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Allen Brothers Company, 634 Military Road, Hadley, NY (2026)

05/29/2026

Which Lawn Tractor is Best for You?

Spring is just around the corner and it’s time to start thinking about lawn care again. If you promised yourself last summer that this year you were going to make life easier by acquiring a lawn tractor, it is time you started thinking about exactly which tractor would best meet your needs. As a result, here is some information that might be invaluable to you.

Things to consider before buying a lawn tractor

Here are a few things you will want to consider and research.

• Construction quality - There is no point in choosing a substandard lawn tractor. It will require a lot of maintenance. Also, you will have to think about replacing it sooner as well. That is why you should choose a lawn tractor after looking at the construction quality. You should not just look at the wheels but the actual frame of the lawn tractor and the seat as well. When you take a holistic view, it is easier to choose a durable lawn tractor.

• Cost - Lawn tractors can vary significantly in cost. The cost depends on the features such as engine, and deck size, among other things. You should take into account these specifications, but also the cost of the lawn tractor. It should not be the only consideration, but you cannot ignore this parameter either. Set a rough budget in advance and then compare the options.

• Cutting width - It is the cutting width which will determine how much area it can cover in a single swath. If you have a medium-sized lawn, you can choose a lawn tractor having cutting width over 20 inches. If you have a large lawn, it is advisable to choose a lawn tractor having cutting width over 40 inches.

• Fuel - You have two options when buying a lawn tractor. You can go with an electric one or a gasoline one. Electric is more eco-friendly and quiet. On the other hand, gasoline-powered tractors provide higher power and, generally speaking, larger cutting decks. You should decide which one you prefer and choose accordingly.

• HP rating - The HP rating of the motor inside the tractor determines the speed and the cutting power. The higher the Hp rating, the better it is. You can go with a an HP rating of 12 HP or higher. This is a good number to work with.

• Seat - Only when you're comfortable using a lawn tractor will you use it frequently. You have to look at the design of the seat. It can be low back design, medium back design, or high back design. You have to determine what you prefer and choose the lawn tractor accordingly.

With the economy the way it is, perhaps the issue that is of most concern is cost. Below is some information that you may find most beneficial. To assist you further in your research, the information here goes from least to most expensive, giving you choices in each category.

Below $2,000

Lawn Tractors:
• John Deere D125
• Troy-Bilt Super Bronco 50
• Snapper 960440007

$2,000 to $2,400

Lawn Tractors:
• Craftsman 20442
• John Deere D155
• Husqvarna YT46LS

Zero-Turn-Radius Riders:
• Troy-Bilt Mustang 42"

$2,500 to $2,900

Lawn Tractors:
• John Deere S240 Sport, $2,500 (42-inch)

Zero-Turn-Radius Riders:
• Troy-Bilt Mustang Pivot, $2,900 (46-inch)
• Troy-Bilt Mustang 50" 17ARCACQ, $2,800 (50-inch)
• John Deere Z335E, $2,500 (42-inch)

$3,000 and Up -

Lawn tractors:
• John Deere X350, $3,200 (42-inch)
• Craftsman 20445, $3,500 (54-inch)

Zero-turn-radius riders:
• Cub Cadet RZT L54, $3,000 (54-inch)
• Cub Cadet RTZ46 fab, $3,300 (46-inch)
• Cub Cadet RZT-S42, $4,000 (48V electric, 42-inch)

If cost isn’t your main concern, here are five suggestions you might want to consider for your purchase:

1. Craftsman T225 19 HP Gas Powered Lawn Tractor
2. Cub Cadet 30 in 382 cc Gas Rear Engine Riding Mower
3. John Deere E180 54 in 25 HP Lawn Tractor
4. Husqvarna LTH1738, 38 in. 17 HP Gas Lawn Tractor
5. Troy-Bilt 540cc Briggs & Stratton Lawn Tractor

If you would like assistance in evaluating and choosing a lawn tractor that would best fit your needs, and/or accomplishing other tasks that homeowners face this time of year, give us a call.

We can also assist you with a myriad of other concerns a property owner has, so please feel free to contact Allen Brothers Company at (518) 863-2895.

We do everything.

This post was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

https://www.consumerreports.org/home-garden/lawn-mowers/best-lawn-tractors-for-every-budget-a1981211558/?EXTKEY=SM72A02&gclid=2c8227b579dc182480184e52b46282f2&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=2c8227b579dc182480184e52b46

10 Best Lawn Tractor Reviews 2026 - Ultimate Buying Guide

04/27/2026

Nope, just AC

Air conditioning may be the furthest thing from your mind as you read this after having just thrown another log on the fire. But, with the way time flies these days, it won’t be long before you’ll be most thankful to be able to walk into a cooled room. That’s why it’s important that you attend to your AC unit sooner rather than later. Following is some information that just might be helpful in doing just that. There are two major “types” of air conditioning units, indoor and outdoor, and we are going to take a quick look at both.

