A Comparison Between Timber and Metallic Skids
Posted on: 17 April 2018
Do you have a mobile animal shelter whose skids have worn out? Read on and discover whether timber skids or metal skids would be the right option for you.
Timber Skids
Skids can be made from heat-treated timber. Such timber has resistance to insect attacks and wood rot. The skids are strong and will last for a long time. Timber skids are the ideal choice in case you are looking for a cost-effective option. They are also light and will not impose an extra heavy load on your tow vehicle. The timber skids are also unlikely to cause serious damage to the ground on which they are dragged.
However, the timber skids are likely to deteriorate quickly in case you live in an area with a high level of humidity. The skids are also unsuitable in case you plan to move the mobile shelter frequently. This is because the stress of dragging the skids over rough surfaces frequently can cause the skids to wear out quickly. Metal skids would be a better choice in such an application.
Metal Skids
Skids for mobile shelters can also be made from strong metals, such as galvanised steel. These skids are very good for demanding applications, such as when you need to drag your mobile shelter frequently. The metal skids will also last long even if the surface over which you drag them is rough, such as rocky ground. Galvanisation protects the skids from corrosion. Consequently, inclement weather isn't a big concern if you installed these skids.
However, metallic skids come with a number of drawbacks. First, their price is higher than the price of timber skids. You may therefore have to dig deeper into your pocket to own a shelter with these prestigious-looking accessories. Secondly, the skids are quite heavy. This added weight can increase the load which your tow vehicle has to grapple with as you move the mobile shelter. The skids can also degrade rapidly due to corrosion in case their corrosion protection is breached by rough terrain.
As you can see, both timber and metal skids come with their own benefits and potential shortcomings. Think carefully about your specific needs and select the option which will address those needs. For example, opt for timber skids if you care about the environmental impact of the activities you indulge in. Reach out to your nearest skid manufacturer if you have more questions.
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