9+ Best Mower Deck Spray at Home Depot Now!


9+ Best Mower Deck Spray at Home Depot Now!

This refers to protecting coatings accessible at a significant residence enchancment retailer which can be designed for software on the underside of lawnmower housings. These merchandise are sometimes aerosol sprays meant to stop grass buildup and corrosion on mower decks. An instance is a Teflon-based spray bought at The Dwelling Depot to maintain a mower deck clear and rust-free.

Sustaining the cleanliness of a mower deck is essential for optimum lawnmower efficiency and longevity. Amassed grass clippings can result in rust, corrosion, and lowered airflow, leading to decreased reducing effectivity and potential engine pressure. The provision of specialised coatings at retailers like this supplies a handy answer for owners to proactively handle these points. Traditionally, people relied on guide scraping and cleansing, however these devoted sprays provide a simpler and time-efficient different.

The next sections will delve into the several types of coatings, software strategies, and elements to contemplate when choosing a product for mower deck safety.

1. Floor Preparation

Efficient software of a mower deck coating sourced from a significant residence enchancment retailer is based on thorough floor preparation. The situation of the mower deck previous to coating immediately impacts the coating’s adhesion and finally its protecting capabilities. For instance, the presence of free rust, dried grass clippings, or oil residue prevents the coating from correctly bonding to the steel floor. This compromised adhesion results in untimely chipping, peeling, and a discount within the coating’s skill to stop additional corrosion.

Correct floor preparation entails a number of key steps. Initially, a bodily removing of free particles is critical, sometimes achieved via scraping with a putty knife or wire brush. Subsequent cleansing with a degreasing solvent removes any oil or grease that will inhibit adhesion. In circumstances of great rust accumulation, sanding or media blasting could also be required to create a clear, sound floor for the coating to stick to. The particular preparation methodology needs to be aligned with the producer’s suggestions discovered on the product label, guaranteeing compatibility and optimum outcomes. Making use of a primer, particularly on naked steel, can additional improve adhesion and supply an extra layer of corrosion safety.

In abstract, meticulous floor preparation just isn’t merely an non-obligatory step however an important prerequisite for maximizing the advantages of a mower deck coating. Failing to correctly put together the floor diminishes the coating’s lifespan and protecting qualities, finally leading to a much less efficient and probably extra pricey upkeep effort in the long term. Prioritizing floor preparation ensures that the funding in a protecting coating yields the specified long-term outcomes: a cleaner, extra sturdy mower deck.

2. Coating Composition

The effectiveness of any protecting spray marketed for mower decks at a significant residence enchancment retailer hinges immediately on its formulation. The chemical make-up of the coating dictates its skill to withstand the abrasive results of grass clippings, stop corrosion from moisture publicity, and preserve a non-stick floor that minimizes buildup. Coatings differ extensively in composition, starting from fundamental petroleum-based merchandise to extra superior formulations incorporating Teflon (PTFE), silicone, or graphite. These components are meant to scale back friction and enhance the discharge properties of the coating, facilitating simpler cleansing and stopping the adherence of moist grass. As an illustration, a coating with a excessive PTFE content material affords superior non-stick efficiency in comparison with a fundamental enamel spray, leading to a cleaner mower deck and lowered upkeep effort.

The number of a selected coating composition needs to be predicated on the anticipated utilization circumstances of the mower. For people who ceaselessly mow moist grass or function in humid environments, a coating with enhanced corrosion resistance is paramount. These merchandise typically incorporate rust inhibitors or sacrificial metals designed to guard the underlying metal of the mower deck. Moreover, the sturdiness of the coating is intrinsically linked to its composition. Coatings containing polymers or epoxy resins usually exhibit better abrasion resistance and longer lifespans in comparison with less complicated formulations. The long-term cost-effectiveness of a coating should due to this fact think about each its preliminary worth and its anticipated longevity beneath typical working circumstances.

In conclusion, the coating composition represents a crucial determinant of the general efficiency and worth of a mower deck spray. A radical understanding of the properties and limitations of various formulations allows knowledgeable buying selections, guaranteeing that the chosen product successfully protects the mower deck from corrosion, minimizes grass buildup, and contributes to the long-term operational effectivity of the tools. Prioritizing coatings with confirmed monitor information and formulations tailor-made to particular mowing circumstances is crucial for attaining optimum outcomes and maximizing the return on funding.

