North Carolina Building Contractor License Practice Exam

Which type of mower is known for providing the highest quality cut at mowing heights below 2 inches?

1. Push mower

2. Rotary mower

3. Reel mower

4. Sickle mower

The correct answer is: Reel mower

The reel mower is recognized for its ability to deliver a superior quality cut, particularly at shorter mowing heights below 2 inches. This is primarily due to its cutting action, which is similar to scissors, where rotating blades pass against a stationary bed knife. This precise cutting mechanism allows for a clean slice of the grass blades, promoting healthier grass and a more aesthetically pleasing lawn. In addition to the clean cut, the reel mower produces less stress on the grass compared to other mowers, which can be beneficial when maintaining short grass. The design of the reel mower also helps to ensure a consistent height of cut, making it easier to achieve the desired look in lawns that are regularly mowed at lower settings. While push mowers, rotary mowers, and sickle mowers each have their own advantages, they do not typically match the cutting performance of reel mowers at these lower heights. Rotary mowers, for instance, can cause a tearing effect on the grass blades that can lead to browning and increased susceptibility to disease. Sickle mowers are generally used for cutting crops such as hay or grain rather than regular lawn maintenance.