Dec 14, 2021 | Access Mats, News
In need of fast site access solutions that make it easy to stay on track, on budget, and keep clients satisfied? GFI Solutions is here to help! As one of Canada’s leading suppliers of site safe access solutions, including swamp mats, rig mats, access bridges, and more, our team is here to make sure you have the resources you need when it matters most. From the oil & gas to the power sector, and other industrial applications, Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) matting is one of the most trusted tools of the trade.
GFI is proud to offer comprehensive services including delivery, rentals, mat washing, inventory management, all so you can tackle your job site with confidence.
No More Delays
At GFI we know that there’s never a good time to be stuck waiting for access mats to arrive. As one of the best ways to create safe transport and navigation around your site, protect equipment, and mitigate environmental damage, CLT mats are a must for any major operation. Delivery delays cause massive issues for project managers and lead to unnecessary stress for the rest of your operation. That’s why our team always has you covered with 24/7 service, 365 days a year. With same-day shipping available, there’s no need to worry about waiting for the products you need and paying extra for heavier expedited loads. Simply put, you can count on GFI to provide the solutions you need with no hassles, no headaches, and superior performance that’s sure to leave you satisfied.
Upgrade to CLT Mats Today
While bolted mats once were the traditional choice of industry leaders, these days, Cross Laminated Timber mats have taken their place as one of the most trusted and depended upon site access options on the market. Unlike bolted mats, which get their strength from the bolts in their planking, CLT mats are designed to provide even better results by bonding the mats together in alternating perpendicular layers. This method of bonding planks together makes the finished product much more flexible and capable of equally distributing loads throughout the entire mat to prevent breakages.
As an added benefit for those in the heavy-duty sectors: the toughest CLT mats, which are available in 500 models and up, are able to handle the shock of rig and crane machinery with ease.
GFI: Your Source for Site Safe CLT Mats
GFI Solutions proudly offers comprehensive matting services all across Canada, including rentals, sales, delivery and installation, as well as washing and more. In addition to a robust inventory of the most in-demand mats, we offer 24/7 support, meaning you’ll always have access to the site access solutions you require. For all of your temporary pathways, crane mat, and general access mat needs, GFI is here to help.
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Dec 7, 2021 | Access Mats, News
With winter on the way and spring just around the corner, the Canadian landscape is getting ready to go through its annual freeze-thaw cycle that laves many job sites swamped with ice, slush, mud, and plenty of other topographical challenges that require site access solutions.
If you’re in the market for access mats (also called swamp mats) but are hoping to test-drive your new products before committing to a long-term purchase, GFI Solutions has you covered. In addition to offering an extensive range of site access support services and sales, we’re happy to offer mat rentals to clients Canada-wide. With solutions ranging from standard 300 mats all the way up to 500 level heavy-duty models, our inventory has it all. Learn more about the benefits of CLT mats as well as our rental solutions below!
Tired of Mats Breaking Down? Get Better ROI With CLT!
It’s no surprise that, despite being thought of as the industry staple for many years, bolted mats aren’t without their share of issues. Aside from their heavyweight that can lead to high shipping fees, bolted mats can be prone to sudden breakages and provide you with a life cycle that may be shorter than anticipated, leaving your crews in a bind. Designed to remedy these inconveniences, Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats are a relatively new addition to the market that have already made a name for themselves as a superior contender.
Why the hype?
For one, CLT mats weigh up to 40% less than standard bolted mats and offer a life cycle that is 3-5 times the length, saving you on shipping and giving you a better long-term investment out the gate. As well, instead of cracking under pressure, CLT mats are designed to provide exceptional results, even when exposed to heavy loads. With a 500-series lineup that’s capable of tackling heavy-duty loads like those expected of crane and rig mats while still allowing you to transport up to 25% more mats per haul, there’s no question the CLT mats are a winner for both your wallet and your overall performance. In fact, you can expect to save as much as 60% on transport, giving you extra money to spend where it’s needed. Not bad for the new guy on the block, right?
