High quality tools are an expensive investment and it is in your best interest to store them properly to prolong their functional life span. If you are fortunate enough to have a tool shed that is reasonably waterproof you can store everything from your lawn mower to your socket set in this convenient space. Once you have your tool shed organized, chores around the house and yard will take less time.
Start by doing a complete inventory of everything you currently have in your shed including tools, building materials, spare parts, etc. Donate anything that you have not used in the last year and do not anticipate using in the next two. Remember, you can always borrow stuff from your brother in law if you have to! The fewer items you have tostore, the easier it is to become and remain a paragon of order.
The most sensible way to organize your tools is by frequency of use. If you have an implement that you only take out once a year it can be stored behind or beneath items that you use more often. This ensures that you can find what you need for any project easily.
Install shelving, wall hooks and bins in your shed to maximize your available storage capacity. Heavy duty plastic and metal are materials that are durable and well suited to this purpose. Sort tools, fasteners, and other items by type into clearly labeled containers for easy access. Make sure all metal parts are protected from excessive moisture. Use tarps to cover larger pieces of equipment when not in use.
Keep floor space clear of obstructions as much as possible. It is better to keep miscellaneous items in a bucket than to have them strewn underfoot. Even the most organized person is entitled to have one "junk drawer" where they throw stuff that doesn't seem to belong anywhere else.
Store flammable and toxic substances such as solvents and lubricants according to manufacturer directions to reduce the risk of injury and death. Always keep appropriate safety gear such as eye shields, face masks, hearing protection and gloves within easy reach and remember to use them! You will need to lock your tool shed for security especially if you have young children since this is the only realistic way to child-proof it.
Finally, keep documentation of your entire tool inventory since this list will be essential if you have to make a claim against your homeowner's policy. It also gives you a place to record who you loaned any item to so you can be sure to ask for it back.
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