FAQs

What type of auger will I need?

Earth augers and drills come in a variety of styles. There are one-man, two-man, and towable versions. Larger projects may require a towable auger, which reduces operator torque and can be moved easily on site. Two-man augers are more powerful than one-man augers, but are somewhat more limited because of the necessary extra operator.

For projects where you need a hole diameter from 8”-14”, a two-man or towable auger will be your best option. Both augers reduce operator stress while increasing torque and hole diameter capabilities. For smaller holes or simple backyard fence jobs, a one-man auger will suffice.

Towable augers are capable of creating a deeper hole than either the one-man or two-man earth augers. To create holes deeper than 2’ your best option is a towable auger, but for smaller holes and projects a one-man auger is plenty capable.

Earth augers and drills can be electric or gas powered. Gas powered augers offer greater horsepower and are more portable than electric augers. Electric augers are sufficient for smaller projects where finding a power source is not a concern.

Interchangeable augers are available to accommodate different hole widths and depths. Consider buying different drill sizes to complete a wide array of jobs.

What bar length does your chain saw need to be?

Bar length refers to the length of the chainsaw’s cutting bar. This also translates to the maximum cutting depth. Chainsaws range from shorter bars of about 12 inches, to longer bars, up to 30 inches. Longer bars are typically utilized for professional work because of the increased performance and efficiency. A saw’s actual safe cutting ability is two times the length of the bar; so a 12” bar can cut through a 24” inch log.

What is the chain pitch on your saw?

Chain pitch is the spacing of the rivets on the chain. The saw's sprocket has the same spacing. The normal pitch is 3/8". It will be important to keep the chain pitch in mind when replacing an old chain.

How much does the chain saw weigh?

A chain saw’s weight is directly related to its bar length; the longer the bar, the heavier the chainsaw. Chainsaws range in weight from about 8 lbs. to 17 lbs. Saws with a bar length of over 20” become difficult to handle and it is best for a homeowner to consider saws with bar lengths under 20’”.

What motor types do chainsaws have and what are the benefits of each?

Chainsaws come in electric and gas powered versions. Gas powered chainsaws offer more power and portability. Gas powered chainsaws are generally considered superior to electric because they offer more features and capabilities than electric.

What should you consider first when looking for a chipper-shredder?

It is important to consider the maximum debris size a chipper-shredder is capable of mulching. Max debris sizes range from 3 inches to over 12 inches. Also, the feed hopper size varies widely; depending on the size of your job you may want to consider a larger hopper size to increase the speed of completion.

What type of fuel do chipper-shredders run on?

Chipper-shredders are available in gas, diesel, or electric power. Gas and diesel powered chipper-shredders offer higher horsepower and chipping speed to finish bigger mulching projects.

What accessories might you want in a chipper-shredder?

Some models offer a tow bar accessory to make your chipper more mobile. Vacuum systems are also available to make yard cleanup a breeze.

Do you need a vertical or horizontal log splitter?

Log splitters vary in their ability to split logs in vertical or horizontal positions. If it is necessary to cut in both directions, make sure the splitter you choose meets your specifications.

Is the splitter big enough?

The log opening spec refers to the size of log the splitter is capable of cutting. Log Opening capacities range from 14 inches up to 30 inches.

What wedge size and type do you need your log splitter to have?

The wedge is the component of the splitter that actually splits the wood. Wedge sizes vary from 5 inches to 12 inches. Larger wedge sizes can accommodate thicker logs. There are also different wedge types: the standard wedge cuts the logs in half, and larger models may offer a cross piece that can split one log into four pieces at a time.

How much splitting force do you need in a log splitter?

Hydraulic System capacity refers to the size of the hydraulic tank that operates the splitter. Each log splitter also features a certain splitting force. A larger hydraulic system capacity translates to a higher splitting force and more cutting capabilities. Splitting forces range from 4 tons to 25 tons. Higher splitting forces allow for cutting of larger/thicker logs and usually faster cycle times.

How much pressure do you need in your pressure washer?

Pressure washers come in various water pressure capabilities, ranging from 1700 PSI to 4200 PSI or more. Higher pressure washers have the ability to complete more difficult cleaning tasks.

How tough is your cleaning job?

