10 Tools Every Homeowner Needs

Whether you’re assembling furniture, tackling a semi-complex DIY project, or just getting your first place in order, having the right tools makes the difference between a 20-minute job and a whole afternoon of frustration.

You don’t need every obscure wrench variety. You just need a solid foundation. Here’s what to add to your cart.

1. Screwdrivers

No toolbox is complete without them. Skip the Torx and Pentalobe varieties for now. For general home repairs, these three cover most situations (ideally in a range of sizes, or as a set):

• Flathead: The most common type, with a flat tip that slots into a flathead screw.
• Phillips: Cross-shaped tip, great for carpentry and home repairs.
• Hex: Hexagonal tip, standard for furniture assembly, appliances, and bikes.

2. Pliers

You don’t need every variety. Just a solid few that cover the most common situations:

• Locking pliers (vise-grips or mole grips): Lock onto an object and hold firm even after you let go. Useful for stubborn bolts and tight jobs.
• Slip-joint pliers: Adjustable jaws for gripping bolts, nuts, screws, and pipes. A plumbing staple.
• Needle-nose pliers: Great for small objects and tight spaces; popular in electronics and jewelry work.
• Long-nose pliers: Similar to needle-nose but with a narrower, pointed jaw. Also known as Pinocchio pliers (that one’s on us).

3. Tape measure

Not all tape measures are equal. When you’re shopping, keep an eye on:

• Material: Strong metals or reinforced blades hold up better over time.
• Length: 25 feet covers most home projects; go 50–100 feet for bigger jobs.
• Readability: Large, clear markings and a bright blade color matter more than you’d think in low-light situations.
• Retraction: A smooth mechanism means no tangles, and no tape thwapping you in the face like a slap bracelet.
• Extras: Some models include a built-in level or backlit display, which can be genuinely useful.

4. Utility knife 

A utility knife, also known as a box cutter, is a handheld cutting tool that typically has a retractable blade, and it is designed to slice through everything from cardboard to drywall and insulation. It can also be used to open boxes, cut carpet and linoleum, and to strip wires. 

A good utility knife should have a comfortable grip, a blade that locks securely in place, and a blade that can be easily replaced when it becomes dull. There are different types of blades available, such as snap-off blades, which allow you to easily change the blade when it becomes dull, and fixed blade, which is more durable and can be sharpened.

5. Stud finder

A stud finder locates the framing studs hidden behind your walls, floors, and ceilings. That’s essential before hanging anything heavy like shelves, mirrors, or artwork. Studs are typically spaced 16 or 24 inches apart and give you a solid anchor point. Many models also detect electrical wiring and plumbing, which comes in handy during renovations.

Three types to know:

• Magnetic: Basic and inexpensive. Detects the nails in studs.
• Electronic: Battery-powered with a display, more accurate, and priced to match.
• Ultrasonic: Uses sound-wave technology. The most accurate option, and the most expensive.

6. Cordless drill

Powered by a rechargeable battery, a cordless drill handles drilling holes, driving screws, tightening bolts, and, with the right attachments, sanding, polishing, and even mixing paint. The freedom from outlets and cords makes it ideal for DIY projects anywhere in or around your home.

When buying, check the voltage (higher means more powerful), battery capacity, and how fast it charges. A fast-charging, high-capacity battery is worth the investment.

7. Adjustable wrenches 

Also called a crescent wrench, this is your go-to for tightening or loosening bolts and nuts on appliances, furniture, bikes, and more. The jaws adjust to fit different sizes, so one wrench covers a lot of ground. Look for a smooth adjustment mechanism and a grip that doesn’t slip.

8. Hex key (aka Allen wrench)

The L-shaped, hexagonal tool is standard for driving hex-socket bolts and screws – the kind that hold together furniture, appliances, and bikes. They come in sets spanning a range of sizes, and you’ll reach for them more often than you’d expect.

Hex keys come in handy for furniture assembly, automotive repairs, and home repairs. They are commonly used to fasten or loosen bolts and screws that are used to hold things together, such as furniture, appliances, and bicycles.

9. Ladder

You’ll be trotting out your trusty ladder for all manner of tasks, from changing light bulbs to cleaning the gutters. An adjustable ladder (sometimes known as an extension or telescoping ladder) could be a great option. It can be adjusted to different lengths, giving you access to high spots like the roof or second story window. You can adjust them to various angles.

They’re generally made of aluminum, so they’re light and easy enough to carry. (That said, they can get a little unwieldy when fully extended.) Make sure the ladder you buy is rated for the weight it’ll be carrying.

10. Level

A level checks whether a surface is horizontal (“level”) or vertical (“plumb”) using a simple bubble vial. Use it before installing anything on walls or floors, when checking drainage in a lawn, or, most commonly, when hanging photos and mirrors so you’re not spending 20 minutes eyeballing it.

Other essential tools to keep in mind

Flashlights (with batteries), assorted nails and screws, a claw hammer, wire cutters, a sander, an extension cord, a socket set, a putty knife, and a multi-tool if you want all-in-one convenience. Oh, and a solid kit to store it all.

And of course, let’s not forget the most essential tool: Homeowners insurance that helps protect you and your property from life’s uncertainties.

Get your quote with Lemonade today simply by clicking the button below.