If you're like me, then you must be a neat freak. While this would annoy some people, I've found it be one of my shining characteristics. Better yet, I love to work with power tools. What man doesn't? They're so exhilarating . . . I get such a rush using them, and I'm not exactly sure why. Every time I walk into my workshop, the first thing I do is clean it. No work can be done with a dirty work area, after all.
The table saw is one of things I like to tackle first. The table saw is like the engine of any work shop. It's right in the middle of the room, loud and noisy, ready to do whatever work comes its way. To clean it can sometimes be a problem. Especially if it isn't being used for awhile, clutter can build up on top of it, sawdust debris still covering it.
Immediately after using it, it's important to clean all the sawdust up. You don't want to just leave it on and walk away - not only will it look terrible, but it could be a safety hazard. Take a vacuum, remove it from the area, and clean everything up to avoid damage to the equipment. A small brush will remove the dust from smaller areas such as cracks. If you're like me and you don't like clutter, there are other places to put things besides the saw table. Make room, and keep the saw table clutter-free.
Protecting your saw table is more important than anything. There is one thing we've all come across once in our lives that can also appear on our saw table: rust. Since most saws are made of cast iron, they can easily rust from limited use. There are many things you can do to prevent rust from building up.
1. It's always a good idea to apply a protectant to the table before you turn on the saw for the first time. Protectants can range from everyday wax to a fine coating of stain or tarnish for a wooden base. Just spread a thin layer across the saw table immediately to protect it from any quick-acting damage.
2. Wax your saw table at least once a month to prevent rust from building up. Many specialized waxes will do the trick. These can be found at your local hardware store or any store specializing in fine woodworking tools. Carnauba-based wax, which is used on car bodies, can also be used here. Rubbing it on with a damp sponge, letting it dry, then buffing it out with a rag will ultimately do the trick, adding a glossy finish to your saw table as well.
3. Always keep your saw table free from any water-based material. Water will speed up the rusting process, and in order to prevent it, water cannot touch the saw. Don't use any water-based products or waxes, and never wipe down the saw with a simple wet rag.
If you already see rust forming, you must take quick measures to stop it and remove it from the saw and saw table. There are a few tips and tricks to take advantage of if this happens:
1. Turpentine will always do the trick. Just coat a pad of steel wool with turpentine and gently rub the rust-coated spot. The oil in the turpentine will lubricate the rust and chemically stop it from continuing, and the steel wool will remove any left-behind rust. Of course, when you're done using the turpentine, go over it with a clean rag, removing any excess that may have been left behind. The always-trustworthy rust remover will also work, especially if the rust has gotten out of hand. You should also attach the rust remover to a steel wool pad and scrub away.
2. Wash your table with soapy, luke-warm water immediately after applying the turpentine or rust remover. The soap will help to clean any of the left-behind chemicals.
3. Upon washing the table, you must lastly apply a protective lubricant to the table. If you didn't do this the first time, surely you learned your mistake. It's very important to cover the table and saw itself with a lubricant to avoid any further rusting.
It's not a good idea to use a silicone-based wax or product on your saw table. It can leave behind a residue that eventually could lead to further rusting or rotting of the wood. Putting coats of wax, turpentine, or finishing stain on your table saw monthly is a good idea. Even if you don't see rust forming at the moment, it can appear in no time, which will only cause you further trouble.
No one wants to see their expensive saw table rust away. Rust can be a nuisance, but fortunately, the problem can be stopped. With proper care given to your saw table, and by keeping these tips and directions in mind, your saw table will remain clean and rust free, ready to use at any time.