What tools does every DIYer need to start with?

[heather112069]

Greetings,

I am a new homeowner and have LOTS of jobs around my house that need attention. I need to know what basic tools I should always have on hand to complete jobs around the house. For example, I have figured out that I should buy a small (125-150PSI) air compressor because that will help me with a LOT of jobs. What other MUST have's are good to know about? I go to home depot or Lowe's and there are just so many power tools and other tools I can't determine what tools will be good to have. Please help! I feel a little lost and I don't know about these things. On the other hand I don't want to just throw money away on the basic necessities because I am afraid to ask.

[dominick]

I would have to say the tools I use most at home would be

1) a screw gun / drill
2) hammer
3) screw drivers
4) drills
5) small set of wrenches
6) channel locks "bigger pliers"

Now as far as power tools...

1) circular saw
2) saws all
3) and the screw gun / drill but I already said that.

Now you don't need a compressure unless you have the nail guns to go with that. And they should be used with caution. Trust me on that. A few trips the emergency room for nail removal.

[heather112069]

I thought an air compressor might be good for my decks. I have 1200 square feet of deck that needs to be cared for. I thought of getting a paint sprayer to help distribute the deck stain. 1200 square feet of deck and railing is a LOT to take care of by yourself. I also need to replace the trim and floor boards so I thought having a brad and nail gun might come in handy for that!

As far as the other items on your list, I am adding them all to my wishlist at home depot. So as budget permits, I can begin getting my basics for the house. Thank you so much for answering my question and not making me feel stupid! I figure everyone's got to start somewhere! I have been following your how tos and forums and you really give me the courage to start taking care of my home.

Thank you,

Heather

[dominick]

We all have to start somewhere. See a compressure works two ways. First you need pressure , that's the easy part. But the main issue with compressures is volume of air flow. Meaning how much and how fast can it make it. A brad nailer really doesn't need much at all. They are great for small little trim like work. I use one almost everyday. But a framer nail gun uses much more volume. Not pressure , volume of air flow. One of those smaller compressures that cost about 99. Bucks just won't do the job. And any nailing for a deck will require a framing mail gun. These are bigger and much heavier of a nail gun. And cost about 300. - 500 bucks. Don't listen to the guys who think they know at those stores.. For the most part they never used one.

For deck nailing you need a hammer or some good power to use a nail gun. However you inspired me to make a new home to use a nail gun video. With any luck I'll make one tomorrow.