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Luscious green grass on your lawn adds to the perfect picture of your home and the key to healthy grass is proper care. Lots of people will give you different advice, so let us help clear up the debate a bit. What is the best time to mow your lawn? Generally, gardeners agree that mid-morning, from 8 am to 10 am, is the best time to mow your lawn. This allows the dew to dry and leaves room to mow before the heat of the day arrives, keeping you safe from heatstroke. It also lets the yard recover and prepare for the night-time weather change. So, if you heard that the morning was the best time to mow your lawn, you heard right—you just need to be a bit more precise than that. Read on to find out more. Why is morning considered the best time to mow? There are a few reasons why morning is considered the best time to mow, but the biggest involves grass healing time after being cut. After mowing your lawn, the grass needs warmth across the day to dry out and heal. By mowing in the morning, the lawn has the rest of the day and early evening to use dry out. This time will also prepare the grass for the cooler night air, preventing damage from frost. This healing is important to prevent fungi and turf diseases affecting your lawn. When grass is first cut, the raw edge is exposed, just like a sore on our skin. Across the day, with the heat, the grass creates a protective layer over this edge. This will prevent frost and fungi from affecting and killing the grass. You do need to break down the morning into two distinct parts to make sure you pick the right time. These two sections are early morning and mid-morning. The mid-morning is the best time to mow your lawn because the dew will have dried up. This is between 8 am and 10 am. Before 8 am, the dew is still blanketing the lawn and will make it a bit wet for mowing. Closer to 10 am is a better time because the grass should be drier. Are there times when it is bad to mow? There certainly are times when it’s bad to mow, such as early morning. Any time before 8 am is considered too early for mowing because the grass is covered with dew. The dew makes the ground wet and mowing wet grass can damage the roots of your lawn. It also risks damaging the mower itself. Other times to try and avoid mowing includes midday and early afternoon. This is when the temperature is often at its highest, or there is a lot of rain. The heat of the day tends to be highest between 11 am and 2 pm. Across these hours the sun reaches its highest point. This does dry off your turf so that you aren’t mowing wet grass. But risks too much sun exposure when mowing to yourself and your lawn. Staying sun smart is important for your safety. Also mowing at this time can expose the bottom layer of your lawn to the heat and can damage the roots. Mowing later in the evening can be as harmful to your grass as midday. The air is cooler which will prevent potential heatstroke, but your grass can be exposed to diseases and fungal infections. Plus, it won’t have the time to recover before nightfall and will stay exposed to these risks until midmorning the next day. If you can’t mow the lawn in the mid-morning, then your best chance is in the mid-afternoon. The weather is still somewhat warm but not too hot to pose a danger, and the lawn will have enough time to recover before nightfall. If your best option is a morning window, but a bit too early for the dew to be gone, there are still options for you! Investing in a ride-on mower has great benefits including being able to mow damp grass without destroying it. Maybe it’s time to check out quality ride-on mowers for sale and make a change! Should you mow the lawn when it’s hot? You should mow your lawn in warm weather, but not as often. Be aware that hot weather increases your risk of sun exposure and heat stroke. Mowing in warm weather is good for your grass because it will have dried from morning dew and should have time to recover before nightfall. But if the weather is particularly hot your grass and soil can dry out and mowing in the heat won’t help. You would be exposing the bottom layer of grass to the direct power of the heat, and it won’t stay hydrated. This exposure can permanently damage your grass. It’s good to mow your grass less often in the warmer months because the grass has a chance to strengthen its roots. This will increase its durability against hot weather. In these times of the year, it is recommended to mow in some of the coolest points of the day. This will allow the grass to recover before intense heat and nightfall. When should you mow the lawn in hot weather? In hot weather, you should aim to mow in the cooler times of day, generally mid-morning and mid-afternoon. This is between 10 am and 11 am, and 2:30 pm and 4 pm. If you live in a climate that has days of hot and dry weather, you might need to mow early morning. This gives your lawn a chance to heal before the heat rises too much. But you shouldn’t be mowing your grass as often so that it can build stronger roots to hold against the heat. You should also be making sure you water your grass more regularly. Be sure to take safety precautions when gardening in the heat too. You need to stay hydrated and cover-up so that you aren’t exposed to

Chainsaws are handy pieces of equipment, helping us to clear brush, fell trees, and cut firewood since their creation. But they can be tricky tools to get your head around, and they require appropriate maintenance to function properly. So, what do you do if your chainsaw bar fills with sawdust? If your chainsaw bar fills with sawdust, you should ensure that the chain is tensioned properly and that you are using the correct gauge. Also, check whether the chain is blunt. These are all common causes for sawdust in your chainsaw bar and can be fixed with a maintenance service at a repair shop. If your chainsaw bar is filling with sawdust, read the handy tips below to get your equipment back in top shape. How Does Sawdust Fill Your Chainsaw Bar? Improper chain tension on your chainsaw increases the likelihood of sawdust filling your chainsaw bar. This is because there is a larger gap for sawdust to fill into between the chain and bar. Often, this is one of the most common ways sawdust fills your chainsaw bar. Another reason that sawdust could be filling your chainsaw bar is that your chain is dull. When the chain is dull, it creates fine sawdust instead of larger and coarser chips. The finer dust can enter the bar much deeper and easier. If you’ve noticed more sawdust than usual, consider replacing the chain itself to prevent further damage