Do you have tools that are already old and rusted but still bring value to your work?  How do you know if it’s already time to replace or repair your tool?

Having the right tools is important, but having a tool that works and still is safe to use is critical. 

We will discuss some tips below and find out whether it’s still usable or you should replace your tool. 

1. Visible Damage: If you see anything that is clearly wrong with your tools, it’s time to repair or replace them.  An example would be a broken handle or chipped blades. If you can see issues, it is dangerous and time to grab something else. Chipped saw blades can catch wood yanking you dangerously, or fly off while cutting, so it is best to set them to the side. 

2. Noticeable Difference: It’s not every time that you’ll see physical damage on your tool, but if you can feel it not performing as it once did then you should take a minute to think about it. It likely doesn’t need to be replaced, but you should take it as a warning to repair, sharpen, or prepare to replace it in the near future. For example, a circular saw blade once it gets dull still cuts, but is slower- so you should begin to plan to sharpen or replace it.

3. Old Tools: Depending on the quality of the tools, it may last a lifetime or not. Five years is a good time to reflect on its quality and determine if it is time to invest in a new and better tool. Five years to some tools may be far longer than they should be used, and less than some like a hammer, but if you haven’t taken the time to look at its quality after five years it is definitely time. Also, it is almost certain that new tools that may be better have come out and may even be cheaper than before.

4. Replaceable Items: Other miscellaneous items that require replacing regularly such as respirator filters and dust masks need to be replaced often. That’s because dust accumulates in the filter quite fast, and requires to be cleaned or more easily replaced. Make sure to stay up to date on tools that should be replaced regularly- and a tip we like is to write with a sharpie on them when you first started to use them. 

5. Specific Pieces Need Repair: Power tools specifically, have parts that may not last as long as others. Batteries for example must be replaced more frequently than the motor. If you spend some time inspecting them, you can save money by not replacing the entire tool, but just what needs it. The more complex a tool is, the more likely it is that you don’t need to replace the entirety of it- but can just exchange specific parts to increase its lifespan for less money. 

Tools Are An Investment

Be aware of your tools’ lifespan to avoid using worn-out products that can be a  safety hazard. Some can cost a lot of money and it’s best to learn how to take care of your tools on the job. Cleaning them regularly, monitoring their time of usage, and storing them the right way can increase a tool’s lifespan and reduce the number of times you need to replace them.