Kitchen Garden Forum

I have to replace my existing wheelbarrow, which is falling apart. For reasons I won't go into, I intend to buy the new one from B&Q. Essentially, they have three models: an orange plastic one and two, very similar metal ones retailing at around £25.00. Have any Forum contributors feelings either way on these two metal barrows. Would you recommend them? Would you definitely not recomment them?

Barry wrote:I have to replace my existing wheelbarrow, which is falling apart. For reasons I won't go into, I intend to buy the new one from B&Q.

I don't know what is wrong from buying from B & Q. I would buy the metal one if you intend to store it in a shed etc, if you cannot and will be leaving it out in all weathers then i would get the plastic one.

Barry one more point, i would always make sure you get a barrow that the metal tube comes round the front of the wheel to help with tipping, the ones that don't have that, have a horrible habit of shooting back and hitting one in the shins.

I have a metal B&Q builders self tipping barrow with a pneumatic wheel which is fantastic; unless you load too much to the front and it tips as you are walking along.

I usually buy barrows from builders merchants.
The characteristic I have found most irritating is a tendency the fall over sideways. Try putting a small amount in one and checking how easy it is to push over. It depends on the splay of the legs (the barrow's that is).

Geoff wrote:The characteristic I have found most irritating is a tendency the fall over sideways. Try putting a small amount in one and checking how easy it is to push over. It depends on the splay of the legs (the barrow's that is).

I have just been given a two wheeled barrow so hopefully i won't have that trouble anymore

Bought one ot the plastic ones last year & it has been in constant use, particularly on the allotment & garden.
Have found it extremly good & strong, and of course - it's light.