MAINTENANCE
Covering-Up
Custom covers protect mountainside equipment and amenities
By Scott Mullens, Equip Inc.
Between high elevation UV light,
extreme temperature fluctuations
and normal wear and tear
caused by ongoing use, equipment
and amenities at ski resorts can
take a beating. Replacement is a constant
for many resorts and the cost
to replace heavy equipment including
groomers, lift chairs, snowmaking
equipment and other capital-intensive
machinery can be a sizeable expense.
With a robust secondary market for
used equipment sold through sites
such as Resort Boneyard and Ski Resort
Equipment, the ability to sell used
equipment in top condition can make
a big difference in the eventual resale
value of those items.
In addition to heavy equipment, there
are a multitude of on-mountain amenities
that are exposed to the elements including
custom firepits, outdoor patio
furniture, upright patio heaters, barbecue
and picnic equipment, tool stations
and electronic ticketing kiosks.
One way resorts can protect these
and other items from premature wear
and tear is to cover equipment investments
when not in use. Whether it’s after
hours or off-season when items are
being stored, utilizing protective covers
can be a great way to prolong the functional
lifespan of equipment and increase
the potential resale value when it
comes time to resell or trade-in.
It is important to know that not all
covers are the same and having properly
made covers that incorporate materials
appropriate to the environment
and application can make a big difference.
For example, standard tarps such
as those found at hardware stores are an
inexpensive option. However, there is a
downside: tarp material typically does
not breathe. This can lead to condensa-
Fire pit covers for Copper Mountain provided by Equip Inc.
Ticket kiosk covers at the Seattle Space Needle provided by Equip Inc.
tion build-up beneath the covers which,
over time, can cause damage to equipment
including rust, damage to paint
and other surface finishes, warping of
wood furniture as well as mold and mildew
build-up.
For protecting outdoor equipment at
resorts and ski areas, it’s typically best to
use covers that are comprised of fabrics
that are not only durable, but also UVresistant,
fade resistant, mold/mildew
resistant and breathable. In addition,
custom covers can be designed to fit
specific equipment correctly, and can
be fabricated to include zippers along
the side seam, making them easier to
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