Tip of the Week
How to choose a lawn tractor
Everyone knows it’s important to use the right tool for the job, and choosing a lawn tractor is no different. Tractors can be very expensive, so you will want to make sure you find one within your budget and that will do the work you purchased it for.
Lawn tractors can help cut down the time it takes to mow your lawn. A high-quality vehicle can assist you with a variety of tasks, making landscaping easier and even more enjoyable.
Finding a good lawn tractor that is built to last will go a long way toward making your job less of a hassle.
THE RIGHT FIT
Lawn tractors come in a variety of capabilities and price points. Most range from $1,000 for a simple, basic model to $8,000 or more for a fully-featured, commercial-grade tractor. In between, you will find a vast mixture of features and durability.
You can select the right model by asking yourself how you will use the lawn tractor. The size of your lawn is important, of course. Bigger lawns need a wider mowing deck. You should also consider other things you will do with your lawn tractor.
High-end lawn tractors are more like pieces of farm equipment than traditional ride-on mowers. You can purchase accessories for them, such as baggers, trailers, powerful tillers, and snowblowers.
You are not only buying a lawn mower. These tractors are platforms that can be used for all kinds of jobs. So check on the accessories that come with each model, even if you don’t plan on purchasing them yet. You may appreciate the choices in the future.
SPEED, MANEUVERABILITY
Most people want to finish the job in the least amount of time. While it is true that large mowing decks will cover more ground with each pass, there are other things to consider as well.
The transmission and speed is also a factor. How easy is it for you to change gears and turn in different directions?
The zero-turn mower is another popular option. These vehicles can turn quickly and precisely to cut lawns of all sizes and shapes. While they have been used for years by commercial lawn crews, only recently have these mowers become affordable for the average homeowner. Zero-turn mowers are particularly useful when mowing close to homes, playground equipment, and other tight areas.
DURABILITY
The longevity of your lawn tractor is also an important consideration.
The brand’s reputation should weigh heavily when you are making a decision. Research consumer reviews, and talk to your friends and family members about the best brands of lawn products. Visiting a retail store and talking to knowledgeable salespeople will also help you.
There are plenty of low-end, affordable riding mowers out there, but few have a reputation for durability. It is economical, in the long run, to choose a well-built model from a reputable manufacturer.
Inspect the construction of each lawn mower careful to verify that it will meet your needs. While you probably don’t need the extreme engineering and high price of a commercial-grade model, you ought to buy the best model you can afford and follow the maintenance directions closely. It will help you get the most usage for your money.
Finding a good dealer is an essential part of the process. When you locate an experienced local retailer with a long track record of happy customers, you will be well on your way to selecting the right lawn tractor for you.