3. Software Methodology

The efficacy of protecting coatings bought for mower decks from a significant residence enchancment retailer is intrinsically linked to the appliance methodology employed. The cause-and-effect relationship is simple: improper software negates the advantages of even the highest-quality coating. The appliance methodology immediately influences the coating’s adhesion, uniformity, and finally, its skill to supply long-term safety in opposition to corrosion and grass buildup. For example, making use of a coating too thinly ends in insufficient protection, leaving weak areas uncovered to moisture and abrasion. Conversely, making use of it too thickly can result in runs, drips, and a protracted drying time, probably compromising the coating’s integrity.

Reaching optimum outcomes necessitates adherence to particular strategies. Floor preparation, as beforehand mentioned, is a prerequisite. The appliance surroundings needs to be clear, dry, and well-ventilated to stop contamination and guarantee correct drying. Most aerosol coatings sourced from such retailers require a number of skinny coats, utilized in a constant, overlapping sample. Sustaining the proper spray distance, as specified on the product label, is crucial to attain a uniform layer and forestall pooling. Moreover, the orientation of the spray nozzle relative to the floor needs to be constant to make sure even distribution. For instance, holding the can at an angle or various the spray distance can lead to uneven protection and localized areas of weak spot. Furthermore, permitting adequate drying time between coats and after the ultimate software is essential for full curing and optimum adhesion. Failing to stick to those pointers can result in untimely failure of the coating, necessitating extra frequent reapplication.

In abstract, the appliance methodology represents a crucial part within the success of using mower deck coatings accessible from main residence enchancment retailers. A radical understanding of the really helpful strategies, mixed with cautious execution, is crucial for maximizing the coating’s protecting capabilities and lengthening the lifespan of the mower deck. Whereas the coatings themselves provide inherent advantages, their full potential can solely be realized via diligent and knowledgeable software. Challenges resembling inconsistent spray patterns or improper drying may be mitigated via cautious consideration to element and adherence to producer directions.

4. Drying Time

Drying time is a crucial issue within the profitable software of mower deck spray merchandise sourced from residence enchancment retailers. The time period refers back to the length required for the coating to completely remedy and obtain its meant protecting properties. Inadequate drying time can result in a variety of problems, together with adhesion failure, susceptibility to wreck from abrasion, and incomplete resistance to corrosion. For instance, if a mower deck is reassembled and put into service earlier than the coating has totally dried, grass clippings and particles can adhere to the cheesy floor, compromising the coating’s meant non-stick properties and probably resulting in untimely put on. Adhering to the producer’s really helpful drying time is due to this fact not a mere suggestion however a needed step for optimum efficiency.

Drying time is influenced by a number of variables, together with the coating’s formulation, ambient temperature, and humidity ranges. Coatings with a better solids content material or these containing fast-drying solvents could exhibit shorter drying instances in comparison with these with extra viscous formulations. Equally, hotter temperatures and decrease humidity usually speed up the drying course of, whereas colder temperatures and better humidity can considerably delay it. For instance, a product that dries in two hours beneath supreme circumstances could require considerably longer in a humid or poorly ventilated surroundings. Due to this fact, understanding the interaction of those elements is essential for guaranteeing that the coating has adequately cured earlier than the mower is put again into operation. Moreover, forced-air drying strategies, resembling using a fan, may be employed to expedite the drying course of beneath sure circumstances, however you will need to seek the advice of the producer’s directions to make sure compatibility with the precise coating getting used.

In abstract, drying time is a non-negotiable aspect within the software of mower deck spray. Failing to permit adequate drying time can negate the advantages of even probably the most superior protecting coatings, resulting in compromised efficiency and lowered lifespan. Adhering to the producer’s suggestions, contemplating environmental elements, and using acceptable drying strategies are important for attaining optimum outcomes and guaranteeing the long-term safety of the mower deck. Ignoring this important step can finally result in elevated upkeep prices and lowered tools longevity, underscoring the sensible significance of understanding and adhering to correct drying protocols.

