Toolbox: Files

Figure A Figure B Figure C

Files are very useful for smoothing out all types of surfaces, from plastic to wood to metal.

A rasp is flat on one side, rounded on the reverse and has a very coarse grit for removing a lot of material quickly. The rounded side can be used to enlarge openings (figure A).

A triangular file is useful for working in tight spaces and sharpening tools (figure B).

A standard mill file is a good all-purpose tool (figure C).

A rat-tailed file is round, long and tapered and is an excellent tool for small holes and removing burrs in metal.

Files work best when they're clean. Just run a wire brush through the grooves and the file is ready for the next job.

Also in this Episode

Help Around the House : Episode ARH-116
•	Painting Over Wallpaper
•	Broken Doorjamb
•	Tile Backsplash
•	Toolbox: Files