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Essential Tools You Should Have in Your Garage

Rohini Mohan
It's never too late to start a new hobby or restart an old one. We have compiled a beginner's list of some basic tools that all tool enthusiasts must stock in their garage.

Did You Know?

The Oldowan is the oldest man-made stone tool technology created some 2.6 million years ago during the Lower Paleolithic period!
A garage is more than just a place for parking your vehicle. If used efficiently, this space can be turned into your very own workshop, where you can be the master of your machines. Every tool you need to help fix things in your house and vehicles can be placed in the garage.
It is the one-stop solution that is guaranteed to minimize unnecessary expenses by allowing you to do the smaller repairs, rather than having to depend on a professional handyman.
If you're planning on starting your own workshop, there are some basic tools that you will need to collect. Bear in mind that although cheaper tools may tempt you into buying them, these substandard quality tools are more likely to break or bend when you need them the most.
Albeit expensive, trustworthy tool manufacturers such as Snap-on and Craftsman will not only last for generations, but will save your money in the long run. This story lists the tools you must have in your garage.

Socket Set and Ratchet

Also known as a socket wrench, this tool can save you the trouble of having to refit the ratchet with every turn of the nut or bolt.
Its fixed socket or the lock of the ratchet head can be used for removing and tightening nuts. Choose a set with plenty of extenders and sockets.

Adjustable Wrench

If the aforementioned ratchet seems too complicated to use, you can always opt for the adjustable wrench instead.
The jaw of the crescent wrench can be adjusted to fit the circumference of the nut or bolt. Its adjustable features make this wrench one of the most handy tools to have in the garage.

Plug Spanner

Also known as the spark plug socket wrench, the good ol' plug spanner is an indispensable tool. This tool is manufactured with standard socket sizes of 10, 12, 14, 18, and 21 mm.
Go in for a plug spanner that has a 'T-shaped' grip and handle for greater accessibility, torque, and performance.

Combination Wrench

An extremely handy tool, a combination wrench combines an open-ended wrench on one end and a box-ended spanner on the other.
The only drawback is that a standard metric size is available on both ends. Thus, in order to have sizes 6-15, you will need to collect 10 such combination wrenches.

Screwdrivers

The two most commonly used screwdrivers are the flat-head and Phillips head screwdrivers.
The flat-head has a single blade and is used for slot fasteners, whereas the head of a Phillips screwdriver has four star points. Phillips screwdrivers are more common these days and can be found in several sizes.

Screwdriver Heads

There are several types of screwdriver fasteners available these days, which require specifically designed screwdrivers.
Which is why, it is advisable that you buy a driver bit set, which can be detached and replaced when faced with a new screw. You may also consider buying a magnetic retractable screwdriver to help retrieve inaccessible fasteners.

Hex Keys

Hex or Allen keys are L-shaped wrenches which fit screws and drive bolts with hexagonal holes.
Although many companies sell generalized versions of 'hex keys', the authentic manufacturers of this tool are Apex Tool Group, LLC. These keys are sold in sets, thereby, saving you the effort of having to search for a specifically shaped design.

Hammers and Nails

Almost every household will have a hammer or two and some nails.
These humble tools are of great help in hanging frames on walls, repairing loose nails, flattening metal, and fixing wood. The claw hammer helps draw out nails without needing to occupy both your hands, a feature that is useful if you're standing on a ladder and working.

Pliers

Nothing beats the added strength provided by Vise-Grips and thus, must be stocked in every garage.
Depending on the size of the pliers, these tools can be used for cutting thick gauge wires as well as bolts that have gotten stuck. The needle nose pliers, for instance, are an indispensable tool that can be used for handling delicate wires.

Hacksaws

It's always a good idea to keep a few extra hacksaw blades.
This is the ideal tool to use for cutting wood, plastic, and metal. Test the handle of the tool before buying it, because it is very important that your hand feels comfortable while using it. Go in for a handle that is long and provides a safe distance between your hands and the blade.

Drill with Bits

Whether you should get a corded or cordless drill is a matter of personal preference. That being said, a cordless drill is a lot more portable and can be used for reaching inaccessible areas.
The standard 12-volt drill provides sufficient power for home use. If your budget permits it, go in for a drill that uses lithium batteries which are lightweight and rechargeable. Secondly, depending on the extent of use, buy a few extra drill bits.

Multipurpose Utility Knife

A multipurpose utility knife has so many features that it can be used as an alternative for several tools in your tool box.
Always keep one beside you while working in the garage, as you may find yourself needing its help often. Soon enough, you will be thinking of more innovative ways of using this tiny pocket tool in your workshop.

Digital Multimeter

You'd be safer checking if an electronic gadget is live before touching it.
A multimeter is a multipurpose tool that helps detect and measure current, voltage, and resistance. It's the best diagnostic tool for your vehicle and can help ascertain whether or not the battery is getting charged.

Essential Garage Accessories

Measuring Tape

Even though a measuring tape may not be used often, it is an essential garage accessory.
You just can't predict when you may be in need of a measuring tape, especially if you're cutting a piece of metal or wood to size. If you're into custom-designing machines in your workshop, this humble tool will surely come in handy.

Oil Can

This little oil can is in a position to save you a truckload of trouble if you want your garage floor and your clothes to remain stain- and mess-free.
The long nozzle works wonders in lubricating the nook and crannies of nuts, bolts, and crevices of machines that are impossible for human hands to reach.

Pegboard

The pegboard is a must-have for every garage. It is the whole and sole reason why some workshops look so organized. You can hang everything you want on the pegboard so that the tools are in plain sight.
Thereafter, you can simply pick what you need and place it in your toolbox for starting the day's work. Everything from duct tape, rags, headlamp, superglue, to a hand-held torch can be fit on this board. Now, you don't have to search for your tools anymore.

Tool Kit and Safety Essentials

A tool kit allows you to pick what you need from the pegboard or tool shelf. It is also a lot more portable and easier to carry as compared to a tool belt, which can be downright uncomfortable and heavy for some.
Although mentioned as the last point, safety essentials such as safety glasses, gloves, and earphones are of utmost importance for protecting yourself from debris and sparks.