Keeping your tools sharp is essential for ensuring their longevity. Dull blades and bits lead to poor-quality work and can even be dangerous for the user.
Keeping your shears, pruning saws, and garden tools sharp makes gardening much more accessible. It also extends their lifespan.
Keep Your Tools Clean
If your tools are not cleaned regularly, they will develop a layer of grime that reduces their functionality. This is true for both hand and power tools.
Even though it may seem like a hassle, cleaning your tools every time you use them is essential. This will prevent dirt and dust build-up inside the casing, which can damage internal components.
Another thing to keep in mind is that you should always wipe down your tools before storing them. This will help ensure that no dust or grease is left on the tool’s surface, which can lead to corrosion and rust.
Also, it’s a good idea to lubricate your tools with an all-purpose oil periodically. This will help to keep them running smoothly and extend their lifespan. If your tools have wooden handles, sand and coat them with oil to keep them from drying out or splintering.
Keep Your Tools Safe
Few things will ruin a day on the job more than blunt tools. Garden cutters, chisels, shovels, and other hand tools tend to become dull over time and need sharpening regularly. Corrosion and rust are also common problems, especially on power tools. You can get rid of it if they’re just a little rust, but a professional tool sharpening Hilton Head Island must fix anything more severe.
Finally, check your tools for loose or splintered handles every so often. This will keep them safe to use and reduce their vulnerability to theft.
Extend the life of your tools and work more efficiently on-site with these simple cleaning and storage tips.
Sharpen Your Tools Regularly
If you’re using a saw or other profile tool for wood products or any other job that requires precise and accurate cuts, having them sharpened is essential. You’ll save time and money by working more efficiently with sharp tools. Plus, keeping your tools sharpened will reduce the number of times you must throw away and replace them.
Garden tools like shears must also be cleaned and sharpened regularly if you’re growing lettuce mix or other cut-and-come-again crops that need multiple cuts for proper growth. Dull shears can make it hard to get clean, even cuts that will keep the plant healthy and prevent disease.
Keep Your Tools in Good Condition
Keeping tools in good condition makes them easier to use and reduces the risk of injuries. Keep tools clean after use and in a dry, climate-controlled environment. This helps to prevent physical damage, which can result in dents and rust that decrease tool lifespan. Inspect your tools before putting them away for the day to check for splinters or breaks that can cause injury. It’s also a good idea to invest in a dehumidifier for your garage or workshop to control humidity, which can damage electrical components on power tools and cause metal parts to corrode. Using a multi-purpose oil, such as WD-40, to lubricate tools with adjustable parts, like pliers and wrenches, can help extend their lifespan. Replace worn-out handles on hammers, axes, and other striking tools.
