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Should You Repair Your Tool Or Buy A New One?

Oh rats.  It looks like your tool is broken.  Who would have thought tools break?  It can happen and even if it doesn't literally break in two, tools can become worn out and ineffective in performance.  The question then is, should you buy a whole new toolbox, a replacement tool or just sent it off for repairs?

Buying Good Tools

First, consider the quality of the tool.  There are low-grade tools, which are definitely affordable and only good for a few uses, usually low maintenance jobs around the house.  Then there are medium grade tools, then high-grade tools for homeowners and professional contractors.  If you bought the cheapest tool on display then you got what you paid for and it's probably time for a replacement. 

Warranty

But what if you bought a high grade tool and its breaking or becoming dulled just a few uses after purchase?  Many high-grade tools come with a warranty from the company that offers replacement service depending on the time period and the defective product.  If you bought the tool in a hardware store (like Lowe's or Sears) then the store itself might have a warranty in addition to the company.  If the defective tool is just a few days or weeks old, save yourself the mail wait and see if the store can exchange it.

When The Warranty Runs Out

But nothing lasts forever, and million dollar corporations make sure that warranties don't.  What should you do if your tool breaks or becomes useless after the warranty expires?  Should you buy a whole new set?  The only reason to buy a whole new set would be if the primary tool of the set, or the most expensive piece was damaged.  In part replacement, then if the tool is exceptionally expensive or a power tool then it might be a good idea to look into local repair shops.  You could also check to see if the company offers repairs on expired products for a price.  Finally, if you can afford it and if the part is easy to find and replace, then a brand new tool is certainly nothing to complain about.  Makita, Milwaukee, Black and Decker, Ryobi, Dremel, and Craftsman offer the leading tools for home improvement needs worldwide.

When one of your men goes down, don't give up the fight!  Worst-case scenario is you get to go shopping-and shopping is always fun, at least when it's in the hardware section.