
Must-Have DIY Projects and Tools for Every Home
, by Hicham Rakib, 7 min reading time
, by Hicham Rakib, 7 min reading time
Whether you're tackling a weekend project or fixing a sudden repair, having the right tools on hand makes DIY faster, easier, and more enjoyable. Below are essential DIY tools every homeowner (or renter!) should own—alongside projects that show off their usefulness.
What it is: A heavy-duty adjustable wrench with serrated jaws, specifically designed for gripping round objects like pipes and fittings.
Best For:
Tightening or loosening plumbing joints
Fixing leaky pipes
Installing water heaters or garbage disposals
Working on radiators or outdoor hose bibs
Why it’s essential: Unlike regular wrenches, a pipe wrench locks tightly onto pipes without slipping. If you have older plumbing or plan to replace faucets, this tool is non-negotiable.
What it is: A compact, versatile set containing a variety of screwdriver bits (Phillips, flathead, Torx, hex, and more) and socket attachments that fit into a single handle or power drill.
Best For:
Assembling furniture
Tightening door hinges
Repairing electronics or appliances
Working on bicycles or small machinery
Installing wall-mounted items
Why it’s essential: Rather than juggling multiple screwdrivers, this all-in-one kit lets you switch bits on the fly—saving space and time. A solid set will have magnetic tips, a comfortable handle, and durable bits.
What they are: Coarse-threaded screws designed specifically for attaching drywall to wood or metal studs. They’re coated in black phosphate to resist corrosion and enhance grip.
Best For:
Hanging drywall
Mounting floating shelves or cabinets
Securing wood frames or brackets
General repairs involving drywall or plaster
Why they’re essential: These screws are strong, easy to drive into place, and don’t strip easily. They’re a must for both light carpentry and heavy-duty wall mounting.
Tip: Keep various lengths on hand (e.g., 1", 1.25", 2") for different jobs.
What it is: A set of twist drill bits in multiple sizes, designed to drill through materials like wood, plastic, metal, and masonry (depending on the type).
Best For:
Making pilot holes for screws
Installing wall anchors or curtain rods
Craft or woodwork projects
Electrical and plumbing work (like routing cables or pipes through studs)
Why it’s essential: No matter the project, you'll likely need to drill at some point. A combination set gives you flexibility for various surfaces, ensuring clean, precise holes.
Bonus Tip: Look for bits made of high-speed steel (HSS) or coated in titanium for added durability.
A manual tool used to apply sealants like silicone, adhesive, or caulk from a tube with precision and control.
Best For:
Sealing gaps around windows and doors
Bathroom and kitchen waterproofing
Filling wall cracks or crevices
Why it's essential: Helps prevent drafts, water leaks, and mold by sealing joints and gaps with professional results.
A powerful electric pressure washer for deep-cleaning exterior surfaces with high-pressure water jets.
Best For:
Cleaning patios, driveways, and fences
Washing cars, bikes, and outdoor furniture
Removing mildew, mud, and dirt from siding or decks
Why it's essential: Makes heavy-duty cleaning tasks easy and incredibly satisfying. Great for maintenance and pre-painting prep.
A powerful chemical solution designed to dissolve blockages in kitchen or bathroom drains.
Best For:
Unclogging hair, grease, and food buildup
Maintaining free-flowing sinks and showers
Emergency drain clearing
Why it's essential: A fast and effective solution to one of the most common household problems. No plumbing tools required.
A compact set of sockets and a ratchet handle, typically including common metric or SAE sizes.
Best For:
Tightening or loosening nuts and bolts
Automotive repairs
Furniture assembly and appliance maintenance
Why it's essential: Offers more torque and comfort than a regular wrench, especially in tight spaces.
This set includes long-handled Torx (star-shaped) keys, ideal for fasteners commonly found in electronics, furniture, and appliances.
Best For:
Assembling flat-pack furniture
Fixing bikes, tools, or electronics
Reaching deeply embedded Torx screws
Why it's essential: Many modern devices and furniture use Torx screws. These long keys provide better leverage and reach for tricky spots.
A straightforward, everyday screwdriver set that includes essential flathead and Phillips screwdrivers in different sizes.
Best For:
Quick household fixes
Tightening loose screws on cabinets, door handles, or switch plates
When you don’t need an entire bit set—just grab and go
Why it's essential: While multi-bit sets are great for variety, sometimes simplicity wins. This set is ideal for common tasks where a classic, ready-to-use screwdriver is all you need.