When to Replace Shop Tools and Why

Knowing how to maintain expensive tools is important to any business. The tools that help you get the perfect finish and make people coming back for more. Knowing when to update, replace, or toss tools can be tricky. Below are a few signs to look for in your shop tools and why it is important to perform frequent checks and maintenance. This is a broad overview that will give you a glimpse of a detailed checklist you need.

When to Replace, Update or Toss
The most obvious sign you need to replace your tool is a dull blade. Between bits, cutters, knifes, and even saws there is a lot that can go dull in any sign shop. Making sure your blades are providing clean crisp cuts can mean the difference between a customer recommending you to a friend or customer looking elsewhere for their sign needs.

Another sure sign for replacement is if your tools are chipped, cracked, or otherwise damaged. You might be able to place some tape around a knife handle, but faulty tools lead to complications in your process. One wrong slip, chip, or accident and it could mean wasting expensive material and starting all over. It’s better to replace questionable tools than take the risk.

Some projects call for your blades to replace after every cut! It’s critical in the car wrapping business to have a sharp blade. Some even recommend breaking off your blade for a new one after every cut. If you can’t get the clean crisp lines on the cut and have a jagged edge, it will be near impossible to fix the mistake. Thus, making the finish look questionable, or ruining the vinyl altogether.

You don’t need to update your tools simply because there’s something bigger and better on the market. You should update your tools when they break, wires fray or become exposed, or a new tool would improve work flow and optimize time performance and overall finish. Updating your tools is more complex than breaking off a new blade, but it’s something a shop should consider every six months to a year.

Why Bother?
As mentioned briefly, not replacing your shop tools can cost you. a worn out, dull tool can ruin expensive substrate and make your final product average or second rate. Keeping your tools fresh can provide your finish products with clean, crisp looks that can elevate your business above others.
It can also be a safety hazard not to. Chipped or cracked tools are a danger to the work environment and are one accident away from harming employees. Similar is frayed or exposed wires. Maintaining and keeping an eye on your equipment can save you from bodily harm and save your wallet.

Upkeep and maintenance are the key to any shop. From your end product looking sharp and eye catching to workplace safety, there are many reasons to hold regular inspections. Even having a routine with caring for your tools can mean the difference between dull and sharp. We hope this gave you a reminder to check your tools! And practice good shop care.