Canada Lawn Mower Market Analysis & Forecast 2022-2027. Size of lawn mower
Lawnmower buying guide: How to choose the best lawn mower
A lush, leafy green lawn is what many gardeners dream of having. And for that, you need a good lawnmower.
In fact, the lawn is often the largest area of the garden. So having a high-quality lawnmower that suits your grass and garden size is vital. In fact, I think it’s the most important gardening tool you can own.
But shopping for a lawnmower can feel overwhelming. There are so many different types and the jargon is confusing. Often the models get more expensive, but the added extras are hard to identify.
So I’ve put together a lawnmower buying guide. It is completely independent and objective. I am not reviewing or recommending specific models or brands, or trying to sell you anything.
The buying guide simply aims to explain the different features and show which type of lawnmower is best for different garden sizes, styles and power requirements.
Lawn mower types
Cylinder
Cylinder lawn mowers have cylindrical blades that rotate vertically at the front of the mower. They cut against a fixed blade at the bottom. The cylinder should have multiple blades – three or more is best.
Cylinder lawnmowers are best for flat lawns that you want to keep short and well-manicured. They can be electric, petrol-powered and push mowers.
Rotary
Rotary lawnmowers have a single blade that rotates horizontally underneath the mower, like the propellers of a plane.
Rotary lawn mowers are the most versatile type and will cope with most types of grass. They are better than cylinder mowers at cutting longer and rougher grass.
A rotary mower may be powered by mains electric, rechargeable battery or petrol engine.
Hover
Hover lawnmowers hover above the ground, making them easier to push and adept at mowing uneven surfaces. They are a good choice for unusual-shaped lawns and cheaper than other types.
However, hover lawnmowers are not always suitable for larger gardens. They are usually electric powered and have rotary blades.
Lawnmower power options
Electric lawnmowers
Most lawnmowers are powered by mains electricity. This is the best choice for small and medium-sized gardens. The mowers are smaller, cheaper to buy and easy to store.
Check that the cable will allow you to mow to the end of your garden before you buy.
You should expect to pay £100 to £200 for an electric mower. Hover lawnmowers are cheaper, starting at around £50.
Cordless lawnmowers
Cordless battery-powered lawn mowers are a hassle-free garden mower. They have all the benefits of an electric mower but you don’t need to worry about a cable.
However, they can be more expensive than mains electric models because of the battery. Modern lithium ion batteries are lighter and last much longer than traditional nickel-cadmium versions, but they are more costly.
You should expect to pay £300 to £500 for a cordless lawnmower.
Petrol lawnmowers
Petrol-powered lawn mowers are the best choice for large gardens where a mains cable would be unsuitable. They are bit more expensive but much more powerful and faster at cutting. They are also easier to manoeuvre around large objects.
However, bear in mind that petrol lawnmowers will need servicing like car engines, and you will need to check and top-up the oil.
You should expect to pay £150 to £500 for a petrol lawnmower, depending on your power requirements.
Push lawnmowers
These are generally small cylinder lawnmowers that you simply push along with your muscle power. They are best for small gardens and don’t use electricity or produce noise and emissions.
However, push lawnmowers are not suitable for larger or sloping gardens or people who have difficulty pushing.
You should expect to pay £40 to £100 for a push lawnmower.
Lawn mowers for different garden sizes
Think of your lawn as a tennis court. A full-size court would be a medium lawn, half the court or less would be a small lawn. Anything bigger is a large lawn.
- Small lawn (up to 100 sq m): electric and cordless lawn mowers.
- Medium lawn (100 – 250 sq m): electric, cordless and petrol lawn mowers.
- Large lawn (250 sq m): petrol lawn mowers.
Other lawnmower factors to consider
Self-propelled
Some electric and petrol lawnmowers are self-propelled. This means that you don’t need to push them – simply steer them in the right direction!
It makes mowing much easier, especially with large lawns and heavy machines. Some models come with adjustable speeds, so you can set it to a comfortable walking pace.
Grass box
It is generally advised to collect grass clippings rather than leaving them on the lawn. Most lawnmowers collect the clippings in a box at the back. This is better than mowers that leave you to rake them up afterwards!
If you have a medium or large lawn, look for a high-capacity grass box. This will cut down how often you need to stop mowing and empty the box.
Mulch mowers
You can also get lawn mowers that chop up the grass clippings very finely and push them back into the lawn as mulch. These are sometimes called recycling mowers. The mulch adds nutrients back into the lawn.
The fine shredding helps the clippings break down quickly so they don’t smother the rest of the grass. Mulching mowers are expensive but a good choice if you don’t have anywhere to dispose of grass clippings.
