Why a Laser Grader Is Better Than a Regular Skid Steer Grader
When it comes to grading jobs with precision and efficiency, not all skid steer attachments are created equal. Contractors and equipment operators who rely on their machines day in and day out understand the importance of accuracy, productivity, and adaptability on the job site. This is where a laser grader stands apart from a traditional skid-steer grader.
At Burchland Manufacturing, we build tough, reliable attachments that help you get the job done right. Our standout product in the grading category is the LGX Laser Grader, a precision tool that takes finish grading to a whole new level. Here’s why choosing a laser-equipped grader attachment for your skid steer is a smart business decision. results.
What Is a Skid-Steer Grader?
A skid-steer grader attachment is a tool that mounts to your skid steer loader and lets you level, smooth, and contour surfaces with more control than a bucket alone. These attachments are critical for site preparation tasks like driveway grading, foundation sub-grade work, arena surface prep, and any application where an even grade makes all the difference.
While a traditional skid steer grader gets the job done better than manual methods, it still relies heavily on the operator’s eye and technique. For many jobs, that’s just not enough.
What Makes a Laser Grader Different?
A grader laser system adds an automated level of control that changes the way you work. Instead of guessing or constantly checking elevations with stakes and strings, a laser grader uses a laser receiver and control system to automatically adjust the blade height in real time as you move across the surface. That means:
Higher accuracy
Because the blade height is actively controlled by the signal from a laser transmitter, you can maintain a consistent elevation across the entire job site, even over long distances or uneven terrain. A grader laser can help you achieve sub-inch precision, eliminating the guesswork and rework that slow down traditional grading.
Fewer passes, more productivity
With a traditional skid steer grader, it’s common to make multiple passes to check and recheck your grade. With a laser-guided grader, you spend less time doing manual checks and more time moving material with confidence. This cuts down on labor hours and helps projects stay on schedule.
Less manual work
One of the biggest advantages of a grader laser is how it eliminates much of the manual corner filling that crews often do by hand. The automated controls push fill into corners and elevation changes cleanly, which saves time and reduces fatigue on the job site.
The Burchland LGX Laser Grader: Built for Precision
Our LGX Laser Grader is purpose-built to combine durability with precise control. Here’s what sets it apart:
- Universal skid steer mount – Works with all major skid steer brands.
- Auto or manual operation – Gives you flexibility based on the job’s needs.
- Laser, GPS, total station, and sonic tracer compatible – Adapt the grader to whatever control system you prefer.
- Hydraulic end plate rotation – Change blade configuration from behind the blade to forward-facing without leaving the cab.
- Converts to a box blade – Adds versatility for different grading tasks.
From parking lots and driveways to athletic fields and highways, the LGX performs across a wide range of site types. Contractors regularly tell us how much time they save and how smooth their finished surface looks compared to using a non-laser grader.
Grader Laser vs. Regular Skid Steer Grader: Side-by-Side
| FEATURE | REGULAR SKID STEER | LASER GRADER |
|---|---|---|
| Regular Skid Steer Grader | No | Yes |
| Accuracy | Operator-dependent | Laser-guided precision |
| Manual Checks Needed | Frequent | Minimal |
| Labor Intensity | Moderate to high | Lower |
| Finish Quality | Good | Excellent |
For professionals who need tight tolerances and consistency from job to job, the difference isn’t subtle — it’s transformational.
More Than a Tool, It’s a Productivity Booster
Choosing the right grader attachment for skid steer work isn’t just about making the job easier. It’s about increasing ROI through faster turn-arounds, better surface quality, and less wasted time on rework and manual finishing.
The LGX Laser Grader gives you the advantages of advanced grade control without sacrificing the durability and ruggedness you expect from a Burchland attachment. Whether you’re prepping for paving, building athletic fields, or putting the final touches on a driveway or pad, a grader laser improves outcomes over a traditional skid steer grader every time.
Upgrade Your Grading Game
If you’re tired of running stakes, checking strings, and making extra passes just to hit your grade, it’s time to consider a laser-guided solution. Explore the LGX Laser Grader and discover how precision grading can boost your productivity and cut costs on every project.
Learn more about our skid steer attachments or contact us to talk through your equipment needs.
Ready to take your grading precision to the next level?
Explore Burchland’s line of grading attachments and discover how tools like the LGX Laser Grader and AGT Soil Trimmer can help you finish faster — and finish right.
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