Storing a chainsaw away in your house or storage unit seems pretty simple if you have the space. However, chainsaws require ample thought, time, and preparation before storing them. Temperature, air quality, safety precautions, and casing all play a fundamental factor in the life of your chainsaw. If stored properly, a chainsaw can last over 20 years. If stored incorrectly, you’re looking at a faster expiration date.
Follow this list of the best chainsaw storage ideas to keep the quality of your chainsaw intact!
1. Find a dry area
The drier the air, the better it is for your saw blades. Any moisture in the air can cause detrimental corrosion to the saw, chain, and chain brake. Many feel that keeping it outdoors, on the side of the house or back of the garage, is safe. But this can take years off the life of your saw. Even if you reside in a dry climate, we recommend keeping your chainsaw indoors.
2. Store away from the sun
If you have UV rays poking through the windows of your garage on a daily basis, it can ruin your saw; the sun's powerful rays can slowly eat away at its aluminum and metal mechanics. Therefore, we recommend finding a dark closet, nook, or storage unit to keep it out of direct sunlight.
3. Seek a well-ventilated area
Though we recommend a dry environment away from sunlight, we don't mean a location without good air circulation. Without proper ventilation, stale air can generate dust and debris, harming your chainsaw (especially if stored nakedly without a case).
4. Dismantle your chainsaw properly
Remove the bar and chain off your chainsaw for smart and safe storage. Unless you plan to winterize your chainsaw, you should empty its fuel tank and bar oil each time you store it. Detach the spark plug and unscrew the spark oil to get to the cylinder. Apply a few drops of oil to the plug and cylinder.
Pro tip: Removing and cleaning the air filter is wise after each dismantlement. Clean it with soap and water for 15 minutes and let it air dry.
5. Consider a wall mount
A secure mount to vertically stack your chainsaw is a standard and safe style among all chainsaw storage ideas. Never hang it by the guide bar: this method will put its entire weight on the bar, which it cannot handle. When hanging vertically, the saw should always be pointed downward. If hung correctly, most mounts can hold over 100 pounds.
Pro tip: If you plan to mount, emptying the fuel after each usage is necessary. Otherwise, you'll run into the significant problem of drip leakage all over your garage floor (or wherever you’ve stored it).
6. Place your chainsaw on a shelf
For longer-term storage, laying the chainsaw on its side on a shelf is your best bet. Release the pressure first when unscrewing the caps, then empty all fuel. This will prevent any further leakage onto your shelf. For this storage method, dismantling your chainsaw is also strongly recommended. You’ll want a sturdy shelf, preferably one with which you can physically tether your chainsaw. If not, purchase a shelf with tray-like edges to keep the saw secure.
Pro tip: Storing on a cement floor is NOT a substitute for a shelf. The moisture in concrete can cause extensive damage to your saw.
7. Use a chainsaw bag
You can purchase a bag specifically made for chainsaw shapes at most hardware stores (they have thick fabric and handles). However, remember that this is a soft case with mild saw protection. A chainsaw bag is best for frequent chainsaw users or when transporting your saw short distances.
8. Opt for a chainsaw case
Depending on your price range, there are dozens of chainsaw cases to choose from. Many are made to cover the saw and don't require disassembly. However, we still recommend taking your chainsaw apart and cleaning it after each use. From there, you can reassemble and place it in storage. The best quality cases are made of hard rubber or plastic: these materials protect the life of your saw, keeping it secure and sealed. You can even find protective cases that can transition into backpacks if you're on the go.
9. Choose an alternative case
If you don’t wish to purchase cases explicitly made for chainsaws, you can buy a plastic tote from your nearest hardware store. Find the right size to fit your chainsaw powerhead and saw. Cut a ¾ inch slot in the plastic using a utility knife so the bar can stick out. You should be able to stick the bar through the slot with a cover on the bar.
10. Use a chainsaw holder and tray
The newest style in chainsaw storage is the holder and transporter tray. This is best when needing to store your saw during transportation. The tray will catch any possible leakage or dusty debris from recent usage. Once you place it inside the holder, a bungee cord secures the chainsaw in place. Note that the holder and tray are best suited for large chainsaws and that, due to it being a newer item, they aren’t available in all sizes and increments.
11. Consider a “saw tree”
If you have the space and live in a woodsy area, an innovative idea is the "saw tree." Find a log with about 10’ diameter and use a saw to plunge-cut vertical slots. Have the log set up in a "stand" position, so the log is now an upright "truck." Slip the saw's bar into the vertical slot and let the powerhead hang off to the side. To get a better visual, go to your nearest chainsaw store. Saw shops typically use the saw tree style to display their saws in-store. However, note that this solution might not be the best idea for long-term storage, as sap and moisture from the tree could damage your equipment.
There you have it: that’s 11 chainsaw storage ideas allowing you to keep that chainsaw around for years and years to come.