Types of Lawnmower Blades

1. Lawn care needs: The first step in selecting the right lawn mower blade is to determine the specific needs of your lawn, considering the soil condition and grass type. You can optimize blade performance based on mowing goals, such as bagging or mulching, and the type of terrain where you will be cutting.
2. Compatibility: Next, check the lawn mower blade dimensions and compatibility with your specific lawn mower model. Choosing an incompatible blade can damage the mower and lead to poor performance.
3. Blade material: High alloy steel and carbon steel are common materials used to make a lawn mower blade. Each material offers unique pros and cons with different performance and durability capabilities. We recommend a MARBAIN^® blade, which always provides the best option for toughness and strength.
4. Cost vs. Quality: Lastly, balance the cost against the quality. While it may be tempting to select a cheaper option, using a low-quality lawn mower blade can result in frequent replacements, potentially costing more in the long run.

The overall quality of a lawn mower blade directly affects the health of your lawn. A sharp blade can make clean, precise cuts that result in quick grass recovery. A dull blade, on the other hand, can tear grass, making it more susceptible to disease.

Most types of lawn mower blades consist of low carbon high alloy steel for increased durability and safety. A blade made from softer materials like this can bend upon impact and reduce the risk of shattering. Harder steel alloy materials present safety concerns and are not recommended.

It is imperative to select a lawn mower blade material to maximize performance and longevity. Furthermore, the design of the blade affects the efficiency of the mower. Different lawn mower blades offer aerodynamic properties, such as high-lift blades that create more airflow but need a stronger engine.

Using the wrong type of lawn mower blade can reduce mower longevity and significantly increase maintenance costs. For example, mulching blades used on tall grass can clog a lawn mower, and high-lift blades used on sandy soil can wear out quickly.

Here are the main types of lawn mower blades you can choose from based on your lawn mowing needs.

Standard Blades

Standard blades offer a straight, basic design best suited for well-manicured lawns. They provide limited lifting and mulching capabilities and are not ideal for wet or tall grass. Today’s modern lawn mowers commonly utilize standard blades.

High-Lift Blades

High-lift blades have a steeper angle design that creates better suction and airflow. They are efficient at lifting and collecting grass clippings and are often utilized for bagging applications. A high-lift blade requires a powerful engine to reach peak performance, and they are not suitable for dusty or sandy terrain, which can cause significant blade wear.

Low-Lift Blades

Low-lift blades generate less suction and airflow and feature a lower lift angle. They provide an ideal solution for cutting dry and short lawns, especially in dusty or sandy conditions. Low-lift blades produce less dust, noise, and debris when compared to other types of lawn mower blades and are best suited for side discharge mowing.

Mulching Blades

Mulching blades have a unique design, featuring a distinct curvature and wider cutting edge. The blade helps lift and cut grass clippings into smaller pieces, resulting in natural lawn fertilization. Mulching blades do not work well on overgrown lawns because the excess grass clippings can clog the mower. In comparison to high-lift and standard lawn mower blades, mulching blades do not have as much discharge power or suction capabilities.

Shredding Blades

Shredding blades,  combine features that include:

• Mulching
• Bagging
• Side discharge

The blade has a serrated edge that directs and pushes grass clippings, allowing for finer mulching. Shredding blades are versatile but can underperform in tall grass. They also produce significantly more noise than other types of lawn mower blades.

1. How often should I replace my lawn mower blade?

The type of terrain and usage will determine the frequency of blade replacement. Typically, a lawn mower blade used in a residential setting should be replaced every one to two years and more frequently for commercial applications. It is important to regularly inspect lawn mower blades for any signs of bends, cracks, or wear that can indicate it is time to replace them.

2. Can I use any type of blade on my lawn mower?

No, not all lawn mower blades are compatible with all lawn mowers. It is essential to verify the blade dimensions, the manufacturer’s recommendations, and the type of mount for your specific lawn mower model. Using a blade that is incompatible can lead to poor performance and potentially cause significant damage to your mower.

3. What are the signs that my lawn mower blade needs to be replaced?

The following signs are indications that your lawn mower blade needs replacement:

• Jagged or uneven cuts
• Increased vibration during mowing
• Visible bends or nicks on the lawn mower blade

If you notice any of these issues, we recommend replacing or sharpening the blade to ensure it is safe and operating at peak performance.

Fisher Barton has been serving the turf care industry’s needs since 1973, providing the best blades in the business. We manufacture many types of blades for major lawn mower OEMs as well as residential and commercial customers. Our innovative MARBAIN^® lawn mower blades are known as the industry’s leading blade material, with more than 80 million of them currently in use.

We are committed to meeting customer challenges through innovation while delivering premium, long-lasting products and services. Contact us today to see how Fisher Barton can address your specific needs.