If you’ve read our previous piece on five of the most common misconceptions about CLT mats, you’ve likely begun to realize that there are more than a few reasons they’ve become such a relied-upon resource industry-wide. Whether you’re renting or buying, CLT access mats pack a punch and can easily compete with traditional heavy timber mats while affording you plenty of savings in the process.

Thanks to their unique composition (read more on that here) TerraLam® CLT access mats offer a lifecycle that’s 3-5x longer than traditional mats and stands up to even the toughest of demands. GFI Solutions is proud to be the exclusive Canadian distributor of one of the markets’ top products, TerraLam® mats by Sterling Solutions. Read on to learn 5 more misconceptions about TerraLam® CLT mats and the facts to keep in mind.

1. Different Sizes = Big Headaches

Because TerraLam® CLT mats are typically somewhat smaller than their oak counterparts, some may worry that they will be difficult to lay down or interconnect. Fortunately, TerraLam® mats can be fitted with interconnecting fingers that work in the same manner as traditional bolted access mats.

2. Hard to Repair

Another point of confusion where TerraLam® CLT mats are concerned is a misconception that can be attributed to their unique composition. While some may think that the mats being a solid block of wood makes them hard to repair, the opposite is true. In fact, necessary repairs can be done easily and at less expense than with bolted access mats. Repairs to bolted mats often require removing rusted or bent bolts and fragmented boards. Because TerraLam® CLT mats do not have any of these additional risks, they’re much safer on the job site than a damaged bolted mat.

3. Rough On the Environment

There are no two ways around it; this one just isn’t true. TerraLam® CLT mats are made in such a fashion that makes them environmentally friendly thanks to two main points:

1. TerraLam® CLT mats are made with Southern Yellow Pine, which in addition to being 30% harder than Douglas fir, grows back much faster, reducing your impact on the environment.
2. The adhesive used to bond mats together is eco-friendly, meaning it will not harm your job site.

4. Hard to Recycle

Eventually, even the toughest of mats will need to be replaced. While some may argue that CLT mats are difficult to recycle once they come to the end of their active lifespan, this isn’t true. It is easier and more environmentally friendly to dispose of TerraLam® CLT mats than traditional bolted mats since there are no bolts to worry about, and once they’re removed from use they can be reused in a variety of ways, including being ground for mulch, used for livestock bedding, or even becoming a component of bio-fuel.

5. It’s Better to Trust Something Standard

While it can be intimidating to switch to a new type of product, the fear of innovation should never be allowed to slow your business now. The facts show that TerraLam® CLT access mats offer vastly superior performance, save you time and money, and go above and beyond to protect the environment.

It’s time to supercharge your next project with site access you can count on. Contact GFI Solutions to learn more about the benefits of TerraLam® CLT mats today!