I know that the floor repair kit shows up periodically in the "varied items", but do I have to wait until it shows up to get the stuff to fix the other things? (Like the duct tape, e.g.) And/or does the tool kit (that costs $1200) contain the necessary tools to repair everything? I'd be so very upset if I finally saved up enough for that tool kit and it wasn't there.

Yes, you have to wait to the the duct tape, e.g. shows up. I've had the floor repair kit show up at the start of my game. Then had to wait a generation or two before the next floor kit to showed up. Go figure!

No, the tool kit only makes plumbing and appliance repairs last longer. It's a necessary item, in my opinion.
Clicking on any items in the family store will also tell you what they are for.

Ok. Thanks! Patience is NOT my best virtue

My people are in there 40s now and I still haven't been able to get the bird bath to work or the hoses because of parts that I have to wait on in the store. On the next game I hope they make all the items avaiable when ever you want them and not have to wait days for an item to show up