The 7 Tools Every New DIYer Needs in Their Toolbox

If you’ve recently moved into your first home or are just starting to try your hand at your own home maintenance and DIY, Ace Lumber suggests you make sure you have these seven must-have tools in your toolbox.

Screwdriver Set

A screwdriver set is an absolute must-have in any home. These days you can’t even expect to change the batteries in your alarm clock without one. But, as many items have different screw heads, just one screwdriver won’t do. Generally, there are six types of screwdrivers, but three are needed more often than the others. These are: Slotted, Phillips and Pozidriv (the one that looks like a star). You’ll undoubtedly need each in a few sizes to accommodate different size screws and their heads.

Hammer

If you’ve recently moved into your own apartment and don’t have one of these yet, you’re likely looking around at some pretty bare walls right now. However, a hammer isn’t just for hanging pictures. Any wood project or repair will likely require some nails, and of course, a hammer. There are many types of hammers available – from powered to sledge – but the only type of hammer you’ll need for your DIY toolbox is a simple hand tool hammer, made of quality material with a good grip. If you feel like upgrading, you can find magnetized hammers to help hold that pesky nail in place when getting started.

Drill

Next up from the hammer, and just as useful, is your power drill. Drills are available in varying styles, plug in or battery operated, higher volt or lower, and you can choose depending on how often you expect to use it. A drill kit could include the drill and a variety of bits to drill different sizes. Often, attachable screwdriver heads are also included so the drill can do double duty. Just as your hammer will need some nails, don’t forget to pick up some screws with your drill. If you’re hanging anything on drywall, you’ll also need some plugs.

Level

A level might not be on your most-wanted list, but it will definitely come in handy more often than you might expect. You can purchase an inexpensive box level that will do the trick for many odd jobs around the house. The longer the levelling tool, the easier to use and the more accurate it will be when working in larger areas, like hanging several level picture frames or levelling a table. Additionally, levels can come equipped with many helpful add-ons including laser levels that project a level line across either side to help find and mark your line.

Ladder

This one won’t exactly fit in your toolbox, but is essential nonetheless. For many interior jobs a small ladder like a step stool will probably suffice. However, for most exterior jobs, like trimming your trees, cleaning your gutters or checking your roof, you will need something a little more substantial. Options are available that will work for both inside and outside jobs. Take a look at our guide for choosing the right ladder for the job to see which one best meets your needs.

Saw

Have you ever Googled “how many types of saws are there”? Okay, probably not, but we will save you the trouble and tell you there are a lot. The type of saw you need will vary depending on the project you’re doing. If you’re going to be doing any amount of construction or wood working, a table saw is ideal; however, it’s not a practical purchase for many homeowners. A circular saw is probably the most versatile and useful to have on hand, as it will work great for small cuts on many materials and can be used with a cut guide for many larger cuts.

Measuring Tape

Now that you have your saw, you should know the old saying “measure twice, cut once.” Well, step one and two of this phrase will certainly require a measuring tape. Standard measuring tapes are available in different sizes and lengths. Laser measures are also available if you’ll be measuring longer distances or when you need to measure square footage.

If you need more information or have questions, visit Ace Lumber. Our team is always ready to help you with what you need. We're here to assist you in any way we can.