We've all seen the commercials. Images of homeowners easily mowing their lawns from the comfort of the driver's seat. Riding mowers make cutting the lawn look so easy and enjoyable you may dream of owning one. But the real question is, do you actually need one?

The best way to determine the need for a riding mower is by the size of your lawn. If you are mowing a half-acre or more, you'll most likely want to consider purchasing a riding mower to help ease the mowing process and save time. There are many models available so it is important to do your homework to make sure that you are purchasing the best model to fit your needs.

There are three common types of riding products available: lawn tractors, garden tractors and zero turning radius mowers. Lawn tractors are what most homeowners think of when they hear the words riding mower. Lawn tractors have been around a long time, but recent improvements and added features have increased their performance, reliability and overall operating comfort. Garden tractors are similar to lawn tractors but tend to offer additional features that allow for easier use of attachments.

Zero turning radius (ZTR) mowers are the most recent entry into the riding products category, but they are quickly becoming the mower of choice for professionals and homeowners alike. Zero turning radius mowers are easy to operate and comfortable to drive. Plus, they can significantly cut mowing time due to the ability to turn from 0- to 360-degrees with ease. The rear wheels provide both the power and the steering, and they operate independently. That means one wheel can rotate forward while the other rotates in reverse. The unlimited maneuverability of a zero turning radius mower will allow you to trim around your mailbox, cut close to your flowerbeds and reach right to the edge of your lawn, saving time and effort.

Ten things to consider before making a riding mower purchase:

1. Look for a deck 38-inches or larger. Be sure to choose a deck size that will allow for access between any obstacles in your yard.
2. Horsepower is important. 12-horsepower engines are a good starting point for lawn tractors and 14-horsepower is a good starting point for zero turning radius mowers.
3. Check to see how well the mower will perform basic operating procedures, including steering, braking and adjusting the cutting height. It is also important to determine how wide is the mower's turning circle.
4. Check to see how comfortable the mower is to operate, including the seat, steering wheel, controls and legroom.
5. Check the mower to determine how difficult it is to transition to bagging or mulching and see what attachments are available.
6. Look for a riding mower with variable speed control. Many models feature a travel speed, which will enable the mower to travel at a faster speed when moving to a new cutting area.
7. Compare prices. Lawn tractors range between $1,500 and $3,000. Garden tractors are generally priced between $3,500 and $4,500, and zero turning radius mowers generally range from $2,500 to $5,500.
8. Check the warranty. All companies offer product warranties, but all warranties are not the same. Check to see the length of the warranty and what repairs or replacements are covered.
9. Make sure you have enough room to store the mower. This may sound simple, but you would be surprised to learn how many homeowner purchase a riding product and then realize that they don't have proper space to store it.
10. Be sure to remember that, even though you are using a riding mower, it is still yard work. The more it looks like you're enjoying it, the better the odds that additional "honey-do" chores will be added to your list.

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