Are Lawn Mower Canopies Worth It? Here's What You Need To Know

Depending on the season and grass type, lawn growth can range from three to five inches per month. This growth rate makes regularly cutting the grass necessary to keep it looking neat, clean, and healthy. Knowing which lawn mower type to use should be based on the size and grass variety of your yard. One of the most popular options is the riding lawn mower, which is designed to be comfortable and easy to operate, but by adding a simple canopy, it can be made even better. 

Built from a combination of plastic, metal, vinyl, and rubber, a lawn mower canopy is usually an aftermarket product designed as a protective cover for the operator, similar to a car roof. These canopies require a bit of work to install, but are usually easy to do with basic hand tools. The assembly will be secured with supplied brackets and bolts, attaching its frame to the mower's designated mounting points. 

Essentially functioning as a shield against the sun's heat and other weather conditions, a canopy is a practical and useful accessory for a standard lawn mower. Various manufacturers build models that can fit the most popular brands, making it easy to select which type to use. In addition, most models are adjustable, allowing for maximum coverage when in use and facilitating quick and easy removal when they need to be stored.

Lawn mower canopies are categorized first by coverage: the smaller, more common sunshade, or the larger full canopy, which resembles a tent and offers complete coverage. Canopies use a variety of material types as well. Frames can be made of aluminum or stainless steel, and the canopy itself can either be a hard top made of fiberglass or polycarbonate or a soft top made from vinyl. Key distinctions for each type are the weight, form factor, and how it is installed. 

The main advantage of using a canopy is the protection from the elements like direct sunlight, rain, and even snow, although you may want to think twice before using your lawn mower during the winter. This allows the operator to work in comfort for longer periods and reduces the health risks associated with prolonged ultraviolet light exposure. It also protects against overhead hazards like tree branches, and metal varieties can act as a safety barrier for the operator's head if the mower tips over.

It is important to note that a canopy's heat and glare protection can be affected by the time of day, making the canopy less effective during mornings or late afternoons because the sun's position is lower on the horizon. With the efficiency and time savings that riding lawn mowers provide, adding a canopy can make them more comfortable and practical for daytime use. Riding mowers can be costly investments, so regular cleaning and proper lawn mower maintenance are important to avoid breakdowns and extend their lifespan.