Large Snow Plows in Construction

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In construction, large snow plows are essential equipment used to clear heavy snow from roads, highways, construction sites, and parking areas. These powerful machines ensure that transportation routes and work areas remain safe and functional during harsh winter conditions. By attaching to trucks, loaders, or specialized vehicles, large snow plows allow construction and municipal crews to handle significant snow accumulations efficiently.

This article explores the types, applications, benefits, and cost considerations of large snow plows in construction.

Importance of Large Snow Plows in Construction

Snow accumulation can halt construction activities, delay transportation of materials, and create hazardous working conditions. Large snow plows play a critical role in:

  • Clearing construction sites for ongoing work.
  • Maintaining access roads for trucks and heavy machinery.
  • Ensuring safety by preventing ice buildup and accidents.
  • Supporting infrastructure maintenance during winter months.

Types of Large Snow Plows

1. Truck-Mounted Snow Plows

  • Commonly used by municipalities and contractors.
  • Effective for highways, city streets, and large parking areas.
  • Available in straight-blade and V-plow designs.

2. Loader-Mounted Snow Plows

  • Attach to front-end loaders or skid steers.
  • Suitable for large-scale construction sites and heavy snow removal.
  • Can move massive snow piles quickly.

3. Wing Plows

  • Extendable side wings for clearing wide areas in one pass.
  • Often used on highways for efficient snow management.

4. Box Plows (Snow Pushers)

  • Large box-like design that pushes snow in bulk.
  • Common for airports, industrial complexes, and construction staging areas.

5. Grader-Mounted Plows

  • Attach to road graders.
  • Ideal for clearing rural roads and long stretches of construction access routes.

Key Benefits of Large Snow Plows

  • Efficiency – Clear large areas of snow quickly.
  • Durability – Built to handle heavy-duty snow removal.
  • Versatility – Compatible with trucks, loaders, and graders.
  • Safety – Prevents accidents by keeping surfaces clear.
  • Cost-Effective – Reduces downtime in construction during winter.

Applications of Large Snow Plows in Construction

  • Highway and Roadway Projects – Ensuring clear roads for ongoing construction traffic.
  • Commercial and Industrial Construction Sites – Maintaining access and work zones.
  • Municipal and Public Works – Supporting city snow removal operations.
  • Airports and Terminals – Keeping runways and taxiways operational.

Cost Considerations for Large Snow Plows

  • Truck-Mounted Snow Plows – $5,000 to $15,000.
  • Loader-Mounted Snow Plows – $10,000 to $30,000.
  • Box Plows (Snow Pushers) – $6,000 to $20,000.
  • Wing Plows – $15,000 to $35,000.

Costs vary depending on size, type, brand, and mounting equipment. Additional expenses include maintenance, vehicle compatibility, and seasonal storage.

Maintenance of Large Snow Plows

  • Inspect hydraulic systems and hoses regularly.
  • Sharpen or replace cutting edges as needed.
  • Grease all moving parts before and after use.
  • Clean plows thoroughly to prevent corrosion from road salts.
  • Store in a dry environment during off-season.

Conclusion

In construction, large snow plows are indispensable for keeping roads, work sites, and access points clear during winter. Their ability to handle massive snow loads makes them a vital investment for contractors, municipalities, and infrastructure projects. By choosing the right type of plow and maintaining it properly, construction teams can ensure uninterrupted work and improved safety throughout the snow season.

FAQs

1. What are large snow plows used for in construction?

They are used to clear roads, highways, construction sites, and parking areas to maintain accessibility and safety during winter.

2. What types of large snow plows are available?

Common types include truck-mounted plows, loader-mounted plows, wing plows, box plows, and grader-mounted plows.

3. How much does a large snow plow cost?

Depending on type and size, costs range from $5,000 to $35,000.

4. Can large snow plows be attached to construction equipment?

Yes, they can be mounted on trucks, loaders, skid steers, and graders.

5. Do large snow plows require regular maintenance?

Yes, routine inspections, lubrication, and cleaning are essential for longevity and performance.

6. Are box plows and snow pushers the same?

Yes, box plows are commonly referred to as snow pushers, designed for moving large volumes of snow in one pass.

7. Why are large snow plows important for construction projects?

They reduce downtime, improve site safety, and ensure smooth operations during winter conditions.