Pressure washers are available in cold water models as well as versions that heat water for more effective cleaning. Also, pressure washing specific hoses and replacement nozzles are available for your specific needs. There are pressure washers available to meet any job demands, such as: paint preparation, wood restoration, car cleaning, cement cleaning, and more.

What type of motor do you need?

Pressure washers come in electric and gas models. Gas models are more versatile and easier to transport than electric models.

How big is the area you need to wash?

Pressure washers are rated on their ability to release a certain amount of water per minute. Capabilities range from 2 gallons/minute to over 4 gallons/minute. When consistently washing large areas, consider purchasing a washer with a larger capacity.

How deep do you need to till?

Tilling depths range from 4 inches to 12 inches. Tilling at greater depths in the Fall can help expose harmful organisms to harsh winter weather, creating better growing conditions in the spring. Till your garden between 7 and 12 inches deep to create optimal conditions for planting and growing. Tilling depths under 7 inches can be ideal for quickly turning soil before planting flower beds.

How wide is the space you are cultivating?

Tilling widths range from 10 inches to 24 inches. Larger tilling widths reduce time by increasing the cultivated area per pass.

What tilling tine speed is appropriate?

Tine speed refers to the speed at which the rototill rotates. Speeds range from 150 rpm to 250 rpm. Higher tine speeds make tilling less stressful on the user and help complete jobs faster. For large jobs and professional use, consider tillers with higher tine speeds.

What chain speed do I need for my trencher?

Chain speed translates to a certain number of feet per hour. The higher the chain speed the faster the digging. For smaller DIY jobs, slower chain speeds are sufficient.

What is the width and depth of trenches that you will be digging with your trencher?

Trenchers range in depth and width capabilities. Trench depth can range from 12 inches to 24 inches. Trench width can range from 3 inches to 8 inches.

What type of pump do you need?

Water pumps are the perfect solution to efficient waste-water pumping and construction site dewatering. A water pump can be classified as submersible, semi-trash, trash, centrifugal, or diaphragm pumps depending on its intended use and capabilities. Submersible pumps can be dropped directly into the water you wish pump; typically they are electric and are not capable of handling large debris. Semi-trash and trash pumps are meant to handle larger debris for situations in which pumping waste/water mix is necessary. Trash pumps have the largest debris capabilities and some pumps are capable of mulching debris as it enters to help it pass. Diaphragm pumps are also capable of moving solids and are great for pumping seepage and mud slurries. Centrifugal pumps are ideal for irrigating, dewatering, and pool pumping in large quantities.

What engine type do you want for your water pump?

Water pumps come in gas, electric or diesel versions. Generally, gas models are more powerful and capable of pumping more water.

What other accessories will you need for operation of a water pump?

Consider the necessary hoses needed to accommodate your pump’s inlet and outlet size. A larger inlet and/or outlet size will require a larger hose diameter.

What speed do you want for your curb machine?

The speed of a curbing machine can refer to its drive speed or its actual concrete setting speed. Most curbing machines have variable drive speeds to allow for more intricate curb jobs at slower speeds or straighter jobs at higher speeds. Concrete setting speeds can vary from 5 feet per minute to about 18 feet per minute.

What is max extrusion cross section and how does it affect your curb machine?

Max extrusion cross section refers to the size of the largest curb the machine is capable of laying. A max extrusion of 6”x6” would be considered on the smaller side and meant for curbing flower beds and walkways, whereas a 6”x12” would be sufficient to do moderate-sized sidewalk curbing jobs.

What engine type do you want in your lawn mower? Lawn mower horsepower should only be a concern if you plan on cutting very long grass or doing large jobs, frequently. More horsepower makes cutting easier and faster. Electric mowers work best in less frequent mowing situations, typically homeowners concerned with emissions and/or buying gas. Gas mowers are usually more powerful and versatile than electric mowers; gas mowers are not constricted by power source.

What mowing blade speed do you want?

Lawn mower blade speeds can vary, although for most single yard workloads this is not an important consideration. A higher blade speed makes cutting longer and thicker vegetation faster and easier on the user.

Do you have a preference for grass height cutting capability in your mower?

Most lawn mowers are capable of cutting a number of grass heights. Grass height adjustability ranges from 4 to 8 height adjustments and lengths between 15mm-75mm. Cutting grass at higher heights is best in hot conditions to ensure it keeps its color and can absorb as much water as possible. Cut grass at lower heights in the spring and fall when weather conditions are ideal, and also to allow more time between cutting.