The CLT Method
The secret to the success of Cross Laminated Timber comes down to their unique design. Each mat is created by bonding alternating perpendicular layers of wood with an environmentally safe adhesive instead of bolting heavier plants together. Since the planks are glued, not bolted, CLT mats can flex under pressure to evenly distribute the load and reduce the chance of failure. This all translates to incredible durability and performance for every load, job after job.
Swamp Mat Rentals and More at GFI
At GFI Solutions we know that staying on time and on budget requires having dependable solutions and support. That’s why we offer 24/7 rental and sales support, inventory management, mat washing, expedited delivery installation and more. GFI Solutions is here to ensure that your project has everything you need to continue on schedule. Whether you’re looking to test out the durability of CLT mats before buying or need to replace failing mats, GFI is here to help. Contact our team today to learn more.
Dec 7, 2021 | Access Mats, News
Is your heavy industry team in need of site access solutions that conquer difficult terrain, allow you to uphold environmental standards, and safely transport both equipment and resources to and from site? Site access mats make it easy to tackle Canada’s ever-evolving landscape and protect your equipment from the hazards presented by the terrain. GFI Solutions is proud to offer industry-leading safe site products, including heavy-duty Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) access mats. Constructed using game-changing CLT methods, our mats are built to taking a beating without cracking under pressure. When you need matting that can stand up to the demands of the job without faltering under pressure, GFI has you covered. With access mat rentals and sales for the oil & gas industry and everything in between, we’re your go-to source for solutions you can count on.
CLT Rig Mats: Heavy on Performance
It’s no secret that the heavy industry sector faces unique difficulties when handling its operations, especially when dealing with equipment like cranes and rigs. Designed to handle even the toughest of jobs, crane mats are able to stand up to the demands of extreme applications without the risk of stress fractures or even sudden breakages like bolted mats. Instead, when you partner with a CLT supplier, you gain access to solutions that will stand the test of time and help you get the job done right.
How CLT Mats Work
CLT site safe access mats are specifically designed to improve upon the best features of Unlike their bolted counterparts TerraLam® Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats are constructed using alternating perpendicular layers of wood that are bonded with a special adhesive for optimal performance. The adhesive allows mats to flex with each load and distribute weight evenly, resulting in increased strength and longevity.
Key benefits of using site safe CLT mats include:
- High impact resistance and durability.
- Increased life span (3-5 times that of traditional mats).
- Glue lamination and wax sealed on all 4 edges of the mat to make it less vulnerable to moisture and rot.
- Able to withstand the Canadian climate, all year-round.
- Lower shipping costs due to the lightweight nature of the mats (up to 60% more load capacity), and more.
Site Safe Access Mats at GFI
GFI is proud to be a full-scale solutions provider for the site access industry across Canada spanning key locations from Calgary all the way to the Maritimes and in between! Our team offers customers access to 24/7 rental and sales service, as well as mat washing, installation, turnkey services, and more. Learn more about our products, including our extra tough rig mats by contacting our team today!
Nov 30, 2021 | Access Mats, News
Get ready Grande Prairie! We’re excited to bring you mat rentals that work perfectly for all of your access mat needs. GFI is proud to be Alberta’s exclusive supplier of access mats. With our innovative CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) mats, made from durable southern yellow pine fibre, we know you’ll enjoy all the perks of our products. Curious about our CLT mats? Keep reading to get some of the answers to your questions!
What Is the Difference Between CLT Mats and Bolted Mats?
CLT mats are engineered for greatness. While traditional bolted mats have been the standard for access matting in the past, CLT mats are an updated access mat solution that comes with a long list of exciting benefits. CLT mats were created as an innovative upgrade to the industry standard, taking access mats to the next level with their incredibly durable construction and lighter weight.
These mats use an environmentally friendly adhesive to bind the wood planks together. This makes it so that bolts are not used, which means that there are no protruding parts on the plank to cause tire damage or trip and fall accidents. Without bolts, you get a safer and more reliable access mat. These mats won’t splinter from weight because they are constructed as one smooth, consistent surface.