Indoor units

Inspect & clean accessible parts:

With the power off, remove the access panel on the unit if you know how to do so safely. Use a vacuum with a brush attachment to remove dust from the blower wheel and surrounding area. Wipe down surfaces with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed. Do not spray liquids directly into electrical components or control boards. Reassemble the panel securely when finished.

Replace or clean the air filter

The filter protects the system and the indoor air. A clogged filter makes the unit work harder and can reduce cooling performance. Replace disposable filters according to the manufacturer’s guidance, commonly every 1 to 3 months, and more frequently if you have pets or high dust levels. If you use a reusable filter, clean it according to the product instructions and dry it fully before reinstalling.

Outdoor units

Check for visible damage

Look for signs of oil leaks, loose electrical connections, or damaged insulation on refrigerant lines. Do not attempt to repair refrigerant lines yourself. Any sign of oil, hissing, or refrigerant odor warrants a professional HVAC technician call.

Clean the condenser fins and coils

Over the winter, fins can bend and coils can gather dirt. Gently remove loose debris with a soft brush. For more thorough cleaning, use a garden hose on a gentle spray from the inside out (not directly against the fan or coils). Avoid high pressure washing, which can bend fins and cause damage. If fins are bent, a fin comb can straighten them carefully following the tool’s instructions.

Clear space and debris

The outdoor condenser should have unobstructed airflow. Clear leaves, grass, and debris from around the unit and keep at least 2 to 3 feet of clearance on all sides, with 5 feet of clearance above the unit if possible. Trim nearby plants and avoid storing items near the condenser that could shade or restrict airflow.

Special consideration needs to be given to the drainage and condensate line:

Inspect the condensate pan and overflow safety
Check the condensate pan for cracks or corrosion and ensure the overflow switch (if present) is functional. A working overflow switch can prevent water from backing up into the home.

Test the condensate drain

Proper condensate drainage prevents water damage and mold growth. Locate the condensate line and pour a small amount of water through the outlet to confirm it drains freely. If you notice slow drainage or standing water in the drain pan, clear the line gently with a wet/dry vacuum or a non-corrosive cleaning solution recommended by a technician. Do not use harsh chemical cleaners that could damage the line.

While most of us can accomplish these tasks most readily, there are times when an AC Pro may need to be called in. Ways you can tell you need to make that call include:

• AC is not cooling adequately despite a clean filter and proper thermostat settings.
• There are signs of refrigerant leaks, such as oily spots on lines or hissing noises near the outdoor unit.
• There is ice on the refrigerant coil or the outside unit is excessively warm or not coming on at all.
• You hear unusual noises, such as grinding or banging, or you smell burning or chemical odors.
• You notice water leaks inside the home or persistent drainage problems.

This may be the year that you have determined that you have suffered through your last sweltering summer and that you are going to treat yourself and the family to an air conditioner. If that is the case, the following information may prove most beneficial to you.

Types of air conditioning units

Central air conditioning

For whole-house cooling, central air conditioning systems are a popular choice. These systems use ductwork to distribute cool air throughout the home. They offer:

• Consistent cooling for entire homes
• Can also incorporate heating with a heat pump
• Generally more energy-efficient for larger homes

However, installing central air has significantly higher upfront costs, typically as much as $3,900–$7,900, according to Angi, and requires ductwork installation.

Portable air conditioners

Portable units offer flexibility, allowing you to move cooling from room to room. They’re a good choice for renters or those who can’t install permanent units. Advantages of portable AC units include:

• No permanent installation required
• Can be stored when not in use
• Suitable for rooms without suitable windows for window units

Keep in mind that portable units are generally less efficient than window models and require venting through a window or wall.

Through-the-wall models

Through-the-wall air conditioners are similar to window units but are permanently installed in a wall opening. They’re an excellent option for rooms without suitable windows or for those who want to preserve their window views. Benefits of these air conditioners include:

• Don’t block windows
• More secure than window units
• Often more energy-efficient than portable models

However, installing a through-the-wall unit is more complex and typically requires professional help.

Window units

Window air conditioners are popular for their affordability and ease of installation. They’re ideal for cooling single rooms or small apartments. Benefits of these units include:

• Cost-effectiveness for small spaces
• Easy to install and remove
• Various sizes available (5,000 to 25,000 BTU)

However, window units also have drawbacks. They can block the view out of your window, and some units may not be suitable for all window types.

