Rolling Your Turf: How to Choose the Proper Roller

Many groundskeepers are not aware that they have a choice of rollers to help them prepare turf surfaces. It is essential to select the correct roller from the wide range of options available in today’s marketplace.

Selecting the correct front roller to suit your particular turf conditions throughout the year is extremely important. The roller can significantly affect the performance of the unit and the quality of the surface, so it is crucial that you get it right.

Choosing The Weight of the Roller

Light rollers Light rollers are smooth on the surface but can contribute to thatch build-up as they only run over the top of the turf, without sitting into it. Heavier rollers They will sit ‘tighter’ to the turf and provide a closer cut. They also give an enhanced rolling effect, which will produce a smoother turf surface. The damage from foot traffic and pitch marks will be reduced from a heavier roller. Also, the striped effect on the turf will be more defined using a heavier roller.

Choosing the Width of the Roller

Steel Lawn Roller These rollers range from 24″-60″ in width. Steel rollers are more substantial and more durable. They’re more stable on hillsides and will not puncture as easily. However, they are heavier to move and set up, pose more of a challenge when making sharp turns, and can only be filled with water.

Polyurethane Lawn Rollers Polyurethane Lawn Roller These rollers range from 24″-48″ in width. Poly rollers are lighter weight when empty, which makes for easier storage. They don’t rust, are better for sharp turns, and they cost less than steel rollers. Polyurethane models can also be filled with either water or sand. The downside with the polyurethane models is that they are lighter and less durable than steel. They have a higher likelihood of being punctured or cracked on sharp rocks or other debris.

Maintaining a healthy and attractive lawn takes work, but lawn rollers help make the job a little easier. If you found this article useful, please SHARE it with others interested in learning more about lawn rollers!