Cutting width
A lawn mower’s cutting width refers to how wide a stripe the lawnmower can cut. A larger cutting width will reduce how much time you spend mowing the lawn.
Here’s a handy guide using the lawn sizes from above.
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Cutting height
Cutting height refers to how high the grass will be when you have cut it. Most lawnmowers have adjustable cutting heights – you simply move the blades up or down.
This helps you dictate the height of the grass, and leave it longer in autumn or during dry periods. Cutting height ranges are usually 20mm to 60mm – see my section on proper mowing technique below for advice.
Rear roller
If you want the striped lawn finish you see on football pitches, you need a lawnmower with a rear roller. The heavier the mower and its roller, the longer your stripes will last.
Rear rollers also allow you to mow right up to the edge of the lawn.
Mowing edges
If you have lots of lawn edges, it is worth looking for a model that can cut right up to the edge. Generally cylinder blades or versions with rear rollers are better at this.
Any mower with inset front wheels or a grass collection comb is also great for mowing edges – no need to go back round with a strimmer.
Robot lawn mowers
Robot lawn mowers are becoming more commonplace these days. The technology is getting better all the time and they can now recognise obstacles and lawn edges. And they are a lot more affordable, though still not cheap.
Robot lawnmowers are for you if you really, really hate mowing the lawn. There is some set-up involved as you have to lay a perimeter wire. Then just leave the mower to get on with cutting. Some models even ‘self-park’ into a charging station after mowing.
Proper mowing technique
Now you have the best lawnmower, you need to get your mowing technique sorted too. A great-looking lawn needs a regular mowing regime that encourages the grasses to develop fine leaves. It also keeps the growth lush and dense, and stops weeds and moss spreading.
The single biggest mistake most people make when cutting the lawn is to cut too low. This is known as ‘scalping’ the grass, and can seriously weaken it.
For normal lawns that get wear and foot traffic, keep the grass around 5cm high. For ornamental lawns that don’t get used much, you can go as low as 2.5cm.
Always remove leaves and grass clippings after mowing and feed the lawn in spring and autumn with special lawn fertiliser. Make sure you choose the right one – spring feeds encourage leafy growth and autumn mixtures build stronger roots.
THE CANADA LAWN MOWERS MARKET SIZE WAS VALUED AT USD 1.83 BILLION IN 2021 AND IS EXPECTED TO REACH USD 2.76 BILLION BY 2027, GROWING AT A CAGR OF 7.10%.
The Canada Lawn Mowers Market Size, Share, Trends Analysis Report By
- Product Type: Walk-behind (Reel, Self-propelled, Push, Hover), Ride-on (Standard Ride-on, Zero-turn, Lawn Tractors, Garden Tractors), and Robotic
- Fuel Type: Manual-Powered, Gas-Powered, Propane-Powered, Electric-Corded, and Electric-Cordless/Battery-Powered
- End-User: Professional Landscaping Services, Golf Courses, Residential Users, and Government Others
- Distribution Channel: Offline and Online
Industry Analysis Report, Regional Outlook, Market Trends, Competitive Landscape, Share, Growth Potential Forecast, 2022 – 2027
CANADA LAWN MOWERS MARKET REPORT SCOPE
| Market Size (2027) | USD 2.76 Billion |
| Market Size (2021) | USD 1.83 Billion |
| CAGR (2021-2027) | 7.10% |
| MARKET SIZE- VOLUME (2027) | 3,355.10 thousand Units |
| BASE YEAR | 2021 |
| Forecast Year | 2022-2027 |
| Market Segments | Product Type, Fuel Type, End-User, Distribution Channel |
MARKET OUTLOOK
The Canada lawn mowers market is estimated to reach USD 2.76 billion in 2027 from USD 1.83 billion in 2021, growing with a CAGR of 7.10% during the forecast period. The country’s increasing demand for lawn mowers is ascribed to the rising technological advancements and innovation of battery-powered and robotic lawn mowers. The market demand for robotic lawn mowers to mow areas in 32,301 sq. ft. −107,400 sq. ft. (3,001 sq. m. − 10,000 sq. m.) is gradually increasing among professionals. Hence, manufacturers FOCUS on improving their product efficiency, battery capabilities, and run time, significantly raising the market demand.
Manufacturers also innovate cordless lawn mowers to address environmental issues. Some of the cordless mowers offered by GreenWorks Crossover Z 42″ Deck have a 48V motor producing 24hp and speeds of up to 8mph, capable of handling 15-degree gradients with ease. The development of ion batteries has improved the efficiency of cordless lawn mowers so that they can easily be used for larger areas enable hassle-free mowing without the discomfort of cables.
