Snow Blade Attachment
A snow blade (push blade or straight/angled plough) pushes snow to one side or ahead of the machine. Quick, simple, low maintenance. No hydraulic requirements beyond standard auxiliary circuits. The right choice for:
- Routine clearing of light to moderate snowfall (up to 30–40 cm)
- Large flat paved surfaces (car parks, airport aprons, large driveways)
- Speed is the priority (pushing is faster than blowing)
- When there's space to push snow to — car park edges, field margins
Limitations: Can't handle very deep snow effectively (the pile in front of the blade becomes too heavy to push). Can't place snow precisely. Creates windrows that accumulate through the season.
Snow Blower Attachment
A hydraulic snow blower ingests and throws snow through a discharge chute, placing it up to 10–15 metres away. Much more capable in deep snow. Required for confined spaces where there's no room to build snow piles. The right choice for:
- Consistent snowfall areas (Alpine, mountain regions) where accumulation is significant
- Residential driveways and paths where windrow buildup would block access
- Spaces where snow must be placed precisely, not just moved aside
- Heavy or wet snow that blades can't push effectively
Requirements: High hydraulic flow (typically 80–120 L/min). Higher cost (3–5× the price of a blade). More complex — more components to maintain and potential to fail.
The Hybrid: Box Blade with Snow Capability
Some operators use a containment/box blade that can angle and push snow but also contain and pile it more precisely than a straight blade. A useful compromise for moderate winter conditions.
Cost vs Frequency Analysis
For a site receiving 10–15 snowfall events per year of under 20 cm: a blade is entirely sufficient and far more cost-effective. For 20+ events per year or regular depths above 30 cm: a snow blower's greater capability and reduced fatigue factor justify the higher investment within 2–3 seasons.
FAQ
Can I use a skid steer snow blade on gravel surfaces?
Yes, but float the blade slightly above the surface or use skid shoes to prevent gravel excavation and blade damage. Running the blade flat against gravel at speed picks up and scatters stone. Adjust blade pitch and skid height for gravel surfaces.