Landscape and Irrigation is read by decision makers throughout the landscape and irrigation markets — including contractors, landscape architects, professional grounds managers, and irrigation and water mgmt companies and reaches the entire spetrum.
Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/714108
www.landscapeirrigation.com Landscape and Irrigation September 2016 23 Other pieces of equipment mini skid-steers are replacing are larger skid-steers, front loaders and small tractors. One of the biggest advantages of mini skid-steers is their size — with many offering the ability to fit through a standard 36-inch gate. A smaller machine also may cause less ground disturbance and decrease restoration costs. Besides size, a landscaper considering purchasing or renting a compact utility loader should look at the model's rated operating capacity and tipping capacity, which indicate how much a machine can safely lift. Comfort and versatility are additional factors to consider. For example, Vermeer offers a padded, chariot-style operator's station with a spring-cushioned ride-on platform. Having a stand-on platform rather than a seat can be a benefit. With a sit- down machine like a larger loader, an employee may be classified as a machine operator whose sole job is to run that machine. "Whereas, with a mini skid-steer, it's there to enhance the efficiency of your laborer, so that he can operate the machine and then do other work," said Hutchinson. "A larger machine may add a person to the size of your crew." That gets back to one of the machine's chief benefits: the ability to address labor issues and help boost productivity. "A contractor may be able to do more jobs in a season, which is key, and do them with an optimally sized workforce," said Sunderman. Article and sidebar provided by Vermeer Corporation. ALL PHOTOS PROVIDED BY VERMEER CORPORATION 1 Auger bit — Augers offer the potential for adding trees to a landscape company's repertoire. But auger bits can dig holes for all kinds of purposes: fence posts, poles and even basketball hoop installations are all possibilities. 2 Trencher — Irrigation is often treated as a specialty in the landscape industry. With a trencher attachment, however, a landscape business that has traditionally focused on green space can expand into this service. It also can be used to cut a trench for utilities for outdoor lighting. 3 Buckets and forks — These may be the most basic attachments, but their potential to help landscape contractors is immense. Just think of hardscaping. The material used is often heavy, such as retaining walls, pavers and rock. Rather than moving that with a wheelbarrow or even by hand, a compact utility loader can lift more and get it from point A to point B with less effort than manual labor. Yes, other equipment like larger skid-steers and small tractors can do this work, but they cannot access small spaces and backyards as easily as a compact utility loader can, and they may tear up turf more. 4 Power box rake — This attachment is great for site prep and maintenance. A crew can remove debris from the ground and prep it for seeding. Another idea is taking a compact utility loader with a power box rake attachment and performing athletic field and golf course maintenance. 5 Snow blower — A lot of landscape businesses in colder climates shift to snow removal in the winter. Many use trucks with blades, which are limited primarily to parking lots and driveways. They might use walk-behind snow blowers and shovels for trails and sidewalks. With a snow blower attachment on a ride-on compact utility loader, they could still access narrow spaces like trails and sidewalks, but clear them faster. Blade and brush attachments also are available. Five Attachments to Grow Your Business