The country is planning to ban gas-powered lawn mowers, which is expected to boost the demand for electric corded and cordless mowers in states such as Orionto Toronto, where the government is taking various steps to minimize the carbon footprint.
Some well-known mower manufacturers in the Canada lawn mowers market are Bad-Boy, Husqvarna, Deere Co., Ariens, and Toro. Further, these vendors distribute their products via a vast network of dealers, distributors, mass retailers, and online channels. In addition, these vendors FOCUS on establishing a close partnership with retailers and other producers of outdoor power devices. Also, increasing diversification among consumer purchases is anticipated to witness a surge in demand for lawn mowers during the forecast period.
IMPACT OF COVID-19
Especially while the pandemic was at its peak, Canadian people started indulging in gardening, lawn care, and backyard beautification. These household owners emphasize using eco-friendly products, thus boosting the market for cordless lawn mowers. In several regions of Canada, landscaping was deemed with only limited services contractors could offer their customers. The fear of getting infected also leads to people avoiding landscaping services. This factor has increased the consumption of lawnmowers in the residential sector.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS
- Canada’s zero-turn lawn mowers market was valued at USD 383.66 million in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 561.51 Million by 2027.
- In 2019, 7% of households used manual mowers to mow their lawns.
- Landscaping and ground maintenance laborers are still in demand across Canada.
- The city of Ottawa prefers electric lawn and yard equipment as the government plans to shut down gas-powered garden tools.
- The City of Waterloo has announced the purchase of an emissions-free, automatic lawn mower as the country moves towards a greener future. The city municipality plans to purchase the Echo Turf Mower 2000, which can cut up to six acres in a charge.
- The growth in the commercial sector, driven by the increased spending (more than 5.5%) on office buildings in the Alberta province in Western Canada, is expected to push the demand for the product in the market.
- Initiatives geared toward increasing green spaces in the city, such as the Greenest City initiative of Vancouver, Canada, are expected to support the Canada lawn mowers market.
FUTURE MARKET GROWTH ANALYSIS
- In 2021, there were around 2300 courses in the country, with most of the courses concentrated in the top golfing courses, such as The National G.C. of Canada, one of the best golf courses worldwide. Hence, it is expected to generate the highest demand in the Canadian lawn mowers market.
- Several new construction activities have taken place concerning building gardens and parks. For instance, The Meadow project, a 16 km linear park that started in 2020, is expected to complete by 2025. Thus, such expansion of green spaces in the country is driving the Canada lawn mowers market.
- The Canadian government focuses on zero emissions and plans to ban gasoline-based lawn tools by April 2023. Hence, such initiatives are propelling the demand for cordless mowers in Canada.
SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS
INSIGHTS BY FUEL TYPE The gasoline-based lawn mowers account for the largest share of 72.02% in the Canada lawn mowers market. In 2019, According to Statistics Canada, around 78% of households used gas lawnmowers. The vendors are also constantly offering enhanced versions of gasoline mowers. However, with the rising awareness of eco-friendly products, the demand for cordless mowers will gradually increase during the forecast period.
INSIGHTS BY PRODUCT TYPE Although ride-on mowers account for the highest share in the Canada Lawn mowers market, robotic lawn mowers are anticipated to witness the fastest growth owing to the increasing awareness of technology and the rising demand for sustainable products by the end-users. At the same time, walk-behind lawn mowers are growing at a CAGR of 7.53% ( by value). They are the leading segment in unit shipment owing to their low price and better suitability for lawns and backyards in small areas with higher market penetration.
INSIGHTS BY END-USER During the forecast period, the residential sector dominates the market by accounting for the highest industry share of 62.03% in the Canada lawn mowers market. The demand for garden parties and cookouts is growing significantly, boosting the demand for backyard beautification and landscaping in the residential sector. Furthermore, Professional landscaping services are gaining momentum among various end-users to escape the high initial cost. End-users with low budgets prefer to hire professional landscaping services, which reduces the one-time initial fee and enables individuals to maintain their lawns.
VENDORS LANDSCAPE
Diversified global and regional vendors characterize the Canada lawn mowers market. The international players are expanding their footprint in the industry by offering their products in different countries via online websites and specialty stores. Therefore, regional vendors will likely find competing with these global players difficult. Stanley Black Decker, Bosch, and Makita are some significant players in the Canada lawn mowers market. The competition among the key players is based solely on durability, lifespan, tool performance, and price.
Most consumers in Canada prefer to buy tools through an e-commerce website; certain manufacturers source their mowers using certain suppliers or manufacturers. Lowe’s Canada is one of the popular websites for purchasing tools online. The wide acceptance and increasing demand for corded and cordless mowers across various end-users create intense competition among manufacturers. Hence, manufacturers emphasize the adoption of energy-efficient goods owing to the increasing trend of using less carbon energy sources.
