Can You Use an Edger Along a Fence? Here’s What You Need To Know


Having a neat and tidy lawn isn’t just about mowing it, but also about edging around the edges and along your fence.

An edger can help you get the job done quickly and effectively, but what do you need to know before you start? In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about using an edger along a fence, from what an edger is and its benefits, to how to use one along a fence and troubleshooting common edger issues.

So if you’re ready to spruce up your lawn and make your fence stand out, let’s get started!

Short Answer

Yes, you can use an edger along a fence.

An edger is a tool that is used to define the edge of a lawn, sidewalk, or driveway by cutting away the grass and weeds growing beyond the edge of the surface.

Edging along a fence line can help to make the lawn look well manicured and clean.

When using an edger along a fence, make sure to use caution and keep the blade away from the fence posts and boards to avoid damaging them.

What is an Edger?

An edger is a landscaping tool that is used to cut and define edges between a lawn and a bed of mulch or rocks.

It can also be used to trim away overgrown grass and weeds near a fence, helping to keep the yard looking neat and well-maintained.

Edgers typically have a blade at the end of a long handle that is used to cut through the grass, creating a neat edge.

The blade can also be used to cut through the soil, allowing for a precise and even cut.

Edgers are usually powered by either a gasoline or electric motor and come in different sizes, depending on the width of the area that needs to be cut.

Benefits of an Edger

Using an edger along a fence can provide many benefits to homeowners.

Firstly, edging helps to create a neat and tidy border between the lawn and the fence.

This makes the lawn look more orderly and attractive, and can add a nice finishing touch to your landscape.

Secondly, edging along a fence can help to keep grass and weeds from growing up and over the fence.

By cutting away the overgrown grass and weeds, you can prevent them from growing further and keep your fence looking neat and well-maintained.

Lastly, edging can also help to protect the fence from damage caused by weather and other elements.

By cutting away the grass and weeds near the fence, you can prevent them from becoming too thick and heavy, which can cause the fence to warp or even break.

What Can an Edger Do Along a Fence?

An edger can be a great tool for creating a neat, clean look for your landscape, and when used along a fence, it can provide several benefits.

Primarily, edgers can help define the border of your property, creating a crisp line between the lawn and a bed of mulch or rocks.

This can make your yard look more orderly and attractive, and it can also help to prevent overgrown grass and weeds from growing up and over the fence.

Additionally, edgers can be used to cut away any grass and weeds that are too close to the fence, helping to keep your yard looking neat and well-maintained.

Edgers can also help to improve the health of your lawn.

By creating a defined line between the lawn and the bed of mulch or rocks, you can help to prevent the grass from encroaching into the bed and competing with the plants and flowers.

This can help your lawn stay healthy and vibrant, and it can also help to prevent the growth of unwanted weeds.

Finally, an edger can be used to create a more aesthetically pleasing look for your yard.

By creating a crisp, clean line between the lawn and bed of mulch or rocks, you can create an organized and inviting look.

This can make your yard look more attractive and inviting, and it can also help to increase the curb appeal of your home.

Preparing to Edge Along a Fence

When it comes to edging along a fence, preparation is key.

Before you begin edging, make sure the area is clear of debris and that any grass or weeds near the fence are trimmed away.

If the area is overgrown, then you may want to use a string trimmer to cut it back before using the edger.

Additionally, be sure to check the fence for any loose boards or nails that may have been pulled up by weeds.

This can be a dangerous task, so be sure to wear protective clothing and eye protection.

If there are any repairs that need to be made to the fence, it is best to do them before you start edging.

Once the area is clear and safe, you can start edging.

How to Edge Along a Fence

Edging along a fence can be a great way to give your landscape a neat and tidy look.

When done correctly, it can also help to prevent weeds and grass from growing up and over the fence, which can be a big nuisance.

To properly use an edger along a fence, there are a few steps you should follow.

First, you will want to make sure that you have the right type of edger for the job.

For fences, it is best to use a trimmer edger, as this will give you the most precise results.

Make sure that your edger is properly adjusted and that the blade is sharp and ready to go.

You will also want to make sure that you have the right safety gear.

It is important to wear gloves and safety glasses when working with an edger, as the blades can be very sharp.

Additionally, make sure to keep bystanders away from the work area, as flying debris and debris from the edging can be dangerous.

Once you are ready to begin, you should start by making small cuts along the perimeter of the fence.

Make sure to keep the edger at a slight angle so that the cut is smooth and even.

Work your way around the entire perimeter of the fence, making sure to cut away any overgrown grass or weeds.

Once the perimeter is complete, you can go back and make more precise cuts near the fence posts and corners.

Once you have made your cuts, you can use a rake to clean up any debris.

This will help to keep your yard looking neat and tidy.

Additionally, you may want to apply some mulch or rocks along the perimeter of the fence to help define the edge and keep weeds and grass from growing over it.

By following these steps and using the right edger, you can easily edge along a fence to create a neat and tidy look for your landscape.

Tips for Using an Edger Along a Fence

When using an edger along a fence, it is important to take a few things into consideration.

First, make sure your edger is in good shape and has a strong and sharp edge.

If it is dull or weak, it may not be able to cut through the thick grass or weeds.

Secondly, make sure you are wearing the proper safety gear such as gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask.

Finally, keep in mind that edging near a fence can create a lot of dirt and debris, so it is important to cover up any plants or flowers that are in close proximity to the fence.

When it comes to the actual edging, it is best to make sure you use the right technique.

Start by cutting a straight line along the fence, then use the edger to make small cuts inwards towards the fence.

This will create a neat and attractive line that will define the border of your property.

If there are any overgrown grass or weeds near the fence, make sure to cut them away as well.

It is also important to make sure the edger is not too close to the fence, as it could potentially damage the fence if it is too close.

When using an edger along a fence, it is also important to make sure you are using the right tools.

For example, a string trimmer is better suited for cutting thick grass, while an edger is better suited for creating a crisp line near a fence.

Additionally, it is important to make sure the edger is set to the right depth.

If it is set too deep, it could potentially damage the fence, so make sure to adjust it accordingly.

Finally, when you are finished edging, make sure to clean up any debris and dirt that may have been created.

This will help ensure that the area looks neat and tidy and will help maintain the beauty of your landscape.

Troubleshooting Common Edger Issues

When using an edger along a fence, it is important to keep an eye out for any issues that may arise.

The most common issues include clogged blades, worn out blades, and broken blades.

Clogged blades can occur when the edger is used to cut through thick grass or weeds, preventing the edger from cutting properly.

Worn out blades can occur due to overuse and will need to be replaced in order to keep the edger working effectively.

Lastly, broken blades can occur if the edger is used to cut through hard objects such as rocks or roots.

If this happens, the blade will need to be replaced.

If any of these issues arise, it is important to take the necessary steps to fix them before continuing to use the edger.

Clogged blades can be fixed by cleaning the edger and removing any debris that may be preventing the edger from cutting properly.

Worn out blades can be replaced with new ones and broken blades should be removed and replaced.

Additionally, it is important to check the edger regularly to make sure that it is in good working condition and that all blades are sharp and properly aligned.

This will ensure that the edger is working as efficiently as possible.

Final Thoughts

Using an edger along a fence can be a great way to spruce up your landscape and add some definition to your property.

With the right preparation and knowledge, you can easily achieve a neat, tidy look for your yard.

Remember to use caution when using an edger, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.

Now that you know how to use an edger along a fence, why not give it a try?

James Lopez

James Lopez is a lifestyle journalist. In addition to working as a journalist, he also takes courses in landscape design. He is pretty focused on the outdoor space, especially the backyard.

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