A certain basic set of tools should be present in every household. However, laypeople in particular focus primarily on price when buying tools and reach for cheap offers from hardware stores or discounters. It is not uncommon for the supposed bargain to turn out to be junk after only a short period of use. This is not only annoying, but in the worst case, it can even be dangerous. In Germany alone, over 300,000 DIY enthusiasts injure themselves every year, with many of these cases being attributable to the inferior quality of the tools. We show what you should look for when buying tools and how to maintain them properly.
Source: produktion.bwr-media.de
Important questions before buying tools
To avoid bad purchases, you should ask yourself the following questions before buying tools:
- For what purpose do I need the tool?
- How often is the tool used?
- What requirements should the tools meet?
- Which tools are already available?
Based on these questions, you can narrow down the selection and avoid buying aimlessly. Especially if the tool is used regularly, DIY enthusiasts should value quality.
“Whoever buys cheap, buys twice”
Especially in the hobby sector, the price range offers a lot of leeway. Even if the price is too tempting, you should take a look at the quality before buying. Even for laypeople, such a quality check can be carried out without any problems. If possible, you should pick up the tools and check the workmanship. For example, the head of a hammer should not sit loosely on the handle, and a screwdriver should have sufficient stability. Material specifications also provide information about the quality of the tools. Mechanical hand tools should ideally be made of hardened steel. Inferior materials usually do not offer the required stability and can bend or break during use. Test seals such as the GS mark also provide security. These show that the tools have been tested for quality and workmanship and pose no risk to the consumer.
Proper maintenance of hand tools
For a long service life, not only must the quality of the tools be right, but maintenance also determines durability. Basically, tools should be thoroughly cleaned after every use. Oils, greases, and other residues in particular should be removed before storing them in the toolbox. Suitable cleaning agents can be obtained, for example, at www.engelbert-strauss.at. These remove dirt reliably without attacking the surface of the tools. However, tool maintenance includes not only cleaning but also proper storage. Screwdrivers, socket wrenches, bits, and drill bits should not be stored indiscriminately in a box to protect the tools, but should be neatly housed in a toolbox.
Maintenance of power tools
For a long service life, power tools should also be cleaned after use. It is best to use compressed air or a fine brush for this. Interchangeable parts, such as drill bits or bits, should not remain in the tool but should be stored in a storage box. If power tools are stored in the basement, you should ensure that they are protected from moisture. Battery-operated power tools should also be charged twice a year. Otherwise, there is a risk that the battery will deep-discharge and the hedge trimmer or cordless screwdriver will no longer work when needed.
Read also: Toolbox without rust
Photo by Sabine, meinhaushalt.at
I have to admit that I laughed a little when I saw that knives were responsible for most accidents! What counts as 'Other' for the graph? And, I am grateful for the other tips regarding tool maintenance, especially for the electrical appliances! They are expensive.