In this guide, we walk you through four different types of lawnmowers: ride on, rotary, self-propelled and reel, and how each is designed to cater to specific lawn sizes, terrains, and user preferences. Whether you have a sprawling yard or a compact suburban garden, there’s a perfect lawnmower for you.
Ride-on Mower:
For those with expansive lawns, a ride-on mower offers an efficient solution. These mowers make mowing a breeze, significantly reducing the time and effort required. Ride-on mowers come in various categories, including lawn tractors, zero-turn, side-discharge, rear discharge, and commercial models. Standard riding mowers have a turning radius of around 15-18 inches, while zero-turn mowers offer exceptional maneuverability, allowing sharp turns and precise cutting around obstacles. Ride-on mowers are best suited for large lawns, delivering a quick and effective mowing experience.
Rotary Mower:
The rotary mower is a popular choice for walk-along mowing. It features a single horizontally rotating blade, much like a food processor or blender, cutting grass as it comes into contact. This mower is suitable for medium to long grass, allowing longer intervals between mowing sessions without causing harm. However, the cut produced by rotary mowers may be less precise compared to reel mowers. The high-speed rotation can lead to uneven and less accurate cuts, especially when compared to high-quality reel mowers.
Self-Propelled Mower:
Self-propelled lawnmowers come with a transmission system that propels the machine forward, eliminating the need for manual pushing. This convenient feature makes mowing effortless, even in small yards. Self-propelled mowers offer a more uniform cut than push mowers, as they can maintain a consistent speed throughout the process. However, they may require more maintenance due to their mechanical complexity. Though they are pricier than push mowers, many find the investment worthwhile to avoid the manual labor of pushing.
Reel Mower:
A reel mower has vertically rotating cylindrical blades at the front, engaging with a fixed blade to cleanly slice the grass. This mechanism operates like scissors, providing a precise cut. Cylinder mowers may have three to twelve blades, with higher blade counts offering more accuracy. Ideal for level terrains, they deliver a tidy trim and are perfect for creating lawn stripes. Reel mowers work best on soft grass types and require regular mowing to maintain optimal performance. They may struggle with coarse grass or long overgrowth. A cylinder mower is an excellent choice for meticulously grooming larger lawns and achieving a well-manicured look.
Lawnmower Features to Consider
Cutting Width: The width of the mower deck or chassis determines how much grass you can cut at once. If you purchase a high-end ride-on mower, this can range from 16 to 72 inches. A small to medium backyard will only require up to 21 inches of cutting width. If you have a large to lifestyle-size section, consider a ride-on option that best suits your terrain, obstacles, and size.
Height Adjustment: The ability to change the height at which the blades cut the grass, allowing for customisation to the desired length. Look for a mower that allows easy adjustment and a wide range of height options.
Catcher and Mulching Capabilities: The mower’s ability to collect grass clippings or disperse them back into the lawn. This can impact the overall health of your grass and the amount of time spent on clean-up. Consider a mower with a catcher if you prefer a neat finish or one with mulching capabilities for a more natural look.
Engine Power and Fuel Type: There are battery, manual, and petrol-powered options. For example, LawnMaster’s Petrol-powered mowers are typically more powerful but require more maintenance, while manual and electric mowers are generally quieter and easier to maintain with zero emissions. Consider your lawn size and the power needed when deciding which lawnmower to buy.
Maintenance and Repair: Look for a lawnmower with easily replaceable parts and accessible maintenance points. Consider purchasing from a reputable brand with a good customer service track record.
Choose a Lawnmower That Suits Your Needs
A suitable lawnmower purchase will make mowing an enjoyable experience, balance your budget, and make your lawn the envy of all the neighbours. Browse our featured products online or find a local dealer near you!