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Salt spreaders can do a lot more than just spread the rock salt. This multipurpose machine is commonly used for spreading rock salt, dry sand, or various other types of gritting materials.
Now, we know that you are already flooded with the choices of the salt spreader. However, due to the lack of experience you there are chances you pick up the wrong salt spreader. We, in this guide, intend to review the best walk behind salt spreaders brands. Further, this will give you a fair idea about the one which you should pick up depending on the purpose and your budget.
Why Agri-Fab Rust Proof Walk Behind Spreader is the best walk behind salt spreader?
The salt spreader that is powerful enough to handle the large areas, this one from Agri-fab is suitable for all types of lawns and surfaces. The rustproof poly hopper built of the spreader is what makes it a heavy-duty item. Further, the control mechanism is very good with the metal control rod with complete adjustment ease.
Further, the spreader can capture the area of up to half an acre before needing a refill. Moreover, the Pneumatic 13 inches wheels make the maneuverability amazingly comfortable. Accessories such as the spreader grate kit are also readily available, which makes your life even more comfortable.
Comparisons
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Things To Know Before Buying Best Walk Behind Salt Spreaders
Now that we know some of the best walk behind salt spreaders that you can consider, there are several factors to be considered while buying one. Depending on the lawn size, type of terrain, and so on, there are different types of salt spreaders that you can select from.
There are several factors to be considered while selecting the spreader, such as capacity, built of the spreader, performance, and delivery, etc. All these factors vary depending on the task that you are selecting the salt spreader. For instance, selecting the spreader for commercial purposes would be different from selecting for residential purposes and so on.
Let us discuss the factors you should consider when selecting the right salt spreader for commercial or personal purposes.
1. Type of Material
Most of us are worried about considering the spreader’s capacity as the most critical aspect. Although it is one of the most important factors to consider, the type of material you want to spread through the spreader also matters. As an industry standard, the spreader is mostly used for spreading the salt to cut down and melt the ice quickly.
Whether for commercial or residential purposes, you should always define the type of material that you want to use in the spreader. Even though holding bulk salt is the industry standard, bagged salt could also be a potential choice for the smaller spreaders. Further, there are some geographic areas where sand is preferred compared to salt. Compared to the salt, the sand in these geographical areas provides better traction for driving. Yet again, you might also want to use sand and salt mix for spreading for increased traction and melting of the ice.
Further, you might want to use the salt spreader for specialty materials such as magnesium chloride for various purposes. Similarly, calcium chloride pellets are used on the sensitive concrete surfaces around the brick pavers and the doorways.
2. Salt Spreader Body Ensures Longevity
Usually, the spreaders available in the market are made of polyethylene, stainless steel, or stainless-steel units. One of the most demanded types is the salt spreaders made of stainless steel. The simple reason backing it is that stainless steel does not rust and is also sturdy.
While stainless steel does ensure rust-free and robust built up, the poly build-up is also equally substantial. Compared to steel, poly uses less material but can be as strong as steel. Compared to poly, the steel spreaders are more prone to rust and corrosion issues. Further, with the steel and stainless steel, the maintenance could get expensive over time.
Maintenance of poly spreaders, on the other hand, is relatively easy compared to the spreader made of steel and stainless steel. Since poly is softer than steel, the manufacturers can easily mold it into different shapes without needing to attach different steel parts to it.
On the weight front, poly is relatively lightweight compared to the steel body and therefore more comfortable to use.
3. Easy Assembling and Attachment
We all expect the machines to be less complicated to assemble. Too many parts and equipment for one machine is not only time taking but also complicated. There are spreaders so complicated that it might even require more than one individual to fix them.
There are several spreaders out there in the market that come with a load of attachments and instructions. You would not want to waste your time getting all the fixtures and attachments before using the spreader. A quick and easy option is always desirable compared to a lengthy and a time-taking option.
4. Right Amount of Calibration
This being one of the essential features in the spreader, you should understand the term and use it thoroughly. The right level of calibration ensures the right amount of salt and sand is spread over the ice. A lot of us think that checking the spreader once at the beginning of the season is enough. However, the experts believe that calibration is a factor that should be checked regularly for the best performance.
Moreover, if you are using the calibrator for spreading different types of material, then the calibration should be checked more often. Since the density and flow of material vary, therefore the calibration should be regulated and controlled more regularly.
Having the understanding and record of specific data points such as type of material, feed gate opening, speed of the conveyor, and amount of material also plays an important role.
An often-ignored factor while selecting the spreader is the material flow rate, which should be considered while selecting the spreader. A spreader with a consistent flow rate is easy to calibrate.
