Large properties aren’t that easy to maintain, the cost, the time, and the effort of keeping a clean-cut and refreshing green grass is quite an investment. However, we’ve known that zero-turn mowers are kings in helping property owners keep the grass looking pristine. Nevertheless, these dynamic machines do not come cheap. But weighing in on the pros and cons of owning a ZTR, is it really worth the money?
How Much Does a Zero Turn Mower Cost?
A z-turn mower costs between $2000 to $15,000 depending on the size, the brand, and the added features of a mower. We can classify the price range into 4 categories, namely, low-range, mid-grade, pro-grade, and commercial-grade mowers.
- Low-range mowers are smaller machines that fall under the $3000 bracket. They’re your basic z-turn mowers designed for properties between ½ to 1 acre.
- Midgrade mowers are residential mowers that cost between $3000-$4000. Compared to low-range mowers, they are considerably larger and faster z-turns that can mow up to 2 acres of land.
- Prograde mowers are considered to be the lovechild of residential and commercial mowers. You get the benefits of power, speed, and strength of a commercial mower and the gentler turf care from a residential mower mowing up to 4 acres. They are used for lighter commercial use and heavy-duty residential purposes but fall between $3500 to $5000.
- Commercial-grade mowers are made for speed and power. These mowers are massive with powerhouse engines designed to tackle harsh conditions on highly demanding turfs covering at least 4 acres of property. They cost over $5000.
For a better comparison, here’s what each category offers its consumers.
| ZTR Category | Cost Range | Mowing Width | Engine (horsepower) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Range ZTR Mower | Below $3000 | Up to $42 inches | Up to 18 HP |
| Mid-grade ZTR Mower | $3000-$4000 | 42-48 inches | 18 HP- 24 HP |
| Prograde ZTR Mower | $3500-$5000 | 48-54 inches | 24 HP-28 HP |
| Commercial-Grade ZTR Mower | Over $5000 | At least 54 inches | At least 28 HP |
Is a Zero-Turn Worth The Money?
Spending a couple of thousands on a zero-turn to shed hours off your mowing time, drastically improve your mowing precision, and save you hundreds of dollars spent on gas and electricity makes your mower worth every dime. Beyond the basic benefits that we know, zero turns can offer more than just a beautifully mowed lawn.
Uncommonly known benefits of zero-turn mowers
Your zero-turn mower is not just about mowing your property but a complete machine that allows you to perform multiple functions while maintaining your lawn. Aside from mowing and cleaning your lawn in a shorter period, a zero-turn has other uses that many property owners find useful especially when it comes to towing and transport. This reduces the need to buy heavy pieces of machinery that take up space and money. Instead, many property owners simply opt to purchase extensions to attach to a ZTR.
- Transport
Zero-turns consume less fuel when you’re driving with the blades disengaged. Unlike a lawn tractor, your ZTR can run at higher speeds with more safety features. If you have a sizable property that requires the use of a tractor moving from one place to another, then your ZTR will cut the need for a lawn tractor to move around your property.
- Towing
Your mower is the perfect machine to pull carts and sprayers around your property. Since it is efficient in navigating your way around obstacles and troublesome areas, your mower acts as a great machine for towing.
- Planting
In relation to towing, you can hook up a seeder and fertilizer to your mower. Unlike a tractor, your zero-turn can easily make easier turns and allow your equipment to spread seeds and fertilizer on your soil. Another uncommon but effective use of your ZTR is using it to pull a plow extension. Cultivating your land with ease fit for planting.
From bagging and mulching to towing equipment around like seeders, sprayers, and aerators, your ZTR performs functions of other gardening apparatuses like tractors, leaf blowers, and more.
Not only are you making a wise investment in a versatile machine, but you’re also. investing in more time spent on valuable things like family time and fulfilling your important duties. For these reasons, buying a zero-turn mower definitely outweighs the initial cost of purchasing it.
