Every homeowner should have a set of tools to be used for DIY jobs. It might be a small toolbox that contains the basics such as screwdrivers and a hammer. Alternatively, you could have a vast selection of both hand and power tools. Whatever type of toolkit you have though, it pays to take care of your tools. According to the experts at Devour Tools, makers of high-performance diamond metal blades for a variety of tools, making sure that you care and maintain your hand and power tools will ensure they last longer and will always perform as expected. Taking the time to care for your tools will mean DIY jobs around the home are quicker, easier, and safer. To that end, below are a few tips for the proper maintenance of your tools.
Correct Storage
There is just no point spending money on tools if you are not going to store them properly. This applies to both hand and power tools. If you just throw them in a drawer or cupboard after use, they are likely to get damaged. It is important that you have a specific place for your tools, such as a tool bag, toolbox, or garage. Keep your tools in an environment free from moisture and devoid of extreme temperature fluctuations. If you store your tools in a garage, consider hanging them on a pegboard for ease of use and to keep them separated from other tools that could cause damage.
Clean Tools After Every Use
However tired you are after completing a job around the house, you should take the time to clean your tools after use and correctly store them away again. Allowing dust and dirt to accumulate on your tools could shorten their lifespan and make them less efficient when you use them again. Also, the sooner you clean your tools, the easier it will be. Dust and dirt on the tools can usually be removed with a soft brush or a cloth. You can use warm soapy water to clean some hand tools like planes, hammers, and saws (be incredibly careful cleaning a saw), but for power tools, compressed air or a vacuum cleaner is preferable.
Inspect them Regularly
Regular inspection of your tools will help to keep them performing as they should for longer. This means checking all moving parts and lubricating them if necessary. Power tools will come with a user manual which will have instructions for safe and effective cleaning. It is advisable to follow these guidelines to keep your tools working as they should and to prevent voiding your warranty.
Follow Safety Precautions
Power tools in particular are designed to be used in a specific way. If you do not use them as per the manufacturer’s guidelines, you are more likely to cause damage. It is best to read the instruction booklet completely before you use any new tools.
Safety when using tools that have blades is paramount. You should always make sure to wear the correct protective equipment, such as goggles, gloves, and a hardhat, if appropriate. Make sure that electrical cables do not become a hazard and that children and pets are not in the immediate vicinity when tools are in operation.
Summary
Your DIY jobs depend on a variety of hand and power tools that are operating efficiently. To ensure this, it is important to take diligent care of your tools by storing them correctly, cleaning them after every use, and making sure you inspect them regularly. It is also important to use your tools exactly as recommended by the manufacturer.
