Basic Tools and Repairs
Learn a few tools that solve many small household problems.
WD-40
lubricates moving parts and loosens rusted bolts
putty knife
scrapes surfaces or applies filler to holes and cracks
teflon tape
seals threaded pipe joints to prevent water leaks
flashlight
illuminates dark areas like under sinks or in attics
wire stripper
removes insulation from electrical wires without cutting them
spirit level
determines if a surface is perfectly horizontal or vertical
hex key
turns bolts and screws with a hexagonal socket
duct tape
provides a heavy-duty, flexible adhesive for temporary repairs
safety glasses
protects eyes from flying debris and dust during work
stud finder
locates wooden framing behind drywall for secure mounting
Phillips head screwdriver
used for screws with a cross-shaped slot
claw hammer
drives nails into or pulls nails out of wood
tape measure
determines the exact length or distance between points
needle-nose pliers
grips small objects or reaches into narrow spaces
utility knife
cuts through boxes, tape, or thin materials
plunger
clears many simple sink or toilet clogs
adjustable wrench
grips nuts and bolts of different sizes
flathead screwdriver
used for screws with one straight slot