to the bar. How To Properly Clean Sawdust From The Chainsaw Bar Cleaning the chainsaw chain and guide bar helps to preserve the longevity of your chainsaw. To do this, put the chainsaw in a safe position on a steady workbench, making sure that it moves around as little as possible. If you’re using an electric saw, ensure that it is unplugged before you start cleaning as you don’t want to electrocute yourself! Similarly, if you’re using a battery-powered saw, like a Husqvarna 14-inch 535i XP chainsaw, remove the battery. If you have a petrol operated chainsaw like a Husqvarna 16-inch 440e ii chainsaw, we recommend draining the fuel tank and disconnect the spark plug. These safety precautions will prevent the chainsaw from turning on whilst you clean. Then, remove the chain from the guide bar by using the controls to loosen the slack of the chain until you can slide it off. Set the chain aside. After that, you can start to clean the guide bar of debris. You can use a specific guide bar groove cleaner tool to do this. A bar groove cleaner is a small piece of pressed metal with a hook on the end. This allows you to get into all of the little nooks and crannies, removing sawdust as you go. If your guide bar is only slightly dirty, you can use a rag to clean it. Alternatively, you could use compressed air to blast away the gunk. If you’re not sure how to properly clean your chainsaw, or you want to make sure it is properly serviced, you can always get a maintenance check. Here at Canberra Diamond Blade, we offer chainsaw repair and maintenance services to help you with concerns like the bar filling with sawdust. Can You Prevent Sawdust From Filling Chainsaw Bar? There are a few ways to prevent sawdust from filling the chainsaw bar. Firstly, make sure that the chain is tensioned properly. Loose chains allow for more sawdust build-up to occur between the bar and chain. A correctly tensioned chainsaw chain should still be slightly loose on the chainsaw guide bar. But it needs to be tight enough so you cannot pull the drive links out of the bar nose. If you pull the chain away from the guide bar and the links don’t remain engaged to the bar, then your tension is off. You will need to have the chain adjusted. A stretched and loose chainsaw chain can be dangerous, which is why you need to regularly check the chain tension. Secondly, make sure that you are using the correct gauge chain for your model of chainsaw.  If you’ve selected a chain that is too small for your saw, it will leave excess room for sawdust to collect. So, make sure the chain matches what the bar requires by checking the manual or asking your closest chainsaw dealer. What Happens If Sawdust Is In Your Chainsaw Bar? Too much sawdust and grime in your chainsaw bar can actually jam the chain oiler mechanism. The chain oiler is necessary because it pumps your chainsaw oil into the bar groove which the chain picks up whilst operating. This helps to lubricate the chain and decrease friction on the bar, keeping your chainsaw running smoothly. If your oil tank is full but you’re still experiencing issues with your chainsaw, then your bar and chain oiler probably need to be cleaned. It will most likely have sawdust and grime build-up. To do this, remove the chain and bar and get rid of all of the gunk inside. Make sure to clean the oil holes on both sides of the bar. This is because sawdust prevents oil from reaching all parts of the chain and may damage your equipment. So, you need to make sure you clean the ins and outs of the whole bar. Just make sure that you follow proper chainsaw use safety precautions when doing any maintenance or chainsaw work. What Else Can Build-Up In a Chainsaw Bar? Lots of damaging substances besides sawdust can build up in a chainsaw bar that will reduce the saw’s performance over time. This includes tree sap which is very sticky and difficult to get rid of. But cleaning products like WD-40 can help to remove it. If you let the product soak on the bar for a few minutes, the sap should come right off. Another common product to build up on a chainsaw bar is bar oil. As mentioned, bar oil helps to prevent the chain from burning and reduces friction between the

Have you ever thought of creating a mowing strip in your yard? With the right tools, you can build a mowing strip in your yard in just a few hours. But to get the right materials, you need to know how wide a mowing strip should be! A mowing strip should be about 6-12 inches wide. A smaller mowing strip (around 6 inches) will make your garden look neat and pretty, whereas a larger mowing strip (12 inches) can also serve as a walking path. The best width of a mowing strip depends on its purpose, as well as the size of your garden. A mowing strip is a flat, paved strip at the edge of a lawned area, separating grass from other areas of landscaping. They also separate grass from hard structures like fences or walls. Sometimes it is referred to as an edging strip that lawnmower wheels will ride along. What is the best mowing strip size and material? The best size for a mowing strip is a 6-12 inch width. The length of the strip will depend on the size of your garden and flower beds. If we look at the materials used for a mowing strip, people use miscellaneous items, including plastic and metal, to build mowing strips. Ideal materials for your mowing strips would be easy to find and easy to work with. We recommend rubble, gravel, and concrete as materials ideal for creating a mowing strip. These are hardy and long-lasting compared to other materials that may need replacing after a few years. Concrete can be harder to fit into your desired strip shape, but a multi-purpose diamond blade saw does the trick to cut concrete after it is dry. But if you are looking for something cheap, you can also use plastic because it is one of the cheapest ones to find. If the price is not a concern, you can go for timber or stone mowing strips. The number of materials needed for this project will depend on the length and width you need. How do you make a mowing strip? Making a mowing strip can be a lot easier than it seems. It’s simple enough for you to do yourself without needing professional help. Follow the steps below to design and make your own mowing strip using gravel, rubble, sand, and concrete: First, decide on the materials you are going to use and gather all the necessary tools.Then, mark the area where your mowing strip is going to be. Dig a shallow trench (6 to 8 inches deep) using a trade steel shovel.Fill the trench with a 1-2 inch deep layer of sand and cover the sand layer with a 1-2 inch deep layer of gravel.Next, place larger