The Canada lawn mowers market size is expected to reach USD 2.76 billion by 2027 from USD 1.83 billion in 2021.
The Canada lawn mowers market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.10% from 2022-2027.
The Canada lawn mowers market share by volume will reach 3,355.10 thousand units by 2027.
The Ride-on segment dominated the Canada lawn mowers market with a share of 59.15% in 2021. This can be attributed to the perception that Ride-on mowers require less effort to mow the lawn and is a suitable option for professionals to mow large lands.
The increase in the number of golf courses, developments in future golf course design projects in Canada, and the need to preserve the pristine condition and visual attractiveness of gardens are some factors driving the Canada lawn mowers market growth.
The Canada lawn mowers market was valued at USD 1.83 billion in 2021 and is expected to reach USD 2.76 billion by 2027.
Canada has been a mature industry for traditional lawn mowers. There is a high preference for ride-on mowers in end-user segments in the country, and has a strong culture of lawns and gardens, backed by a growing population inclined toward maintaining a beautiful backyard. A strong growth forecast for lawn mowers in the country could be attributed to increasing sporting tournaments for golf, rugby, and football, growing construction of botanical gardens, and innovative product launches of robotic auto mowers.
The report considers the present scenario of the Canada lawn mower market and its market dynamics for 2022-2027. It covers a detailed overview of several market growth enablers, restraints, and trends. The study covers both the demand and supply sides of the industry. It also profiles and analyzes leading companies and several other prominent companies operating in the market.
Segmentation by Product Type
- Walk-behind Lawn Mowers
- Self-propelled Mower
- Push Mower
- Hover Mower
- Reel/Cylinder Mower
- Standard Ride-on Mower
- Zero-turn Lawn Mower
- Lawn Tractors
- Garden Tractors
Segmentation by End-users
Segmentation by Fuel Type
Segmentation by Distribution Channels
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Agenda2. Market Definition 3. Scope of Studyo Inclusiono Exclusion
Report Assumptions5. Index6. Lawn Mower Market Size Forecasto Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast. Unit Shipment 2021-2027
Import Export Statisticso Leading 10 Canada Importing Countries 2019 – 2021o Leading 10 Canada Exporting Countries 2019. 2021
Lawn Mower Market by Product Type
Walk-behind Mowerso Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Self-propelled Lawn Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Push Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Hover Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Reel/Cylinder Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027Ride-on Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Standard Ride-on Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Zero-turn Lawn Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Lawn Tractoro Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Garden Tractoro Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027
Robotic Lawn Mowerso Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027
Lawn Mower Market by End-users Market Overview Market by End-user Type Residential Userso Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Professional Landscaping Serviceso Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Golf Courses Other Sports Arenaso Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Government Otherso Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027
Lawn Mower Market by Fuel Type Market Overview Market by Fuel Type Gas-powered Lawn Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Electric Corded Lawn Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Electric-Cordless Lawn Mowero Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Manual-powered Lawn Mowerso Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Propane-powered Lawn Mowerso Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027
Lawn Mower Market by Distribution Channels Market Overview Market by Distribution Channels Offlineo Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast – Unit Shipment 2021-2027 Onlineo Market Size Forecast – Revenue 2021-2027o Market Size Forecast
Lawn Mower Market – Key Trends13. Lawn Mower Market – Key Drivers14. Lawn Mower Market – Key Restraints15. Competitive Landscapeo Key Market Players
Quantitative Summaryo By Product Typeo By End-usero By Fuel Type o By Distribution Channel
Other Reports in this Series
Exhibit 1 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast ( million) Exhibit 2 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast (thousand units) Exhibit 3 Lawn Mower Market by Product Type: Overview 2021 Exhibit 4 Lawn Mower Market Share by Product Type 2021 (Revenue) Exhibit 5 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Product Type 2021-2027 ( million) Exhibit 6 Lawn Mower Market Share by Product Type 2021 (Unit Shipment) Exhibit 7 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Product Type 2021-2027 (thousand units) Exhibit 8 Walk-behind Lawn Mower Market Share by Product Type 2021 (Revenue) Exhibit 9 Walk-behind Lawn Mower Market Share by Product Type 2021 (Unit Shipment) Exhibit 10 Walk-behind Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Product Type 2021-2027 ( million) Exhibit 11 