5. Accessories Enhance Functionality
Above also, we discussed a few spreaders compatible with the range of accessories. Having compatibility with the wide range of accessories always increase the functionality of the spreaders. A few accessories such as hopper cover or edge–guard deflectors are the common ones for improving the efficiency of a salt spreader.
For instance, edge guard technology in the spreader helps contain the spread of the material in unwanted areas. Further, hopper cover does not let the lawn product drench in the rain or snow and minimize leakage.
If the spreader is compatible with various useful accessories, it results in less wastage and increased efficiency. Your hard work without the accessories turns into smart work as you start using maintenance accessories and spreader accessories.
6. Optimum Utilization of the Product
An optimal salt and material spreader is the one that has been engineered to ensure the optimum utilization of the material. While buying a spreader for commercial or residential purposes, no product wastage is an essential factor to consider.
There are multiple attachments available in the market that help in saving the material and more efficient utilization. For instance, the salt spreaders with the side deflectors have an accurate material delivery technology preventing the spread on the sideways, etc. The feature might sound simple but is crucial when you are looking to minimize your cost and increase productivity.
7. Size of the Spreader Depends On The Lawn
Spreads are available in different sizes depending on the lawn’s size and your requirement. One of the common misconceptions is that the size should be equal to the material’s capacity, i.e., the ideal size for 50 pounds of material is a 50-pound spreader.
However, this is not true because in the above case, the chance of spilling increases manifold. Since the 50-pound spreaders are lightweight, the maneuverability in full capacity would also be challenging. Similarly, doubling up the size will also not serve the purpose as it would be too heavy to push.
The ideal size should be somewhere in the between, let’s say 70 pounds, for the perfect spreading of the material, be it salt or fertilizer.
8. Type of Spreader
There are various types of spreaders available in the market for you to select from. Three of the main types are handheld spreaders, broadcast spreaders, and drop spreaders.
Depending on the size of the lawn, you can choose between these spreaders. For instance, the handheld spreader if you want to use it in a small space. You can opt for a broadcast spreader if you are looking for accuracy while spreading.
Likewise, drop spreader suits those who are looking for an even line distribution rather than spreading.
9. Warranty
One of the most sought after features that we all look for when buying any tool or equipment. Irrespective of the quality and price, spreaders are also subjected to a lot of wear and tear due to continuous usage outdoor.
The warranty period ensures that the minor wear and tear issues will be taken care of, increasing the spreader’s longevity. The most common period of warranty is one year, but certain brands also offer a lifetime warranty.
10. Wheel Size For An Easy Movement
The larger the wheel’s size, the better would be any spreader’s performance. For instance, a 14-inch-wide wheel will cover more area compared to a 10-inch wide wheel.
Not only do the larger wheels help in wrapping up your work quickly but also apt for the rough terrain. Usually, the full-size fertilizer spreader comes with wheels added.
11. Coverage Area
So, we thought of putting this factor towards the end because it is like a no-brainer. You would select the coverage area of the spreader depending on your lawn size.
There are multiple options such as 20000 square feet, 5000 square feet, 25000 square feet, and so on to choose from. The higher the coverage area, the quicker the spreading will be. Those with a big terrain would not want to load the spreader with the material after short intervals.
Selecting the right coverage area is one of the most important features to select from when buying a salt spreader.
12. Amount to spend
The best buy would be getting all the features in the spreader under the budget. It is always advised to decide on the budget and then look out for the spreader within your range.
You might find spreaders with a lot of features but stick to the features that you want to use regularly. Having many features and paying a high price for it would not be a good idea unless you want to use them all.
Salt Spreaders or Sprayers?
There are a host of factors to consider when you decide to choose between the sprayers and spreaders. Both the lawn maintenance techniques have their own set of pros and cons.
Knowing when to use each is one of the most important factors to consider when opting for one. The selection depends on various factors such as the purpose, size of the lawn, etc. For smaller lawns, the spreader is effective without exhausting the user.
However, if the lawn size is vast, the sprayers could be the obvious choice. A hybrid spreader sprayer is also considered a great solution.
Best Walk Behind Salt Spreaders Reviews In 2022
Agri-Fab Rust Proof Walk Behind Spreader
If you are looking for a spreader with it all, from covering large areas to heavy-duty work, then the Agri-fab spreader is the one. The rustproof poly hopper comes with a strong steel frame capable of holding heavy weight. Further, the metal control rod enhances the strength and accuracy while adjusting the flow.
To add to the durability, this spreader from the agri-fab has gear made from aluminum and enclosed. On the coverage front, the salt spreader can cover a vast area before needing a refill.