stones (fieldstones or rubble) at ground level with their flat sides up. Create a levelled surface by adding gravel under stones. Leave some gaps (around 1 inch wide) between the pieces. Then fill these gaps with gravel until the area is level.Pour a concrete mix into the gaps. Remove any excess off the adjacent rubble.Gently sprinkle water until the concrete surface is saturated. Then, apply a dry concrete mix to level and saturate it again.Cover the newly built mowing strip with a sheet of plastic to keep the concrete wet while it cures. Keep it covered for two days before use. Why are mowing strips good? The main benefit of mowing strips is that they allow you to mow your lawn without worrying about damaging plants. They also block aggressive plants and weeds from invading your lawn. Mowing strips will improve water drainage in your garden and prevent puddles of water from forming. They can act as a barrier to prevent your fertilizers and pesticides from moving between flower beds and grass. Mowing strips can also help save your flower beds from over-enthusiastic pets who love to dig. They also help tidy up the garden and can add a pretty pathway around the yard. A mowing strip is handy when trying to mow under trees and around tree roots. For the most part, though, mowing strips are great for preserving your garden and lawns separately. What materials can be used for a mowing strip? We can make mowing strips from a variety of materials. But these materials should be flat paving units that will allow a mower to move over them without any hindrance. Concrete, bricks, block pavers, and gravel are some common materials we usually use to make mowing strips. One of the most used building materials is concrete. But some homeowners also use materials like plastic and metal (especially steel or aluminium). How do you use a mowing strip? A mowing strip can have many uses in a garden. Its use will actually depend on how and why you install it. If you build a mowing strip to separate your flower or vegetable beds from the rest of the lawn, it will help you to keep out aggressive plants and weeds. It will also prevent the runoff of fertilizers and help water drainage. A mowing strip will save your treasured plants from damage caused by animals. If you use a mowing strip around a tree, the roots of the tree will get better water absorption.  If your mowing strip is built against a hard surface like a wall or stone, it will help you to mow the edges of this surface easily. A wide mowing strip (around 12 inches of width), can also be used as a pathway. Ultimately, a mowing strip can help your garden in many ways. It can improve drainage in the garden, block weeds, add a unique look to your garden, and keep pests at bay. You can easily build a mowing strip on your own. When designing a mowing strip, you should consider many factors like the size of your garden, the purpose of the mowing strip and the expenses you will have to bear, but overall it shouldn’t be a super expensive project. To

Chainsaws are meant to make straight and smooth cuts, but sometimes this stops being the case. A chainsaw that doesn’t cut straight makes getting your job done a lot harder. So, we’re here to help answer your questions about what to do when your chainsaw doesn’t cut straight. If your chainsaw isn’t cutting straight, the cutter teeth should be examined first as uneven cutter teeth cause angled cuts. If the problem isn’t the cutter teeth, the chain will guide you to the problem area on the chainsaw. Most of the time, this problem can be solved with a maintenance service. How to Tell If Your Chainsaw Isn’t Cutting Straight? The most common characteristic of a chain that doesn’t cut straight is pulling to one side. You will have difficulty maintaining a straight line while cutting because your chainsaw will cut at an angle or curve. A well-maintained chainsaw chain can cut through several kinds of materials without much hassle. If your chainsaw isn’t properly maintained, it is more prone to damage that will create angled cuts. So, if your chainsaw is not cutting straight, it’s a sign that it requires maintenance. Usually, the solution is routine blade maintenance. But, sometimes, it could also be a sign that there is a bigger problem. Some problems are a little challenging even for professional chainsaw users to figure out. Since you are most likely to encounter this problem more than once, we recommend that you learn what causes a chainsaw not to cut straight. What causes a chainsaw to cut crooked? In general, there are several reasons why your chainsaw is not cutting straight. The chainsaw’s chain might be dull on both sides, the chain’s tension might not be adequate, or the chain’s thickness might be less than the groove’s width. All these problems suggest that the chainsaw hasn’t been properly maintained which is not something you want for your new battery chainsaw. Let’s look at some of these problems that cause your chainsaw to not cut straight: The chainsaw chain is not sharpened properly If your chain is not sharpened properly, then chances are that one side has teeth longer than the other. If the teeth are longer on one side, then your chainsaw will most definitely not cut straight. This condition could be caused by your chain hitting a rock, nail, or dirt while it’s running. The impact can damage the blades of one side of the chainsaw chain. The chainsaw chain is loose If your chainsaw chain is loosely fitted on your chainsaw bar, it can flip to the side and start cutting on an angle. You want to always make sure that your chain fits snuggly on the bar. The chainsaw chain width is too thin If you take a look at your chain, you will notice that it has tooth-shaped drivers that fit into the groove of the chainsaw bar. If the thickness of these drivers is less than the bar groove’s thickness, then chances are that the chain will wiggle around. This will cause the chainsaw to shift sideways while cutting. The chainsaw bar’s groove is worn out Other times, you will notice that your chain will still flop to the side even when the width is equal to the bar’s groove. This happens when the bar’s groove is worn out after continued use. The groove’s width expands wider than its original width. As a result, the chain wiggles in the groove and therefore doesn’t cut straight. The chainsaw bar rails are uneven Rails are the two edges that form the bar’s groove. They support the chain on both sides and help in keeping it vertical. Sometimes, due to continued use, the rails wear out. When they do, one of the rails might become higher than the other. This causes the chain to rest on