Walk-behind Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Product Type 2021-2027 (thousand units) Exhibit 12 Ride-on Lawn Mower Market Share by Product Type 2021 (Revenue) Exhibit 13 Ride-on Lawn Mower Market Share by Product Type 2021 (Unit Shipment) Exhibit 14 Ride-on Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Product Type 2021-2027 ( million) Exhibit 15 Ride-on Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Product Type 2021-2027 (thousand units) Exhibit 16 Robotic Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast 2021-2027 ( million and thousand units) Exhibit 17 Lawn Mower Market by End-user Type: Overview 2021 Exhibit 18 Lawn Mower Market Share by End-user Type 2021 (Revenue) Exhibit 19 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by End-user Type 2021-2027 ( million) Exhibit 20 Lawn Mower Market Share by End-user Type 2021 (Unit Shipment) Exhibit 21 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by End-user Type 2021-2027 (thousand units) Exhibit 22 Lawn Mower Market by Fuel Type: Overview 2021 Exhibit 23 Lawn Mower Market Share by Fuel Type 2021 (Revenue) Exhibit 24 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Fuel Type 2021-2027 ( million) Exhibit 25 Lawn Mower Market Share by Fuel Type 2021 (Unit Shipment) Exhibit 26 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Fuel Type 2021-2027 (thousand units) Exhibit 27 Lawn Mower Market by Distribution Channel: Overview 2021 Exhibit 28 Lawn Mower Market Share by Distribution Channel 2021 (Revenue) Exhibit 29 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Distribution Channel 2021-2027 ( million) Exhibit 30 Lawn Mower Market Share by Distribution Channel 2021 (Unit Shipment) Exhibit 31 Lawn Mower Market Size Forecast by Distribution Channel 2021-2027 (thousand units) Exhibit 32 Lawn Mower Market: Key Trends Exhibit 33 Lawn Mower Market: Key Drivers Exhibit 34 Lawn Mower Market: Key Restraints Exhibit 35 Lawn Mower Market: Key Market Players
Table 1 Leading 10 Canada Importing Countries Revenue ( Thousand) Table 2 Leading 10 Canada Exporting Countries Revenue ( Thousand) Table 3 Quantitative Summary of Market by Product Type ( million) Table 4 Quantitative Summary of Market by Product Type ( million) Table 5 Quantitative Summary of Market by Product Type (thousand units) Table 6 Quantitative Summary of Market by End-user Type ( million) Table 7 Quantitative Summary of Market by End-user Type (thousand units) Table 8 Quantitative Summary of Market by Fuel Type ( million) Table 9 Quantitative Summary of Market by Fuel Type (thousand units) Table 10 Quantitative Summary of Market by Distribution Channel ( million) Table 11 Quantitative Summary of Market by Distribution Channel (thousand units)
How to Choose the Right Lawn Mower
A homeowner will typically mow the lawn up to 30 times each season. With so much effort spent to keep the yard tidy, selecting the right lawn mower for your lawn and your lifestyle is essential.
Many new features and innovations make it easier than ever to choose the right mower for the job. Mower decks mulch grass much more effectively than past models, while safety controls can stop the blades and keep the engine running. Battery-powered mowers are becoming more popular with newer innovations, yet gas mowers still tend to be the preferred choice. You know it’s time for a new mower when your current machine is hard to start, inefficient, or lets off a lot of fumes.
Types of Lawn Mowers
There are many different types of lawn mowers to choose from, each with their own unique features. The model you select should be based on your ability and lawn needs.
Gas lawn mower
The popular gas lawn mower allows you to cut up to 5,000 sq. ft. with superior power on all types of terrain. While gas mowers demand more maintenance than any other type of mower, an annual tune-up will keep the mower working effectively. The oil needs to be changed regularly, and fuel additives can be added once the fuel tank is drained and refilled every year. Items such as the spark plugs and air filters need to be changed as well. Gas engines are either two-stroke or four-stroke, but the four-stroke is the most common variation. Two-stroke engines are advisable for users who need the greatest level of power due to lawn size or uneven terrain. Self-propelled models are helpful if mowing is overly laborious with a standard push model. Most gas mowers have mulching blades and electric start options. Gas mowers also need more floor storage space than other types of mowers.
Cordless lawn mower
The battery-powered cordless lawn mower is recommended for lawns 5,000 sq. ft. and under. Many of the same options available for gas mowers are available for cordless lawn mowers, and all electric mowers come with electric starters. While the size of the hood and motor vary like those of gas mowers, the electric engine does not require oil, gas, or annual engine and motor maintenance. Additional features may include LED battery power level indicators and on/off charging board options. Most often, electric models are selected because of the elimination of noise and emissions. Depending on the brand and model, batteries are expected to last for about 30 to 60 minutes. Newer technologies allow for a full charge in as little as 60 minutes, up to a few hours. Extra batteries may be needed to ensure that the task can be completed without recharging. Most brands now offer full battery platforms, with batteries that are compatible with all the outdoor tools of the same voltage and brand.
