Watch Out For This Part When Buying A Lawn Mower, According To An Expert

Shopping for a new lawn mower can be tricky, especially when you don't know what to look out for. You may be wondering what kind of a mower to get, the features you should consider, and how much you should spend. Bryan Clayton, CEO at GreenPal, spoke exclusively with House Digest about what to look for when buying a new lawn mower. One of his main pieces of advice — don't waste your money on a mower with a plastic deck.

"Stay away from mowers with plastic decks; they just don't hold up. A metal deck is sturdier and lasts much longer," Clayton said. Rather than purchasing an item that will break quickly and need to be replaced, buying a lawn mower that already has a sturdy metal deck will save you both time and money. In addition to a metal deck, Clayton also shared what time of year to buy a mower, how much you should spend, and the most important features to consider.  

During an exclusive interview with House Digest, Clayton suggested that when it comes to budgeting for a new lawn mower, it's probably better to spend more money initially. "It might sound counterintuitive, but spending more upfront on a commercial-grade mower can save you money in the long run," he explained. "These mowers last longer and handle wear better than cheaper models. Brands like ExMark, which you won't find in big box stores, offer superior durability." Going for the cheaper option is one of the common mistakes that many people make when buying a lawn mower, so consider shelling out a bit more for a commercial option in order to save yourself a headache in the future.

Additionally, while circumstances may be out of your control when it comes to the timing of shopping for your new machine, if you can, aim to buy in late fall or early winter. These are the best times of year to buy a lawn mower as prices are likely going to be lower thanks to the fact that demand for the equipment is lower. "Retailers are looking to clear out inventory before the new models come in, so you can snag a good deal," Clayton said.

When talking exclusively with House Digest, Clayton also suggested that buyers not compromise on engine power and versatility. When recommending engine power, Clayton said, "Opt for at least five horsepower. Anything less won't handle tougher, uneven terrain or thicker grass effectively." For versatility, he said, "Get a mower that can mulch, bag, and discharge. This adaptability is crucial for dealing with different conditions throughout the mowing seasons." Also, purchasing a self-propelling mower can help prevent strain on your back and make cutting your grass easier.

If you choose to purchase second hand, make sure that you thoroughly inspect the equipment and that it starts up easily. "Check for obvious signs of wear like oil leaks, uneven wear on the blades, and overall cleanliness," Clayton said. "Ensure the mower starts easily and runs smoothly without excessive noise or smoke." Also, prior to purchasing, get any receipts of maintenance or other service records.

While shopping for a new lawn mower can be a daunting and expensive task, according to Clayton, "by choosing wisely and taking care of your mower with regular maintenance, you can turn what seems like a big expense into a worthwhile investment." Once you have made your decision, make sure you are mowing the right way if you don't want weeds to take over.