the rail in an angled manner which might result in an angled cut. How do I stop my chainsaw from cutting crooked? It is possible to fix a chainsaw that isn’t cutting straight. If it’s a simple problem, the solution might be as easy as sharpening the chain until it’s even. But, if it’s a larger underlying problem, then you might need the services of a professional to help you fix it. Canberra Diamond Blade offers chainsaw maintenance, repair, and service to help with these kinds of problems. It’s important to properly maintain your chainsaw to make sure that it is safe for sawing use when you need it. Below we take a look at some of the ways that you can fix a chainsaw that won’t cut straight. How Do You Fix a Chainsaw That Won’t Cut Straight? There are a variety of reasons that could cause your chainsaw not to cut straight. Because of this, there are different options to fix your chainsaw: Sharpening the chainsaw chain properly The best way to eliminate this problem is to sharpen your chainsaw properly. Your chain condition matters for any chainsaw use. So, you need to make sure that you are sharpening the chainsaw chain properly. This includes checking that all the chain’s teeth cutters are equally sharpened and maintaining this as best you can. Adjust your chainsaw chain’s tension Most chainsaws today come with a tension adjustment screw that helps tighten the chain around the bar. You want to make sure that you adjust your chain accordingly to ensure it has the right tension. Not too tight and not too loose. There are guides for this in the maintenance book for your chainsaw. Keep your chainsaw bar clean Your chainsaw bar groove will get a lot of sawdust, oil, and dirt caught in it. As you can probably imagine, your chainsaw will run a whole lot better without any of this junk in there. Using a gauge tool, make sure that you clean it out on both sides of the bar. You should do this every time you use your chainsaw to maintain the quality of your sawing and the machine

The right chainsaw chain increases the controlled performance of tasks without any hassles. But there is more to a chain than a beginner might think. So, what do you need to know about the best chainsaw chain for a beginner? The best chainsaw chain for a beginner to use is a chisel semi-skip chain. This chain is aggressive and efficient enough for a beginner to handle. It provides proper cutting action as quickly and deep as possible. Risks of the chain getting stuck or causing any kickbacks during operation are minimal. Let’s take a closer look at the safest chain components for a beginner. The Safest Chainsaw Chain for a Beginner Chainsaws come with a lot of potential danger which is why it’s so important to have the safest protocols and best fitting chain. For a beginner, the chisel semi-skip chain is the safest chainsaw chain. It is an all-round reliable chain and perfect for someone with little to no sawing experience. The chisel semi-skip chain isn’t as aggressive as a full chisel chain but will get the job done with lower risks of kickback. It’s ideal for minor jobs such as cutting firewood and light tree felling. With that said, there is a large variety of chainsaw chains available in the market today. They all differ depending on pitch, cutter style, cutter material, and chain arrangement. Every single chain has a different characteristic that’s suited for different machines or skill levels. If you are looking at chains other than our recommended one, you need to make sure that the gauge, length, and pitch are all compatible. To get the right chain for your chainsaw, you need to know the size of your guide bar. You also need to have an idea of what you intend to use the chainsaw for most. To help you out, we have an article all about the best chainsaw bar length. The Best Pitch and Gauge for a Beginner The best chainsaw pitch for a beginner is the 3/8-inch mini-pitch. The best chainsaw gauge for a beginner is 0.050” or 1.3mm. A chainsaw chain with a 3/8-inch mini-pitch is perfect for small chains that are needed in a high-production environment. Additionally, a gauge of 0.050” is not too light and not too heavy, making it the best choice for balance and maximum cutting speed. A thicker chainsaw gauge is definitely stronger but heavier. Weight affects performance. So, to ensure that maximum cutting speed is achieved, weight should be kept to a minimum. It’s especially important to have the right measurements for your chain to safely use your chainsaw in this environment. Both the pitch the gauge are important components of the chainsaw chain. It is because of them that there are no universal chainsaw chains. To help you understand more about the best pitch and gauge for you, let’s check out each component to help you understand them well. Quick chainsaw chain pitch guide for a beginner The pitch is the distance between the drive links. It is usually marked on the chainsaw machine itself and if not, you can find it in your machine’s handbook. When you’re looking for a new chainsaw for sale, it’s a great idea to talk to the shop staff. Here at Canberra Diamond Blade, we offer chainsaw repair and services, so we have the information you need. You can ask staff about the best pitch and gauge for the tasks the chainsaw will be used for. Commonly, the larger the pitch size, the bigger and heavier the chainsaw chain will be, and vice-versa. Here is a rough idea of the pitch sizes you can find in the market: ¼ Inch Pitch Chainsaw chains with this size of pitch are extremely lightweight and help create smooth clean cuts. They are actually recommended for chainsaws with engines up to 38cc. Pixel 3/8 Inch Mini Pitch These chainsaw chains are usually lightweight and have low kickback. They come recommended for battery chainsaws as they don’t need a lot of power to perform. 3/8 Inch Mini Pitch(Recommended for a beginner) These size chainsaw chains are built for small chainsaws that are utilized in high production environments. They usually work best on chainsaw engines less than 45cc. Pixel .325 Inch Pitch This size of chainsaw chains is usually narrow. Therefore, they have low vibrations and fewer kickbacks. They shouldn’t be used on chainsaws with an engine power that’s between 35cc to 5cc. Additionally, they are not recommended for heavy work such as felling trees or large tree branches. .325 Inch Pitch A .325 Inch Pitch chain can operate with engines power between 35cc to 60cc. These kinds of chainsaw chains are excellent as they maintain low vibrations all while offering more power. 