Corded electric lawn mower
The corded electric lawn mower is an option that provides continuous electrical power. At the same time, however, it is limited to the length of the extension cord. Therefore, corded electric mowers are recommended for lawns under 5,000 sq. ft. Blades and sizes of motors are usually equal or smaller than options available for gas and cordless mowers. Electric mowers are lightweight and are simple to store with the option of hanging them on a garage wall hook. Like the battery-powered models, corded electric mowers are also quiet, require no mechanical maintenance, and produce no emissions.
Push-reel lawn mower
The push-reel lawn mower is recommended for lawns no larger than 2,000 sq. ft. The homeowner who finds value in a push reel has a small lawn and the ability to mow frequently as long grass cannot be cut with manual mowers. Push-reel mowers are environmentally friendly, use no fuel, are lightweight, quiet, long-lasting, and have blades that need sharpening every few years. Nonetheless, the cutting efficiency is greatly limited.
Lawn tractor
Lawns larger than half an acre (21,780 sq. ft.) will require the speed and power of a lawn tractor. This will save you a lot of time and physical exertion when cutting grass, without sacrificing the quality of the cut. Generally, you will want to look for a deck size of up to 42” if your lawn is smaller than an acre (43,560 sq. ft.), and greater than 42” if it is bigger than an acre. When it comes to horsepower, a stronger engine (from 19 to 23 HP), is a better choice for those who cut their lawns infrequently, as it will have an easier time with taller grass. Features like automatic transmission and cruise control will allow the tractor to do most of the work for you, while manual transmission will give you more control over the engine. Other features you should consider when looking for a lawn tractor include pulling capability (for aerators and tow-behind carts) and zero-turn capability for optimum manoeuvring. A lawn tractor with an overhead valve engine will also help control emissions. There are also battery-powered lawn tractors! You will see more and more models coming on the market in the next few years.
Did You Know?
Zero-turn mowers and tractors are designed to cut very close to obstacles, such as flower beds, rocks, and trees. This means you don’t have to trim corners and edges! And because they turn at tighter angles than standard models, they don’t leave any uncut grass behind.
The Right Mower for the Job
Conduct all maintenance yearly. Sharpen blades. Check the spark plugs. Change the oil and filters. Drain the fuel and mix in a stabilizing additive.
Consider purchasing a self-propelled version for larger lawns. A variety of cutting widths are available.
Must remain on the floor of the garage or shed and take up 4 square feet. Some models have handles that fold down for compaction.
Select a version that has a cord long enough for the lawn size. Varieties of cutting widths are available.
Battery will need to be recharged after 30-60 min. Varieties of cutting widths are available. The batteries need to be replaced every two years.
Conduct all maintenance yearly. Sharpen blades. Check the spark plugs. Change the oil and filters. Drain the fuel and mix in a stabilizing additive.
Consider purchasing a self-propelled version for larger lawns. A variety of cutting widths are available.
Must remain on the floor of the garage or shed and take up 4 square feet. Some models have handles that fold down for compaction.
Select a version that has a cord long enough for the lawn size. Varieties of cutting widths are available.
Battery will need to be recharged after 30-60 min. Varieties of cutting widths are available. The batteries need to be replaced every two years.
Pro Tip
Different types of lawn mowers come with different types of warranties. Both gas and electric mowers have two- to five-year warranties. Electric starters have special warranties. Plastic decks typically have lifetime warranties.
Lawn Mower Terminology, Parts, and Features
Lawn mowers are often selected based on their specific parts and features. For example, larger domed hoods allow the grass to mulch more efficiently, and an electric start may be preferable over a pull cord. The larger the motor size, the heavier the machine and the more likely a user would select a self-propelled model.
Deck
The wider the deck size, the wider the blades, and fewer passes are needed to cut the entire lawn. Deck widths vary from 13 ½” to 22.” Apart from size, decks come flat or domed, metal or plastic. Domed hood decks allow more room for the blades to efficiently chop the grass clippings. While metal lasts longer, plastic does not corrode.
Blades
Blade sizes and types vary regardless of the type of mower. Blades are designed to either cut or mulch between one to four inches. Cutting blades require the use of bags to gather grass, whereas mulching blades grind the grass during the mowing so that it can compost quickly into the lawn. It is recommended to sharpen blades yearly. Push reel mowers have limited blade widths and need to be sharpened every few years.
Wheels
The 4-wheel adjustment option is recommended regardless of the type of mower selected. The larger the wheel size, the easier the manoeuvrability. Also, larger wheels in the rear make the mower easier to push. Innovations such as ball-bearing wheels, pivoting wheels, and PVC-wrapped wheels are available.
