DIY Builds
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How does vinegar remove rust from tools?

White vinegar and salt: Soak rusty tools in a mixture of ¼ cup of salt per liter of white vinegar. Soaking can take anywhere from one to three days. Once the rust has softened, use a metal brush or steel wool to scrub it off.

Should you cover firewood in summer?
Should you cover firewood in summer?

A tarp or another similar cover should be loosely kept over the firewood, but should not be tightly wrapped around it or extended all the way to...

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How much weight can a 4-inch slab hold?
How much weight can a 4-inch slab hold?

A 4-inch thick concrete can support upto 40 pounds of weight. Weight should not exceed 40 lbs/sq ft on an undetermined 4-inch slab. 80 lb/sq ft in...

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Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

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How to Clean Tools

Not only are tools helpful when it comes to fixing household odds-and-ends or building something completely new, but they can also become beloved collectors' items. In both cases, it's in your best interest to keep them as clean as possible so they work well for years to come. Older and more well-loved hand tools that are not regularly cleaned can become blunt and develop small cracks, which can eventually cause them to shatter from a hard impact. When cleaning old tools, you'll likely come into contact with stubborn rust spots. Over time, iron and steel exposed to oxygen and moisture become oxidized. The visual evidence of this chemical reaction is the orange and brownish speckling that covers your tools. Rusty tools are often ineffective and hard to work with.

There are a variety of rust removal methods:

White vinegar and salt: Soak rusty tools in a mixture of ¼ cup of salt per liter of white vinegar. Soaking can take anywhere from one to three days. Once the rust has softened, use a metal brush or steel wool to scrub it off. Then clean using the directions below. Oxalic acid: Oxalic acid is a commercial rust remover that will dissolve rust quickly. You need to wear rubber gloves and eye protection when using it and apply it only after you've cleaned your tools using the directions below. Add one gallon of water and three tablespoons of the acid to a bucket. Let the rusty tools soak for 20 minutes, then dry them thoroughly. Either before or after you've removed rust from your tools (depending on which method you opt for), use readily biodegradable*, non-corrosive, professional-grade Simple Green Pro HD Heavy-Duty Cleaner to clean and degrease. It quickly eliminates tough grease and grime, removes oily stains, and is safe on metal surfaces. The concentrated formula can be diluted to suit your cleaning needs, whether you're soaking saw blades or wiping down your work area. After your tools are cleaned and completely dry, wipe them down with household oil, such as mineral oil or WD-40, to prevent further rusting. Keep in mind that oils will attract dust, so you'll still need to keep up with tool maintenance.

Do you need a roof vent in a shed?
Do you need a roof vent in a shed?

Good vents in your shed are an absolute must, even if you are only using it for storage. Without a good venting system, your shed can experience...

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Does a permanent shed increase home value?
Does a permanent shed increase home value?

A shed can even help to increase your asking price when you decide it's time to sell. In fact, some professionals estimate that a new shed could...

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Do you need a concrete base for a steel shed?

When it comes to erecting your shed on site, our steel units require a concrete slab or base to bolt the shed down on. By bolting the shed, garage, workshop or other unit to a base ensures that the unit is 100% secure and will never move. We have included a number of sample bases below.

Concrete Bases

When it comes to erecting your shed on site, our steel units require a concrete slab or base to bolt the shed down on. By bolting the shed, garage, workshop or other unit to a base ensures that the unit is 100% secure and will never move. We have included a number of sample bases below. It is not recommended to pour a base unless you have the correct base plan exact measurements for your particular unit. Please contact the sales executive you purchased your Steeltech unit from for a more detailed base plan.

Concrete Base Option for units up to 20′ x 13′ 6″

Garages / Workshops

For our garages / workshops, please consult your local sales executive for the correct information before installing your concrete base or slab.

PLEASE NOTE FOR ALL ABOVE OPTIONS:

If you are uncertain about concrete work, always use a qualified tradesman. Steeltech have a number concrete teams around Ireland, please consult your local branch for a quote.

When installing a concrete base, use a minimum of 30 Newton concrete.

Concrete drying time in dry weather is approx. 3 – 4 days to harden and up to 30 days to fully dry out.

Does adding a garage increase home value?
Does adding a garage increase home value?

A New Garage Means Increased Home Value A basic attached garage will cost around $20,000. While that's a solid sum of money, when you consider that...

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Can firewood be too old?
Can firewood be too old?

Wood that isn't stored correctly can start to rot due to regular and prolonged contact with moisture. The CSIA states that you can keep firewood...

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Do sheds get damp inside?
Do sheds get damp inside?

Not only can sheds suffer from ground moisture, but also from moisture in the air. This issue is particularly prevalent in Winter. Moisture, caused...

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Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

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Does heating your garage increase home value?
Does heating your garage increase home value?

A finished garage won't increase the value of your home's appraisal. However, it may add a “wow” effect to potential buyers and shorten the time...

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