3/8 Inch Pitch This kind of chainsaw can handle more strength and can work with a chainsaw engine between 50 to 100cc. They are recommendable if you are working in a high production environment. They offer substantial cutting speed, low weight, adequate strength, and good flexibility. .404 Inch Pitch The .404 Inch pitch is the largest and most aggressive chainsaw chain out of all of them. It’s perfect for heavy-duty work and is used for cutting through timber on a large scale. Not only is this chain super-fast, but it also offers excellent performance.   Quick chainsaw chain gauge guide for a beginner The chain gauge refers to the thickness of the drive links. To find the chain gauge size of your chainsaw, check your machine for labels or look through your manufacturer’s handbook. A gauge that is too thick or too loose for your chainsaw will struggle to gain the right traction. The main different gauge sizes for chainsaw chains are: 0.043” (1.1 mm) chainsaw chain 0.050” (1.3 mm) chainsaw chain (Recommended for a beginner) 0.058” (1.5 mm) chainsaw chain 0.063” (1.6 mm) chainsaw chain The Safest Brand for a Beginner Now that you understand the best pitch and gauge for your chainsaw chain, it’s time that you find

It’s annoying when you are ready to start a job and one of your tools fails. It’s even worse when the tool seems to be working fine and it suddenly stops. Try to relax and read our guide to possibly find the reason why your chainsaw won’t stay running. There are many factors that can stop your chainsaw from running, including a bad spark plug or dirty air filter. There are simple problems: a broken fuel line, bad fuel, wrongly calibrated high-low adjustment screw. Also, more complex issues like a damaged carburettor or an engine compression problem. Below you will find a list of the most common problems that keep a chainsaw from staying running. Also, some ideas about how to fix them, and when it’s time to consider asking for professional help. Simple reasons why your chainsaw won’t stay running The very first step you should take is to check your chainsaw manual. Make sure you understand the basic ins and outs of your chainsaw to make it easier to identify the problem. Then you can try matching up the problem with one of our explanations below. Old Gas / Bad Fuel – When was the last time you refuelled your chainsaw? Something that most people don’t think of is that the volatile components of gas evaporate when it has been sitting unused for a long time. Bad fuel won’t burn properly, and it can cause your chainsaw to stall or not work at all. Low octane gas includes higher ethanol levels that make it less durable than 89 octanes or higher. It becomes harmful for your chainsaw’s engine after 8 weeks of being left unused. It leaves sediments and gunk that clog your fuel filter, fuel lines or, even worse, the carburettor. If you haven’t used your chainsaw for more than eight weeks and left fuel in it, try replacing the fuel. Use brand new 89 or more octane fuel and see if that works. If the fuel has been left for too long, your engine might be too affected to work properly. You can look at new Husqvarna chainsaws for sale so that you are sure the engine is working at its best performance. Fuel Delivery Problem – Check the fuel filter and fuel lines A clogged fuel filter will starve your chainsaw’s engine, and it can also damage it by letting contaminated fuel into the engine. Bad fuel can also clog the carburettor. Clogged carburettors are one of the most common reasons why a chainsaw won’t stay running or start at all. If you haven’t used the chainsaw for a long time, it’s best to replace the fuel and fuel filter before using it again. Once you have drained the fuel tank, check the fuel lines. They are designed to be in contact with fuel, but because of time, or exposure to deteriorated fuel, they can get damaged. Most experts recommend avoiding ethanol gas, which is harmful to the fuel lines. Clogged Air Filter – Check the air filter Your chainsaw’s engine needs the right supply of air to run properly. A clogged air filter can be the reason why your chainsaw won’t start or stay running. Find your chainsaw’s air filter and remove it. If it’s clogged or too dirty, wash it or replace it. Depending on your chainsaw’s model it will have a washable or a conventional air filter. Clean it or replace it and test your chainsaw. Clogged Exhaust – Check the spark arrester Chainsaws come with a spark arrester, which is a small screen that intercepts sparks from coming out of the machine. It’s a safety feature to prevent starting a fire, especially when you are working with flammable items such as wood and sawdust. It’s important especially because of the tension and speed of aggressive chainsaw chains. Exhaust fumes need to leave the engine without restrictions; otherwise, the engine will stall. Remove your chainsaw’s spark arrester to see if it is clogged or damaged. If it’s clogged, you can clean it with a wire brush, and if you see it too dirty or damaged, it’s better to replace it. Clogged Fuel Tank Vent or Fuel Cap – Check the air vent The pressure inside the fuel tank needs to match the atmospheric air pressure to allow the free flow of fuel to the carburettor. Most chainsaws fuel tanks have air vents for this matter; only a few models have vented fuel caps. You should check your motorized saw’s user manual to find where the vent is and how to clean it. If your chainsaw has a vented fuel cap, the job is much easier: you can try cleaning or replacing it. A quick test you can do is to loosen your chainsaw’s fuel cap, making sure that air is allowed into the tank. Now start your chainsaw very carefully. If it keeps running, the problem is the fuel tank venting. You can start working from there. Never start or use your chainsaw without the fuel cap on! Blocked or damaged Idle Port – Check the idle port The idle port, also called idle screw, is used to adjust the airflow into the chainsaw’s engine. Oil, dirt, and debris can block them, preventing the air from flowing into the engine. If the idle port of your chainsaw gets blocked or damaged, your chainsaw won’t stay running.  Check the idle port for damage or blockage. If it’s blocked, you can clean it using alcohol, kerosene, or any solvent. If it’s damaged, you will have to replace it. Bad Spark Plug – Check your chainsaw’s spark plug A bad spark plug can prevent your chainsaw from starting and can cause your chainsaw’s engine to lose power and stop. This power loss may not be noticeable while your engine is idling or cutting softwood. But if your chainsaw’s engine stops when you are cutting harder wood, this could be the problem. You can remove the spark plug and check it for signals of damage.

