Introduction

Did you know that skid steer brooms can clear up to 7,000 square feet per hour, based on industry data from equipment manufacturers like Bobcat? For contractors, landowners, and skid steer operators facing challenges such as high costs and complex land maintenance, skid steer broom attachments provide an efficient way to keep worksites clean and safe. This comprehensive guide from Skid Steers Direct offers expert insights on selecting, operating, and maintaining skid steer brooms, positioning us as your trusted authority in the skid steer attachment industry.

Why Skid Steer Broom Attachments Are Essential

Skid steer broom attachments are indispensable tools for managing debris, snow, and dirt across various terrains and industries. Their key advantages include:

• High Efficiency: Capable of covering large areas quickly, reducing manual labor and operational costs.
• Versatility: Adaptable for use on construction sites, farms, parking lots, and more.
• Safety Enhancement: Clears pathways and reduces hazards, promoting a safer working environment.

At Skid Steers Direct, we emphasize machine safety and the use of personal protection equipment, ensuring our guidance helps you maximize the potential of your skid steer. Let’s dive into the details of choosing the right broom attachment.

Understanding Skid Steer Broom Types and Options

Choosing the right skid steer broom requires understanding the different types available, their operational mechanics, and their ideal applications. Below, we explore the primary broom styles and their variations to help you make an informed decision.

Angle Broom

Also Known As: Power Broom, Rotary Broom, Sweeper, Street Sweeper

How It Works: An angle broom operates at an adjustable angle (left or right) to sweep debris such as dirt, leaves, and light snow off surfaces and away from the skid steer. The rotating bristles move material to the side, making it ideal for open areas.

Common Uses: Widely used on parking lots, driveways, streets, sidewalks, and factory floors. Also effective for light snow removal and select turf applications where surface damage is a concern.

Limitations: Lacks capture capability, meaning it pushes debris rather than collects it. This makes it less suitable for environments where dust control is critical, such as indoor settings or residential areas where debris might be displaced into yards or driveways.

Angle Broom Options

• Hydraulic Angle Adjustment: Allows operators to adjust the broom’s angle from the cab, enhancing convenience and precision. Requires an electrical connection to the skid steer’s control system.
• Deflector: A protective shield that reduces flying debris, improving operator visibility and dust control. Ideal for jobs requiring cleaner sweeps or where gravel or snow overspray is a concern.

Pick-Up Broom

Also Known As: Collector Broom, Box Broom, Hopper Broom, Sweeper

How It Works: A pick-up broom sweeps and collects debris into an attached bucket, often featuring a bi-directional motor for forward and reverse operation. This allows sweeping while moving forward and collecting debris while backing up, such as near buildings or loading docks.

Common Uses: Perfect for docks, warehouses, construction sites, roadways, factories, and sidewalks. Also excels at clearing parking lots after snowmelt or in areas where debris collection is mandated.

Advantages: Minimizes dust production due to its enclosed design and reduces the risk of flying debris that could damage nearby structures or vehicles. Complies with environmental regulations requiring dust suppression and debris containment.

Considerations: Generally more expensive upfront than angle brooms, but offers broader applicability across job sites due to its collection feature.

Pick-Up Broom Options

• Water Kit: Addresses dust control by emitting a mist to weigh down particles, making them easier to collect. A rubber skirt around the broom base enhances dust suppression, though it may not suffice for heavy dust environments without additional water.
• Low Profile Water Kit: Features a tapered tank design that improves operator visibility by avoiding obstruction. Unlike flat-top tanks that can retain water and complicate hose routing, this design ensures full drainage and safer hose placement.
• Gutter Brush: Adds precision for street sweeping by collecting debris along curbs, complementing the broom’s primary function.

Broom Bristle Options

Bristle type impacts sweeping performance and surface compatibility. Here are the main options:

• All Poly Bristle Wafers: Designed to “flick” loose material with high sweeping power. These non-aggressive bristles are best for snow, turf, and delicate surfaces like sealed concrete or cement floors, minimizing scratches.
• Alternating Poly/Wire Wafers: The most versatile option, combining poly bristles to lift material and wire bristles to cut through tougher debris. Suitable for pavement and mixed surfaces that can handle moderate aggression without damage.
• All Wire Wafers: The most aggressive option, using wire bristles to “cut” through heavy debris. Less common due to potential surface damage, ideal only for the toughest conditions on durable surfaces.

How to Safely Operate Skid Steer Broom Attachments

Safe operation is critical to maximizing efficiency and protecting your equipment and crew. Follow these detailed steps:

Pre-Operation Preparation

• Inspect the broom for worn bristles or damaged guards.
• Verify hydraulic connections are secure.
• Ensure the skid steer’s weight capacity supports the attachment.
• Wear personal protection equipment, including safety goggles, gloves, and steel-toed boots.

Operating Guidelines

• Adjust the broom angle to direct debris away from obstacles or into a collection area.
• Maintain a steady pace (3–5 mph) to avoid scattering debris or damaging bristles.
• Monitor terrain: Avoid steep slopes or uneven ground to prevent tipping or excessive wear.

Maintenance and Storage

• Clean debris from bristles and hoppers after each use to prevent buildup.
• Regularly check hydraulic lines and bristle condition, replacing worn parts promptly.
• Store with bristles off the ground (using stands if available) to avoid deformation.

For authoritative safety standards, consult the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).

Practical Applications of Skid Steer Broom Attachments

Skid steer brooms address common pain points like high costs and complex maintenance across multiple scenarios:

• Construction Sites: Clear dirt, gravel, and construction waste to maintain safe access.
• Landscaping: Remove leaves, clippings, and light debris to enhance the property's appearance.
• Snow Management: Sweep light snow from parking lots and driveways, reducing plow needs.
• Parking Lots and Roads: Keep surfaces clean and hazard-free for pedestrian and vehicle safety.

FAQs About Skid Steer Broom Attachments

Q: What size skid steer broom should I choose?

A: Select a width based on your worksite (e.g., 60 inches for small areas, 84 inches for large lots). Refer to Skid Steers Direct’s broom collection for compatibility details.

Q: Can skid steer brooms handle wet conditions?

A: Yes, angle brooms with water-resistant bristles or pick-up brooms with water kits are designed for wet debris like snow or mud.

Q: How do I maintain broom bristles?

A: Replace bristles every 100–200 hours or when worn to half their length, depending on use. Clean after each job to extend lifespan.

Q: What’s the difference between angle and pick-up brooms?

A: Angle brooms sweep debris to the side, ideal for open areas, while pick-up brooms collect debris into a bucket, better for confined or regulated sites.

Q: Do I need hydraulic power for all broom types?

A: Yes, most skid steer brooms (angle, pick-up) require hydraulic flow (10–20 GPM) to operate. Verify your skid steer’s specs before use.

Conclusion

Skid steer broom attachments are a vital tool for contractors and landowners seeking to manage debris efficiently while addressing high costs and complex systems. By understanding broom types, operating them safely, and maintaining them properly, you can enhance your worksite’s productivity and safety. At Skid Steers Direct, we’re committed to providing expert guidance and quality attachments to meet your needs. Ready to upgrade your skid steer? Shop on this page for the best selection today!