When it comes to versatility in the construction and forestry industry, skid steers stand as one of the most versatile options. Traditionally used for excavation projects, skid steer loaders can actually be used for a wide variety of applications beyond excavation, digging, and trenching. In this edition of the Papé Machinery Construction & Forestry blog, let’s take a look at 5 alternative uses of skid steers.

#1 Brush Clearing & Landscaping

Dealing with thick grass and brush? With the use of attachments, skid steers can quickly become your go-to brush clearing tool. Skid steers can be equipped with brush cutters or mulchers to assist with brush clearing or landscaping projects. With the right attachments, skid steer loaders can clear dense vegetation, preparing the land for new construction or landscaping projects. Because skid steers are zero-turn, they offer more precision than standard ride-on mowers. 

#2 Stump Removal

Need help with grinding stumps, chipping wood, and tilling? Skid steers can be equipped with stump grinders and log grapples to effectively remove and transport tree stumps, preparing the land for construction projects. After stump removal, skid steers can move logs and brush efficiently, and with their compact size, can maneuver through tight spaces and small, crowded job sites with ease.

#3 Lift & Load Capacity

Skid steer loaders can also be used for material handling. Skid steers can be equipped with grapple buckets or pallet forks to efficiently handle and transport construction materials, logs, or timber. Given their maneuverability through tight spaces, using skid steers for material handling can greatly improve efficiency on the jobsite.

#4 Erosion Control and Backfilling

With the right attachments, such as land levelers or grading buckets, skid steers can help with erosion control and land grading. They can precisely distribute soil, gravel, and other materials, filling in holes with extreme precision and reliability.

#5 Snow and Debris Removal

With a simple bucket attachment, you can also use the skid steer to clear snow and debris. If you’re dealing with serious snow removal, you can equip skid steers with snowblower or snow blade attachments. 

Multi-Faceted

Skid steers have many versatile uses even beyond those mentioned in our blog today, including being helpful for road work, fencing, and compact demo projects. The versatility and maneuverability of skid steers make these loaders an essential piece of equipment for your construction and forestry projects. Here at Papé Machinery Construction & Forestry, our specialists are here to pair you with the best equipment for your project needs. Reach out to us so we can assist you, and be sure to ask us about your wide selection of John Deere skid steers and attachments.