Essential Hand Tools Every Homeowner Should Have

Set of handheld woodworking power tools for woodworking on light wooden background. Close up.

Owning a set of reliable hand tools is like having your own DIY emergency kit. Whether it’s hanging a picture frame, fixing a loose cabinet handle, or assembling furniture, the right tools can make everyday tasks quicker and easier. At Fleet Street Hardware, we know how important it is to have a well-stocked toolkit that keeps you prepared for whatever life (or your house) throws your way. Here’s a rundown of essential hand tools that every homeowner should consider adding to their collection.

1. Hammer

A hammer is probably the most iconic tool out there, and it’s a must-have in every household. From hammering nails for hanging décor to tapping furniture joints together, a hammer has endless uses.

  • Recommended Type: A 16-ounce claw hammer is ideal for home use. The claw side is useful for removing nails, while the solid head gives enough power to drive nails effectively.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: Look for a hammer with a comfortable grip to reduce strain on your hand. We offer ergonomic hammers that are durable and easy to handle for everyday tasks.

2. Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flathead)

Screwdrivers are a must for tightening loose screws, assembling furniture, and even changing batteries in toys or gadgets. It’s best to have both Phillips (cross-head) and flathead screwdrivers in your kit since different screws require different types of heads.

  • Recommended Set: A basic set with a range of sizes is ideal, or you could go for a multi-bit screwdriver that saves space.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: Our store stocks screwdriver sets with magnetic tips, making it easier to handle small screws. Magnetic tips can be a lifesaver when you’re working in tight spaces or dealing with tiny screws.

3. Adjustable Wrench

An adjustable wrench is perfect for working with nuts and bolts of different sizes. Instead of needing multiple wrenches, an adjustable one can be set to fit a wide range of fasteners, making it versatile and space-saving.

  • Recommended Size: A 6- or 8-inch adjustable wrench covers most household needs.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: We offer high-quality, rust-resistant adjustable wrenches designed to last. If you’re tackling plumbing or furniture assembly, an adjustable wrench is your go-to tool.

4. Tape Measure

Whether you’re measuring space for new furniture or figuring out the best spot to hang a mirror, a tape measure is a tool that gets used more often than you might think.

  • Recommended Length: A 25-foot tape measure is usually long enough for most home needs.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: Our tape measures come with easy-to-read markings and a locking mechanism for more precise measurements. Having a sturdy tape measure can prevent costly mistakes!

5. Pliers

Pliers are handy for gripping, twisting, or cutting wires, and they come in different types for different jobs. A basic set of combination pliers will serve most homeowners well, while needle-nose pliers are great for delicate or tight spaces.

  • Recommended Set: A set with both needle-nose and standard pliers will cover most needs.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: We offer pliers with comfort grips that reduce hand fatigue, especially useful if you’re working on multiple tasks.

6. Utility Knife

A utility knife is perfect for tasks like opening packages, trimming carpet edges, or cutting materials for crafts. It’s a small but mighty tool that makes cutting tasks safe and precise.

  • Safety Tip: Look for a utility knife with a retractable blade to keep it safe when not in use.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: Our utility knives are built with sharp, replaceable blades and come in easy-to-handle designs.

7. Level

Nothing throws off a room’s look like a crooked picture frame or shelf. A level ensures everything you hang or install is perfectly straight, adding a professional touch to your DIY work.

  • Recommended Type: A 24-inch bubble level works for most home projects, but smaller levels or laser levels are also great for precise work.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: Fleet Street Hardware has bubble and laser levels, both perfect for achieving that perfectly straight look on your wall hangings and shelves.

8. Allen Wrenches (Hex Keys)

Allen wrenches are a must for assembling flat-pack furniture and adjusting certain appliances. They often come in sets with multiple sizes, ensuring you have the right size for any job.

  • Recommended Set: An L-shaped Allen wrench set with metric and imperial sizes will cover most needs.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: We stock hex key sets in various sizes and materials. Our sets come in handy cases so you can keep your wrenches organized and ready for the next project.

9. Chisels

Chisels aren’t a must-have for everyone, but if you’re into woodworking or detailed repairs, a chisel can be incredibly helpful. It’s great for tasks like scraping paint, trimming wood, or even shaping materials for a precise fit.

  • Recommended Set: A basic set of wood chisels with various blade sizes will cover most DIY needs.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: Our chisels are crafted from durable materials to ensure they stay sharp and reliable. If you’re ready to take on woodworking or restoration, Fleet Street Hardware has quality options to get you started.

10. Hand Saw

While power saws have their place, a simple hand saw is invaluable for smaller projects where precision and control are key. Use it for cutting wood or plastic pipes without needing to plug in a power tool.

  • Recommended Type: A general-purpose crosscut saw works for most home needs.
  • Fleet Street Hardware Tip: We carry a range of hand saws for different materials, each designed for durability and ease of use.

Building Your Essential Toolkit with Fleet Street Hardware

A well-rounded toolkit doesn’t have to be overwhelming or overly expensive. With just these essential tools, you can tackle a wide range of home repairs and DIY projects, building confidence and skill with each job. At Fleet Street Hardware, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality tools that help you get the job done right, whether it’s a small repair or a weekend project. Plus, our team is here to help you choose the right tools for your needs, so you’ll always have the best option in hand.

Stop by Fleet Street Hardware or check out our online store to see our range of essential hand tools. From durable hammers to multi-bit screwdrivers, we’re here to help you build a toolkit that will serve you well for years to come.

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