A string trimmer is excellent for keeping lawns neat and beautiful. It's also a great multi-purpose piece of equipment that can be used to trim areas that are hard to reach, edge out lines to help keep the yard looking clean, and deal with a thicker brush. But since a string trimmer can have various functions and come with different types of attachments for specific uses, buyers may find it challenging to keep one specific set-up, and may not be sure which string trimmer line size to use.
This post will discuss the varying functionalities and help you decide which string trimmer to buy.
How does a trimmer work?
String trimmers generally use a monofilament line to cut weeds, grass, and small plants. Cutting is possible because of its high-speed spinning, which enables the cutting head to produce adequate centrifugal force to maintain the line at an inflexible, horizontal angle.
The operator can manually adjust the arc and height of the string trimmer, which enables this piece of equipment can cut nicely around rock beds, walls, and trees.
If the operator turns the trimmer vertically, edging outlines near driveways and sidewalks can also be done.
Several models can hold different line gauges by switching out the cutting heads and lines. As always, it is necessary to check which types of gauges your cutting head can handle. You will have many options available, depending on your upcoming job. You can use the following:
- A thinner spooled line
- A thicker pre-cut line
- Chains
- Blades
Trimmer lines can also come in different thicknesses, shapes, and are made of various materials.
Choosing the thickness of your string trimmer line
While this may seem obvious, more demanding applications will require a thicker string trimmer line. With a large diameter, the line's strength and durability will be greater. As a result, you don’t have to worry about wear-outs or breakage.
Light projects only require a thickness of 0.065-0.085-inch lines. On the other hand, thicker grasses and weeds will need 0.085-0.110-inch. Thicker areas under bushes will need more than 0.110-inch lines.
If you are operating a cordless string trimmer, keep in mind that thicker strings will impact your equipment’s run time and power. The thicker your line,, the greater the wind resistance to your cutting head, the slower your engine's speed. But if you’re using a beefier higher voltage cordless trimmer, it can more effectively manage a thicker gauge line. If your model has a lower voltage, it is more likely to struggle when you use a thicker line. Refer to your manual to check the recommended string size for your trimmer.
Line shaping for string trimmers
Your cutting efficiency is also affected by the line's shape. Here are the available shapes:
Round. This type of line is the most common, because it lacks a cutting edge, keep in mind that it doesn't cut grass. It will only rip it.
Twisted. This type is typically better than the rounded line, since it has a bit more cutting edge.
Serrated. This is an excellent option to help make your trimmer line sharper. Its teeth are like those of a kitchen knife. It can cut with ease through heavier weeds and grass.
Star-shaped and square. These are generally sharper than the rounded type of line.
The material of the string trimmer line:
Most string trimmer lines are made of nylon, but they tend to snap and wear out quickly during the course of most jobs, except for light lawn work. In order to meet the demands of more strenuous jobs, manufacturers have produced alternatives that are better suited for rougher jobs. Here are some examples of those materials:
- Internally reinforced nylon
- Reinforced composite nylon
- Aluminum additives for extra strength
Other tougher string trimmers can work with metal blades and nylon. Moreover, these selections can increase the quality of the light gauge nylon string. But if your jobs typically involve lighter trimming work (such as light glass clipping), you can do that effectively with a low-priced, simple nylon line.
The bottom line
If you're looking for the right string trimmer line for your trimming needs, it’s best to choose one that can turn as easily as possible even with wind resistance: the sharpest and heaviest gauge. However, for homeowners who simply need to maintain their own yards, a round nylon line should be enough to meet your trimming needs.
Are you in need of a trimmer line? MowMore offers a variety of products for your lawn care business. Shop today, or call us for more information!