Glossary & Hints



Augers and Earth Drills

Augers and Earth Drills are tools used to create holes for posts, tree planting, and other landscaping projects.

Hole Diameter and Depth. Augers and Earth Drills range in drilling width and depth capabilities; from 2 to 14 inches wide and up to 30 inches deep.

Fuel Type. Earth augers and drills can be electric or gas powered. Gas powered augers offer greater horsepower to complete drilling much easier than electric.

Weight. Depending on the type of auger/drill, they weigh from from 45 lbs. to upwards of 200 lbs. Heavier augers are typically mobile, with wheel and tow systems attached.

Other Features. Earth augers and drills come in a variety of styles. There are one-man, two-man, and towable versions. Larger projects may require a towable auger, which reduces operator torque and can be moved easily on site.

Chain Saws

Chain saws are motorized saws used for both home and professional landscaping. They are used to cut down trees, branches, and limbs.

Bar Length. Bar length refers to the length of the chainsaws cutting bar. This also translates to the maximum cutting depth. Chainsaws range from shorter bars of about 12 inches, to longer bars, up to 30 inches. Longer bars are typically utilized for professional work because of the increased performance and efficiency.

Chain Pitch. Chain pitch is the spacing of the rivets on the chain. The saw's sprocket has the same spacing. The normal pitch is 3/8".

Weight. Chainsaws vary in weight from about 8 lbs. to 17 lbs.

Other Features. Chainsaws come in electric and gas powered versions. Gas powered chainsaws offer more power and portability. Other than the use of gas, gas powered chainsaws are generally considered superior to electric.

Accessories. Replacement chains are available to allow for cutting of different materials and to replace dull or broken chains.

Chipper-Shredders

Chipper-Shredders are machines that are used to shred tree limbs, branches, and brush into mulch. A chipper-shredder consists of an entry hopper, the chipper blade, and a top or side chute.

Power Type. Chipper-shredders are available in gas, diesel, or electric power. Gas and diesel powered chipper-shredders offer more horsepower for bigger mulching projects.

Other Features. It is important to consider the maximum debris size a chipper-shredder is capable of mulching. Max debris sizes range from 3 inches to over 12 inches. Also, the feed hopper size varies widely; depending on the size of your job you may want to consider a larger hopper size to increase the speed of completion.

Accessories. Some models offer a tow bar accessory to make your chipper more mobile. Vacuum systems are also available to make yard cleanup a breeze.

Line Trimmers

Line trimmers, also called weed wackers or string trimmers, are used to trim grass or vegetation in your yard where a mower can’t.

Power Type. Line Trimmers come in gas, electric, or battery powered versions. Gas powered line trimmers are more versatile and powerful.

Other Features. Trimmers typically come in monofilament line or steel blade versions. Monofilament versions require less maintenance and often come in with tap’n go technology which allows you to release more line whenever you want with a tap on the trimmer head.

Accessories. Extra blades and monofilament line can be purchased to replace existing dull or old materials.

Log Splitters

Log splitters are machines that cut wood to eliminate the difficult work of chopping tree trunks for firewood. Log splitters consist of a rod and piston with a pressure rating based on the tons of force it can apply while cutting.

Vertical/Horizontal. Log splitters vary in their ability to split logs in vertical or horizontal positions. If it is necessary to cut in both directions, make sure the splitter you choose meets your specifications.

Log Opening. The log opening spec refers to the size of log the splitter is capable of cutting. Log Opening capacities range from 14 inches up to 30 inches.

Wedge. The wedge is the component of the splitter that actually splits the wood. Wedge sizes vary from 5 inches to 12 inches. Larger wedge sizes can accommodate thicker logs. There are also different wedge types: the standard wedge cuts the logs in half, and then larger models may offer a cross piece that can split one log into four pieces at a time.

Hydraulic Tank and System Capacity. Hydraulic System capacity refers to the size of the hydraulic tank that operates the splitter. A larger hydraulic system capacity translates to a higher splitting force and more cutting capabilities.

Other Features. Each log splitter features a certain splitting force. Splitting forces range from 4 tons to 25 tons. Higher splitting forces allow for cutting of larger/thicker logs and usually faster cycle times.

