Rust on Tools

Are you faced with the problem of a rusty shovel, rake, trimmer, pruner, saw, screwdriver, drill bit, wrench? It’s important to use the proper tool for the job, but it’s not going to perform well if it is damaged by rust.

Since moisture in the air is one of the most common causes of rust, tools that are stored in moist environments are very susceptible to rusting. You may have noticed rust or rust stains on your tools from situations like these:

• Sawdust buildup on wood tools.
• Mud and organic matter left on garden implements.
• Moist grass left on mower blades.
• High-humidity tool storage areas.
• Anything left out in the weather, rain, snow or subjected to water from flooding or leaks.

When metals containing iron come in contact with oxygen and moisture, a process called oxidation occurs. Over time, oxidation causes rust build up. Because most tools are made from, or fastened with metal parts, they are very vulnerable to rusting. Further complicating the problem, we often store tools in poorly-ventilated locations such as sheds or garages. No matter how careful you are with your things, chances are you are going to end up with rust on a tool at some point.

Rust is important to address for several reasons. First, because it literally eats away at your tools, causing problems ranging from minor discoloration, to pitting (small divots in the surface of metals) to complete tool breakage and malfunction. Damp or wet conditions, along with moist organic matter such as mud, grass, rainwater, or sawdust from woodworking, are perfect breeding grounds for rust.

Preventing Rust

Take these preventative measures:

• Thoroughly clean and dry off all tools after use
• Store them indoors if possible and off the ground.
• Keep a dry towel hanging near tool storage so drying tools is convenient.
• Avoid leaving tools outside.
• Store tools in a climate-controlled part of your house or shop.
• If you live in a damp climate, use Moisture Absorbers to reduce dampness in your storage areas.

Cleaning Rust From Tools

If you already have rust on your tools, you can remove it in minutes with RustAid products. RustAid Spray Gel works wonders to remove rust stains on small indoor tools and appliances. For larger, tougher stains on outdoor tools and equipment, use RustAid Outdoor and watch the rust vanish on contact. For more information and directions, visit How To Safely Remove Rust From Tools.

Maintaining and storing your tools properly are the keys to preventing damage from rust. RustAid products are the keys to removing rust when it does happen.

To get the rust before it gets your tools . . .