The Importance of Proper Storage for Putty Knives
A putty knife is an essential tool in any DIY enthusiast’s kit. Its primary function is to spread putty and fillers smoothly onto surfaces while also removing old putty when replacing windows or removing tiles. It is necessary to maintain your putty knife’s quality and effectiveness by properly storing it after use. This article will explore a few ways to store your putty knife to ensure that it lasts longer and performs better.
Clean your Putty Knife
Before storing your putty knife, always ensure that it is free of any residual putty or debris from your previous project. Keep in mind that as putty dries, it becomes incredibly hard and difficult to remove. To avoid having to chisel off hardened putty the next time you want to use it, make sure you remove all traces of putty using a brush or scraper.
Use a Clean Towel
Once you’ve cleaned your putty knife thoroughly, the next step is to dry it off using a clean towel. Wipe off all moisture from the blade, starting from the handle down to its tip. Using a towel ensures that the knife remains dry and free from rust and other forms of damage.
Store it in a Dry Place
Storing your putty knife in a cool, dry place is essential to keeping it in optimal condition. A moist environment will cause the tool to rust, which can degrade the blade’s effectiveness and shorten its life span. A plastic tub or a cardboard box, kept in a dry location, is an ideal place to store your putty knife.
Consider Using a Magnet Strip
One alternative method for storing your putty knife is a magnetic strip. Mounting the strip on the wall near your work station allows you to have quick and easy access to your putty knife. Also, the strip will keep it visible, reminding you to store it correctly after use. A magnetic strip also ensures that the blade does not come into contact with other metal objects, which can lead to rusting.
