Australia is a great place for DIYers and hobbyists to find the tools they need to work on their projects. But, like anything else, if you don’t take care of your tools, they won’t last very long. This article will provide five tips for maintaining your shop hand tools in Australia to ensure that they stay in good condition for as long as possible. From cleaning to storage, these simple tips will help keep your tools in top shape.
Keep Them Organized
Organizing your shop hand tools is essential for ensuring they remain in good condition and are ready to use when you need them. Utilize storage shelves, racks, toolboxes, and drawers to keep your tools organized and easy to access. If you have a lot of tools, invest in a tool chest which will help keep them separate and prevent you from misplacing any.
Separate tools into categories and label each group clearly so you know where to find them quickly and easily. Finally, if you need to take your tools with you when working on different projects, make sure to keep them all in one bag, so you don’t lose any!
Clean Them Regularly
Cleaning your shop hand tools regularly is an important part of maintaining them in top condition. This helps prevent rust and the build-up of dirt and grime, which can eventually lead to tool failure. Use a damp cloth to wipe down each tool after use. Make sure to pay special attention to the blades and any exposed metal surfaces.
After cleaning, dry the tools completely and store them away from moisture and dust. Make sure to occasionally apply a light oil to any metal components to help protect them from corrosion. Cleaning and caring for your tools regularly will ensure they last longer and perform better.
Sharpen Them Often
It is important to ensure your shop hand tools stay in optimal working condition, and a great way to do this is to sharpen them regularly. This may seem like a daunting task, but it is actually quite easy with the right tools and techniques. Firstly, make sure you have the right sharpening stone for the job. For most applications, a medium grit stone should be used.
Then, hold the blade firmly against the stone and use a gentle circular motion while maintaining an angle of around 25 degrees. After that, you can move onto a finer grit stone to further refine the edge. Finally, use a strop to polish the blade and leave it with a razor-sharp finish. Sharpening your tools regularly will not only help them perform better but also extend their lifetime.
Store Them Properly
It’s important to store your hand tools properly when not in use. Store tools in a dry, cool place to prevent rusting and corrosion. You should also avoid storing tools in direct sunlight, as this can warp and damage them. Make sure to store sharp tools away from any children or pets for safety purposes.
It’s best to keep all of your tools together in one toolbox or drawer, where you can easily access them when needed. Label drawers or sections, if you have a lot of tools, to make it easier to find the right one. Finally, consider using a tool magnet strip or wall-mounted rack to keep small tools organized and out of the way.
Inspect Them Regularly
It’s important to inspect your shop hand tools regularly for any wear and tear or damage. Make sure to check for any cracks, dents, rust, or other signs of deterioration. Be sure to take a close look at any moving parts and check for any damage or wear and tear.
Pay particular attention to the condition of the tool handles and grips, as these can affect your safety while using them. If you notice any damage, it’s best to replace the tool immediately, as it can be dangerous to use damaged tools.
Conclusion
Maintaining your shop hand tools in Australia is essential for ensuring they are in good working order. Taking the time to regularly organize, clean, sharpen, store, and inspect your tools will not only extend their lifespan but also save you money in the long run. With a little bit of extra care and maintenance, you can ensure that your shop hand tools remain reliable and ready to use whenever you need them.
