How to Keep Tools from Rusting in the Garage
There’s no worse feeling than heading to the garage to get the tool you need for a job, only to discover it’s covered in a layer of rust that wasn’t there last time you used it. And while most of the time a rusty tool can still be used, it’s going to do a much better job if you take measures to prevent rust occurring in the first place.
Why Do Tools Get Rusty When Stored in a Garage?
Rust is caused by a reaction that takes place on surfaces of iron or its alloys (like steel: a common material for tools). When oxygen and water are present, water acts as an electrolyte to facilitate the transfer of electrons between metal and oxygen. Iron molecules lose electrons, and the resulting ions react with oxygen and water to form rust. The formation of rust is cyclic, meaning as more rust gathers it traps more moisture, making it easier for more rust to form. This means that treating the root causes and spotting the problem early are the best courses of action, but more on that later. With the above in mind, factors that increase the likelihood of the rust reaction taking place fall into four main areas: moisture exposure, improper storage, inadequate maintenance, and other factors:
Moisture Exposure
Putting tools away wet: moisture is the primary cause of rust, so tools should always be dried before you put them away. Humid or damp conditions: a garage with humid or damp air will prevent tools from drying fully, contributing to the risk of rust. Storing tools on concrete or other surfaces that retain moisture: storing tools out in the open on moisture-retaining surfaces means some of it may be transferred to them, promoting rust.
Improper Storage
Storing tools out in the open: it’s often better to store tools in a toolbox or other tool storage solution. This reduces the severity and impact of temperature and humidity fluctuations. Note that it’s OK to store tools out in the open on racks or similar if the environmental conditions are adequate.
Inadequate Maintenance
Dirty tools: if your tools are dirty when you put them away, the dirt and debris can trap moisture against the metal surface. Poorly conditioned wooden handles: the area where a wooden handle meets a metal tool surface is particularly prone to rust, and keeping the wood properly conditioned is a good way to protect against it. No protective coating: you can apply wax, oil, or specially designed rust inhibitor products to protect metal tool surfaces from rust.
Other Factors
Poor ventilation: well-circulating air is more effective at reducing moisture levels, reducing the amount of moisture your tool surfaces are exposed to. Missing early signs: it’s easy to nip rust in the bud, but many people miss the early signs and only try to address the problem when it’s too late.
Which Tools Are Most Likely to Get Rusty?
The tools that are most likely to get rusty are ones made from iron or steel, and which are frequently exposed to or used in high-moisture conditions. This usually includes all the essential tools for a garage.
Garden tools: shearers, rakes, hoes, spades, and similar: anything that comes into regular contact with moist soil and potentially water.
Hand tools: hammers, wrenches, screwdrivers and similar are often made of steel, which is prone to rusting.
Power tools: especially drill bits, which are easy to accidentally store in damp environments.
Outdoor tools: axes, chainsaws and similar may come into regular contact with moist wood and plant matter, and may mistakenly be left outside in damp, humid conditions.
Also bear in mind that tools with visible wear and tear are at greater risk of getting rusty, because the scratches, dents, and chips in their surfaces expose the bare metal to moisture and oxygen. This can be alleviated slightly by applying protective coatings, but be aware that in general, damage correlates with higher likelihood of rust.
9 Ways to Stop Tools from Rusting in a Garage
Also bear in mind that tools with visible wear and tear are at greater risk of getting rusty, because the scratches, dents, and chips in their surfaces expose the bare metal to moisture and oxygen. This can be alleviated slightly by applying protective coatings, but be aware that in general, damage correlates with higher likelihood of rust.
1. Keep Your Tools Clean
Clean your tools after every use: wipe them with a dry cloth, taking care to check that no moisture, dirt, or other debris is left on the tool surface.
2. Keep Your Tools Dry
With moisture being the main candidate for rusty tools, keeping them dry is crucial. Once you’ve wiped them clean, give them another once over for any lingering moisture. Check the tool surface, handles, etc.
3. Store Tools in a Controlled Environment
Rather than leaving tools on the floor or out in the open, consider using a toolbox, tool cabinet, or other tool storage solution. These offer a controlled environment where moisture and humidity will be minimal, protecting your tools against rust.
4. Consider Using Silica Gel
If you’re feeling concerned about your tools going rusty, perhaps you have a particularly damp garage, you can chuck a couple of sachets of silica gel in your toolbox. This will draw moisture from the air and keep the moisture level down, further protecting your tools.
5. Keep Your Tool Surfaces Protected
You can coat your tools with a thin layer of WD-40 (or even vegetable oil) to act as a barrier against moisture. Just be sure to wipe off any excess to avoid attracting dust.
6. Maintain Any Wooden Handles
As mentioned earlier, the point where the wooden handle meets the metal tool surface is particularly prone to rust. Include handles in your care routine, and make sure they are kept in good condition.
7. Regularly Inspect Your Tools for Signs of Rust
Steel wool, wire brushes, or specialist rust remover products should be used for removing any rust you spot. Reapply a protective coating each time you remove rust from tools.
9. Use Your Tools Correctly
Prevention is the best medicine, as they say. As much as possible, try to avoid using your tools in wet conditions, or in a way that will cause them damage. With moisture being the leading cause of rust and damaged surfaces allowing the reaction to take place more quickly, using your tools well should reduce the risk of both.
Why It’s Important to Store Your Tools in the Garage Correctly
Storing tools correctly protects them against rust and other types of damage and can significantly increase their lifespan. Investing in high quality, durable tools will serve you well for years to come, and taking the time to get good storage and a thorough care routine will pay dividends. It’s all too tempting to chuck tools onto a shelf or into a drawer with little thought into the moisture levels, humidity, or what condition the tool is in. Over time though, this carelessness can lead to rust and other damage which, depending on how long they’ve been left, can render your tools unusable. Replacing them represents a much higher investment of time and money than taking care of them! Take a look at our extensive collection of tool storage solutions today if you need a controlled environment for your tools.
Investing Time Maintaining Your Tools Now Will Save a Lot of Hassle in the Long Run!
It’s more than possible to learn how to keep tools from rusting in a garage: you just need to understand what you’re up against and take the relevant steps to protect your tools. We hope this guide has been useful in formulating your tool care plan and rust defence strategy. If you’ve still got questions about rust, tool storage, or anything else in this piece, please feel free to get in touch with our team. We’ll be happy to answer your questions and connect you with the tool storage solution or tool care product you need.