5. Sturdiness Stage

The sturdiness degree of a protecting coating bought from a significant residence enchancment retailer for software on a mower deck immediately correlates with its skill to face up to the tough working surroundings. The underside of a lawnmower deck is topic to fixed abrasion from grass clippings, impacts from small stones or particles, and publicity to moisture and corrosive chemical substances. Consequently, a coating with a low sturdiness degree will degrade quickly, necessitating frequent reapplication and failing to supply enough long-term safety. As a working example, a fundamental enamel spray with minimal abrasion resistance could solely final a single mowing season earlier than requiring alternative, whereas a extra strong epoxy-based coating may present safety for a number of seasons beneath comparable circumstances. The number of a coating with an acceptable sturdiness degree is due to this fact a crucial determinant of its general cost-effectiveness and the long-term well being of the mower deck.

Think about the sensible implications of choosing a coating with insufficient sturdiness. Past the elevated frequency of reapplication, a quickly degrading coating can result in accelerated corrosion of the underlying steel. Naked steel uncovered to moisture and grass clippings is especially inclined to rust formation, which may weaken the deck construction and finally necessitate pricey repairs or alternative. In distinction, a coating formulated with high-performance polymers and strong abrasion resistance can considerably lengthen the lifespan of the mower deck, stopping rust formation and minimizing the necessity for frequent upkeep. Moreover, the sturdiness degree of a coating additionally influences its resistance to chemical substances, resembling fertilizers and pesticides, which may additional degrade the protecting layer over time. Due to this fact, the sturdiness degree of the coating immediately impacts the mower deck’s capability to endure its working life.

In conclusion, the sturdiness degree of a protecting spray marketed for mower decks is a paramount consideration. The implications of choosing a coating with inadequate sturdiness lengthen past mere inconvenience, probably resulting in accelerated corrosion, elevated upkeep prices, and lowered tools longevity. A proactive method involving cautious analysis of the coating’s formulation, abrasion resistance, and chemical resistance is crucial for guaranteeing long-term safety and maximizing the return on funding. Due to this fact, prioritize choosing a product recognized for its sturdiness even when it entails a better preliminary price as a preventative measure that interprets to long-term financial savings.

6. Corrosion Resistance

Corrosion resistance is a pivotal attribute of any protecting spray meant to be used on mower decks. Publicity to moisture, grass clippings, and fertilizers creates a corrosive surroundings that quickly degrades unprotected steel. Due to this fact, the effectiveness of coatings accessible from a significant residence enchancment retailer hinges largely on their skill to stop or mitigate this corrosion course of.

  • Barrier Safety

    The first mechanism by which these sprays present corrosion resistance is thru the creation of a bodily barrier between the steel deck and the corrosive surroundings. This barrier prevents moisture and corrosive brokers from immediately contacting the metal, thus inhibiting the electrochemical reactions that result in rust. The integrity and impermeability of this barrier are essential for long-term safety. An instance is a coating that comes with zinc particles, which act as a sacrificial anode, corroding preferentially to guard the underlying metal. The effectiveness of this barrier is determined by its skill to withstand chipping, cracking, and abrasion, all of which may compromise its protecting perform. These are vital concerns when choosing from Dwelling Depot’s accessible merchandise.

  • Chemical Inhibition

    Past bodily obstacles, many coatings include chemical inhibitors designed to additional mitigate corrosion. These inhibitors work by interfering with the electrochemical reactions that drive the corrosion course of. As an illustration, some sprays include compounds that passivate the steel floor, forming a skinny, protecting oxide layer that inhibits additional oxidation. Different inhibitors could neutralize acidic or alkaline substances that contribute to corrosion. The number of acceptable chemical inhibitors is determined by the precise corrosive brokers to which the mower deck is uncovered. Selecting a sprig with related inhibitors accessible at Dwelling Depot can considerably improve corrosion resistance.

  • Polymer Matrix

    The polymer matrix inside which the corrosion inhibitors and barrier pigments are dispersed performs a big function within the general corrosion resistance of the coating. The polymer have to be immune to degradation from UV publicity, moisture, and chemical assault. A sturdy polymer matrix ensures that the corrosion inhibitors stay efficient over time and that the barrier pigments are securely sure to the steel floor. Widespread polymer sorts utilized in these coatings embrace epoxies, polyurethanes, and acrylics, every providing totally different ranges of sturdiness and chemical resistance. The selection of polymer, due to this fact, is a key consider figuring out the long-term efficiency of the coating in combating corrosion. Merchandise at Dwelling Depot provide numerous polymer matrices, every providing distinct protecting qualities.

