After renting for years, becoming a homeowner is an exciting milestone. It also brings new responsibilities, especially when it comes to maintaining and repairing your property. As a renter, a basic toolbox with screwdrivers, wrenches, and pliers might have been enough, but as a homeowner, you’ll need a few power tools to handle a wider range of tasks.
I’ve always been a Dewalt combi drill owner, ever since my first job in the AV industry. But over the years, my power tool selection has grown into a versatile arsenal, including everything from an impact driver and circular saw to a trusty oscillating multi-tool and cordless sander, each carefully chosen to tackle the diverse challenges of home improvement and DIY projects.
My toolbox started small, but over time, I’ve gradually added tools as needed for different projects. However, it’s important to begin with a solid foundation of basic tools to set yourself up for success. With that in mind, here’s my guide to the must-have power tools (and a few essential non-power tools) that every new homeowner should consider.
1. Impact Driver
Why You Need It:
An impact driver is a game-changer for driving screws into tough materials like wood or metal. It provides more torque and rpm than a standard drill and is perfect for assembling furniture, mounting shelves, or building small projects. Read all about the uses of an impact driver here. I personally prefer a lower torque impact driver as I’m not taking on any heavy mechanical jobs. My Dewalt DCF887 is perfect for driving screws quickly into wood, which is where the majority of the work is required. Higher torque impact drivers simply aren’t required for the average DIY homeowner.
Pro Tip: Pair your impact driver with a set of high-quality bits to ensure you can handle various screw types and sizes.
2. Power Drill / Combi Drill
Why You Need It:
While an impact driver is great for driving screws, it’s not a substitute for a traditional power drill, which is essential for drilling holes. Whether you’re hanging curtains, installing light fixtures, or assembling DIY projects, a power drill is indispensable. I’d advise looking for a combi drill with 18v power, a hammer action setting and a selection of speeds so that you can switch between drilling and a slower driving setting. A hammer action will be essential for drilling into harder materials like brick and concrete.
Pro Tip: Look for a drill and impact driver combo kit. Brands like Makita, DeWalt, or Ryobi offer battery systems that can power multiple tools. I invested in the Dewalt combo kit but Makita and Milwaukee offer like-for-like kits ideal for most DIYers.
3. Circular Saw
Why You Need It:
A circular saw is essential for cutting wood, especially if you’re tackling larger projects like building shelves, cutting plywood, or framing. It’s a versatile tool that every homeowner will eventually need.
Corded vs. Cordless: Corded circular saws are generally more powerful and don’t run out of battery mid-project, but cordless versions offer convenience. I personally prefer a cordless circular saw with 2 or 3 backup batteries.
I started off with a low-cost corded circular saw and when my budget allowed, I upgraded to the Dewalt cordless XR circular saw which made a huge difference in terms of portability. It did however have less power than the corded saw.
Pro Tip: Consider swapping the circular saw blade for a more robust blade. You can also select the perfect blade for your circular saw depending on the type of job you’re taking on. I work with a lot of wood, so I opted for a blade with more teeth for a smoother cut.
4. Oscillating Multi-Tool
Why You Need It:
The oscillating tool is a homeowner’s best friend for precision work like cutting drywall, sanding tight spaces, or even scraping off old paint. It’s one of the most versatile tools in your arsenal. I waited years before adding this tool to my kit, which was a huge mistake. I hadn’t realised this tool’s potential for so many home improvement projects.
Pro Tip: Buy a set of attachments, as the tool can handle a variety of tasks with the right blade or sanding pad.
5. Orbital Sander
Why You Need It:
If you plan to refinish furniture, smooth out rough surfaces, or prep walls for painting, an orbital sander is essential. It offers smooth, even sanding that saves you hours of manual labour. I have a few different sanders in my collection, including a belt sander, a mouse sander, the multi-tool sander mentioned above and an orbital sander. The orbital sander is the one I find myself reaching for far more often than the others. Learn how to get the best results from your orbital sander in this guide.
For tougher jobs like sanding floors, stairs or tougher reclaimed timber, a belt sander is an ideal choice. Check out my Best Belt Sander in the UK article for an in-depth look at this tool to speed up larger sanding jobs.
Corded vs. Cordless: If you’re working on larger projects, go for a corded model to avoid frequent battery changes.
6. Shop Vacuum (Shop Vac)
Why You Need It:
A shop vac isn’t a power tool per se, but it’s a lifesaver for cleaning up sawdust, debris, or even water in case of leaks. It’s especially useful when working with power tools, as they can create a lot of mess. The one I purchased was an entry-level model costing only £40. It’s quite basic but does everything I need. It’s powerful, can handle dry and wet clean ups and can stand a bit of bashing around making it the perfect low-cost addition to my tool list essentials.
Pro Tip: Get a wet/dry model for maximum versatility.
7. Jigsaw
Why You Need It:
A jigsaw is a must-have tool for making precise, curved, or intricate cuts in a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastic, and even tile with the right blade. It’s perfect for tasks like cutting out custom shapes for DIY furniture, trimming laminate countertops, or creating openings for electrical outlets and plumbing fixtures. Unlike circular or reciprocating saws, a jigsaw excels in detail work where precision and control are essential.
Corded vs. Cordless:
- Corded: Offers consistent power, making it ideal for longer, continuous projects or when cutting thicker materials.
- Cordless: Provides greater flexibility and portability, especially useful for working in tight spaces or on outdoor projects, but may require extra batteries for extended use.
