Essential DIY Tools for Home Improvement: Must-Haves Under $50

While most people would love to have a perfectly decorated home without any flaws, not everyone can afford the luxury of hiring professional contractors or interior designers for home improvement. This is where DIY home improvement comes in handy. Performing tasks that once required skilled professionals have now become much more accessible and easier to complete for average homeowners. The right tools go a long way in ensuring that DIYers have the necessary equipment to complete projects efficiently and effectively.

This article presents a detailed and comprehensive guide to essential DIY tools necessary for home improvement under $50. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, these tools are must-haves for every DIY enthusiast. Read on to discover the top essential DIY tools to have in your toolkit.

Hammer

A hammer is an essential DIY tool that you can’t go without. It’s a versatile tool that you can use in nailing, pulling out nails, and other activities. Hammers come in different sizes to suit different tasks, with a common size being 16oz. A 16oz hammer is perfect for beginners and average DIYers.

Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers come in different types and sizes to match different screw heads. They’re useful for various DIY projects and tasks around the house. A good set of screwdrivers includes different types such as Phillips, slotted, and hex screwdrivers. Phillips screwdrivers are the most commonly used and make up most of the screws used in furniture and appliance assembly.

Wrenches

Wrenches come in various types, but a standard adjustable wrench is enough for most DIY tasks. An adjustable wrench ensures you have the right size wrench for the job at hand. It’s essential for securing nuts and bolts.

Pliers

Pliers are necessary when you’re working with small fittings, wires, and grabbing or holding small items. Needle-nose pliers are versatile and suitable for a variety of DIY tasks. It’s important to invest in quality pliers, as the cheap ones can damage or wear out quickly.

Utility Knife

A utility knife is also known as a box cutter or a retractable knife. It’s useful for cutting wrapping paper, cardboard, or plastic packaging. It’s also handy for slicing materials like carpet, vinyl, or drywall. A good utility knife should have a retractable blade and ergonomic handle.

Measuring Tape

A measuring tape is an essential tool for getting accurate measurements for DIY project tasks. You need it to measure the size and length of materials accurately. It’s essential to invest in a tape measure that’s durable and has markings that are easy to read.

Level

A level is necessary when hanging picture frames, shelves, or installing cabinets. It ensures that everything lines up perfectly and is levelled. It’s best to invest in a quality level with two-bubble vials for better accuracy.

Drill

A drill is an essential DIY tool that you’ll need for a variety of tasks such as drilling holes, driving screws, or mixing paint. A cordless drill that’s powered by rechargeable batteries is best for DIY tasks as it’s portable and easy to use. Start with a basic drill, and add to it over time as you need additional capabilities.

Power Sander

A power sander eliminates the need for manual sanding, making it an essential DIY tool. It’s best for sanding flat surfaces, sanding wood, and removing paint or varnish. A random orbital sander is suitable for most DIY tasks, but a belt sander is ideal for larger projects.

Hacksaw

A hacksaw is necessary for cutting pipes, metals, and other hard materials that a regular saw can’t handle. Choose a hacksaw that has a comfortable grip and a blade that can be replaced when worn out.

Stud Finder

A stud finder is essential when you want to hang items like shelves, brackets, and mirrors onto walls. It helps to identify the location of the studs behind the drywall, ensuring that you hang your items over the right spot. A magnetic stud finder is recommended as it’s easy to use and doesn’t require batteries.

Safety Gear

When working with DIY tools, you need to have proper safety gear to protect yourself from potential hazards. Essential safety gear includes goggles or safety glasses, gloves, and a dust mask. Goggles or safety glasses protect your eyes from flying debris, gloves protect your hands from cuts, and a dust mask protects your lungs from harmful dust and chemicals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, investing in quality DIY tools is essential to ensure that you have the necessary tools to complete DIY projects around your home. The above-listed tools are essential for most DIY projects and are all affordable, with each being under $50. They’re perfect for beginners and average DIYers. With the right tools, your DIY projects will run smoothly, and you’ll be able to achieve your desired results. Remember to invest in quality and durable tools, and don’t forget to have the necessary safety gear.