Hedge Trimmers: What To Know Before Buying

A hedge trimmer is a must-have tool if you're looking for a way to keep your hedges and bushes tidy. But with so many different types on the market, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. Here are things to take note of before buying a hedge trimmer:

Blade Types

There are different blades for different hedges to ensure a clean cut. You need to consider these things:

• Single or Double Action-You can choose to buy a single or double action blade depending on your needs. The double-action blade is ideal for shaping hedges and extended use because of less vibration.It is ideal if you have experience with hedge trimmers. On the other hand, single-action blades are easier to maneuver and safer. You can easily keep the side of your trimmer with the blade facing away from you. 
• Blade Teeth-The gap is also an important aspect to consider because it affects the size of the branches you can cut. Blade teeth can have a ½ to 1 ½ inches gap. They might not handle unruly hedges if the teeth are too close together. Don't buy a trimmer with narrower teeth if you need to cut through a ½ to ¾ hedge growth.
• Length-As you shop for hedge trimmers, you'll notice that they come with a range of blade lengths. So, what's the right blade length for you?

An 18" blade will work for most hedges, but a 20" blade or larger is perfect if your hedges are larger than usual. Starting with a shorter blade is recommended if you're new to trimming, as it's safer when you're still getting used to working.

Cost

When it comes to hedge trimmers, you'll find that the main things you'll pay a premium for are higher power and greater convenience. The most affordable hedge trimmers will typically be corded, lightweight models suited for simpler jobs. Even so, these can cost as little as $30.

If you add in the convenience of a cordless model, the minimum price usually jumps up to around $60. However, your ability to trim more hedges further away from the house increases significantly. Other factors that can drive up the cost include a higher-powered battery, longer blade, and faster charging time—but these features also make bigger jobs easier.

Power

When shopping for hedge trimmers, the main power indicator is the power source. Gas hedge trimmers will bring a higher power level than electric models. But electric models offer various power levels as well.

However, the battery ones are just as powerful and provide the same flexibility. Battery-powered hedge trimmers can operate for up to two hours if fully charged.

Safety

Safety has to be a top concern when it comes to hedge trimmers. High-powered blades should not be taken lightly. A newbie to using a hedge trimmer should go with a lightweight model with good safety features and follow all instructions carefully. Even those using hedge trimmers for years need to be careful and always treat the blades with care during use.

Most hedge trimmers come with features designed to add safety to their use. Some models, for example, have a guard that covers the blades when they're not in use. This can help prevent accidents when you're carrying the hedge trimmer or if it falls into the wrong hands.

Another feature is a safety switch to prevent the hedge trimmer from being turned on accidentally. Some hedge trimmers also have a brake that stops the blades from spinning as soon as you release the trigger.

Durability

Choose a hedge trimmer from a reputable brand that offers a good warranty if you want it to last. Additionally, checking customer reviews can give you some insight into the lifespan of a particular model. However, how well you maintain your hedge trimmer and use it will also affect its longevity.

Keep these important things in mind to find the perfect hedge trimmer for your home. With the right hedge trimmer, you can keep your hedges looking neat and tidy all season long.