There are always minor repairs that need to be done around the house. It is helpful to have the most important tools at hand. It is not absolutely necessary to have a complete toolbox, but these are the ten tools that are needed most often:

 

1. tape measure or folding rule. For pretty much every repair you need to measure something. A three-metre tape measure is long enough for most purposes. Although many prefer a folding rule as a measuring tool, a roll-up tape measure is much more flexible and easier to store.

2. carpet knife. A box cutter can be kept anywhere because the blade can be retracted and you won't hurt yourself. The blades are extremely sharp and are suitable for cutting open packages, removing paint residue from window panes or cutting cables. A carpet knife is easier to handle than a kitchen knife. The blades can also be replaced quickly when they become blunt.

3. screwdriver. It's best to get a multi-piece screwdriver where the handle unscrews to reveal different types of screwdrivers. This way you have the most common sizes and types covered, yet only need to keep one screwdriver.

4. hammer. As a versatile all-purpose hammer, a light hammer with one flat and one curved side is perfectly adequate. A hammer that is too big and heavy will tire the untrained arm too easily.

5. putty knife. A medium-sized putty knife serves many purposes, for example, filling small holes in the wall or pulling off stubborn wallpaper residues. The putty knife should be easily bendable and not too rigid.

6. saw. Everyone has something to saw through at some point. A medium all-purpose saw will do well for sawing through wood. Alternatively, you can get a hacksaw and use a blade that is suitable for metal on one side and wood on the other. This way you only need one saw for almost all common services.

7. spanner. A spanner is useful for repairing taps, drain pipes under the kitchen sink or heating valves. Spanners are also known as Englishmen.

8. tongs. Pliers can hold objects better than our slippery fingers. In addition, a pair of combination pliers can also cut wire.

9. torch. For repairs under the sink or in the far corner of the cellar, you often need a torch to see better. A torch that can be attached to the head is particularly practical here, so that you can work with two free hands.

10. cordless drill or screwdriver. For simple household use, an 18 volt drill is sufficient. This allows you to drill simple holes in the wall quickly and effortlessly and to screw and unscrew countless screws. Even when not in use, recharge the batteries occasionally so that the device is always ready for use.