With an easy instruction manual and easy-flow settings, the hand knob can be adjusted at the right number. While opening the lever back to the open position, it sets at a specific number, allowing just the right amount of the product to flow per square foot.
Finally, the Agri-Fab 45-0462 has 13-inch pneumatic wheels for perfect maneuverability in large areas. The spreader is super easy to use with an easy push load of features that make the spreading comfortable.
Key Features
- Made of rustproof material
- Can cover an area up to 25,000 sq. feet
- Fitted with 13 inches pneumatic tires
Scotts 76121 Pre-calibrated Walk Behind Salt Spreader
If you are looking for a suitable broadcast spreader for medium to small turf, Scotts is worth considering. With the capacity of holding up to 5,000 square feet of seed or fertilizer. With the edge guard technology baked into the machine, the manufacturers have ensured that the salt stays away from the grass and the landscaping.
When buying this product, you get a pre-calibrated and thoroughly assembled product. The compact spreader does not take much of your space in the garage or storeroom as well making it perfect for personal purposes as well.
Other than the handle being pre-calibrated, it can also be folded down for easy storage. You can get the best results with Scotts fertilizer and grass seed products. For ensuring the best control and precision, the spreader also comes with a control panel. With all these features, you can be assured that salt is spread evenly and accurately.
Key Features
- Fold-down handle for the ease of storing
- Pre-calibrated and assembled
- Precision rate settings in the control panel
Chapin 8201A 80 Directional Control Salt Spreader
The salt spreader from Chapin comes with an ergonomically designed bail system and an adjustable gate dial for easy salt and ice melt.
One of the best features of this Chapin salt spreader is the side baffle for accurate gate control. Moreover, the 12-inch pneumatic tire ensures that maneuverability is easy on any type of terrain.
Some of the desired features that we came across in this spreader are an adjustable slide gate for easy gate opening and controlling the dial, powder-coated steel frame, and enclosed gearbox. In all, a spreader is a perfect option for those looking for a spreader apt for residential use.
Key Features
- Total hopper Capacity of 80 pounds
- 12-inch broad pneumatic tires
- Adjustable dial for accurate gate control
Brinly P20-500BHDF Fast Calibration Push Spreader
The brand itself is a known name in the space with a history of over 150 years. The Brinly P20 is a commercial-grade push salt spreader with a heavy-duty rust-proof hopper with a capacity of 50 lbs.
This best commercial salt spreader can be used for spreading grass seed, yard fertilizer, and ice-melt agents efficiently. Moreover, the deflector kit is comes added to the push spreader, making it easier for controlling the material flow and preventing distribution in the restricted areas. Further, you can also move the deflector up and out when idle.
Making it easier to maneuver, the spreader comes with wide 12”x3” pneumatic turf tread tires for longevity and the comfort of wheeling around the lawn. On the ease-of-use front, assembling the salt spreader is a breeze as it takes less than 15 minutes to do so. Further, the calibration settings and easy control also ensure the best performance.
Last but not least, the spreader can be used for spreading snow-melting agents such as salt and sand during the winters apart from fertilizing the lawn in the spring. Overall, we agree that this spreader from Brinly is easily one of the best if you are looking to maintain a small property of up to 0.5 acres.
Key Features
- Heavy Duty and rustproof
- Deflector kit included for controlling the material flow
- Rust resistance Gearbox included
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
As we discussed the range of options to choose from, let us also address the specific questions frequently.
What is the meaning of numbers on my Lawn spreader?
There could be a bunch of numbers of your spreader, each with a different meaning. For instance, it can mean the weight of the spreader or the coverage area. Similarly, if you see three bold numbers on the fertilizer spreader, the first one could indicate the amount of nitrogen, the second is Phosphate, and the third is the amount of potash.
What is the right size of Spreader To Choose From?
There is no one size fits all option when selecting a spreader. The size of your lawn, along with the other factors, determined the right size of the spreader.
Can Spreader be Used For Top Soil?
Yes, spreaders can be used conveniently to spread the topsoil if you have a large lawn size. For smaller turf, though, people commonly use a shovel.
Can I Top Dress My Lawn With a Spreader?
For top dressing, the lawn, usually the traditional drop-style lawn spreader with a big hopper, is used. Make sure that the compost is dry and filtered else;, it might clog the spreader holes.
Can I use Spreader For Fertilizer?
Yes, the spreaders can be used for spreading fertilizers, sand, and any other such material that does not clog the holes.
Conclusion
Spreaders are a great way of ensuring that your turf gets the even distribution of salt, fertilizers, topsoil, and so on. A necessity for those in the cold places with extreme snowfall, spreaders are also used actively in other geographies for various purposes.
