a house.
Screwdrivers
A set of screwdrivers—both flathead and Phillips—is one of the best tools for homeowners. They’re necessary for assembling furniture, opening battery compartments, removing cabinet doors, or tightening drawer handles. Look for a multi-bit screwdriver for more versatility, or invest in a full set to cover all the bases as you tackle various projects.
How Self Storage Can Keep Your Tools Organized
As you gather tools and dive into home projects, you’ll quickly notice how fast things can pile up. A self storage unit offers a convenient way to keep your tools, seasonal gear, and spare materials organized and out of the way when you’re not using them. It’s especially useful during renovations or in homes with limited closet or garage space.
With your items neatly stored off-site, you can make more room to enjoy your space—and still grab what you need whenever it’s time for your next DIY win. Find a Compass Self Storage near you and add an affordable, convenient storage unit to your homeowner toolkit today!
