Essential DIY Tools Every Homeowner Should Own

If you plan to handle jobs around your home, you need the right tools. The wrong kit slows you down and costs more long term. The right tools save time and prevent mistakes.

Below are the core tools that cover most home projects. From putting up shelves to building decking, these are the essentials worth owning.

1. Cordless Combi Drill

A cordless combi drill is the backbone of any DIY setup. It drills wood, metal, and masonry. It also drives screws.

Look for:
• 18V platform
• Two batteries minimum
• Hammer mode
• Metal chuck

Brands like Makita, DeWalt and Milwaukee Tool offer solid 18V combi kits.

Typical uses:
• Fitting kitchen units
• Hanging curtain poles
• Building stud walls
• Assembling furniture

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2. Impact Driver

An impact driver handles tougher fixing jobs. It delivers higher torque than a standard drill. If you build decking or fit structural timber, you will feel the difference.

Look for:
• Brushless motor
• Variable speed trigger
• Compact body

Best for:
• Long timber screws
• Ledger boards
• Outdoor builds

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3. Circular Saw

A circular saw gives you straight, fast cuts. It handles sheet materials and framing timber.

Key features:
• 165mm or 190mm blade
• Adjustable depth
• Solid base plate

Use it for:
• Cutting plywood
• Trimming doors
• Building shelving

For guided cuts, many DIY users pair saws with rails from brands such as Festool.

4. Multi Tool

A multi tool is small but powerful. It cuts, scrapes, and sands in tight spaces.

Ideal for:
• Cutting skirting in place
• Removing grout
• Trimming door frames
• Flush cutting pipework

It saves time where other tools cannot reach.

5. Tape Measure and Spirit Level

Accuracy matters. Poor measuring leads to wasted materials.

You need:
• 5m tape measure
• 600mm spirit level

Use them on every job. Even small errors add up.

6. Adjustable Spanner and Socket Set

Plumbing and appliance fitting require solid hand tools.

Essential jobs:
• Tightening taps
• Fitting washing machines
• Assembling flat pack
• Adjusting radiators

A compact socket set covers most household bolt sizes.

7. SDS Drill for Masonry Work

If your home has brick or concrete walls, a standard drill struggles. An SDS drill makes clean, fast holes.

Best for:
• Wall plugs
• Heavy shelving
• Brackets
• Exterior fixings

For heavy masonry, brands like Hilti are known for durability.

Final Thoughts

Start with quality tools that cover most tasks. A combi drill, impact driver, and saw handle the majority of jobs. Add hand tools for accuracy and fixing.

You do not need everything at once. Buy what matches the projects you plan to complete.

If you have tools you no longer use, you can sell them quickly at www.selltoolsonline.co.uk and free up cash for your next upgrade.