Whether you are a craftsman, DIY enthusiast, or professional constructor, there is always a chance of missing tools in your busy working area. Also, your tools and the toolbox might be exchanged with other people as they may have similar appearances or get stolen in some cases. Since it is a common problem, you should know how to mark your tools for identification. This article will teach you the most effective methods for marking your clear identification tools. So, let’s get into the discussion!
Why Should You Mark Your Tools?
Tools and materials are needed to be in the collection of hobbyists or professional workers. Ensuring the tools are marked can secure them, whatever the situation and the vast construction site’s size. Wherever you go, some potential thieves might always look for the chance to steal your things and put them in their pockets immediately. Marking tools can prevent theft and misplacement. So it will become easy to claim your tools back.
Another benefit of marking the tools is saving time and effort in searching for them on a large construction site, especially when you need to finish your project quickly. Investing a huge time in finding them out is annoying and frustrating. Marked tools are easy to find and help you get your project done quickly. You should access your equipment efficiently.
You should remember that tools are inevitable if you are a professional worker or a seasonal hobbyist. Knowing how to keep the tools safe inside a box or bag will exhibit your responsibility and passion for your work. Clear marks on the tools can help you quickly spot and maintain the items safely.
Important Considerations Before Marking Tools
Several factors must be considered to ensure that your identification method is accurate, effective, and appropriate for your tools. Determine the composition of the tool before selecting a particular method of marking.
The Material
Different tools may need different marking methods. The tools made of metal might require the engraving method, while the plastic or wooden tools or materials might need stickers or paint markers. So, depending on the material of the tool, you need to select a method.
The environment of the Tools’ Storage
The placement or storage of the tools is an important thing to consider. If they are exposed to weather conditions like moisture, heat, or other harsh things, you will need to use the marking method that can withstand these issues. For example, paint markers can not withstand weather conditions for an extended period. In that case, you should choose a stronger option to avoid the mark being worn off.
Surface Area
Some tools have large surfaces for marking, and others have limited surfaces. Choose a marking method that goes well with the available space without affecting the functionality of your tools.
Visibility
Visibility and accessibility are very important while marking a tool. If you can’t find it shortly on your construction site, there is no point in marking a tool. Mark the tools perfectly so that you can recognize them when needed.
Maintenance
Some tools that you use on a regular basis may require regular cleaning and maintenance. In that case, as there are chances of wearing off markings, choose a permanent marking method.
Read: How to Store an Axe: 13 Ways to Deal with the Task
Methods of Marking Tools
Depending on your specific needs, the composition of your tools, and your budget, you need to choose the best method of marking tools. While some methods are expensive and durable, some are cheaper and less durable. To help you make a wise decision, here is a list of some most common marking methods for your tools.
Engraver
Engraving is a method of putting a permanent mark on your tools. All you need is just an engraver that involves cutting a design or lettering onto the hard surface of the tool. You can hold an engraver like a large pen. The mark of the engraver is permanent and resistant to wear and tear. So, it is suitable for materials that are exposed outdoors.
Being an affordable and accessible option, it has become popular for marking tools. However, there are some limitations to this method. Since the mark it puts is permanent, you cannot remove them when you make mistakes or need to remove the mark. Also, using this method can be time-consuming or damage the tool if you do it incorrectly.
Important: What Kind of Simple Machine Is an Axe Head: 6 Untold Facts
Stickers/Labels
Stickers and labels are a quick and easy method to identify tools. They are the best choice for sensitive tools with surfaces sensitive to strong and permanent marking methods. From standard to heavy-duty outdoor variants, they are available in varied designs. You can customize the stickers or labels to feature numbers, logos, or names.
The tool’s surface must be cleaned beforehand, applying stickers to ensure the best adhesion. Though stickers or labels are versatile choices of marking tools, they may be damaged in rough conditions or if the tools are applied very frequently. For better longevity, you can use protective sealant sprays.
Paint
A paint marking solution is a common and easy way to identify your tools. You can paint the tools with your desired colors or patterns and differentiate yours from others. This method is beneficial for tools with uneven surfaces where stickers or labels might not adhere well. As the paint is easily clear on metal, wood, or plastic surfaces, you will not face trouble instantly spotting yours.
There is a difference between painting stable surfaces and painting tools. Though it is a quite durable solution, the paint can be removed with time, especially when used for a long time or exposed outdoors. A paint spray is ideal for making the mark durable and weather-resistant.
Metal Stamps
Metal stamps are a popular and effective method of tool marking for versatility and longevity. You can put numbers, logos, or designs on the surface of the tool. Place a stamp on the tool and imprint it onto it by hitting it with a hammer. You must use adequate force with the right hammer to do this process. It is a manual method of leaving a permanent and clear mark resistant to environmental factors.
