What to Know About Zero-Turn Mowers

A well-mowed lawn is about more than just making a property look good. It ensures that the yard is in good health, keeping the property value up while avoiding any expensive fixes. 

For all kinds of lawns, the best mowing results come about from zero-turn mowers. These are effective for homeowners and professional landscapers alike. 

This blog offers an overview of zero-turn mowers, how these work, the benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What is a Zero-Turn Mower?

A zero-turn mower (ZTM) is a type of riding lawn mower that offers exceptional maneuverability. 

A “zero” turning radius allows the mower to pivot on the spot, providing complete control over the mower’s direction. 

This is achieved through the use of two independent hydraulic drive wheels, allowing each wheel to move at a different speed or even in opposite directions. That enables the mower to turn 180 degrees within its own length.

Zero-turn mowers are widely used for both residential and commercial purposes. Oftentimes, these mowers are preferred to traditional riders because zero-turns are faster and afford better maneuverability. 

Larger lawns in particular benefit from these mowers, as such lawns require frequent turns, navigating tight spaces, or avoiding obstacles like trees, garden beds, and flowerbeds.

How Does a Zero-Turn Mower Work?

The magic behind a zero-turn mower lies in the unique design. 

Traditional mowers have a steering wheel or lever to control both the front and rear wheels. 

A zero-turn mower uses two individual lap bars or joysticks, one for each of the rear wheels. 

By adjusting the speed of each rear wheel, the operator can control the direction of the mower with precision.

• Left and Right Controls: Each lever or joystick controls one rear wheel. Moving one lever forward will make that wheel go faster, while moving the other backward will make the opposite rear wheel rotate slower. This differential movement allows the mower to rotate and turn within its own length.

• Hydrostatic Drive System: Most zero-turn mowers are powered by a hydrostatic drive system. Basically, a hydraulic pump with a motor driving the wheels. The hydrostatic drive brings users a smooth ride without having to shift gears. The overall result is easier handling, especially for people new to zero-turn operation.

• Maneuverability: Easy rotation reduces the amount of trimming needed afterward. This level of control is why so many professionals use zero-turn mowers on commercial properties.

Accessories for Zero-Turn Mowers

To improve the performance of these mowers, popular items like the GrassFlap™ brand chute blocker allow for control of the discharge of lawn clippings. 

In fact, many operators of ZTMs consider the GrassFlap™ brand chute blocker an essential accessory, especially when dealing with lawns where gardens, sidewalks, and property lines make operators have to be careful where grass clippings go. 

Benefits of Zero-Turn Mowers

Zero-turn mowers have many advantages over traditional mowers. Below, we’ll look at the key benefits:

Easy Handling

Turning on a dime is very useful when cutting around tight corners or avoiding trees, flower beds, or outdoor furniture. 

Faster Mowing

Reduced mowing time is a definite bonus for professionals with busy schedules, and homeowners who just want to get the chore done. 

Quick turns and covering more ground with fewer passes is especially useful for larger lawns. You spend less time mowing and more time enjoying your yard or taking on other tasks.

Precision and Accuracy

A tighter turning radius leads to straighter lines and fewer missed patches. 

Many ZTMs even have adjustable cutting decks, which can further enhance the quality of your mowing job.

Comfort and Convenience

Zero-turn mowers are generally designed with comfort in mind. Adjustable seats, armrests, and easy-to-use control levers allow for long hours of mowing without causing too much strain on the body. 

Some high-end models have suspension systems that reduce bumps and vibrations.

Durability

Many zero-turn mowers are made of tough, industrial-grade components capable of handling large areas of grass, uneven terrain, and tough working conditions. 

Heavy-duty frames and durable cutting decks help mowers withstand years of rigorous use.

Efficiency

The independent wheel drive system does not waste motion, resulting in cleaner cuts and reduced fuel consumption. 

Who Should Consider a Zero-Turn Mower?

Property owners with large lawns or green spaces, and professional landscapers. 

A large lawn, typically over half an acre, requires cutting through expansive areas. Doing so quickly and efficiently, with the added benefit of cutting around trees, flower beds, and other obstacles, is what ZTMs offer.

For landscaping professionals who need to mow large commercial properties, zero-turn mowers are the best choice. 

Speed and handling tight spaces make these mowers great tools for getting jobs done on time and within budget.

If you own or are responsible for the upkeep of a large property, such as a golf course, park, or other public grounds, a zero-turn mower can lower the time spent on maintenance. 

These mowers are particularly effective in areas with many obstacles, such as trees and curbs.

Choosing the Right Zero-Turn Mower

Here are some important things to consider when choosing a ZTM:

Deck Size

The cutting-deck size determines how quickly you can mow your lawn. 

For smaller lawns, a 42- to 48-inch deck is usually sufficient. 

For larger lawns or commercial properties, a 54- to 72-inch deck is better.

If you are buying a chute blocker from GrassFlap™, note that we offer chute blockers for different deck sizes. 

Engine Power

Typically, engine power range as high as 48 horsepower for some ZTMs. The more powerful the engine, the better the mower can handle larger lawns and tougher terrain with ease.

Speed and Performance

Zero-turn mowers move quickly. Pay attention to the top speed and how well it handles. 

If you need to cover large areas fast, look for mowers with higher top speeds, ideally around 12 mph.

Comfort Features

Long mowing sessions require a comfortable ride. 

Adjustable seats, armrests, and even suspension systems. 

A higher level of comfort is worth the investment for anyone using the mower for several hours at a time.

Mower Build 

Check the construction and materials used in the mower’s frame and deck. 

Steel frames and heavy-duty decks are tougher and resist wear and tear.

Accessories for Zero-turn Mowers from GrassFlap™ 

At GrassFlap™, we believe in the importance of investing in the right tools for your lawn care needs. If you’re considering upgrading your mowing game, consider our chute blockers and other accessories that are specially built for a wide range of ZTM models.