Air conditioning is an excellent way to enjoy your summer even more, and, without a doubt, is well worth the investment in time and money for installation and maintenance.

If you would like assistance with prepping or installing your air conditioning units, and/or accomplishing other tasks that homeowners face this time of year, give us a call.

We can also assist you with a myriad of other concerns a property owner has, so please feel free to contact Allen Brothers Company at (518) 863-2895.

We do everything.

This post was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

How to Prepare Your AC for Summer: A Practical Homeowners Guide - Cooling and Heating Repair
What You Need to Know to Choose an Air Conditioner - This Old House

04/03/2026

Up on the Roof Top…
Check – Check - Check!!!!

“Global warning” was the furthest thing from anyone’s mind back in February as the winter blizzards dropped feet of snow from Virginia to Maine - - including New York State! High winds, cold weather and bountiful precipitation took a toll on everyone, and …. The total damage may not yet be totally tallied! When Spring is finally sprung, one of the first things you are going to want to do is make arrangements to inspect the roof of your house to check for what damage may have been wrought on your home’s covering!

Roof inspections, in fact, are something that should be kept in mind all year long. As a result, to help you with this aspect of home maintenance, following is a seasonal chart reflecting what you should keep in mind when keeping your roof intact.

SPRING
A. Check the attic for moisture: damp insulation; mold growth or musty odors; water stains.
B. Clean out gutters and downspouts: leaves, roofing granules, twigs.
C. Inspect for winter damage: discolored steaks indicating moisture; droopy rooflines or bubbling around skylights; missing or cracked shingles.

SUMMER
A. Examine flashing and seals
B. Search for moss and algae, which: diminish curb appeal; trap moisture; weaken shingle adhesion.
C. Trim nearby trees, as overhanging limbs: are a means of transportation for racoons and squirrels; drop organic material that holds water; scratch shingles in the wind.

FALL
A. Check insulation and ventilation
B. Seal roof penetrations
C. Thoroughly clean gutters

WINTER
A. Monitor attic temperature
B. Remove snow carefully
C. Watch for ice dams

In closing, you may want to keep the following four points in mind regarding the importance of roof maintenance:

• Avoids preventable and costly damage
• Gives “peace of mind” year round
• Improves your home’s energy efficiency
• Increases the life of your roof by years

If you would like assistance with your roof maintenance, and/or accomplishing other tasks that homeowners face this time of year, give us a call.

We can also assist you with a myriad of other concerns a property owner has, so please feel free to contact Allen Brothers Company at (518) 863-2895.

We do everything.

02/05/2026

Not a Resolution, But Almost!

(Due to the positive reader’s response to this post last year the decision has been made to share it with you again!)

It’s that time of the year when we all pull out a pad, sharpen our pencils, and make a list of things that we are going to do in the New Year that will make us a better person. This can run the gamut from exercising more to stop smoking; from eating healthier to devoting more time to self and family.

If we are homeowners, on this list there should also be tasks to accomplish that will preserve the beauty and value of our homes. These “resolutions” can take the form of a “to do list,” and, to be most effective, should probably be divided into Seasonal Tasks. The following lists have been constructed for your benefit and edification, and, hopefully, will help you start the New Year off right.

Springtime Tasks

• Clean and inspect window screens for damage.
• Change HVAC air filters.
• Inspect the air-conditioning system.
• Inspect the air ducts for buildup of mold, allergens or debris.
• Inspect the washing machine water hoses for cracks and the dryer vent for lint buildup.
• Look for moisture in the basement and crawl space. Leaks in these spaces could turn into costly repairs.
• Make sure your sump pump is in working order.
• Clean debris from foundation vents and window wells.
• Inspect and tune up any lawn maintenance equipment. Sharpen tools, charge batteries, lubricate moving parts and replace old gas.
• Inspect caulking around doors and windows for damage or wear. Replace if necessary to increase energy efficiency.
• Inspect gutters and downspouts for damage and debris. Working gutters ensure that water is diverted
• Inspect outdoor sprinkler heads for damage from snow plows or cold weather. Look for leaking valves and verify the watering schedule on the control panel.
• Inspect wooden decks, railings, windowsills and steps for rot. Repair or replace damaged wood, and touch up paint, stain or wood finish.
• Pressure wash patios, decks, driveway / walkways, and outdoor furniture. Pressure wash your soffits and siding too, if necessary.
• Trim trees and shrubs that are near the house. This can prevent damage to siding, windows or the roof.

