My furnace decided to go on strike this week as the mercury dipped just shy of -37 Celsius. My immediate reaction was to toggle the thermostat switch with the vague notion it would begrudgingly turn on. Unfortunately that was not the outcome, so I made my way into the basement as I randomly stared at flashing green lights- searched for a pilot flames and other potential signs of life. I made myself feel useful by replacing the filter- still no luck. As I tried to explain the situation to Gary and eventually the furnace repair man- I felt like a Texan trying to order a glass of wine in French. I totally butchered it.
Which brings me to the question- when things go wrong in the house, as a women how do we feel somewhat competent and productive with tasks that require tools to do minor fixes or improvements. I’m not talking major reno’s, just the basics required that any lady single or attached should be in possession of and aware of how to use it.
- A Hammer- Useful for Knocking Stuff Off or In
- Screw Driver Set- Even one multi-use screw drivers with interchangeable heads is handy
- Pliers (Slip-Joint, Needle-nose and Diagonal)
- Level- If you have an Iphone this is a great App to get
- Measuring Tape- Get one with a belt clip
- Utility Knife- Helpful for opening tough boxes
- Wood Saw- Great for trimming small branches, ect
- Flashlight
- Plunger- I know but you can never be sure
- Cordless Drill
- Utility Stapler
- Wrenches (Hex-Key Set, Vise Grip and Crescent)
Through my research I came across Tom Boy Tools. The company designs and sells customized tools for women and teaches them how to use them through home improvement lessons at tool parties. Tom Boy advocates women becoming confident, competent homeowners, however I don’t mind the cliché that all their tools are Pink! I especially loved their hammer, that has a magnetized nail groove to line up and hold the nail in place- genius.
I really need it,thank you very much!!!