Pro Tip: Invest in a variety of blades designed for different materials and cutting styles. A high-tooth-count blade is best for smooth, clean cuts in wood, while a metal blade with fewer, sturdier teeth is better for cutting through pipes or sheet metal.
8. Laser Level & Bubble Level
Why You Need It:
A laser level makes tasks like hanging pictures, installing shelves, or aligning cabinets much easier and more precise. The pictured above model has a 3D laser and automatic levelling system to allow for easy, precise levelling across and entire room. It has a built-in battery for ease of use in any environment. However, a basic bubble level is still invaluable for quick levelling tasks when you don’t want to fuss with batteries.
Pro Tip: Invest in a tripod for your laser level to get the most accurate results.
9. Mitre Saw (Chop Saw)
Why You Need It:
A mitre saw is an essential tool for making precise, angled cuts in wood, making it invaluable for projects like installing baseboards, crown moulding, door frames, and window casings. It’s also perfect for creating accurate crosscuts on lumber, ensuring clean, professional-looking joints in furniture or framing projects. If you’re tackling any project that requires consistent, repeatable cuts, a mitre saw will quickly become one of your most-used tools. I didn’t go overboard on my mitre saw but I did want something with a 230mm cut depth. I upgraded the standard blade for an 80 tooth blade for the ultimate smooth cross cut.
Single-Bevel vs. Dual-Bevel:
- Single-Bevel: Can tilt in only one direction (usually left), making it sufficient for basic angled cuts and simpler trim work.
- Dual-Bevel: Tilts both left and right, allowing you to make complex compound cuts without flipping the material, which is a huge time-saver for intricate projects like crown molding.
Sliding vs. Non-Sliding:
- Sliding: Allows the blade to slide forward and backward, increasing the cutting capacity for wider boards. Ideal for large DIY projects like building furniture or decking.
- Non-Sliding: More compact and typically sufficient for trim work or cutting narrower boards.
Pro Tip:
Look for a model with a laser guide for improved cutting accuracy, and always use a sharp, high-quality blade designed for the specific material you’re cutting. A 60-tooth or higher blade will give you smoother cuts, especially when working with delicate trim or hardwood.
10. Miscellaneous Tools & Accessories
While power tools are essential, don’t overlook these additional items:
- Tape Measure (8m): A must-have for any project.
- Pry Bar: Useful for demolition and minor adjustments.
- Drill Bit Set: Invest in a set with various sizes, including spade bits and speciality bits for different materials. Check out the best masonry drill bit review here.
- Cutting Accessories: For projects involving tougher materials like tile, stone, or concrete, specialised tools like diamond blades can significantly improve precision and efficiency.
- Headlamp: For working in dark spaces like crawl spaces or attics.
- Electrical Voltage Tester & Wire Strippers: Essential for basic electrical work like replacing outlets or light fixtures.
- Stud Finder: Ensures you’re securely mounting heavy items on the wall.
- Plunger: One for each bathroom to avoid plumbing mishaps.
Choosing the Right Brand and Battery Ecosystem
When buying power tools, consider sticking with one brand to simplify battery compatibility. Popular brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, Makita, and Ryobi offer a wide range of tools that use the same battery system. I personally have a wide selection of tools from Dewalt’s XR range. Each tool uses the same battery pack, meaning I only need 3 batteries to cover a range of tools.
Top Tip: Check out my guide on recommended power tool brands. For home DIY projects, I suggest choosing from reputable brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, or Makita. If you’re unsure which to go for, it’s worth comparing DeWalt vs Makita for overall value and reliability, or Milwaukee vs DeWalt if you’re focused on performance and durability. I personally advise against budget power tools or off-brand options.
For example, a DeWalt combi drill may cost around £100, but it can easily last over 10 years and offers superior build quality and performance compared to budget models. While a cheaper drill might only set you back £50, it’s likely to last just a few years. In the long run, investing in a high-quality tool will save you time, money, and frustration.
Buy Tools As You Need Them
As a seasoned homeowner, my best advice is to buy tools as you need them, rather than stocking up on everything at once. It’s easy to get excited and purchase tools that end up collecting dust because they’re rarely used. Start with a solid set of basics, such as a drill, a tape measure, and a level, and gradually expand your collection as new projects arise.
This approach allows you to build a toolset tailored to your specific needs and skill level. As you gain experience and confidence tackling different tasks, you’ll naturally identify which tools will make your work easier and more efficient. For instance, you might start with a circular saw for simple cuts, but later realise a mitre saw is a game-changer for precise, angled cuts in trim or furniture projects.
When you do invest in tools, prioritize quality over quantity. High-quality power tools from trusted brands like DeWalt, Makita, or Milwaukee may cost more upfront, but they offer superior performance, durability, and safety features. A well-maintained tool from a reputable brand can last a lifetime, saving you money and frustration in the long run compared to replacing cheaper, lower-quality tools every few years.
Remember, the right tool at the right time not only makes a project easier but also more enjoyable—and that’s the real secret to successful DIY homeownership.
Conclusion
Owning your first home is a thrilling experience, and having the right tools on hand can make home maintenance and DIY projects much easier. Start with essential power tools like an impact driver, drill, circular saw, and oscillating tool. Add others as you need them, and don’t forget the importance of non-power tools like a tape measure, pry bar, and stud finder. With the right setup, you’ll be ready to tackle any project your new home throws your way.
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