The short answer
What Happens to Tools
Water and metal do not mix well. Steel tools start to rust within hours if left wet. The rust pits the surface and weakens the metal. Wooden handles soak up moisture, swell, and can crack as they dry. Plastic and rubber parts may warp or degrade over time.
Electrical tools face a different problem. Water can short out motors, corrode internal contacts, and ruin switches. Even if a tool runs after drying, hidden corrosion can cause it to fail later. The source of the water matters. Clean rainwater is less damaging than floodwater or water from a broken drain.
Hand Tools After Water Exposure
Hand tools like wrenches, hammers, and screwdrivers can often be saved. Dry them off right away with a clean cloth. Remove any loose rust with fine steel wool or a wire brush. Wipe a light coat of oil over the metal parts to keep moisture away.
For wooden handles, let them dry slowly in a cool, dry place. Do not use a heater or hair dryer, which can cause cracking. After a few days, rub the wood with linseed oil. If a handle is split or badly warped, replace it. Check the tool for sharp edges and proper function before using it again.
- Dry tools immediately with a cloth
- Remove rust with steel wool
- Oil metal surfaces lightly
- Dry wooden handles slowly
- Replace cracked handles
- Test tools before next use
Power Tools and Electronics
Power tools and electronic devices are riskier after water exposure. Do not plug them in to test if they work. That can cause a short circuit and create a shock hazard. Unplug them if they are still connected and remove any batteries.
Open up the tool if you can, and let all parts dry completely. This may take several days. Use a soft brush to remove any residue. If the tool was exposed to dirty water, the internal parts may need more thorough cleaning. When in doubt, have a professional inspect it before you use it again.
Some tools may be beyond saving. Motors that have been submerged often need replacement. The cost of repair can sometimes exceed the value of the tool. Use your judgment based on the tool's age and condition.
Tools in Your Workshop
A flooded workshop can damage many tools at once. Remove everything from the affected area as soon as you can. Separate wet tools from dry ones to prevent rust from spreading. Lay tools flat on towels or racks so air can circulate around them.
Check your workbench, cabinets, and drawers for moisture. Even a small amount of trapped water can cause long-term damage. If you live in Rowlett, keep a list of your tools and their condition. This can help you decide what to repair and what to replace.
For large equipment like table saws or drill presses, wipe down all exposed metal surfaces. Remove any standing water from the motor housing. Let the equipment dry for several days before attempting to use it again.
- Remove tools from wet areas quickly
- Separate wet and dry tools
- Lay tools flat for air circulation
- Wipe down large equipment
- Dry motor housings thoroughly
- Let everything dry for days
When to Call a Pro
If a large number of tools got wet, or if the water came from a source like a sewer or flood, consider getting help. Local water damage pros can assess the situation and advise on what can be saved. They have the right drying equipment for large workshops.
For tools that have sentimental value or are expensive to replace, a professional may be able to disassemble and clean them properly. This is especially true for precision tools like levels, calipers, or vintage hand tools. The cost of professional cleaning depends on the tool and the extent of damage.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Check your policy to see if tool damage is included. Document all damage with photos for your records.
- Large numbers of wet tools
- Water from sewer or flood source
- Expensive or sentimental tools
- Precision instruments
- Tools with complex electronics
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Call Now (214) 730-5993Frequently asked questions
Can I save a rusty hand tool?
Often yes. Remove the rust with steel wool or a wire brush, then oil the metal. For deep rust, soak the tool in a rust remover. Dry the handle slowly and treat it with linseed oil. Test the tool before using it again.
How long does it take for tools to dry?
Hand tools may dry in a day or two if left in a dry, airy place. Power tools and electronics can take several days, especially if water got inside. Do not rush the process with heat, which can cause warping or cracking.
Should I throw away tools that got wet?
Not always. Hand tools often survive with quick care. Power tools with serious water damage may not be worth repairing. Consider the tool's age, value, and how dirty the water was. When unsure, ask a professional for an opinion.