You’d think construction season slows down when the snow starts to fly, but there is a special group of contractors who only get busy when winter hits. Building an ice road has one main requirement and that’s sub-zero temperatures. The crew and the equipment has to be winter tough to make it in this industry and at Mountain View Equipment Rentals we have just the right equipment rentals to help them get this very specialized job done.
Winter construction presents unique challenges, demanding reliable equipment and careful planning. Ice roads contractors in remote locations often rent heavy machinery to complete projects efficiently. Among the most sought-after rentals during the winter months are excavators, skid steers, and bulldozers – and we stock them all.
- Applications: Excavators are indispensable for a variety of tasks, including:
- Excavating trenches and ditches: Preparing the groundwork for road structures in frozen ground requires specialized techniques and equipment.
- Clearing snow and ice: Equipped with appropriate attachments like snow buckets and plows, excavators can efficiently clear large areas of snow and ice.
- Material handling: Moving and loading materials like gravel, sand and of course ice and snow.
- Applications:
- Versatility: Skid steers offer exceptional versatility with a wide range of attachments, including snow blowers, augers, and grapples.
- Compactness: Their compact size makes them ideal for maneuvering in tight spaces and on narrow ice roads.
- Snow removal: Skid steers with snow blowers or buckets are highly effective for clearing snow from roads, driveways, and work sites.
- Applications:
- Grading and leveling: Bulldozers are crucial for preparing the roadbed, leveling the ice surface, and creating a stable foundation for the ice road.
- Snow removal and pushing: Their powerful blades can effectively push large volumes of snow and ice.
- Material moving: Moving and spreading gravel and other materials for road construction and maintenance.
Winterization Tips:
- Heated cabs: All our bulldozers, skid steers and excavators have a heated cab for the operator. Something that is non-negotiable when working in freezing temperatures.
- Proper Fluids: We swap out fluids including engine oil, hydraulic fluid, and coolant, for the cold Canadian winters.
- Battery Maintenance: Cold temperatures significantly impact battery performance. We regularly check battery charge and make sure batteries go out in top shape for each rental.
- Tire Pressure: Proper cold weather tire pressure is essential to prevent damage and ensure optimal traction on ice and snow.
- Regular Inspections: At Mountain View Equipment Rentals, we conduct thorough pre-rental inspections to identify and address any potential issues before operation. We encourage all operators to maintain a similar checklist before using our equipment.
Safety Considerations:
- Operator Training: Ensure operators are properly trained and experienced in operating equipment in winter conditions.
- Cold Weather Gear: Ensure operators have appropriate cold weather gear, including insulated clothing, gloves, and boots.
- Ice Road Safety: Adhere to all ice road safety regulations and guidelines.
- Visibility: Ensure adequate visibility for operators, especially during nighttime operations. The farther north you get, the shorter the daylight hours become.
By carefully selecting the right equipment, implementing proper winterization procedures, and prioritizing safety, contractors can successfully navigate the challenges of winter construction and ensure project success.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only and should not be considered professional advice. Always consult with qualified professionals for specific recommendations and safety guidelines.
