How to Store Power Tools

Last updated on December 10th, 2022 at 10:31 pm

How you store your power tools often influences their durability. When I bought my first power tools, I used them, let them cool, and returned them to the toolbox. As time went on, I got tired of them and thought of making some space in my garage. However, I could not keep it outside because it would be exposed to dust and bad weather. So I came up with the idea of building a cabinet with a heating unit.

It was well worth the investment, as I have had it for five years and can not complain. This article presents six methods for storing your power tools. What works for me may not necessarily be beneficial for you, but among these six methods, you may find one that works in your favour.

List of things that you may need to use:

Box or case

If you are working on a budget, store all your power tools inside the box or case in which they were purchased in. The toolbox keeps the dust out and protects them from rusting.

Before you start, consult the manual, and have the original package and all the necessary information. If you do not want to use the box, use a toolbox. 

Toolbox

A toolbox is another method that you can use to keep your power tools. Put some silica gel packs inside to keep moisture levels down. Silica gel removes moisture by absorption. Silica gel packs are available on Amazon at an affordable price.

Tool chest or cabinet

A tool chest or cabinet is also for storing power tools. It locks out moisture., preventing rust from your power tools. Line the drawers with anti-rust papers as an extra precaution.

Hanging

Hanging tools is another way to store power tools. It saves space since you do not have to build cabinets. Only hang pegboards on the wall in your garage or basement. It keeps tools clean and organised. Check out pegboard organisers on Amazon. They have a lot of hanging accessories and multiple colours.

Hanging tools keep them safely off the floor. Chances are low that you will accidentally trip over them. The power tools are safe from ground moisture that causes rusting.

Consider hanging your tools in a shed, garage, or basement, but you should consider humidity. You should know how to manage and maintain it. For home use, you can easily control moisture with a dehumidifier. That makes basement storage ideal for power tools.

Basement

If your garage has a heating unit, it helps control temperature and humidity. If you do not have one, you may have it installed or invest in a large space heater. It is worth the investment if you are a woodwork or metalwork fanatic.

Shed

You can also keep your power tools in a shed, but keep it well-insulated and well-ventilated. Shades rarely come with insulation, but design and build one yourself. For convenience,  add electrical outlets to operate and charge the tools while running a heater or dehumidifier.

A garage performs better with controlled temperature and humidity. Chances are low that your tools will suffer damage from being kept in a cold place, such as a garage. However, avoid freezing temperatures as they make metal and plastic parts on power tools weak or brittle (thespruce.com). Such temperature damages or breaks them. 

Pegboards

Steps 

1. Visit your local hardware store or go online and purchase supplies for your storage.
2. Cut your pegboard and wood pieces to size.
3. Use a stud finder to locate the studs on your garage wall. Mark them with a pencil or pen where you want the top frame board to go.
4. Pre-drill three holes, starting with the top board.
5. Secure the first screw, stop and measure to ensure the board is level.
6. Secure the remaining two screws to secure the board in place. 
7. Measure and mark out space for the bottom board. It should be level and lined up correctly with the top board. Pre-drill through the board and secure it in place with the wood screws.
8. Attach the middle board to the wall between the top and bottom boards.
9. Mount the pegboard to the frame boards. Pre-drill the wood frames and secure them to the pegboard using the wood screws.
10. Hang the pegboard accessories. Make adjustments if necessary to fit your power tools.
11. Hang your power tools and clean up the area.

Step By Step Process.

1. Start by preparing them for storage.
2. Clean them after each use, wiping down the tools with a damp cloth first, and towel-dry them afterwards. That removes any lingering dust, dirt, or grease from your power tools and keeps moisture from rusting them.
3. Spray your power tools with a metal protectant before storing them. The lubricant will coat the metal and help repel dust. Dust attracts moisture which causes rusting.
4. After spraying, tools may be slippery, so be careful when handling or storing them.
5. Check and see if there are any broken or defective pieces and throw them away.
6. Disposing of any parts beyond replacement to keep your workspace functional and clutter-free. Never use power tools with faulty parts since they are unproductive when damaged and hazardous.

How Long it will take

It depends on the method used. Using ready-made storage takes two minutes. Even if it is hanging, you must handle your power tools carefully. Otherwise, you will destroy them or hurt yourself. 

Expected Results

No matter the method you choose, it has to be protective enough to keep your valuable tools safe and clean. The idea is to prevent your power tool’s dust, debris, and moisture build-up. These may cause mechanical and electrical failure. That is why you should clean your tools before you store them. Storage racks and shelving can store multiple materials.

Things to look out for

• Watch out for debris, dust, and moisture. Clean your tools before and after use for maximum performance
• Make sure your tools are not exposed to excess moisture. 
• Be careful of the temperature of the space.

Conclusion

In summary, there are several storage methods for your power tools. Choose between the available options depending on which one works for you. There are a few things you should keep in mind when storing power tools. I suspect you have already made your best choice.