Opt for a power edger that is cheap, light, and straight. You can get power edgers relatively inexpensively, and you should — because who wants to spend a bunch of money on an edger? Opt for a light edger because you could spend longer amounts of time holding it up. And finally, unless you feel you need the “ergonomic” option, go for an edger with a straight body; it’ll be easier to define a straight edge with one of these tools. When you purchase the edger, buy one or two replacement blades for it as well. The blades can really take a beating, even with the most practiced person running the edger. Be sure you also understand how to change out the blades when needed. There are some models of weed whackers that feature a multi-head design, meaning you can convert it into three or four other tools. This will cost considerably more than a straight weed wacker, but it may be worth it. Be sure you also have all the necessary safety equipment, including safety goggles/eyewear, long pants and boots, and earplugs.
If you’re standing on the sidewalk while edging, however, your body’s impulse to bring in your arms as you move along the border means much less damage, because you’ll be edging air when your body autocorrects. This is an easy problem to fix, because it’s not a problem at all. In addition, the sidewalk or pathway is most likely a more even, flatter surface than the lawn. Walking on the sidewalk can help you keep a steady pace.
Remember to locate and mark any sprinkler heads to avoid damaging them. [6] X Expert Source Keith SouzaHome Improvement Specialist Expert Interview. 20 August 2021.
Simply drive the edging tool into the ground as you would a shovel, down until the lip hits soil, rocking the edger from side to side, and then pull the handle back gently to dig soil and define your edge. Once you’ve defined your edges, take a shovel and shovel up any loose soil or mulch into a wheelbarrow. When using a manual edging tool, drive the half-moon into the ground completely straight (vertically), not at an angle. Not only will this help define your edge more clearly, but it will also inhibit the growth of rhizomes from growing into the edges of your lawn. Maintain your edging tool. Clean off any dirt or debris after each use. File away the edges of the half moon periodically to keep them sharp. There’s nothing better than a sharp tool, and nothing worse than a dull one.
Before doing any digging, call the 811 Nationwide Locate call center and request that they locate any buried utilities. [8] X Expert Source Keith SouzaHome Improvement Specialist Expert Interview. 20 August 2021. There is no charge of this service. [9] X Research source