Motor
The type of motor varies with either gas or electricity fuel.
For gas engines, the power is measured by foot-pounds (ft-lb) of torque or cubic centimetres (cc) of cylinder size, depending on the manufacturer. Torque typically ranges from 5 to 7.5 foot-pounds while cylinder (cc) size ranges from 125 to 190.
Gas motors come in either 4-cycle or 2-cycle versions. The 4-cycle engine is more commonly selected based on its lower levels of pollution, greater durability, and its lower noise levels. The oil should be changed every 25 hours of usage, which translates to once or twice a year.
Gas motors with 2-stroke engines are designed for heavily inclined terrains and are therefore less commonly selected. Maintenance is easier because the engine is mechanically simpler with a gas/oil mixture. Though noisier, this engine will typically last longer than its 4-stroke counterpart. 2-stroke gas mowers are lighter than 4-stroke but emit more exhaust.
For electric engines, the size varies from a small 7A motor to one as large as a 17A, with the amperage serving as an indicator of the motor’s power level. Larger motors are longer-lasting, heavier, and can handle greater loads.
Electric motors need different sizes of power cords based on the motor’s amperage needs. If a 50-foot power cord length is sufficient, then a 16-gauge cord is recommended. Additionally, a 100-foot cord would need 14-gauge cord. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when purchasing a cord for an electric mower. Cordless electric mowers simply need one or two batteries in order to complete the lawn’s surface.
Optional Components
When shopping for a new lawn mower, there are several optional components that can impact how the mower runs and handles that you should be aware of.
Self-propelled
The self-propelled option for a mower minimizes the hardship of mowing. The ability to control the mower is greater with a push mower, yet many self-propelled models have variable speeds. Homeowners may consider a self-propelled model for larger lawns and heavier mowers. Self-propelled mowers are available as either front or rear-wheel driven with front-drive as the most common choice.
Electric start
The traditional pull cord is either an invigorating or a terrifying experience for the homeowner. Fortunately, even gas mowers now have electric start options as well as all electric-powered mowers. The electric start begins either with a push button or with a key ignition.
Innovative handles
Ergonomically-designed handles are another new feature that is designed to lessen the hardship of mowing. Overall, ergonomic handles reduce fatigue and improve control with their designed shape and adjustable height features. Many mower handles now fold down over the deck for compact storage needs. Though not new, reversible handles are also still available.
Discharge options/bags
As grass is mulched, it is usually discharged to the side. Discharge bags are available for either the side or rear of the mower’s deck; however, rear bags help to keep the mower balanced. Bags collect the grass to make disposal more efficient. It is recommended to use bags when cutting seedlings or after heavy rains when the clippings are too long for a mulching blade.
Safety
Various safety features are available with some new innovative options. For example, safety control switches can stop the blade while keeping the engine running.
How To Measure The Deck Size of Your Lawn Mower
Like every other appliance and tool we use regularly, our lawnmowers eventually reach the end of their lifespans. Although they can last decades with proper care, there may come a time when they refuse to work correctly, and fixing them would be excessively expensive. So, you may find yourself looking for a new lawnmower.
Since your old lawnmower worked perfectly for your yard, easily maneuvering between ornamental trees and flowerbeds, you need a mower that matches its size. But how do you measure the deck of a lawnmower? Let’s find out.
What Is The Deck On A Lawnmower?
The deck on a lawnmower (also referred to as a cutting deck) is the part that protects the user and engine from the blades. It helps ensure safety in the event of blade malfunction and prevents debris from flying off the blades while mowing. Tiny rocks and stick debris could cause injury without the deck to prevent them from flying in the user’s face, so it’s an essential part of the setup.
How Do You Measure Deck Size On A Lawnmower?
Although measuring the deck size of your lawnmower seems like a straightforward task, it can be a bit tricky, especially if there are pulleys in the way of obtaining the correct measurement. However, it’s doable with a bit of effort, so here’s what you’ll need:
To make things easier, prop your mower up on a chunk of wood or a few bricks. This will elevate the mower, so you don’t need to lie on the ground to measure. Otherwise, you could push it onto a trailer or ramp to easily access the cutting deck.
Extend your tape measure across the widest point on one side of the deck (back or front) to the opposite edge. Try to keep the tape extended across the middle of the deck. Ensure you keep the tape measure level and account for the added with due to the anti-scalp rollers and discharge chute.
Note the size. To determine the area of the mower deck, you’ll need to measure the length of the deck. So, run your measuring tape along the top of the deck, extending the tap from front to back instead of side to side. Note your measurement, then multiply it by the width to determine the mowing deck’s total area.
