When you've used the same tried and true snow plow cutting edge since you started plowing roads, it’s easy to stick with what you know. “If it ain't broke, don’t fix it,” right? Unfortunately, that mindset is costing many highway departments and municipalities money and time. By giving a new type of blade a try, you could discover that you've been missing out on the best snow plow cutting edge for your needs.

There are plenty of new and advanced snow blade options to choose from, and each one could potentially overcome limitations that operators are taking for granted with blades they’ve used in the past. Here are a few key reasons to replace your snow plow cutting edge and try a new, alternative option. 

1. Your Budget Has Changed

Controlling costs is a core goal for every snow removal operation, whether you're running a private business or involved in government planning. If recent adjustments in the budget are a top priority, choosing snow plow blades at a lower price point might help you reduce your expenses. Rubber and steel blades are often more affordable, whereas tungsten carbide typically has the biggest price tag. However, even more important than blade material is wear life. A more expensive blade that lasts 5x longer will generate savings in the long run.

The opposite principle also applies. If recent budget adjustments have afforded you some upgrades, the time might be right to explore a more premium cutting edge for optimal results.

2. You Want to Cut Back on Blade Replacements

Machine downtime is expensive. Constantly removing and replacing your snow plow cutting edge gets frustrating quickly. It drains time, energy, and money from your operation. If you've noticed that your blades show signs of excessive wear too quickly, try changing to a more durable option.

In most cases, rubber-cutting edges wear out significantly faster than steel. Tungsten carbide is also remarkably strong, and carbide insert blades are not only three times more rigid than steel but also last approximately 5-8 times longer than standard steel blades of the same thickness and height. Both materials have impressive durability, but that can come with a higher upfront cost. Remember that switching to steel or tungsten carbide can save you money in the long run because of the reduced need for replacements.

3. You Need a Blade with a Lighter Touch

When plow operators aren't careful, they can cause serious damage to roads, parking lots, and areas made of less sturdy materials. Even the most experienced and reliable drivers can't stop steel from creating potholes and damaging curbs over time. If you frequently plow areas with decorative concrete, cobblestones, or other sensitive surfaces, extremely rigid blades may do more harm than good.

Changing your cutting edge to a rubber or polyurethane option that's more gentle and less abrasive will protect those fragile surfaces. Blades made of these materials will wear out faster, but they're much less likely to gouge into the road.

4. Your Current Blade Is No Match for the Elements

On the opposite end of the spectrum are plow drivers who frequently take on thick ice and heavy snowpacks. In those cases, lighter blades such as rubber literally won't cut it.

Instead, you'll need a heavier, more rigid steel or carbide blade. These blades have enough weight and strength to cut through ice and push large piles of snow out of the way. There are some serrated snow plow blades available as well that may help break up hard ice or snowpack. 

5. Your Plow Is Waking Up the Neighborhood

The sound of a snow plow scraping the road can shatter an otherwise silent winter night. If you've received noise complaints because of your plow cutting edge material, go on the hunt for a quieter blade.

Because they're lighter and more flexible, rubber blades are generally much quieter than other types, particularly steel and tungsten carbide. An option like the Race 150 has a vulcanized rubber edge for smoother, softer operation. You'll have the power to push through the snow without disturbing the peace.

6. You Dread Getting in Your Cab

When a snow plow blade vibrates every time it hits the road, the operator starts to feel fatigued more quickly. That, in turn, can affect their safety and performance. A plow cutting edge material with less vibration will reduce the impact on your cab so that you can operate it in greater comfort and avoid constant exhaustion.

7. Your Employer Limits Your Cutting-Edge Options

Some property owners, municipalities, businesses, and individual customers don't allow certain types of cutting edges for snow plows. For example, the owner of an apartment complex may not allow steel cutting edges because of the potential damage to the property landscaping and the sealant in the parking lot. When you take on jobs that restrict what types of cutting edges you can use, it's imperative that you meet their expectations by finding a different blade.

Try a New and Improved Snow Plow Cutting Edge

Finding the right cutting-edge snow plow services isn't always easy, especially if you've gotten attached to a particular model or material. While sticking to what you know seems like the safest choice, you might be doing yourself a disservice. Don't be afraid to branch out and explore other snowblade features that are a better match for your current circumstances and budget.

When you decide you're ready to make a change, you don't have to do it alone. The team at Equipment Blades can help you find the perfect blade for your needs. Download our product catalog to see everything we have to offer.

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