Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
A two-wheeled wheelbarrow will be more stable than its one-wheeled counterpart, but harder to turn
and maneuver.
(Photo courtesy of Brannan Sirratt)
If you get a metal wheelbarrow bucket, or tray, be prepared to repaint it on a yearly basis to avoid
rusting out the bottom and to cover the scratches that will inevitably develop during use. If you
choose plastic, be sure that you select a UV-resistant plastic that will withstand rotting in the sun
so you'll get more than a couple years of use out of your wheelbarrow investment. Either material
is fine but whichever you choose, select a model with a deeper tray so your load won't bounce or
slide out. A deeper tray will also allow you to put the heaviest portion of your load over the wheel,
making it easier to move.
Test the handles before you purchase a wheelbarrow and make sure the grip is easy to hold. Our
first wheelbarrow had sturdy handles but they were so thick they hurt my hands to grasp for any
length of time. You also want the handles to rest close enough to the ground when the barrow is
still that you can easily lift the wheelbarrow up for maneuvering around the yard.
Check the struts and braces to make sure they are made of strong metal that won't bend under
heavy loads. Any metal pieces should be made of rust-resistant metals or painted to avoid rusting.
Clean any manure or debris out of the wheelbarrow tray, and off the metal struts, to avoid encour-
aging rust, and if you store the wheelbarrow outside don't let rainwater collect inside.
StOrinG yOur WheelbarrOW
Store your wheelbarrow upright so the metal stands, or braces, aren't in contact with the wet ground to
build up moisture and corrode. Be sure that water isn't left to stand in the tray of the wheelbarrow, as this
can rot the bolts in the bottom of the tray, even with plastic wheelbarrows. Plastic wheelbarrows should be
stored out of direct sunlight to avoid warping and weathering. Space-saving hooks and braces are avail-
able so wheelbarrows can be hung on a shed or garage wall up and out of the way.
