TOOL TIP #1

Foams and sealants are messy. But if you follow best practices, you can make the most of both can sprays and spray systems. When applicable, be sure that you’re shaking the foam right before application, which will actually help it dispense when applying foam. Avoid dragging the application tip along the surfaces, especially concrete or steel. If you drag the valve at the end of the tip against a rough surface and damage it, not only will the gun leak, the foam inside the barrel will cure and you won’t be able to clean it out.

During application, always try to keep the can as vertical as possible, it helps disperse the product evenly. 

You can’t unscrew a partially used can from a spray gun and then reliably restart it. You can spray it with foam cleaner, but the problem is that the valve is going to become blocked. If you find yourself needing to switch between a number of foam products, it’s better to dedicate a product to a gun and have multiple guns.

You can leave a can attached to the gun for up to 30 days if you have a partially used can. If the can is fully expelled, flush the gun with gun cleaner until all product is removed. After this step, take your gun cleaner, spray a little bit on a rag, and then wipe the tip. While you’re doing that, make sure that the end of the tip has no debris caught in it, you want that tip to be clean.

TOOL TIP #2

Organizing tools in storage solutions makes tasks easier by reducing time spent finding your tools. Durability and capacity are key in tool storage. The great thing about tool storage is that you can customize cabinets, peg boards, boxes to suit your professional needs. Ultimately, investing in tool storage pays dividends through increased productivity and longevity of tools.

TOOL TIP #3

If you take care of your tools, it will make any construction or repair project easier, safer, and more efficient. Taking care of tools saves money because the better tools are cared for, the longer the tools will last.

Make it a habit to clean tools after each use before you return them to storage. Wipe them down after use and be sure they are free of dust, grease and debris before you put them away. This is also an opportunity to look for any damage or defects. Check tool handles for debris or damage. Also, make sure that metal parts show no signs of corrosion or rust. Repair or replace any tools that are badly worn, or show signs of damage.

After cleaning, use an all-purpose patroleum-based lubricant to protect tools with adjustable parts. Lightly spray other metal tool parts as well (avoid getting oil on handles), such as wrenches and bladed tools. Wipe away any excess lubricant before storing. This will help fight corrosion and rust. If there are signs of rust, try scrubbing with steel wool, or a wire brush. After removing the rust, wipe dry then reapply a light coating of protective lubricant.