The other day I was surprised by an older colleague asking how to tighten a screw . . . I was surprised because he was part of the generation I expect to know these things.  In my opinion, it wasn't until the 1980's that people started to outsource their basic skills . . .

I take much of this for granted, but here goes . . .

• Screws are "Right to Tight and Left to Loose"
• Turn off the main switch at the breaker box (probably in your basement or garage) before changing a light switch, outlet, or light fixture (very simple jobs)
• Turn off the water flow under the sink or toilet (remember-- right to tight and left to loose) before repair or replacement
• Real men (and real women) do read and re-read the instructions before starting a job (they also go out of their way to tell their spouses how hard and complicated the easy jobs were to complete)

Learning to do a few things for yourself can save you a few bucks and to steal a phrase from Martha-- That's a good thing.

Here are some of the must have basic tools you should have in your household toolbox (you should have one):

• Hammer
• Screwdrivers (Assorted sizes)
  • Flathead (straight line)
  • Phillips head (cross)
• Pliers
• Visegrip
• Wrench set
• Small handsaw
• Flashlight
• Hand drill and assortment of bits
• Small level
• Utility knife
• Measuring tape
• Pencil
• Assortment packs of
  • Nails
  • Screws
  • Nuts and bolts
• Electrical tape
• Duct tape

These are the basics for a home improvement DIYer-- add more as new jobs present themselves.  Most of these tools can be found at tag sales (you might get lucky and buy a whole toolbox full of stuff for $10 or go to Wal-Mart and pay about $35).  I view tools as investments because they can save you time and money.

Happy fixing!

Like this post? Check out the related posts for more information.  You can also get email notification of new posts in your email by subscribing.  Your email address won't be used for any other purpose than to send you notification of a new post.

Related posts:
Feeling Helpless? Knowledge will Empower You (and Save You a Small Fortune)
Why Do We Only Prepare or Act After a Problem or Disaster?
How to Become an Instant Expert on Any Topic . . .
The Joy of To-Do Lists
Burning Daylight
Is This Purchase An Investment?
DIY Auto Savings . . .
How To . . . Posts Revisited
What Happened to Self-Sufficiency?
Never, Ever Stop Learning . . .