The Screws Every Homeowner Should Always Have, According to a DIY Expert

Whether you’re tackling a major home repair or are simply hoping to become more confident with DIY projects, having the right tools and materials on hand makes all the difference. But it can be hard to know where to start. The good news? You don’t need a garage full of fancy equipment to begin. Screws, in particular, are affordable, incredibly versatile, and are useful for everything from quick household fixes to large-scale projects and more complex applications.

“If you only keep a handful of screws at home, focus on the ones that cover the most common projects,” says DIY expert Anika Gandhi. Maintaining a core selection of the most useful types can save time and frustration when repairs pop up unexpectedly.

With so many screw types out there, it’s easy to overthink all the options (and hard to know which ones are best for the job at hand). But Gandhi says there’s really only two types that most homeowners will reach for again and again.

Wood Screws with a Star (Torx) or Square Drive

“A basic set of general-purpose wood screws will handle most indoor repairs and builds, like tightening furniture, fixing loose boards, or assembling simple shelves,” says Gandhi. She suggests keeping a few common lengths on hand, including  3/4", 1 1/4", 2", and 3". 

Thread type and drive matter more than most people realize. “Look for star (or Torx) or square-drive screws whenever possible. They are far easier to drive and less likely to strip than Phillips.”

One common mistake to avoid: using from drywall screws for general projects. “Drywall screws are meant to hold drywall, not to hold things to drywall.” For hanging items like heavy mirrors or artwork, Gandhi recommends using high-quality drywall anchors instead. 

Exterior-Grade Screws for Outdoor Projects

Exterior screws are specially coated to protect them from corrosion, making them essential for any outdoor projects. “If you anticipate doing a lot of exterior projects, keep these in a range of common sizes like 3/4", 1 1/4", and 3", Gandhi advises. Outdoor screws are also a smart choice for indoor projects in moisture-prone areas, such as in the bathroom or under the sink. 

One final tip for both interior and exterior projects: avoid cheap bulk screws made from soft metal. “They strip easily, snap under pressure, and make simple projects way harder than they need to be,” says Gandhi.

Instead, look for screws that feature even threading, a smooth coating, and are a little bit heavier in weight. And if you’re shopping for screws at a hardware store and are unsure about the quality of a particular product, don’t be afraid to ask for help. When there are a lot of options, the best advice may come from someone who has direct experience with that particular brand or style. 

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Tools Homeowners Should Always Have

Of course, screws are only as useful as the tools you use with them. “A good drill/driver is the number one tool every homeowner should own,” says Gandhi.  She recommends a basic 12V/20V drill that’s powerful enough to handle most home projects but is also compact and easy to maneuver.

A bit set is also an important addition to your home workshop—look for one with Phillips, square, and star bits to accommodate different types of screws, along with a few drill bits to create pilot holes.

As for storage, Gandhi likes to store her screws in their original packaging if possible. “That way, you’ll be able to quickly see important info such as size and coating,” she explains. She then puts the packages into a clearly labeled compartment organizer so they stay contained and easy to grab.