When it comes to mowing your lawn, you may be able to get away with using a push mower for a smaller yard. But, when it comes to yards ½ acre or more, you might be considering investing in a riding mower. A riding mower is a great option for a 1/2-acre yard since it’s more time-efficient than a pushing mower. It is important to keep in mind what terrain your yard has. This will impact how wide your mower’s cutting deck needs to be, the maximum speed of the mower, and your budget for a riding mower. Why should I use a riding mower for my ½ acre yard? A riding mower is the best choice for a ½ acre yard because it saves time and effort. While a push mower with a 21-inch deck may take up to 2 hours, a riding mower with a 48-inch deck can do the job in just 45 minutes. If your yard has a rougher terrain with lots of twigs and stones, a riding mower will work better than a push mower. The twigs and stones will easily get caught inside of a pushing mower’s blades and cause further problems. Riding mowers are also better at cutting grass that’s overgrown. Of course, homeowners should be mowing their grass regularly, but things happen. Maybe you’ve been a bit busy and haven’t been able to mow your grass in a while. A riding mower will be able to cut your grass better than a pushing mower. Pushing mowers do best when they’re cutting grass that isn’t overgrown unless you go over the same area’s multiple times. A pushing mower, also known as a reel mower, isn’t a bad option, but it’s meant for smaller yards. You can use a pushing mower on a ½ acre yard, but a riding mower is overall more efficient. A riding mower also requires less work than a pushing mower. Riding lawn mowers have a larger capacity for fuel, and they have an electric start whereas pushing mowers do not. Riding mowers also have parts that are easier to find and replace compared to pushing mower parts. All these factors definitely make a riding mower worth your time. What size riding mower do I need for a ½ acre yard? A riding lawnmower with anywhere from a 43-inch to a 48-inch cutting deck is a great size for a ½ acre yard. The size of your mower depends on things such as the size of the lawnmower deck. A lawnmower deck protects the mower’s engine from the sharp mower’s blades and the debris that gets kicked up when mowing. Usually, this part of the mower is made of rust-resistant metal and the size of the blade depends on the purpose of the mower. It’s important to understand what sized cutting deck you should be looking for to efficiently mow a ½ acre yard. You want a cutting deck that’s large enough to mow a large amount of grass in a short amount of time but small enough to easily manoeuvre through your yard. It’s important to consider your yard terrain and layout so that you have the right information to then check out riding lawnmowers for sale. This information will help you know what size of lawnmower deck you need, as well as the flexibility in movement and steering to manoeuvre around your yard. The best riding mower for a ½ acre yard The main reason to choose a riding mower over a push mower is efficiency—it lets you mow more grass in less time. Mowing half an acre can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on terrain, mower size, and method. A 21″ push mower typically takes around 2 hours, while a 48″ riding mower can cut the same area in about 45 minutes. If saving time matters, a riding mower is clearly the better option. Riding mowers also handle rough terrain, twigs, stones, and overgrown grass better than push mowers, which are prone to clogging and struggle with tougher conditions. While push mowers work fine for small, regularly maintained lawns, they’re less practical for larger areas like a ½ acre. Riding mowers offer additional benefits such as larger fuel capacity, electric start, and easier-to-source parts. Overall, they’re more powerful, convenient, and suitable for larger yards, making them a smart investment for homeowners. If you’re still looking to do standing work in your yard, don’t forget to grab a quality whipper snipper and define the edges of your yard! We also have a professional landscapers buying guide to riding mowers. Canberra Diamond Blade has plenty more professional tools for your gardening needs. Check out our resources for more handy advice!

t’s perfectly normal for a chainsaw chain to stretch after regular use. But, if you allow your chainsaw to become too loose, it can easily come off and pose a dangerous situation for you. A chainsaw chain stretches and loosens from tension and extreme friction. The friction from cutting through wood makes the chain very hot and the heat causes it to loosen. The heat expands the guide bar and when it cools, the chain has stretched. The chain will also loosen as it wears down from use. Why Does My Chainsaw Chain Get Loose So Fast? Chainsaw chains often loosen quickly due to wear and usage over time. If you’re using an older chainsaw, both the chain and sprockets may have worn down, causing the chain to loosen more often. New chainsaws can also experience this issue, especially during the initial “break-in” period, when the chain naturally stretches with use and needs frequent tightening. Heat is another major factor. As you cut through wood, friction and pressure heat up the chain and guide bar. This causes the metal to expand. When the chainsaw cools down, the metal contracts—but the chain remains loose. If you’ve checked all of this and your chain still loosens quickly, the problem might be mechanical. In that case, reach out to a high-quality tool supplier for inspection and support. How Much Slack Should a Chainsaw Chain Have? A properly tensioned chainsaw should be tight enough to only allow you to move it up and down about half an inch. It should be a little loose on the chainsaw guide bar, but not to the point that you can pull the drive links out of the bar nose. If there’s too much slack, then the chain is loose, and you need to tighten it up. If there’s no slack in the chain, then it’s too tight and requires to be loosened a bit. You can overtighten your chain which will cause it to break, which is why you need to examine the chain before using it. This little maintenance task is not only easy to perform but mandatory in making sure that your chainsaw continues to run safely. Every chainsaw has a tension screw that’s located at or close to the base of the chainsaw bar. If you want to tighten the chain, turn the tension screw clockwise. If you want to loosen up the chain, turn the tension chain counterclockwise. Make sure that you don’t overtighten the chain as too much pressure may cause it to break. It’s important to make sure your chainsaw chain has the right tension to reduce the risk of damage and potential injury. Can You Stop Your Chainsaw Chain from Stretching? Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to stop the chainsaw chains from stretching over time. Your chain will constantly change from use, it is just the extent of change that varies. You will notice the most difference when you first get a new chainsaw and chain as it stretches a lot. After the chain has worn down a bit, there will be more of a gap between the times you need to loosen it. When the chain has worn down a lot and has been exposed to lots of wear and tear, it will need more frequent tightening. Because of the constant change, it is important that you regularly inspect the tension of the chain before using the chainsaw. It is a good idea to check it every time you use the chainsaw. Make it part of your preparation routine and that way you will be taking proper safety precautions whilst getting the most out of your chainsaw. Chainsaw Chain Won’t Tighten Anymore If you’re sure that you have followed proper methods to adjust the chain and it still won’t tighten, then other problems might be occurring. For instance, a stripped tension adjustment screw may keep on turning without actually changing the tension of the chain. The same is true if the threads in the chainsaw case holding the tension screw are stripped. A wrong sized guide bar can also cause the chain to stay loose no matter how much you try to tighten it. The best-case scenario here is to remove one or more links from the chain until the chain fits. Once you have removed as many links as necessary, simply reattach the chain and test the chain’s tension again. If the tension still isn’t right, then you are better off paying a few bucks to get it fixed at your local chainsaw shop. As always, you can consult a tools supplier for advice and assistance with your chainsaw chain. Canberra Chainsaw repairs are available at Canberra Diamond Blade. How Do I know If My Chainsaw Chain Is Stretched? To check if your chainsaw chain is stretched, gently pull it away from the guide bar. If there’s a visible gap, the chain is stretched and needs tightening. If it stays snug on the guide bar slides, it’s properly tensioned. Maintaining correct chain tension is crucial for safety and performance. A stretched chain can lead to kickback or come off the guide bar. Follow these steps to check for a stretched chain: Place your chainsaw on a flat surface. Turn it off and let it cool if recently used. Look for sagging under the guide bar. A gap means it’s stretched. Pull the chain gently—if it lifts slightly but stays in place, the tension is good. For more help, check out our guide on Different Types of Chainsaw Chains or visit our Canberra Mowers shop in Mitchell. We carry Husqvarna chainsaws and a wide range of replacement chains for all needs. If you are up for a new chainsaw, check out our Canberra Mowers shop in Mitchell. We stock the latest Husqvarna chainsaws in Canberra for both professional and home users. Looking for a new chain to replace a stretched one? We also have a wide range of chain saw chains for sale, ensuring you can find the best

Chainsaws are a handy piece of equipment that can be of great help in your garden and renovations. But if you are just starting to use them, they can be tricky to get your head around. If you live in a place with plenty of rainfall, you may be asking yourself; “can my chainsaw cut through wet trees?” Cutting a wet tree with a chainsaw is safe if you’re careful. Most modern chainsaws are effective for use on dry and wet wood. Gas chainsaws are preferable in rainy conditions. There are safety precautions you must take when using chainsaws in a wet environment to prevent injuries and malfunctions. Will Wet Trees Damage My Chainsaw? Wet wood won’t damage your chainsaw. Whether it is damp from dewdrops, light showers, or heavy rain, the wetness of the wood will not affect how the chainsaw operates or functions. In fact, wet wood is slightly easier to cut than dry wood because it contains more moisture. This will act as a natural lubricant for the chain, reducing the friction usually experienced when cutting dry wood. The biggest problem you may find when chainsawing a wet tree is that the sawdust will stick to the chain. This means you will have to stop and clean it throughout the cutting process to maintain the strength and cutting power of the chainsaw. What Are The Differences Between Cutting Wet Trees And Cutting Dry Trees? The main difference between cutting dry and wet trees, as mentioned, is that wet trees are easier to cut. More friction is created between the chain and wood fibres which ends up slowing the chain down. The water in wet trees is a natural lubricant for the chain, allowing it to slide through the tree easier. As we mentioned before, the other difficult aspect is the sawdust that will stick to the chain more easily if you are working with wet trees. It can build up and start to affect the chainsaw performance, but it is a quick fix. Turn the chainsaw off and carefully clean off the sawdust and you will be ready to keep slicing through the trees. What Chain Should I Use When Cutting Wet Trees? In most cases, using modern and high-quality chainsaws means that the chain will perform the same on both wet and dry wood. In this sense, any chain is fine to use and there’s no need to purchase a specialist wet wood chain. To make things easier, just approach the material as if it was dry. As with dry wood, you should always check the size and density of the tree you are going to cut through to determine what chain you should use. If it’s only thin, then a lightweight chainsaw would be better. Whereas, if you are cutting a dense species of tree, then something like a micro chisel chain may be easier. Will My Chainsaw Work In Heavy Rain? Most chainsaws will still operate in hard rain and the chances of water getting into the mechanisms are slim. On the other hand, the engine can’t be submerged underwater for instance if you accidentally put it down in a puddle. Heavy rain is okay, although submersion could penetrate water into the engine and block it causing your chainsaw to break. There are many other issues you could encounter depending on whether you are using a gas-powered, battery-powered, or corded chainsaw. Which Chainsaw Models Work Best In Wet Conditions? There are several different types of chainsaws all with their own perks. These include gas, electric, corded, and cordless all of which cut wet wood well. Yet, gas/petrol-powered chainsaws are perfect to use in wet conditions. This is why professional loggers prefer to use this model. However, you should never let water get into the fuel tank as water and fuel are not compatible. This could easily cause malfunctions. Water and electricity are not a good mix. If you’re using an electric chainsaw in damp conditions, be careful in areas of long or wet grass and avoid using extension cables or cords. Although most manufacturers design chainsaws so that water won’t get inside easily, using corded chainsaws when it’s raining could cause the tool to short circuit or break completely. While cordless and battery-powered chainsaws aren’t as dangerous as corded chainsaws, they still aren’t ideal to use in wet conditions. If water gets into the motor, it could burn your battery immediately. Precautions To