Strength is also a major factor with CLT mats. Made from southern yellow wood fibre, CLT mats can hold more load without getting damaged from the weight. These mats, made in two standard series called the 300-series and the 500-series, are designed with toughness in mind. They are capable of holding cranes, rigs and other equipment with ease.
Thanks to the use of southern yellow pine fibre, CLT mats are engineered with strength at the forefront. While other mats like bolted and traditional mats are made with mixed woods, CLT mats utilize southern yellow pine fibre consistently throughout the mat and bound them in a way that allows for even distribution of weight. By evenly distributing, you have a better chance of avoiding splintering or breaking the mat.
How Do CLT Mats Save Me Money?
These mats are durable even in the most intense weather conditions and are able to help you get the job done comfortably. GFI’s CLT mats make it easy to get goods, equipment and crews through any kind of weather or topography. They are moisture and rot-resistant and can handle any high-impact thrown their way.
You also save up to 60% more on transportation since these access mats are made from lighter wood, making it easier to load several per trip. With CLT access mats, you can rest assured that you are investing in a product that will keep saving you money.
Ready to Learn More?
GFI Solutions offers 24/7 rental support to accommodate all of your needs. Contact our team today to learn more about our mat rentals today!
Nov 30, 2021 | Access Mats, News
Looking to make the change from bolted matting to CLT products, but unsure of where to start? GFI Solutions is here to help. Based in Alberta, Canada, we’re proud to partner with clients across the nation to supply leading Cross Laminated timber access mats that are designed to stand the test of time and keep your job site safe. Our team is here to assist with any site access inquiries you may have, and to answer any questions, just like the four below. As for some of our most frequently asked questions, the queries you see below are here to help guide you through the basics of CLT. Read on to learn more!
Question #1 How/Why Are CLT Mats More Durable Than Competitors?
Feeling skeptical? You won’t be for long once you see CLT mats in action. Unlike bolted mats that are fixed at very specific points, CLT mats are engineered to improve on both the strengths and weaknesses of their competitors. CLT mats have the unique ability to flex under heavy weights and disperse loads evenly, reducing their chances for breaking and other significant issues. As well, the unique adhesive barrier that bonds planks together acts as a protective measure against rot and decay, prolonging the life of your mats and giving you better ROI over time.
Question #2 How Long Do They Last?
Access mats are an investment, and it’s understandable that cost would be front of mind for procurement managers. If you’re worried about getting your money’s worth, you have nothing to fear. CLT access mats have a life cycle that is 3-5x that of traditional bolted mats thanks to the unique bonding process used to join planks together. Better yet, the CLT mats that we carry are crafted with southern yellow pine, which is exceptionally durable, and the adhesive used to bind planks adds protection against moisture and rot long term.
Question #3 Are Site Safe CLT Mats Environmentally Friendly?
Yes! Remediation is a huge priority on job sites today, and CLT mats help protect against permanent damage. Site safe CLT mats are constructed using a special method and that entails gluing planks together with an environmentally safe adhesive. As we mentioned above, the majority of the CLT mats carried by GFI are also crafted from high quality southern yellow pine, which can be grown much faster than oak or Douglas fir and have a life cycle that is 3-5 longer than the average mat, meaning that you have to purchase far fewer in the long run. Less mats means less strain on the environment and plenty of time for you to enjoy your perks.
Question #4: What Sizes Do You Carry?
Simply put, all sorts! GFI carries CLT mats in a wide range of sizes and configurations, including 3 and 5-ply configurations, as well as 7-ply for extremely heavy-duty applications. Custom sizes are available upon request.
Want to Learn More?
GFI is proud to be your first choice for Site Access solutions and values the opportunity to be your partner on the job site. Our staff offers a wide variety of services including delivery and installation, repair, mat washing and more to keep you active and agile. Learn more about the benefits of partnering with our team by contacting us today.