  • Adhesion Power

    The adhesion energy of the coating to the steel substrate is crucial for sustaining long-term corrosion resistance. Poor adhesion permits moisture and corrosive brokers to penetrate beneath the coating, resulting in under-film corrosion. Correct floor preparation, together with cleansing and degreasing, is crucial for attaining optimum adhesion. Moreover, the coating have to be formulated to chemically bond with the steel floor, creating a robust and sturdy interface. Coatings with wonderful adhesion energy resist chipping, peeling, and blistering, guaranteeing that the barrier safety stays intact over time. Merchandise with enhanced adhesion properties, accessible at main retailers, present superior protection in opposition to under-film corrosion.

The interaction of those factorsbarrier safety, chemical inhibition, polymer matrix, and adhesion strengthdetermines the general corrosion resistance of a mower deck spray. By rigorously contemplating these elements when choosing a product from a significant residence enchancment retailer, people can be certain that their mower deck receives the optimum degree of safety in opposition to the damaging results of corrosion. Evaluating merchandise primarily based on these elements can help make an knowledgeable selection, resulting in long-term price financial savings and enhanced tools longevity. Examples of this might be reviewing the product label and understanding the corrosion resistance properties earlier than buying.

7. Adhesion Power

Adhesion energy is a basic attribute figuring out the effectiveness of any mower deck spray bought from a significant residence enchancment retailer. This property defines the coating’s skill to bond and stay affixed to the mower deck floor all through its operational life. Inadequate adhesion ends in untimely peeling, chipping, or flaking of the coating, thereby exposing the underlying steel to corrosive components. For instance, if a coating lacks enough adhesion, influence from particles throughout mowing can simply dislodge it, rendering the protecting layer incomplete and accelerating rust formation. The cause-and-effect relationship is evident: weak adhesion results in compromised safety and lowered mower deck lifespan. The standard of coatings bought from retailers resembling The Dwelling Depot is immediately linked to this crucial property.

The sensible significance of understanding adhesion energy manifests in a number of methods. A coating with sturdy adhesion supplies a extra sturdy barrier in opposition to moisture, grass clippings, and chemical substances, thereby minimizing corrosion and lengthening the lifetime of the mower deck. This interprets to lowered upkeep prices, fewer repairs, and an extended general lifespan for the mowing tools. Furthermore, coatings with enhanced adhesion are much less more likely to contaminate the garden with flaking paint chips, contributing to a cleaner and extra environmentally pleasant mowing course of. Numerous merchandise are designed for optimum adhesion energy and may be chosen primarily based on particular mower deck materials.

In conclusion, adhesion energy is a non-negotiable attribute within the number of mower deck spray merchandise. Its function in guaranteeing long-term safety in opposition to corrosion and bodily injury is paramount. Selecting a product with a confirmed monitor report of sturdy adhesion, coupled with correct floor preparation and software strategies, represents a sound funding within the longevity and efficiency of the mowing tools. Due to this fact, contemplating product evaluations and specs associated to adhesion is crucial when buying protecting coatings from retailers to maximise advantages.

8. Security Precautions

The appliance of mower deck spray, notably these sourced from retailers resembling The Dwelling Depot, necessitates strict adherence to security precautions. The chemical composition of those sprays typically consists of risky natural compounds (VOCs) and propellants that pose potential well being dangers if mishandled. Inhalation of spray mist could cause respiratory irritation, dizziness, and nausea. Pores and skin contact could result in irritation or dermatitis. Moreover, these sprays are sometimes flammable and might ignite if uncovered to open flames or sparks. Due to this fact, a causal relationship exists between improper dealing with and opposed well being or security outcomes.

The significance of security precautions as a part of utilizing mower deck spray stems from the inherent dangers related to the product’s chemical properties and software methodology. Protecting measures embrace working in a well-ventilated space to reduce inhalation of vapors. Carrying respiratory safety, resembling a NIOSH-approved respirator, is advisable, notably when making use of the spray in enclosed areas. Pores and skin safety, within the type of gloves and lengthy sleeves, is critical to stop direct contact with the chemical substances. Eye safety, resembling security glasses or goggles, safeguards in opposition to unintentional splashes. Moreover, the spray needs to be used away from open flames, sparks, and warmth sources to stop unintentional ignition. An actual-life instance is a person experiencing respiratory misery after making use of mower deck spray in an unventilated storage with out respiratory safety, highlighting the sensible significance of those precautions.

