10 Power Tools Every Homeowner Needs to Have

Being a homeowner means taking care of your house when something breaks, leaks, or needs maintenance and repair. A hammer, screwdriver set, and a wrench or two will serve you well, but eventually you’ll have to pull out something with more muscle to get the job done. Arming yourself with a good set of power tools is not only a key way to keep your home in top shape, but it will also make completing DIY projects around the house a breeze. Here are 10 power tools that are must haves for every homeowner.

1. Multimaster Tool

If you buy nothing else this year for your home’s power tool supply, get a multimaster tool. It can sand, scrape, cut, saw, and polish without putting you in danger of losing a limb. Multimaster tools make home improvement projects safer and quicker to complete, and are the ultimate in versatility. Fein’s FMM 350Q features high powered performance, excellent speed controls, and great torque transfer. It easily out powers other multimaster tools in its class, and if looks matter to you, this model is attractive. It even comes with its own carrying case, all for about $165.

2. Router

No, this isn’t the router used for your internet service. A router is a versatile little power tool that has a spinning bit that can cut holes, shape and finish edges, and create contours. Making raised panels and details such as dovetails is super easy with a router. The Bosch PR20EVSK Colt costs less than $100 and comes with a variable speed control and edge guide. A soft grip and aluminum construction provide durability and a nice finish.

3. Jigsaw

Having a good jigsaw on hand will allow you to cut wood and other materials with curves. It’s also essential for making plunge cuts — if you ever decide to do your own remodeling, you’ll be glad to have one around. The Black & Decker BDEJS300C is a jigsaw that has a variable speed of up to 3,000 SPM and a 4.5 amp motor. Tilting base plates and a dust blower make it easier and more comfortable to use. This power packed gem costs about $25.

4. Battery Powered Drill

Using a manual screwdriver works sometimes, but a battery powered drill can blaze through everything from hanging pictures to assembling furniture. The Black & Decker SS-12 is affordable, powerful, and will efficiently get through most jobs around the house . It has variable speed, a cordless design that’s easy to adjust and use, and a smart select clutch. You can pick one up for less than $40 at most hardware stores or online. If you’re uneasy about using power tools, a batter powered drill will ease you into the DIY life.

5. Circular Saw

Brick, glass, wood, concrete, stucco — there’s very little that you won’t be able to cut through with a circular saw. Circular saws, also known as skilsaws, are often used to cut plywood, fence posts, create skylight holes, and cut wall openings. The Skil 5280-01 15 amp circular saw has a single beam laser to guide your cuts and increase precision. It’s less taxing to use compared to other models and is affordable as well — you can buy this Skil saw for about $65.

6. Palm Sander

Don’t even think that you should waste time rubbing regular old sandpaper along your projects — there’s a much easier way to go about smoothing and finishing wood. A palm sander has an orbital belt that is super speedy and you’ll find all sorts of uses for it. The Dewalt D26441K 2.4 amp orbital sander is not only affordable at just under $50, it comes with its own cloth dust bag. You’ll definitely be thankful for this feature, as using a palm sander creates a lot of dust and cleanup can be a chore if you don’t use a bag. This power tool also has excellent construction and features an anti-slip grip.

7. Reciprocating saw

What, exactly, is a reciprocating saw? It’s a hand held machine that blasts through materials such as metal, wood, and drywall. You can even cut through nails with one of these things, and it’s indispensable for remodels and major repairs. The Dewalt DWE304 10 amp reciprocating saw is easier to handle than other models, which can be unwieldy if you’re not an experienced craftsman or builder. It has a variable speed trigger, easy controls, and is excellent for flush cutting. This Dewalt model can be bought for about $80.

8. Table Saw

You may not think you need to go all out and get a table saw, but if you can fit one into your workshop, shed, or garage it’s a worthwhile investment. While chop saws cut smaller pieces of wood across the grain, table saws can cut longer lumber along the grain lengthwise. A set of sawhorses is best to use with this power tool, but those who need a space saving option should try the Rockwell RK7323 Blade Runner. This portable saw can fit onto an average table top but still has plenty of power and useful features to get most jobs done. Safety mechanisms and guards make this table saw less intimidating to use than bigger models, especially for novice DIYers.

9. Air Compressor

Not only can you use an air compressor to provide energy for certain tools, it can be used for airbrushing, pumping up bike tires and sports equipment, and blowing dust from small spaces. Unless you frequently do heavy duty projects around your house, a portable air compressor such as the Kensun YS-205 will do just fine. This particular model has a multi function inflator, three nozzle adapters, an extra long cord, and a hose made of quality rubber. The compact, space saving size, great features, and affordable price of less than $40 make this air compressor a bargain.

10. Compound Mitre Saw

Also known as a chop saw, a compound miter saw will easily get through lumber like butter. Use it to build furniture projects, remodel, or repair baseboards, trim, crown molding, and cut 2x4s. It’s ideal for making accurate bevel, angle, and cross cuts. The Dewalt DW715 is a high quality option that costs less than $225. It’s portable, easy for people of all experience levels to handle, and has an adjustable miter plate with 11 positive stops.