Preventing Tool Rust
An accidental discovery by one reader leads to rust prevention on tool beds and tables.
When I turn on the heat in my uninsulated shop, you can almost watch the rust form on the machined surfaces of my tablesaw, jointer, etc. I tried commercial rust preventers, but they didn't last long or transferred to my project materials.
Purely by accident, I found that spar varnish, sprayed on my machine tabletops, effectively prevents rust. After a light sanding with 400-grit paper, the surfaces are shiny and smooth, with no transfer to my workpieces. It's been more than 6 months since the treatment, and I've not seen a speck of rust.
- John Gaeler, Keswick, Ont.
Free Year + Free Gift! Order NOW and get 1 FREE year of Wood® Magazine! PLUS you'll get our Great Projects for Your Shop guide instantly! That's 2 full years (14 issues) for the 1-year rate- just $28.00. This is a limited-time offer, so HURRY! (U.S. orders only) (Click here for Canadian orders)
Add your comment
Please confirm your comment by answering the question below and clicking "Submit Comment."
I guess I'm not familiar with "spar" varnish...is this simply varnish in a spray can?
10/27/2011 12:17:14 PM Report AbuseI just did some research. I better go turn that fan off. Looks like my problem is worse than rust. But thanks for the tip, John. Stay warm up there this winter.
9/5/2011 12:37:02 PM Report AbuseDo you get rust on the unprotected surfaces? I was thinking of the sides or underneath of your table tops. My shop is insulated. I have a problem with mildew. Will the problem stop when I turn the heat on? I've been keeping the ceiling fan going the last few weeks. Tonight I turned on some brighter lights and saw the growth on the edges of the Melamine, some plywood and a piece of leather.
9/5/2011 12:38:18 AM Report Abuse