Are you one of those lucky homeowners with a wide, long expanse of landscaped backyard to maintain? Keeping up with that lawn can be daunting, and you might be tempted to hire a lawn care service to help you handle the upkeep. But if you are a handy person who likes to do it all yourself, purchasing your own equipment is a good solution.
When it Makes Sense to Buy an Aerator
Most of the time, the cost of a lawn aerator outweighs the amount of use it gets. But if you have a massive lawn you like keeping healthy, the expense may be justified. Aerators that are pulled behind a lawn mower are common options for homeowners, and allow you to do two lawn care jobs at once. Similarly, if you own a garden tiller, optional aerator attachments let you make good use of the machine for more than one lawn care function.
Large walk-behind or riding aerators are much pricier, but can handle a great deal of lawn space. Walk-behind aerators often work just like your lawn mower, and riding aerators are good for those who have difficulty with pushing the machine.
What to Look for in an Aerator
When choosing an aerator, find a durable machine with a good warranty. Look for steel tines, engines made by names you can trust, and simple controls. Optional features, such as fold-down handles, can make storage easier.
Expect to pay several hundred dollars for a good quality pull-behind aerator, and up to a few thousand for a top-of-the-line riding model. If your lawn is very large and you want to make the most of it, purchasing a lawn aerator might be your best bet!
