The Do’s and Dont's of Decorating
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Whether you live in a house or apartment, it's a good idea to have a basic toolbox on hand to help with minor repairs. You don't have to be a home improvement hobbyist to need tools -- little problems happen all the time, both with your residence and the items inside it. A little preparation can ensure you have the right tools for any job, at least until the professionals arrive.
Hammers can do a lot, such as drive nails, remove nails, pull things apart or whack things into place. Hammers may have a curved or straight claw, that is, the end that is designed for pulling nails. According to home repair expert Don Vandevoort, a curved claw hammer is better for pulling nails, while a straight claw is ideal if you need to pry things open. When buying a hammer, look for a 16-oz. claw model that feels good in your hand. There are heavier hammers available, but unless you work construction, you won't need the extra weight. Handles are available in wood, composites or steel.
Screwdrivers may be flat head or Phillips head -- it's a good idea to have both in your toolbox. Look for well-made screwdrivers that have comfortable handles. You can purchase screwdrivers in multiple sizes or get a multipurpose screwdriver that allows you to change the size of the blade. You may also consider a lighted cordless screwdriver. They are useful if you need to work in a dark place, such as a crawl space, or if your power goes out.
Wrenches are good to have around in case you need to tighten -- or remove -- nuts and bolts. They're also handy when assembling furniture and other items. Don Vandevoort recommends an 8-inch adjustable wrench for beginners, though you may want a larger wrench if you find yourself working on more projects. Putty knives are inexpensive and can be quite useful if you patch cracks or holes. A 1-inch blade works for small jobs and you may also want to purchase a 3-inch blade for patching larger holes. Another important tool is the utility knife -- you can use it for cutting open packages or slicing drywall and everything in between. Look for a version with a retractable blade for safety.
