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.
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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.
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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
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