The Importance of Properly Storing and Maintaining Garden and Lawn Equipment

As a homeowner, you likely prioritize your home maintenance tasks based on costs, importance, and urgency. However, one of the tasks that is often overlooked is properly storing and maintaining your garden and lawn equipment. While it may be low on your priority list, it's a task that can pay off in dividends. In this post, we'll discuss the importance of properly storing and maintaining your garden and lawn equipment and provide tips on how to do so effectively.
Why Properly Storing and Maintaining Garden and Lawn Equipment Matters
Lengthens the Lifespan of Your Equipment
Properly storing and maintaining your garden and lawn equipment can help lengthen its lifespan. When your equipment is left outside or in a damp, humid environment, it's more prone to rust and other types of damage. By properly storing your equipment, you can help protect it from the elements and prevent rust and other types of damage.
Saves You Money
In addition to lengthening the lifespan of your equipment, properly storing and maintaining it can also save you money. When your equipment is well-maintained, it's less likely to break down or need repairs. This means you won't need to replace your equipment as frequently, which can save you money in the long run.
Tips for Properly Storing Your Garden and Lawn Equipment
Consider a New Storage Shed

One of the best ways to store your garden and lawn equipment is by using a storage shed. While it may be a time-consuming project, building a shed can be a welcome one for those who enjoy home projects. Patio boxes and smaller storage containers can also provide extra space, but if you need more room or don't have a garage, a shed is a good option.
Check Building Codes and Homeowners' Association By-Laws
Before building a shed, it's important to check your local building codes and any homeowners' association by-laws that may affect the placement, size, or style of your shed.
Build a Good Foundation
When building a shed, it's important to build a good foundation on a level area. Concrete and pressure-treated wood are the most common foundation materials for sheds.
Choose the Right Size and Style
Ensure the door size of the shed you choose can accommodate your largest pieces of equipment, such as riding mowers or snow blowers. Storage structures are usually made from metal, wood, or resin. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, as listed below:

  • Metal Advantages: Usually the cheapest to buy
  • Disadvantages: Prone to rust, especially in humid climates
  • Wood Advantages: Often the most attractive
  • Disadvantages: Needs the most treatment and maintenance to look its best; most prone to rotting and insect damage; among the most time-consuming and challenging to assemble
  • Resin Advantages: Most resistant to rot and rust; among the easiest and fastest to assemble
  • Disadvantages: Among the most expensive

Tips for Properly Maintaining Your Garden and Lawn Equipment
Clean Your Tools Immediately After Use
Tools should always be cleaned immediately after use. Spray them with a hose to remove mud and allow them to air dry. For stubborn dried-on dirt or mud on tools, you may have to use a trowel or other metal tool.
Prevent Rust on Metal Tools
Just as rust is the primary enemy of metal storage units, it also attacks metal tools and parts. If rust is already on your tools, use sandpaper, steel wool, or a stiff brush to remove the rust. Afterward, clean the tool with a cloth dipped in vinegar, then dry it off completely. To prevent rust from forming on your tools, here are some tips:

  1. Keep your tools dry: Moisture is the main cause of rust formation. Therefore, it's essential to keep your tools dry at all times. After using the tools, wipe them with a dry cloth to remove any moisture.
  2. Store your tools properly: Storing your tools properly can help prevent rust from forming. Keep your tools in a dry place, and if possible, store them in airtight containers. This will help prevent moisture from reaching the tools.
  3. Apply a rust inhibitor: There are rust inhibitors available that can help prevent rust from forming on metal surfaces. You can apply a rust inhibitor spray on your tools to provide an extra layer of protection.
  4. Use silica gel packs: Silica gel packs are a great way to absorb any moisture in the air. Place a few silica gel packs in your tool storage container or toolbox to help keep your tools dry.
  5. Use oil: You can use oil to prevent rust from forming on your tools. Apply a light coating of oil on your tools, then wipe off any excess with a cloth. The oil will create a barrier between the metal surface and the air, preventing rust from forming.

Properly storing and maintaining your tools and equipment is crucial to extending their lifespan and ensuring their optimal performance. Taking the time to clean, dry, and store your tools in a dry, cool place can help prevent rust and corrosion, as well as other forms of damage. Additionally, routine maintenance, such as sharpening blades and lubricating moving parts, can help prevent wear and tear, and ensure that your tools are always ready when you need them. With these tips in mind, you can keep your tools and equipment in top condition and avoid the frustration and expense of premature replacements.
The advice on this website is provided as a courtesy for informational purposes only.