Hardwood Floors December 2024/January 2025

By Brett Miller

Those tools require routine maintenance to perform their best. You spend a significant amount of money on the tools you use every day. They are also the backbone of any successful installation, refinishing, or repair job. Proper maintenance of those tools ensures they will last as long as possible, reducing the need for frequent repairs or even replacements, which ultimately leads to downtime. Yet, many flooring professionals overlook a crucial aspect of tool management: maintaining a regular maintenance schedule. A disciplined tool maintenance schedule is the key to making those tools last. Most tool maintenance practices are very simple habits that you can employ at the jobsite or in your shop. Following are some common, and simple tool maintenance practices you can employ to ensure your tools are reliably performing as they are expected to perform. Safety: Safety is a critical concern when working with power tools. A poorly maintained tool is not only inefficient, but also can be dangerous. Dull saw blades can bind and kick back, loose nailer parts can cause jams or misfires, and a malfunctioning power cord can cause fire or electrocution. The vibrations that many tools produce inherently can cause bolts and screws to come loose. Regularly inspect your tools to ensure they are in good working condition. A tool maintenance schedule helps prevent accidents by ensuring that your equipment is

always in optimal working condition reducing the risk of injury to both the operator and those around them. It is not just about keeping tools functioning, but also about protecting yourself and your crews from injury. Cleaning: First impressions can make or break your relationship with a customer. Clean tools represent a clean persona and a well-run business. A clean set of tools gives the impression to your customer that you care about your tools as much as you will care for their home. All of your tools should be cleaned after each use and before they are stored. You can simply wipe dust, grease, and debris from the outside housing with a clean cloth. Compressed air is the best way to clean the dust from the tool’s vents, cracks, and crevices. This not only keeps your tools looking newer, but also helps in prolonging the tools’ life. Do not clean, repair, or store tools that are still connected to a power source.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NWFA

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