Fall is the season when yard work picks up, but nothing makes the job harder than dull tools. As Stephen Covey wisely said, “Give me six hours to chop down a tree, and I will spend the first four sharpening the axe.” The lesson? Taking time to maintain your tools saves you time and energy.
But don't worry—you don't need to spend hours sharpening like Covey. With a few easy tips, your tools will stay sharp and in good working order, making your yard work faster and easier.
The Importance of Sharp Tools
Sharp tools make a world of difference when handling yard work. Not only do they get the job done more quickly, but they also reduce wear and tear on both the tool and the user.
How to Maintain Your Yard Tools
Here are some simple yet effective ways to ensure your yard tools are ready for action:
Lubricate Moving Parts: Tools like pruners, loppers, and scissors have pivot assemblies that need regular lubrication to move smoothly. Linseed oil is a fantastic option because it not only lubricates but also prevents rust from forming on the metal.
Rust Removal: Rust can accumulate on your tools, especially when cutting through damp vegetation. A wire brush works wonders to remove it. After cleaning, apply linseed oil to protect the metal and prevent rust from returning.
Protect Wood Handles: If your tools have wooden handles, don’t forget to take care of them too! A light coat of linseed oil helps prevent the wood from drying out and cracking, keeping the handles strong and comfortable to use.
DIY Sharpening Made Easy
Want to sharpen your tools yourself? Use a fine metal file or sharpening stone, and always follow the original angle of the blade. Sharpen in one direction and be gentle—start from the inside of the blade and work toward the outside. After you have worked evenly across the blade, run the file or stone along the backside of the blade to remove burrs and complete the sharpening.
Let Blade Butlers Handle the Hard Work
While DIY sharpening can get you by, nothing beats a professional edge. Stephen Covey may have spent four hours sharpening his axe, but Blade Butlers can give your tools that same precision in far less time. Not only do we sharpen your tools, but we also handle rust removal, lubrication, and overall maintenance to extend the life of your equipment.
This fall, save yourself the time and hassle—let us handle the sharpening so you can focus on enjoying your yard. Book your Blade Butlers service today and see the difference sharp tools can make!
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