Masonry Magazine November 2007 Page. 32
TOOLS
"If a handle of a hammer becomes loose, it should be replaced immediately," he says. "Ideally, hammers should be sharpened by a blacksmith, since the temper of the hammer could be lost if it is ground on a wheel."
According to Barre, Vt.-based Trow & Holden Inc., masons should leave corners of carbide tools slightly beveled when grinding, since sharp or pointed carbide can break when used on harder stones.
"Good maintenance of your carbide chisels lets you cut faster and more accurately. However, improper grinding can damage the carbide and cause tool failure," says the company. "Don't forget to grind the shank end or striking head frequently to maintain the correct "as-new' shape for safe performance."
The company recommends sharpening chisel blades once masons need to work harder to achieve results; using bushing tools gently when they're new or newly sharpened; and allowing bushing tools to dull slightly before subject ing them to hard use. The company also advises masons to frequently check hammers for signs of chipping, cracking or unusual signs of wear to assure they're in safe working condition.
"If you need to tighten up a wooden handle, either insert another wedge into the end of the handle, or immerse the hammer head into a bucket of water overnight to expand the wood," says Trow & Holden.
Transporting and storing tools is also important, especially for striking tools and tools with carbide tips, Wight says. Carbide can break when struck by another carbide tool.
"The best way to handle rusting is to prevent it," he says. "Tools need to be kept clean and dry. It is best to store tools in an area that is not too humid [and avoid] where moisture tends to build up. For example, be careful if storing tools in a damp garage."
Maintain and service motorized products
EZ Grout Hog Slopper
MOST OF EZ GROUT'S masonry products don't need routine maintenance, but the Booger Hog is an exception. "We recommend two pumps of grease each week for the driveshaft to make sure that it is properly lubricated, and the motor will need brushes periodically," Lang says. "The only part that would need to be replaced regularly would
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Masonry
November 2007 www.masoncontractors.org
The Voice of the Masonry Industry