Whether you’re a landlord or a tenant, you’ll surely need to do some maintenance around the apartment. Not very handy? Don’t panic—all you need to install shelves or put up a frame is the most basic equipment. No need to crowd your storage room with a bulky power saw or a huge compressor!
The team at Kangalou has put together a list of the top 10 essential tools that will get you out of any pickle, big or small!
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A measuring tape
In Quebec, we usually use the imperial system in construction and hardware. So, you should buy a measuring tape that shows feet and inches and that is at least 25 feet long. You could also buy a metric tape, but it would be best to choose one that displays both, so you can take measurements in whichever system you prefer.
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A level and a framing square
The last thing you want is a crooked shelf! Buy a level that is at least 9 inches long—the longer it is, the more precise its reading will be. Also have a framing square on hand for your more detailed projects.
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A hammer
Choosing a hammer is harder than it seems! Short or long? Light or heavy? Which to choose? Make sure the hammer fits your physique, has a good grip and preferably has a rubber handle to prevent unwanted blisters. Even better, go for a hammer with a claw to pull out nails!
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Keys and wrenches
Adjustable wrenches, spanners and Allen keys are very useful when it comes to tightening or loosening nuts, bolts and screws on a piece of furniture or a wobbly chair.
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Pliers
Do you need to bolt something? Get a good grip on an item? Cut a metal wire? Pliers will always be there to help you out!
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A screwdriver
There are many different kinds of screwdrivers. At the hardware store, you’ll need to choose between one with multiple heads and a set of different screwdrivers. Go for the simpler option and buy a multi-bit screwdriver. It will take up much less room in your toolbox and its magnetic tips are compatible with almost all existing screws. That means no screws getting lost behind furniture!
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A drill
A small electric drill is probably the most useful tool to have in your collection because it will help you drill screws and holes in a snap. If you decide to get a battery powered drill, make sure you have an extra battery as a spare. And be careful with your walls!
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Flashlights
What if a huge storm wrecked your apartment and you were forced to fix everything in total darkness? Make sure you have flashlights stashed in a few different spots in your apartment. You never know when you might need one!
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A nail bag (and nails!)
Make people jealous with your productivity and style! Invest in a tool belt with pockets to hold your nails and smaller tools. You’ll look like a pro, plus you won’t lose any nails or screws! Isn’t that marvelous?
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Last but not least, a toolbox!
Your toolbox is your best friend: you obviously need to keep your tools somewhere! The great thing about toolboxes is that there are plenty to choose from. Pick one that fits your tastes and needs and is the right size, and also take into consideration what it’s made of and how much storage space it requires.
You may be tempted to buy one of those all-in-one toolbox kits. But be careful! Although they are often less expensive, the tools are usually poorer quality than those you buy separately. Surely you wouldn’t want to buy it all again after only a couple of months!
Happy fixing!
