Every homeowner needs a few key tools in their toolbox to get started on any home reno projects. If you’re new to the DIY realm or ready to upgrade your current tools, we’ve picked out our favorite basic devices that are easy to find at any Lowe’s Home Improvement, either in-store or online.
These are tools that we’ve tried and tested over many years of adding trim, installing light fixtures, putting in stair runners, patching drywall, and much more. We’d recommend all of these to our friends and family—or anyone starting out!
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14 Essential Tools for Home Renovators
Every DIYer needs a baseline of tools available, and this is mine. Things I use all the time. If you’re just starting out your tool collection, this is a great place to start.
- Laser Distance Measure: This one is a powerhouse. It really shines when measuring a space to order materials like flooring, wallpaper, molding etc., but also super accurate for detail work.
- 12″ Miter Saw: This has a powerful 3,800 RPM motor and great cutting accuracy with easy adjustments. Your projects will look like they were done by a pro.
- Rotary Tool: I’ve tried some drywall cutters, and this one takes the trophy for clean lines and less mess.
- Nite Eye Tape Measure: Lufkin tapes are my preferred – great quality, and the high-vis options are really nice. Great contract and visibility.
- 100-Piece Impact Driver Bit Set: Everyone needs quick-change bits, in a set with enough variety to cover 90% of projects you’ll do day-to-day.
- Stud Finder: Before you drill, know what’s inside your walls. Avoid costly repairs and dangerous situations by locating gas lines, wires, pipes—this has your back.
- Cordless Impact Driver: This one is a powerhouse for the price. And it has 3 speeds and 3 LED lights—competitors take note.
- Cordless Screwdriver: This easy-to-use screwdriver should be in everyone’s toolbox. It has speed/torque control and long battery life—plus a battery gauge so you know when to recharge.
- Cordless Brad Nailer: Great for trim work and you don’t need to worry about a compressed air tank running out (or the extra noise).
- Step Ladder: With a maximum reach of 12 feet, this ladder is all you need for most interior home projects. No home should be without one.
- Hammerless Nail Set: This nail punch tool is essential for installing decorative molding. This one is spring-loaded so you can take care of any wayward nails easily.
- Utility Knife Tool Pouch: This is so handy to keep small tools next to you safely. It has a tape measure clip plus pockets for a pencil, screwdriver and of course, the utility knife.
- 4-Piece Oscillating Multi-Tool: A jack-of-all-trades, this DIY tool can cut through wood, metal, and even tile with ease. Comes with attachments for precise cutting, sanding, scraping, and sawing.
- Folding Utility Knife: I like a utility knife that I can open with one hand. This one includes extra blades that are actually easy to replace once it goes dull.
We always encourage people never to do a task they are not comfortable with, especially in areas where safety and building codes are a factor (like electrical work, framing, plumbing etc). Do what you feel you can, and hire out the rest. 🙂
