From Homescape

I’ve been visiting too many homes lately where simple maintenance has not been done. If you consider that your home may be your greatest investment, then it should be maintained to prevent value depreciation. My clients often ask me about the tools that I use for my inspection business. I guess people believe if you have the right tool kit, you can take on any home repair.

But home inspecting is different from repairing, and not all my tools are necessary for the average homeowner. Since I was busy this week with repairs to my own home and with my parent’s house, I paid close attention to the items that were most handy in my kit. To help you in your home repairs, I’ve decided to create a list of handy tools that will make your job easier.

1. Multi-tool

A multi-tool is a portable, versatile hand tool that combines several individual tool functions like pliers, screw driver head and knife into a single grip. Many models also come with a pouch to wear them on the belt. I’d suggest shelling out some dough for a higher-quality one, such as a Leatherman. The less quality multi-tools are some times poorly constructed and can be hazardous on the job. This tool will fit in the palm of your hand when folded, and has much of what you need for common tasks.

2. Drill
A cordless drill/driver with a drill bit/screw driver head set is a must when you begin any repair project. I find that the quick-change-chuck type is most dependable. This drill is not limited by the cord and will help you drive screws or even nuts. I like the Bosch model, but many makers have good units out there.

3. Hammer and rubber mallet
I find people will use a hammer for jobs that call for a mallet, so it is good to have one on hand. When setting paving stones in place, a rubber mallet will not break the stones. And when you’re fitting a piece of wood trim into position, a rubber mallet is less likely to damage the surface of the trim. Hammers are good when you’re not concerned with damaging the surface.

4. Long flathead screwdriver
This nifty tool can be used as a small crowbar or probe. Tapping the handle on tiles will tell you if there is enough mortar underneath the flooring.

5. Torpedo level
A small level will help with hanging pictures, shelving and more.

6. LED flashlight
Make sure this flashlight is the equivalent of a 3D flashlight. They’re small and give off great light.

7. A 25-foot tape measure
I see people working with 10- or 5-foot tape measures, when they really need something longer. It’s always better to have more rather than less when you’re in the middle of taking measurements.

8. Saws
Your trifecta of saws should always include a handsaw, hacksaw and jigsaw. I bought a new circular saw two years ago, and I still haven’t taken it out of the box. The jigsaw is great for those geometrically challenging cuts.

9. Collapsible/foldable ladder
While I have a variety of saws at my disposal, I’m a fan of the twelve-foot ladder from Little Giant for most of my chores. I can set it up like an A-frame ladder, or as a flat ladder to reach the roof and other hard-to-reach areas. The collapsible ladder will meet most homeowner needs.

10. Channel-type pliers
Various pliers can help with different jobs, but I’ve found these to be good for a variety of tasks from plumbing to other jobs.

While some of my suggested tools may not be in your basic home kit, these are items that I rely on for my own repairs and are practical and useful for most home projects. But the most important tool all home owners should have in their arsenal is knowledge. I’d recommend going to a secondhand book store and find a do-it-yourself manual. Readers Digest and Home Depot have an excellent selection. The guidebooks with the diagrams and photographs are your best bet. I think they give readers a better idea of what to expect when they begin their projects.

Frank Schulte-Ladbeck, Professional Real Estate Inspector