Care and Maintenance of a Chase Wedge

18th March 2020


	Care and maintenance of a chase wedge


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			Try not to neglect your lead working tools. Both a wooden and a plastic chase wedge will remain in top condition for a long time with regular care and maintenance.

			Avoid damaging or denting the working face of your tool as this will transfer any unsightly bumps to the surface of the sheet metal. For example, do not store or transport your lead working tools with any steel tools such as chisels.

			Storing your tools
			Make an effort to put your tools away and try not to leave them outside. This will also help to protect your valuable tools from theft. Even if we are lucky enough in the UK to have a sunny forecast, tools left outside are still exposed to moisture from wet grass and humidity.

			Preserving your wooden tools
			A wooden chase wedge may require more attention than one made from high density plastic. Considering the cost of high quality tools, regular maintenance to keep your wooden tools in top condition is important, especially as wood tends to crack and splinter. Treat your wooden tools as soon as they start to appear dull or become rough to the touch.

			Step 1 – Sand wood First, sand the wood to remove any rough or loose fibres. Use a fine to medium grade sandpaper and sand along the grain of the wood. Stop sanding after a few strokes with the paper, dust off the wood and check it has a smooth and even finish. If it still feels rough, sand again.

			Step 2 – Select finish Wood finishing products range from varnishes and waxes to lacquers and drying oils as well as various blends and each have different levels of quality, performance and protection.

			Drying oils such as linseed oil and tung oil are inexpensive and easy to apply. The oil penetrates the fibres of the wood and hardens, preventing the wood from drying out and cracking.

			Step 3 – Finish wood Dip a dry cloth or a brush in the oil and apply all over the wood. Leave to absorb for 15 minutes before wiping off any excess. Make sure you do this, as any residue will not fully cure (or ‘dry’) and will feel sticky.

			Wait 24 hours before applying a second coat. These are just guidelines and you should check the manufacturer’s instructions before use.