Maintenance Tips for Heavy-Duty Workbenches: Keeping Them Functional and Long-Lasting
Workspace … a perfect place where our productivity can be enhanced, what more with the presence of the needed furniture, equipment, tools, and gadgets in this place to accomplish our jobs. One of those indispensable pieces of furniture is the workbench.
A heavy duty workbench is a flat-surfaced table where a worker can perform various tasks to produce an output or even a masterpiece. This furniture’s surface is where you perform building, repairing, or assembling items in the workshops, garages, labs, or craft rooms. However, being exposed to a lot of materials, substances, tools, and other working elements, the workbench cannot escape being subjected to wear and tear. Now, what maintenance tips can keep them functional and long-lasting?
Periodical Cleaning. What can pile up on your workbench? Dirt, grease, and debris will remain on the surface unless a damp cloth is used to wipe down these elements while the use of mild detergent can remove tougher stains. But remember never to use harsh chemicals because the surface finish may be damaged.
Inspect for Damages. Always inspect for damages that might lead to bigger problems later on if taken for granted. The workbench stability may be affected by loose screws or other connectors, cracks, or dents, so it is necessary to check on these things. Also, examine the frame for rust, especially for metal ones or other structural damages.
Protect the Work Surface. It is on the surface where you really work, but when working with heavy or sharp objects, you have to place a protective sheet to save the working surface from damage. It is also recommended to apply a sealant to a wooden workbench to make it moisture-resistant and avoid warping. Furthermore, avoid cutting directly on the surface, use a cutting board as a secondary surface for this purpose.
Keep It Organized. Having an organized workbench ensures greater productivity and also safety. By using drawers to store your tools, you provide more space for work on the surface. At the same time, labeling the drawers enables quick access to what you are looking for. Don’t forget to sort your tools regularly, too.
Address Rust and Corrosion Promptly. Before applying a rust inhibitor, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove rust. Then a rustproof paint or sealant can be used for additional protection. On the other hand, a humidifier can be used to minimize the moisture that causes metal rust.
Lubricate Moving Parts. Applying lubricants to adjustable legs, vises, caster wheels and other movable parts will prevent squeaking or sticking.
Follow Weight Limits. Though heavy-duty, the workbench still has limitations. So, it is important to adhere to the manufacturer’s weight recommendations. Moreover, do not place extremely heavy objects on just one side of the table because this may result in warping.
Store It Properly When Not in Use. Cover the furniture when not in use to protect it from dust and moisture. Actually, a dry site is ideal for both wood and steel workbenches to avoid metal rust and warp respectively.
Yes, a little care can go a long way for your workbench, keep it functional and durable for more years to come.
