Tips to Maximize Efficiency & Make Professional-Looking Curbs with Lawn Edging Tools

When it comes to lawn edging tools, having the right one for your type of grass is essential. The differences between gas, electric, and manual tools affect the outcome of your lawn edging project. Knowing how to use each tool will help ensure that you get the desired results.

Manual edging tools are the simplest and cheapest option. Stick edgers have a steel half-moon shaped blade and a handle that can be a wide variety of shapes. To use a stick edger, you simply place it against the edge of your grass, grasp the handle and step on the flat side to drive it into the ground. It will only cut a few inches per step, so they can be physically exhausting to use, but they also provide more control than electric and gas edgers. Rotary blade edgers also come in manual versions and are used with an oscillating back-and-forth motion. The blades are attached to spokes that will produce a neat line when you push and pull the edger.

Electric edgers work similarly to gas edgers, but instead of needing to add fuel, you only need access to an outlet. Electric models come in string and blade varieties. With the string edger, a fast-spinning cord of plastic is used to cut through the grass, and the blade edger has moving blades underneath the machine. When using an electric edger, simply push it sideways along the edge of your lawn, and make sure to maintain a straight line, much like you do when driving.

Gas-powered edgers offer a greater portability than electric edgers since they are not limited by the length of the cord. With all gas-powered edgers, you’ll need to check the gas and oil levels before starting, and keep your feet and hands away from the string if you’re using a string edger. When using a blade edger, the blades can usually be engaged by a switch or level. Make sure to push it in a straight line and go slowly to ensure a clean edge is created. Stick edgers are a unique configuration of gas-powered edgers that involve a single cutting blade, and they work best in confined spaces.

Finally, battery-powered models are a good option for those who don’t have access to an outlet, and they provide the same benefits of gas and electric models. The only downside is that you’ll have to remember to keep your battery charged in order to use it.

No matter the type of edging tool you are using, it’s important to remember to wear protective gear, like gloves, goggles and long-sleeved clothes. Once you’ve chosen the edger that is best for your type of grass, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the tool before starting. This will help ensure that you finish your edging project successfully with a neat and tidy line between your grass and other areas.