It is an ideal choice if you want a subtle mark. This marking process requires precision to ensure a consistent depth. It may take several attempts to master the technique, but you will continue using metal stamps once you know the basics.
Pressing
Another permanent marking solution is pressing, which involves force to put letters, numbers, or designs onto the tool’s surface. This process requires a more controlled way of printing things on the tools. By using a set of steel stamps and hammers, you can create permanent marks on metal surfaces. Put the tool under the press, pull the lever, and apply pressure to the tool with adequate force to leave marks.
This process is known as stamping or impact pressing, which is ideal for leaving indentations on ferocious or non-ferocious metals like aluminum, copper, gold, silver, and brass. You don’t need to take any special training to do this. This method ensures long-lasting markings that remain visible even after facing extreme temperatures. Though it creates long-term marks on tools, frequent use and time may blur them gradually.
Etching
There is a difference between engraving and etching. While engraving is a physical process of cutting lines into hard surfaces, etching employs an electrical process to inscribe permanent marks onto metal tool surfaces. You can use different chemical agents, electrical processes, or laser etching techniques like laser, electrochemical, or inkjet marking. Unlike other mechanical engraving methods, this process minimizes the risk of weakening the tool.
Being a precise, fast, and accurate marking method, it is especially advantageous for construction tools. It is also applicable to other materials that demand precision without compromising integrity. If you have many tools and materials to work regularly with, you can quickly brand them with the etching process. This process also ensures longevity as the markings are resistant to environmental factors. To save some money, you can also go for DIY approach of etching.
Tips: How to Sharpen an Axe Without Tools: 13 Effective Resources
Tagging
Tagging is another amazing method of marking tools with customized labels. Using durable tags made of plastic, metal, or laminated paper is a great way of marking where you can easily recognize your personal tools. Tags feature a barcode or QR code that provides data like ownership, calibration dates, or instructions of use. You can scan the barcode with your smartphone and get the necessary information about the tool.
Unlike other marking methods, tags on tools give the user information regarding how to manage and use them in diverse ways. There is a way to track the tools’ location that ensures security. Strong adhesive is used to design tags to ensure they stick to the surface of the tools for a reasonable period and don’t easily damage. Tags are designed by the manufacturer, so there is less risk of tools with tags being theft as the thieves cannot resell them. Tagging is the most effective method to protect your tools from theft.
Taping
Taping can also be color-coded, like painting. It is a versatile and efficient method of tool identification. The users can easily differentiate their tools based on function or individual ownership by using colored tapes. Cut a strip of tape with your desired color and make sure it is durable and resistant to certain conditions. The devices or tools must be cleaned before marking. Otherwise, the tape might not stick to them for a long time.
You can also wrap white electrical tape around the tool’s handle or body and use a paint marker to color them for instant recognition. A great benefit of using tape on tools is that it is removable and replaceable, so you can update it whenever needed. However, the same feature is also a disadvantage as it is not safe from theft. It is a good choice for temporary setups where tools are interchanged.
Nail Polish
Nail polish is another effective choice, like painting, an inexpensive tool marking solution. The large variety of colors and finishes of nail polish allows for incredible tool identification. Mark both visible and hidden areas of the tools with different colors and patterns. Nail polish has a fast-drying formula and comes with an applicator brush that simplifies the marking process.
It is better to use uncommon-colored nail polish to make them distinguishable at a glance only to you. When marking, make sure your work surfaces and moving parts are safe from being marked. Nail polish can adhere to metal and plastic surfaces if you apply it correctly. It also sticks to the surface for a reasonable duration. There is an option to be creative with this method. While not as permanent as other marking methods, it is a go-to option for users looking for a cost-effective, accessible, and compact-sized identification method.
Relevant: How to Blacken an Axe Head: 4 Tricky Steps Ever
Dot Peen
Dot peen is a machine that creates pressure on the tool’s surface to form numbers, letters, or designs as permanent indentations. It offers a semi-permanent to permanent marking solution, resistant to wear, temperatures, and other elements. Dot peen marking is ideal for the tools that are part of a larger industrial inventory. The machine creates small dot marks with a special pin that looks like straight and curved lines. It can leave versatile patterns to mark the tools of construction sites.
The marks are deep, legible, high-quality, and durable. As they can withstand harsh weather conditions, they are perfect for uneven surfaces and large industry applications that require precision. Owners of the industries like automotive or aerospace consider it an excellent choice for durability and clarity.
Before You Go
It is essential to practice marking your tools to avoid theft and disputes in your working area. This practice will help you to distinguish your one effortlessly from your partners’ on the working site. It will also demonstrate how responsible and careful you are about preserving your necessary tools.
Do you still have confusion about how to mark your tools for identification after reading this article? We don’t think so. Choose any of the marking methods described above and invest a little time into this practice to ensure your tools are safe in your toolbox after returning from the working site.