The sensible significance of understanding and implementing these security measures extends past particular person well-being. Correct dealing with and disposal of mower deck spray reduce environmental influence and cut back the chance of unintentional fires or explosions. By following producer’s directions and adhering to established security protocols, people can safely and successfully make the most of these merchandise to take care of their lawnmowers and shield themselves from potential hurt. Neglecting these precautions presents a danger of acute or continual well being issues, property injury, and environmental contamination. These dangers reinforce the necessity for cautious consideration to security pointers all through your entire course of, from buy on the retailer to software and disposal.

9. Longevity Expectation

The longevity expectation of mower deck coatings procured from a significant residence enchancment retailer resembling The Dwelling Depot is a main driver in buy selections. Customers anticipate that these protecting sprays will lengthen the service lifetime of their lawnmower decks, mitigating rust and corrosion, thereby lowering the frequency of repairs or replacements. This expectation stems from the understanding {that a} correctly utilized and sturdy coating types a barrier in opposition to moisture, grass clippings, and corrosive chemical substances generally encountered throughout garden upkeep. If this coating fails prematurely, the cost-effectiveness of the product is diminished, resulting in client dissatisfaction. Due to this fact, the hyperlink between product promise and delivered lifespan is significant to take care of client confidence.

The fabric composition of the spray, the diploma of floor preparation undertaken earlier than software, and the operational surroundings of the mower immediately affect the achievable lifespan. A coating formulated with inferior polymers or missing enough corrosion inhibitors will degrade quickly, notably if the mower is used ceaselessly in moist circumstances or if the deck was not correctly cleaned previous to software. As an illustration, a house owner anticipating a three-year lifespan from a sprig designed for light-duty use could also be dissatisfied if it fails after a single season of heavy mowing. Alternatively, cautious number of a high-performance epoxy-based coating, coupled with meticulous floor preparation, can considerably exceed preliminary expectations and supply a number of years of dependable safety. Actual-world examples embrace shoppers reporting 5 years or extra of deck safety utilizing premium merchandise when utilized appropriately.

Finally, a sensible longevity expectation depends on aligning product choice with meant use and adhering to really helpful software procedures. Customers should rigorously evaluate product labels, think about the severity of their mowing circumstances, and make investments the mandatory time in floor preparation to maximise the lifespan of the coating. Whereas “mower deck spray residence depot” affords a handy answer for deck safety, attaining long-term advantages requires knowledgeable decision-making and diligent execution, acknowledging that no coating is impervious and that upkeep remains to be required. Due to this fact, the anticipated lifetime of the product just isn’t solely depending on the merchandise itself, however along side the right protocols earlier than, throughout and after the appliance.

Continuously Requested Questions

The next part addresses frequent inquiries concerning protecting coatings for lawnmower decks accessible at main residence enchancment retailers.

Query 1: What’s the anticipated lifespan of a typical mower deck spray?

The longevity of a mower deck spray varies considerably primarily based on a number of elements, together with the product’s formulation, the severity of utilization, and the thoroughness of floor preparation. Whereas some fundamental formulations could final solely a single mowing season, higher-quality coatings, when correctly utilized, can present safety for a number of seasons, probably extending as much as three years or extra.

Query 2: Is floor preparation actually needed earlier than making use of a mower deck spray?

Floor preparation just isn’t merely really helpful; it’s important for optimum adhesion and efficiency. Failing to correctly clear and put together the mower deck floor will considerably cut back the coating’s skill to bond, resulting in untimely chipping, peeling, and corrosion. Thorough removing of rust, filth, and grease is essential.

Query 3: Can any kind of spray paint be used as an alternative to devoted mower deck spray?

Whereas some general-purpose spray paints could provide a level of safety, they’re sometimes not formulated to face up to the abrasive surroundings and corrosive circumstances encountered by a mower deck. Devoted mower deck sprays are particularly engineered to withstand abrasion, moisture, and chemical publicity, offering superior and longer-lasting safety.

Query 4: Are a number of coats of mower deck spray required for enough safety?

Making use of a number of skinny coats, versus a single thick coat, is usually really helpful to make sure uniform protection and forestall runs or drips. A number of coats enable for higher adhesion and create a extra strong protecting barrier, enhancing the coating’s general sturdiness and longevity.