Riding Lawnmowers
If you have a riding lawnmower, you’ll need to elevate it before measuring in most cases, as the deck might not be easily accessible. Here’s what you’ll need:
If your mower’s cutting deck isn’t accessible from the topside or pulleys are blocking a clear measuring path, start by raising the mower. Chock the mower’s rear wheels to keep them in place, then raise the front of the mower by about 6 inches using a floor jack. Using your measuring tape, measure directly across the broadest part of the deck from one side to the other. Note your measurement.
If your lawnmower has a circular deck, find the widest part of the circle. Use your measuring tape to find the diameter of the circle, which represents the width of its cutting deck.
What Is The Deck Size Of A Lawnmower?
The deck size of a lawnmower varies based on the type of lawnmower in question. The cutting deck may be as small as 14 inches wide on the low end, and on the opposite end of the spectrum, the cutting deck may be as wide as 72 inches.
Zero Turn Mowers
As the name implies, zero-turn mowers have the ability to turn on a dime. Unlike other riding mowers and lawn tractors, these mowers feature a mowing deck positioned in front of the machine. This allows users to easily maneuver the machine without an issue, making mowing much more manageable.
These mowers come in a few different cutting deck sizes, including the following:
- 36 to 42 inches: best for 1- to 2-acre yards
- 42 to 54 inches: Perfect for 3- to 4-acre yards
- 54 to 72 inches: Ideal for more than 4 acres
Reel Mowers
These mowers are considerably different than a generic gas-powered push mower. Unlike most modern lawnmowers, reel mowers are mechanically powered, so you have to push them to cut the grass.
On these mowers, the blades rotate vertically, unlike other mowers, where the blade spins horizontally (called rotary mowers). Reel mowers tend to be considerably smaller than most lawnmowers, as they usually feature a cutting deck with a width between 14 and 20 inches. They’re ideal for small yards of less than half an acre when purchasing a gas or electric lawnmower isn’t logical.
Gas And Electric Push Mowers
These mowers feature a small engine that spins the blades tucked underneath it. Some designs feature an attached bag for easy clipping removal, whereas others don’t have this feature. The engine may be powered via gas or electricity, depending on the particular model.
Generally, these mowers are manual, so you need to push them across your lawn. However, there are self-propelled varieties available that can drive themselves over your lawn with your guidance.
Gas and electric push mowers usually feature a cutting deck ranging from 16 to 30 inches in width, which is ideal for yards smaller than one acre.
Riding Mowers And Lawn Tractors
Like zero-turn lawnmowers, riding mowers and lawn tractors are ideal for larger yards with extra acreage of grass. Lawn tractors are multi-functional – they can do more than simply mow your lawn. Riding mowers, on the other hand, are merely for mowing.
However, since they’re similar in many aspects, they come in similar sizes. You can buy one of these mowers with a 36- to 42-inch cutting deck, which is ideal for 1- to 2-acre properties. Or, if you have a larger lawn with 3 to 4 acres of grass to cut, you might want to invest in one with a 42- to 54-inch cutting deck.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is It Better To Buy A Larger Lawn Mower?
While it might seem like bigger is always better, especially for lawnmowers, this isn’t always the case. Larger lawnmowers are usually more expensive, so it might not always make sense, especially if you have a smaller yard.
Generally, it’s best to stick with a reel mower or a gas/electric push mower if your yard is smaller than one acre. A reel mower works best for lawns smaller than half an acre, as it’s a reasonably small mower. Gas and electric push mowers are ideal for yards smaller than one acre.
If you have a larger lawn with several acres of grass, using a push mower or reel mower will take a long time. While it’s entirely doable to use one of these mowers on a massive lawn, it might make more sense to invest in a riding mower or lawn tractor, especially if your yard is three or more acres.
Do Smaller Lawnmower Decks Cut Better?
Although smaller lawnmower decks don’t necessarily cut the grass better, they can create a better result than a larger mower deck. They’re not nearly as heavy as their larger counterpart, so they usually don’t leave noticeable tire tracks.
On top of that, they tend to create a smoother cut. This is because the smaller cutting deck follows the ground’s contours, ensuring the grass is cut evenly all the way around. There’s also usually only one blade working, not multiple blades. Larger mowers with numerous blades can create uneven lawns, especially when one of the blades is bent or improperly set up.
Matt Hagens
My name is Matt, and I am the founder of Obsessed Lawn. I am very passionate about my lawn. keeping it looking beautiful but also safe for my family, friends, and our dog Liberty. I hope you find my website helpful in your quest for a great-looking lawn!