Storing tools/equipment outside (under cover)

We have a 1 car garage (with a car in it) and some limited indoor storage space. There is a low slope roof covering the side yard, 8-10 feet wide and about 14 feet long. Gated on the front, open to the backyard on the other end. The fence with the neighbor is on the side opposite the house wall. So while it's somewhat protected from the elements, it does get wind, dust and rain (when it's really windy during a storm).

I just picked up a new DeWalt table saw and am trying to find a space in the garage to store it. Not working out with tight spaces. What are your thoughts on keeping equipment like this in an outside covered space that is subject to the humidity, dust, etc?

 

What material is the table saw top? Cast iron? Aluminum?

If cast iron, suggest to use a couple of coats of Johnson's floor wax. Cover it with a breathable cover, provide space between the cover and top. Get under the saw, use a bit of spray lithium grease on the trunnion pivots, elevation gears/shaft. Take the blade out, remove the miter gauge and fence. Stick these inside a closet in the house.

If aluminum, same as above but you could skip the Johnson's floor wax.

The next use will need to have the lithium grease cleaned up. Otherwise, the grease is a magnet for sawdust.

 

I’m no expert but I’ve put DeWalt tools through hell from many years of building fences. Drills, nail guns, compressor, etc.. through rain, dirt, and mud. I would think it would be fine. If it were me I’d throw a tarp over it and tie it at the bottom.

 

Put plastic or vapor barrier under it and cover with a tarp.

 

Big difference between storage and constant use.

With constant use, moisture won't build up.

The temperature swings will cause the moisture in the air to condense on the metal surfaces. Protect the metal from moisture contact, allow air to circulate.

 

I believe the it's aluminum but I don't see a description listed in the specs. I previously had a Craftsman with aluminum top and stored it out there, uncovered. Over the years the aluminum top clouded up and corroded. I don't/won't use it frequently... I am concerned about covering things as I know moisture gets trapped, i.e. my 2 Webber kettles are no longer covered because of this. If I can't find an inside space I'll go the grease and loose/breathable cover. Thanks!

 

Where do you live??

Here in Eastern Pa because of the Humidity things rust or corrode every place even inside .

Is there concrete under the overhang?? I would worry more about damp ground then rain now and then.

When I was short for space my Roll around Tool box was a great TV stand in the living room.

If it was me it would be in the house Then not everyone can do that .

 

I live in Sacramento. We just got hit by the "most powerful storm" to hit California in recorded history and Sac got the most rain ever recorded. Summer is dry heat w/low humidity but winter, when it rains, it's humid. Not at all like the east coast though.

Anyway, I didn't pay too much attention to the top surface when putting it together yesterday, but just went back out and found it's coated in something like non-stick material... so probably don't have to worry about that, but will look at other parts to evaluate.

 

Might want to consider a small tent.

 

Ok...DW has changed the top since I was last involved with power tool development.

I suspect it is likely a paint with a bit of teflon or it is hard coat anodizing.

I think the paint is more plausible because of cost.