When a crack appears on a shovel, many try to throw it away and buy a new tool. However, why throw it away if you can fix it using affordable and simple methods.
Using polyethylene or polypropylene pipe
To strengthen the handle, which has a crack on part of the handle, repairs will be required. This is an inexpensive method, since at home you can always find scraps of PVC or polypropylene pipes. The main thing is that it is reinforced.
If you still have to purchase a pipe, then you should pay attention to 2 couplings with a diameter of 40 mm. They are inexpensive and available at any specialty store. There is a limiter inside them that can be easily cut with a knife. The diameter of the shovel handle is 40 mm, and the diameter of the pipe should be slightly smaller; therefore, the pipe is cut into pieces up to 6–8 cm. After which, the prepared parts are heated to the desired state: in the oven, in the oven or in the grill. They must be pliable and elastic. If an open fire is used for heating, the pipe must be protected with foil.
When the process of preparing the blanks is completed, the cuttings are put on the tool. The material (plastic) quickly cools when it comes into contact with cold wood, which is why everything needs to be done quickly. The plastic pipe is durable, so it will easily restore the stability of the cutting.
The heated pipe can be installed without problems. The clamps on the handle are installed along the length of the crack itself.
Repairing a handle crack using electric welding
If a crack appears in part of the handle, it can be easily removed using electric welding.
To eliminate the defect you need to do the following:
- Remove some of the metal from the tool and clean the damage from rust stains.
- Boil the crack along its entire length, moving the torn elements as close as possible. The shovel consists of metal, which is a particularly durable material, so using an electrode with a thickness of 3 mm would be a suitable option.
- Carefully clean the seam using a grinder when performing the process.
- Place the shovel on the handle.
Done, now you can start shoveling again. It will not have the initial strength, but it will be quite suitable for loose soils.
Repair using a plastic bottle
There is a simple option - to repair a shovel using a plastic bottle. To perform repairs you need to do the following:
- Take a small bottle according to the size of the cutting.
- Separate the middle of the cylinder from it. It will make a plastic ring, which must be pulled over the defect site and heated with a construction or household hairdryer.
You can support it over a gas stove, but it is important to take all necessary precautions.
Repairing a handle with tape
If the handle of a shovel is damaged, it can always be repaired. In case of a small crack, do the following:
- The crack itself must be covered with any metal material or use regular tape.
- Wrap tightly with elastic tape.
- To prevent rotting and protect it from moisture, it is advisable to coat the cuttings with varnish or paint.
If the handle is completely broken, it will be useless to repair it.
How to make a tool handle with your own hands
If the cutting cannot be repaired in any way, the last option remains - to make a new one with your own hands. To complete the work you will need the following: wood (birch is perfect), a woodworking machine and a device for sanding wood.
To make a cutting you need:
- Cut a piece of wood to the required parameters (length and diameter).
- Attach the handle to the machine and give it a cylindrical shape.
- Coat the finished workpiece with varnish or paint.
Even a novice master can repair an old instrument. If you make an effort, a shovel repaired with your own hands will serve its owner for a long time.