Summer Tasks

• Bathroom: Eliminate any signs of mold. Repair and clean grout, replace caulk, and seal where necessary.
• Clean refrigerator and freezer coils; clean and empty drip trays.
• Deep clean carpets, either by hiring a carpet cleaning service or buying/renting a carpet cleaning system.
• Fill holes or cracks in concrete.
• Fix any holes or loose nails in Fences. Paint or stain, if necessary, to prevent weathering.
• Pest-proof your home for both rodents and insects - - especially termites!
• Replace washers in interior and exterior faucets.
• Wash windows and door screens.

Fall Tasks

• Aerate your soil.
• Bleed hot water radiators.
• Bring latex/acrylic paints and caulking into the house to protect it from extreme winter temperatures.
• Check CO detectors.
• Clean your chimney.
• Clear steam radiator vents.
• Drain garden hoses.
• Get your property ready for snow and snow removal.
• Store lawn chairs.
• Winterize your gas grill.
• Winterize your sprinkler system.

Winter Tasks (Some of these might be considered fall tasks as they are preparatory for winter.)

• Caulk and cover room air conditioners.
• Check for air leaks around windows and doors.
• Check the roof for needed repairs.
• Check insulation.
• Clean attic venting.
• Cut the power to your AC to avoid wasting energy.
• Drain gas tanks for summer items such as lawn mowers and leaf blowers.
• Inspect outdoor lighting to ensure they are working properly.
• Install heat cables on water pipes.
• Make sure your heating system is working properly.
• Wrap fruit trees to protect from frost cracking.
• Weatherproof your AC unit.
• Prep snow removing equipment.
• Reverse ceiling Fans.

As you can see, there is more involved in keeping your home in top-top shape than one might expect. If you would like assistance with any of your seasonal tasks, give us a call.

We can also assist you with a myriad of other concerns a property owner has, so please feel free to contact Allen Brothers Company at (518) 863-2895. We do everything.

This post was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

Spring Home Maintenance Checklist (mrhandyman.com)
Summer Home Maintenance Checklist – Forbes Home
Fall Home Maintenance Checklist: 20 Things to Do Every Year (familyhandyman.com)
Winter Checklist: 25 Things Every Homeowner Should Get Done Right Now | Family Handyman

01/09/2026

Tips And Advice For Holiday Decorating

As Edward Pola and George Wyle wrote in their 1963 hit, It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year, this is the season we have been looking forward to for the last six months! As wonderful as it inherently is, most of us want to add to the joy of the season by sprucing up our homes with decorations and lights that reflect the way we feel about December 25th. Whether it be via a North Pole motif or a Nativity Scene, virtually everyone looks forward to participating in this holiday season through decorations. Unfortunately, if we don’t take the necessary precautions, instead of “Joy to the World,” we can find ourselves experiencing devastating tragedies. For example, 50% of ALL electrical fires each year occur during the Christmas season. As a result of the Stats, the following should help make sure that you can look forward to a Happy New Year instead of recovering from a Christmas disaster!

To ensure some degree of continuity the material has been divided into three major categories: trees, lights, and general tips. Hopefully, you will find this information not only interesting but also useful.

CHRISTMAS TREES

• per the national fire protection association, Christmas trees should be watered daily.
• Christmas trees should be kept at least 3 feet away from heat sources such as electric heaters, radiators and fireplaces.
• the older, and drier, Christmas trees get the greater the fire hazard possibility. as a result, trees should be disposed of after the holiday as soon as possible.
• when buying an artificial tree, be sure to look for the “fire resistant” label.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS

A. The safer the better
• use led lights: stay cooler & use less energy
• use outdoor rated timers with surge protection
• ensure your lights have “outdoor rating” via UL certification.

B. Connecting numerous strands
• keep usage below 80% of the circuit’s capacity
• use multiple outlets and circuits to distribute the load
• follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for limits

C. Ensure you can close your GFCI cover
• use cords with flat plugs that fit under cover
• invest in outdoor outlet enclosures that will allow the cover to close

D. Keep your cords and plugs out of the rain & snow
• use waterproof extension cord covers
• elevate all connections above the ground to avoid pooling water

GENERAL TIPS
• avoid lead-containing decorations
• avoid decorations that are sharp or breakable, especially if you have children
• keep children away from “button” and “lithium” batteries
• keep potentially poisonous plants away from children
• wear gloves to avoid skin and eye irritation when decorating with spun glass decorations
• when lighting candles remove flammable materials from the area

We can also assist you with a myriad of other concerns a property owner has, so please feel free to contact Allen Brothers Company at (518) 863-2895. We do everything.

