Rust Control
If you know Gemplers, you know we love our hard-working tools and equipment. We spend most of our days reviewing, designing, and testing an incredible amount of tools in order to provide the best solutions for our hard-working customers. So, it is understandable that we despise rust. When I buy a wheelbarrow, shovel, or vehicle, I want it to last and not deteriorate due to the elements. There are several ways to control rust, each with its uses depending on the application.
Rust Preventers:
A basic and popular way to control rust is to apply a rust preventer to tools. These create a barrier against rust and corrosion and provide good surface protection against fertilizers and herbicides. Ideally, these would be applied to newer tools, since as the name implies, they prevent rust.
Rust Removers:
Okay, so your equipment is covered in rust, what now? If it’s a smaller tool, rust removers are ideal for getting rid of the rust. I say smaller tool because rust removers work by having the tool soak until the rust is gone. With removers, you’ll want to scrape off as much rust as possible, then soak for several hours to overnight depending on the severity of the rust. Then, apply a good top coat if applicable.
Rust Converter:
If soaking overnight is not realistic, my favorite solution is to use Gemplers Rust Converters to chemically turn the rust into an inert compound that will not rust again. I am not saying it’s the best thing ever, but I’m not saying it isn’t. With rust converter, you can brush or spray on large surfaces and porous areas without sandblasting, heavy scraping, or grinding, and with the application of a good top coat, it will give years of protection.
To preserve your tools with Gemplers rust converter, just scrape off any flaky rust, apply two or three coats according to the instructions then apply a good top coat if needed. We have a wonderful set of frequently asked questions to help you determine the best way to use the product. I strongly urge you to take a look at them.
A note on top coats. Oil or epoxy-based paints are really the best to use for any equipment that is exposed to the elements. Acrylic or latex could be used, but you’ll find those will need to be re-applied at least once a year (or more if your weather is extreme). That’s added labor cost.
Now go out there and stop the rust!