Pressure Washers

Pressure washers are attached to a hose to increase the water pressure and flow speed. Pressure washers can be used for various cleaning tasks by removing difficult stains from surfaces that would be difficult to clean otherwise.

Pressure. Pressure washers come in various water pressure capabilities, ranging from 1700 PSI to 4200 PSI or more. Higher pressure washers have the ability to complete more difficult cleaning tasks.

Heat Rise. Pressure washers are available in cold water models as well as versions that heat water for more effective cleaning.

Other Features. Pressure washers are rated on their ability to release a certain amount of water per minute. Capabilities range from 2 gallons/minute to over 4 gallons/minute. Pressure washers come in electric and gas models. Gas models are more versatile and easier to transport.

Accessories. Pressure washing-specific hoses and replacement nozzles are available for your specific needs.

Tillers and Cultivators

Tillers or Rototillers and Cultivators speed up the process of cultivating and breaking up soil in preparation for planting vegetation.

Tilling Width and Depth. Tillers and cultivators vary in tilling depth and width capabilities. Tilling depths range from 4 inches to 12 inches. Tilling widths range from 10 inches to 24 inches. Larger tilling widths reduce time by increasing the cultivated area per pass.

Tine Speed. Tine speed refers to the speed at which the rototill rotates. Speeds range from 150 rpm to 250 rpm. Higher tine speeds make tilling less stressful on the user and help complete jobs faster.

Trenchers

Trenches are typically used for laying pipes or cables. They are also used for drainage applications. Trenchers eliminate the task of digging trenches manually. The angle of the trencher arm can be adjusted to control the depth of the trench.

Chain Speed. Chain speed translates to a certain number of feet per hour. The higher the chain speed the faster the digging.

Trench Depths & Widths. Trenchers range in depth and width capabilities. Trench depth can range from 12 inches to 24 inches. Trench width can range from 3 inches to 8 inches.

Water Pumps

Water pumps are the perfect solution to efficient waste-water pumping and construction site dewatering. A water pump can be classified as submersible, semi-trash, trash, centrifugal, or diaphragm pumps depending on its intended use and capabilities.

Output Capacity. Output capacity is measured in gallons per minute. Output can range from 21 gallons/minute to 1400 gallons/minute.

Engine Type. Water pumps come in gas, electric or diesel versions. Generally, gas models are more powerful and capable of pumping more water.

Other Features. Submersible pumps tend to be smaller and more maneuverable than other types of pumps. Centrifugal and Trash pumps are designed to move large amounts of waste or water more quickly.

Accessories. Consider the necessary hoses needed to accommodate your pump’s inlet and outlet size. A larger inlet and/or outlet size will require a larger hose diameter.

Curbing Equipment

Concrete curb machines extrude curb with no forming needed. Concrete curbing machines are perfect for finishing your flower beds or driveway, as well as various other jobs. Curbing machines come in either gas or electric versions. Note that we only carry landscaping curbing machines. There are other curbing machines available that are used for sidewalks and parking lots.

Speed. The speed of a curbing machine can refer to its drive speed or its actual concrete setting speed. Most curbing machines have variable drive speeds to allow for more intricate curb jobs at slower speeds or straighter jobs at higher speeds. Concrete setting speeds can vary from 5 feet per minute to about 18 feet per minute.

Lawn Mowers

Lawn mowers have one or more revolving blades to cut lawns at an even length. Lawn mowers typically come in rotary versions that can be either gas or electric powered and either push, self propelled, or ride-along.

Moving Width. The moving or cutting width of a lawn mower refers to the area of grass that can be cut with each pass. A larger cutting width will translate to faster job completion and less stress on the user. Moving or cutting width can also be determined by the size of a mower’s deck, a smaller deck means a smaller cutting width. Typical walk-behind mower cutting widths range from about 16 inches to 20 inches.

Blade Speed. Lawn mower blade speeds can vary, although for most single yard workloads this is not an important consideration. A higher blade speed makes cutting longer and thicker vegetation faster and easier on the user.

Grass Heights. Most lawn mowers are capable of cutting a number of grass heights. Grass height adjustability ranges from 4 to 8 height adjustments and lengths between 15mm-75mm.

Accessories. Larger mulch bags are available to allow less stopping to empty bags.