This post was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

12 Safety Tips for Holiday Decorations - HealthyChildren.org
Fires, electrocutions, falls: Tips to avoid dangerous holiday hazards
How Safe Are Your Outdoor Holiday Decorations? - Ting

12/13/2025

Now You See Me, Now You Don’t
Building The Ultimate Hunting Blind

As you prepare to bag that big buck this year getting a blind may be at the top of your list. They not only keep you out of your prey’s scope of vision, but also serve to help with scent control. While there are blinds purchasable on the market, the idea of DIY is one that you may want to consider, as there are several advantages to such a plan.

For example, a DIY blind allows you to customize it to your particular needs. This includes choice of materials, interior features, and dimensions. While a purchased blind is constructed with the understanding that “one size fits all,” a DIY blind takes into consideration that the blind for a five six rifle hunter should look different than one for a six five bow hunter. Other things to consider is should it be ground level or elevated and how many hunters is should be able to accommodate.

There are many blind-types to consider, but to make this post an acceptable link there are only three here for your consideration. The first is a refurbished blind, one that already exists but needs either repairs or renovations/updates. This is an especially good idea if you are planning on moving your current blind to a new location.

The simplest blind is the standard mini-tower. The major components include the elevated platform and the ladder to access it. This ladder should be easy and comfortable to climb, especially if you plan taking a bag or backpack up to the platform with you.

Another thought is a double layer deer blind. The first section is simply a platform where you have accessible view to a specific, designated area when you are expecting a “quick shot.” The upper layer gives access to more terrain for you to cover.

We can also assist you with a myriad of other concerns a property owner has, so please feel free to contact Allen Brothers Company at (518) 863-2895. We do everything.

This post was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:

How to Build a Hunting blind: Tips from Our Experts - Summit Outdoors (The post How to Build a Hunting blind: Tips from Our Experts first appeared on Shadow Hunter blinds. )
8 Free DIY Deer blind Plans For Hunting

12/13/2025

Preparing Fruit Trees for the Winter

As much as you may not want to think about it, winter is just around the corner! And, if you have fruit trees, it is not too early to think about preparing them for what The Old Farmer’s Almanac says is going to be another winter of noteworthiness:

“The Almanac says the Northeast and Upstate New York can expect a ‘...cold, snow-filled..’ winter with ‘...frequent snowstorms.’ Last winter delivered on the cold with our chilliest Upstate New York January in years, but the snow was still a little underwhelming. Only time will tell if this year's Almanac forecast turns out to be accurate!”

With that thought in mind, here are some steps that you can take to ensure you can enjoy your “apple a day” in 2026!

1. Avoid fall pruning – Pruning in the fall can create cuts that may not “heal,” as unlike in the Spring when growth takes place there are no “cells” formed to help with the “healing” process.
2. Clean up the orchard floor – It is not necessary to remove all the leaves if you have only a few trees, as their presence helps create the soil biology that provides needed nutrients. However, any “diseased” leaves should be taken away.
3. Clean up the trees – This is accomplished by removing any dead branches and fallen fruit. By attending to the latter you reduce both disease and pest issues.
4. Continue irrigating in the fall – Hydration helps Trees store Nutrients in their roots.
5. Critter control – You will want to make sure your trees are protected from various animals during the winter, including but not limited to:
A. Deer – Fences often work - - If they are tall enough or if they are electrified!
B. Voles, mice, rabbits - To prevent them from gnawing on your trees, tree tubes are an excellent precaution.
6. Defend against insects and diseases – Two major steps here include moving debris from under the tree and any “fruit mummies,” or immature shriveled fruit.
7. Do not fertilize your trees – Rather, mulch around the bottom of the trees.
8. Insulate root systems - The key here is to promote dormancy as quickly as possible. The application of mulch is a good start. Also, avoid using compost around the base of the tree as this tends to stimulate tree growth, which tends to prolong dormancy.
9. Protect the tree trunk – As ludicrous as it may sound, tree trunks can get “sunburned.” To thwart this you can:
A. Paint the tree trunks – Both quick and easy, this can be accomplished by first cleaning the trunk and then applying a layer of latex paint.
B. Use spiral tree wraps – Though effective, these should be removed before the growing season.

We can also assist you with a myriad of other concerns a property owner has, so please feel free to contact Allen Brothers Company at (518) 863-2895. We do everything.

This post was written, in great part, with information gleaned from the following sources:
Preparing fruit trees for winter in five easy steps
3 Essential Tips for Winterizing Your Orchard: How to Prepare for the Cold Season – Winter Cove Farm

Allen Brothers Company

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