Set-up your Homeowner's Survival Kit. Here are 15 start-up suggestions so that you can be prepared when those "special" situations arise in your homeownership experience:
Essential #1: The Plunger - Have two; one for the sink and one for the toilet
Essential #2: The Combination Wrench Set - One side is open and the other is a closed loop; you will need both sets of wrenches because nuts and bolts are manufactured in standard sizes and both sets are needed. Remember to pull the wrench towards you, instead of pushing, and don't over tighten
Essential #3: Slip-Joint Pliers - These are versatile pliers to help you grab a nail, bolt, and many types of objects
Essential #4 - Adjustable Wrench - Remember to screw the jaws all the way closed so that the bolt or nut does not get damaged
Essential #5 - Caulking Gun - Seal up those cracks and this can also be used for noise mitigation, thermal insulation and water control penetration
Essential #6 - Flashlight - A standard two battery flashlight will do the trick
Essential #7 - Tape Measure - Measure house projects with a tape measure for more accuracy rather than a ruler or yard stick.
Essential #8 - Hacksaw - Purchase a quality hacksaw frame because blades are replaceable. Good for cutting metal objects such as pipes, bolts, brackets and many other things
Essential #9 - Torpedo Level - The bubble in the viewfinder must be exactly in the middle. This tool is absolutely necessary to determine when an object is level and perfectly horizontal or vertical, and it has a gauge that shows when an object is at a 45-degree angle
Essential #10 - Safety Glasses / Goggles - For all tasks and when mixing chemicals
Essential #11 - Claw Hammer - A 16-ounce hammer is the best all-purpose hammer. Drive and remove nails, pry objects such as plywood away from the house, and use in combination with other tools
Essential #12 - Screwsriver Set - Bare minimum is four screwdrivers: a small and large version of both a flat-head and a Phillips-head screwdriver
Essential #13 - Wire Cutters - Simply explained, pliers designed to cut wires and small nails. The "side-cutting" style (unlike the stronger "end-cutting" style) is not strong enough to cut small nails
Essential #14 - Respirator / Safety Mask - For working in dusty, dirty environments, and when working with chemicals. Disposable masks come in packs of 10; full and half-face respirators can be used to prevent the inhalation of very fine particles that ordinary facemasks will not stop
And Last and Will Not be Forgotten!
Eseential #15 - Duct Tape - Water resistant and extremely sticky.
(Source Information is from HomeSure Inspectors, Rick Koehler)
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