Take When Using Your Chainsaw In The Rain Hard rain and wet conditions also present many personal safety hazards which you need to be aware of. These could all cause serious injury or complications. Slippery ground and high winds could cause you to lose your balance and fall over. With an active chainsaw in hand, you could very easily hurt yourself. Depending on where you are using your chainsaw, flooding is also a major possibility in heavy rain. So, you should try and avoid being out in severe rainfall altogether. In heavy rain, there is often very poor visibility and the potential for loud noises such as thunder. These noises, as well as unexpected movements like lightning, may cause you to flinch or make simple mistakes when using your saw. So, it’s often better if you wait until the rain has died off a little. While you can use a chainsaw to cut trees in the rain, you shouldn’t do it if the weather will pose a major threat to your safety. You should also always wear the correct quality personal protective gear when working with any chainsaw. Can I Chainsaw Trees When They Are Frozen? Although working outside in the winter is challenging, sawing a frozen tree is a viable option. But frozen bark is harder to cut through and takes much more time and effort. You can still operate your chainsaw by decreasing the angle of your chain by 5 degrees. This will improve your cut performance and will also decrease any potential wear and tear to your

Depending on the kind of wood you are cutting or how often you are doing it, your chainsaw chain will eventually dull. Constantly using a dull chainsaw to cut down trees or timber makes your work extremely difficult. But is it worth sharpening your chain? Or should you buy a new one straight away? Sharpening your chainsaw chain is definitely worth it as a sharp chainsaw chain is easier to work with. It takes less effort to cut through wood and your chain will make cleaner cuts with sharp blades. A chainsaw chain can be sharpened multiple times without much of a cost. When Should I Sharpen My Chainsaw Chain? A tell-tale sign that your chainsaw needs sharpening is when you notice that it’s not cutting as well as it did before. Another way is by examining the sawdust. If you see small chunks or fine wood dust, it’s an indication that your chainsaw needs sharpening. However, there is no set interval at which you should sharpen your chainsaw. So, how exactly do you know that your chainsaw chain needs sharpening? Below are a few signs that can help you know when it’s time to sharpen your chainsaw. They include: The chainsaw creates fine sawdust instead of coarse or large chunks. You have to apply pressure to force it to saw through wood. When the chainsaw produces smoke even when you have already oiled it and made sure that the chain tension is correct. The chainsaw produces uneven cuts. It means your chain has either dull teeth on one side or the cutting teeth are uneven. After using your chainsaw, always check the condition of the chain, whether it’s dull or has any teeth missing. To extend the chain’s life, you should avoid any activities that can dull or damage your chain. These include: Hitting hard objects such as metal, rocks, or ice. Poor storage of chainsaw. Don’t place your chainsaw in a wet or moist place as the chainsaw might rust. Not lubricating your chainsaw as often. How Many Times Can A Chainsaw Chain Be Sharpened? A chainsaw chain can be sharpened up to 10 times, sometimes more, before the entire chain needs replacing. It’s mostly dependent on two things; the amount of wear your chain incurs and the amount of metal removed every time you sharpen. Different materials can have a harder impact on the chainsaw chain. The number of times you will be able to sharpen the chain is very dependent upon what you use it for. For instance, if you happen to hit a rock and your chain chips or even breaks, you might not be able to repair it through sharpening at all. Also, if you sharpen your chainsaw chain and take off 60% of the metal, that means you can only sharpen it 40% more before you have to get rid of it. It’s not a specific number or a recommendation from a manufacturer. But it does show that it’s a good idea to understand how and when to sharpen your chain efficiently! Of course, once you have worn out both your chain and chainsaw, there is always the fun adventure of buying a new chainsaw altogether! But make sure you get the most out of your purchase first. How Long Should A Chainsaw Blade Last? A chainsaw blade should last up to 5 years with heavy frequent use. For occasional use, a chainsaw blade can last you a decade or more. The chainsaw blade’s life expectancy is highly dependent on chainsaw maintenance and use. Chainsaw blades don’t have an expiration date. Neither is there a pre-determined timeline for how long it should last. Here are five items that can reduce the longevity of your chainsaw blade: Rocks: It’s very common for blades to slip through timber and hit the ground or a rock underneath. Try as much as possible to not hit rocks with your chainsaw blade to make sure it lasts longer. Metal: Sometimes wood has unexpected metal objects within them. Common examples include nails, bullets, or fence staples. These can cause damage to your chainsaw blade too. Ice: It might not seem like much, but frozen wood and ice can cause your chainsaw blade to chip and wear. Just be careful when using your chainsaw in the winter. Rust: Your chain is susceptible to rust. Therefore, you need to clean and oil it properly. Also, store it properly to ensure that your chainsaw blade lasts longer. Improper Lubrication: Not using lubrication is a sure-fire way to overheating your chainsaw. Lubricate it to keep the chainsaw cool and maintain your blade. Remember, your chainsaw blade is not perfect. It wears down as you regularly use it. How Do You Know If A Chainsaw Is Sharp? A key way of telling that your chainsaw is sharp is by looking at the chips or sawdust coming from it. If the sawdust is coarse or has large chunks in it, then the saw is sharp. A dull chainsaw often produces fine sawdust that’s smooth and less thick than sawdust from a sharp chainsaw. Other tell-tale signs include: Chainsaw operation is smooth, efficient, and effective: You shouldn’t be applying a lot of pressure to get the saw through wood. The chainsaw should pull itself through the wood. Easy position and cutting: A sharp chainsaw will not get stuck in wood while the engine is still running. It will go right through the wood and remain stable without shaking or veering off target. How Much Does It Cost To Sharpen A Chainsaw? The cost of sharpening a chainsaw chain varies from business to business. Most tool places will sharpen the chain for less than $30 (AUD). If you bring your chainsaw into Canberra Diamond Blade, we can sharpen your chainsaw chain for the affordable price of $15 (AUD). This is highly dependent on the number of cutters. For an additional fee, we are happy to remove and re-fit your chain to your saw. After your chain is