Tool Maintenance
One of the benefits of owning Digadoo tools is being stainless steel, they require little maintenance. To keep stainless steel handled tools in good order just give them a hose from time to time and keep the blade sharpened.
Timber handled tools require oiling a few times per year depending on whether they’re left outside or put under cover.
Most garden tools perform better if kept sharp which results in the tool doing more of the work for you, less energy is required which reduces fatigue which means you can garden longer! Less obvious is that sharp cutting edges are actually safer as they are more likely to cut cleanly with less momentum and effort.
How to Sharpen your Digadoo Tools
Tally-hoes, Hand Tools and all Forks
We recommend all of the above tools be sharpened with a quality file.
If you choose to use a power grinder avoid overheating as the edge will become soft (discolouring is an indication of overheating).
Shovels/Spades
These tools can be sharpened with a file or a power grinder.
This grade is not softened by excessive heat.
Tally-hoe Head
In dry climates the timber handle may lose moisture and shrink , resulting in the hoe head loosening. Our tally-hoes use a double tapered eyelet to attach the hoe head to handle, similar to a hammer or axe head attachment.
If loose, simply Re-align handle so that wedge runs across the tool, and check that hoe head is fully re-seated on handle, before lightly tapping in wedge to re tighten – as shown in sketch.
Keep up the Oil
Mix 2 parts boiled linseed oil (boiled dries and absorbs faster) to 1 part mineral Turps.
Or just use any other non toxic outdoor wax or timber oil -such as Organoil.
If leaving tools in the garden for a length of time stand them upright as they will be less exposed to the elements and handles won’t become hot.