Query 5: What are the potential dangers related to utilizing mower deck spray?

Mower deck sprays typically include risky natural compounds (VOCs) and flammable propellants. Inhalation of spray mist could cause respiratory irritation, and pores and skin contact could result in dermatitis. It’s important to make use of the product in a well-ventilated space, put on acceptable private protecting tools (PPE), and keep away from publicity to open flames or sparks.

Query 6: How ought to extra or unused mower deck spray be correctly disposed of?

Mower deck spray needs to be disposed of in accordance with native rules and environmental pointers. Empty cans needs to be utterly emptied of propellant earlier than disposal. By no means puncture or incinerate aerosol cans. Contacting native waste administration companies or hazardous waste disposal amenities will present steering on correct disposal procedures.

In abstract, using protecting coatings from retailers for lawnmower decks necessitates a complete understanding of product traits, correct software strategies, and potential security hazards. Knowledgeable decision-making ensures optimum efficiency and long-term tools safety.

The next part will delve into different strategies of mower deck safety and upkeep.

Important Suggestions for Mower Deck Safety Using Coatings from Dwelling Enchancment Retailers

The next pointers present actionable recommendation to maximise the effectiveness and longevity of protecting coatings for lawnmower decks obtained from main retailers.

Tip 1: Prioritize Meticulous Floor Preparation: Take away all traces of rust, previous paint, and particles from the mower deck earlier than making use of any coating. A wire brush, sandpaper, and degreasing solvent are important instruments. Inadequate preparation compromises adhesion and reduces coating lifespan.

Tip 2: Choose Coatings Formulated for Mower Decks: Common-purpose paints typically lack the abrasion resistance and corrosion inhibitors needed for mower deck safety. Go for merchandise particularly designed for this software, as they provide superior efficiency.

Tip 3: Adhere to Really useful Software Strategies: Observe the producer’s directions exactly. Apply a number of skinny coats somewhat than a single thick coat. Preserve correct spray distance and overlap to make sure uniform protection and forestall runs or drips.

Tip 4: Guarantee Satisfactory Air flow Throughout Software: Mower deck coatings sometimes include risky natural compounds (VOCs). Apply the product in a well-ventilated space to reduce inhalation of dangerous vapors. Think about carrying a respirator for added safety.

Tip 5: Enable Enough Drying and Curing Time: The coating should totally dry and remedy earlier than the mower is put again into service. Discuss with the producer’s suggestions for drying instances, which may differ relying on temperature and humidity. Untimely use can injury the coating.

Tip 6: Repeatedly Examine and Preserve the Coating: Periodically examine the mower deck for any indicators of chipping, peeling, or injury to the coating. Contact up any affected areas promptly to stop corrosion from spreading. Constant monitoring extends coating lifespan.

Tip 7: Think about the Environmental Affect of the Coating: When choosing a mower deck coating, go for merchandise with decrease VOC content material to reduce environmental influence. Correctly eliminate empty aerosol cans in accordance with native rules to stop air pollution.

Constant software of those pointers optimizes the protecting advantages of mower deck coatings. Prioritizing meticulous floor preparation, choosing acceptable merchandise, and adhering to really helpful software and upkeep practices will considerably lengthen the lifespan of the mower deck and improve the general efficiency of the lawnmower.

The subsequent part will discover different strategies for safeguarding the mower deck that don’t contain spray coatings.

Conclusion

The previous dialogue has explored the properties, software, and concerns surrounding mower deck spray accessible from The Dwelling Depot. The evaluation underscores the significance of correct floor preparation, knowledgeable product choice, diligent software strategies, and adherence to security protocols to maximise the longevity and protecting advantages of such coatings. Efficient utilization of those merchandise contributes considerably to the upkeep and preservation of lawnmower tools.

Given the inherent challenges of sustaining lawnmower decks in corrosive environments, proactive measures, knowledgeable by a complete understanding of product limitations and finest practices, stay paramount. Continued analysis and improvement in coating applied sciences provide the potential for enhanced sturdiness and environmentally accountable options. Due to this fact, ongoing analysis of obtainable choices and dedication to accountable upkeep practices are important for guaranteeing the longevity and optimum efficiency of garden care tools.