By using compact equipment for residential hardscape projects, design-build companies can slash labor costs and reduce equipment needs while cranking up efficiency and stacking up profits.
“The big thing is doing more jobs and getting them done quicker because that’s how the landscaper is making money,” says Emily Pagura, product marketing manager at John Deere.
Here’s a look at how using skid-steers and compact track loaders (CTLs) can help design-build contractors level up their hardscape game.
The upsides
Many residential hardscape projects take place in tight backyards with limited access. In the past, design-build companies had to budget more time and money for manual labor because large equipment couldn’t access those areas.
“Now, you can get a small CTL or skid-steer through a 36-inch-wide gate,” says Michael Fitzgerald, marketing manager for Bobcat Co. “These machines also minimize disturbance to existing surfaces.”
The equipment’s compact footprint also allows for increased maneuverability, without compromising on power or performance, says Dylan Freeman, product manager at Takeuchi-U.S.
“Contractors can navigate around landscaping features and operate close to structures with precision,” Freeman says. “They can also move quickly across a site, even in muddy conditions and get materials exactly where they need to go.”
Finally, because the machines feature a smaller footprint, they are also easier to transport, Pagura says.
What’s trending
Compact machines have come a long way from what was manufactured even a decade ago. For example, electric-over-hydraulic (EH) controls allow operators greater precision and customization, Freeman says.
“Operators can fine-tune how the machine responds, adjusting loader arm and travel sensitivity to match the task at hand or their personal preferences,” Freeman says. “That’s especially valuable when transitioning between rough grading, material placement or working around existing landscape features.”
However, EH controls aren’t the only tool that zeroes in on precision, Fitzgerald says. Lasers and even GPS systems incorporated on grader attachments can add an extra level of finesse.
The right attachment mix
By adding attachments into the mix, contractors can reduce the need to purchase or rent multiple pieces of equipment or subcontract specialized work. Integrating attachments also enables DBI pros to stay up and running even in the “off season.”
“You don’t just buy a machine and have a bucket and set of pallet forks anymore,” Fitzgerald says. “You enhance that machine’s utilization using attachments and keep one machine working in a cost-effective manner.”
Further enhancing the time savings of using attachments, many machines come with quick-attach and intuitive control systems that allow operators to change attachments in minutes, Freeman says.
Companies can use the machines’ attachments to perform the following types of work:
⦁ General-purpose and grading buckets. Site prep, material transport and finish work.
⦁ Pallet forks. Handle hardscape materials like pavers and sod pallets.
⦁ Augers. Plant trees and shrubs and dig retaining wall footing.
⦁ Trenchers. Dig irrigation and drainage systems.
⦁ Graders. Level a site.
⦁ Power rakes and soil conditioners. Prep a site.
⦁ Angle brooms and landscape rakes. Clear debris and perform final cleanup.
⦁ Snow pushers and plows. Remove snow and ice.
Because new attachments are coming out all the time, Pagura suggests contractors stay in touch with their dealer.
