How to Install a Lawn Striping Kit
Last season, Exmark’s ‘Mow Like A Pro’ video was viewed by thousands of lawn fanatics. Because of this, Done-In-A-Weekend Projects host Doug Scott and Brian Latimer are back by popular demand! In this ‘Stripe Like A Pro’ video, landscape pro-turned-bass pro Brian Latimer dives even deeper into how to stripe a lawn like the pros. In addition to answering frequently asked ‘Mow Like A Pro’ questions, such as installing a lawn striping kit, Brian pays a visit to his local Exmark dealer to learn how to install a lawn striping kit on his Lazer Z.
Striping FAQs
Why even stripe lawns in the first place?
BLat: The number one reason most people stripe their lawn is to give it a nice, neat professional look. Two other important reasons are to help minimize soil compaction and optimize light penetration.
How do you properly maneuver a mower to create professional-looking lawn stripes?
BLat: First and foremost, just stay straight. Focusing on an object ahead of you (like a tree, home door or window) will help you maintain straight mowing lines.
Is making multiple passes a lawn striping technique you recommend? And, what are the pros and cons of making them?
BLat: Although lawns can be striped with multiple passes, doing so will compact the soil—which isn’t good for lawn health. An alternative to making multiple mowing passes is outfitting your mower with a striping kit. Not only will it help you achieve a professionally striped look, it will allow you to do so in a single pass. As a result, your soil won’t become unnecessarily compacted.
How to Install a Mower Striping Kit
Brian then stops into his longtime Exmark dealership—Anderson Power Equipment—to demonstrate how to properly and safely install a striping kit on his Lazer Z mower. You’ll find the basic installation steps below, but be sure to reference this video, as well as the instructions provided in both your striping kit and mower’s owner’s manual.
Step 1: Mount the red brackets onto the back of the mower deck.
Step 2: Attach the roller to the brass brackets. (The roller is what lays the grass one way or the other, depending on the direction you’re mowing.*)
Step 3: Once the roller is secured to the brass brackets, finish the install by attaching the brass brackets to the red brackets already mounted to your mower deck.
If you’d prefer, you can always have a certified Exmark technician install the striping kit at your local dealership.
Notes on Adjusting the Roller:
- You’re able to adjust the roller relative to the height you’re mowing your grass (which oftentimes varies depending on your yard’s grass type).
- For taller grass, like Fescue, you’ll want to adjust your striping kit higher.
- For shorter grass, like Bermuda, you’ll adjust the striping kit lower.
If you’re interested in buying an Exmark striping kit, visit your local Exmark dealer.