Oct 24, 2025 | Access Mats
Are you planning a major project in Western Canada and concerned about potential delays? Do heavy machines need to move across muddy fields or snowy paths? Bad weather, as well as soft ground, can slow down even the best crews and equipment.
Projects like pipelines, power lines and construction often face these problems. Trucks can get stuck, production may stop, and expenses may increase. Waiting for the ground to dry may not always be feasible when you have schedules to keep. That’s why many teams turn to 3-ply bolted access mats for sale. These strong mats create safe roads and work areas so crews can keep moving, protect the land, and stay on schedule no matter the weather.
Let’s explore how 3-ply bolted access mats help different industries, what makes them a smart choice, and why they are a trusted solution for projects all across Western Canada.
Why Are Access Mats for Sale a Smart Choice for Your Project?
Working on a big project in Western Canada entails working in unpredictable weather and difficult terrain. Mud, snow, and soft earth stop trucks and heavy equipment, and waiting for the ground to get hard is not always feasible. When your team is under pressure, seconds count. That’s where 3-ply bolted access mats can make a huge difference.
Here’s why adding these access mats to your project plan is a smart and simple move:
1. Quick and Easy Setup
Access mats for sale are designed to be installed quickly. Crews can place them down quickly, which means your work keeps going even when the ground is wet or uneven. There is no need to stop and wait for better weather.
2. Strong and Steady Support
These Douglas fir mats are constructed to support heavy equipment such as trucks, cranes and drilling rigs. Whether or not there is swampy or soft ground beneath them, the mats remain stable and provide your crew with a solid base on which to drive and work.
3. Protects the Land
By spreading out the weight of your equipment, these access mats help protect the soil, plants, and natural areas around your worksite. This is significant for following environmental rules and preserving the land in solid condition for years to come.
With these advantages, access mats save you money by minimizing equipment damage, preventing delays, and getting your crew working regardless of the conditions.
Why Choose 3-Ply Bolted Douglas Fir Access Mats?
Not all access mats are the same. Traditional 3-ply bolted Douglas fir access mats are proven to perform in the harsh conditions of Western Canada. Before we look at the key features, it’s important to know that these mats are made with a special method that makes them stronger and easier to handle than regular bolted mats.
Here’s what makes them a dependable choice:
1. Built for Heavy Use
Douglas Fir is known for its strength and resilience. These mats can handle the weight and stress of heavy machinery, even in challenging ground conditions.
2. Proven Durability
Bolted mats are easy to maintain, inspect, and reuse over multiple projects. Their sturdy construction ensures a long lifespan, helping you get the most value for your investment.
3. Cost-Effective and Practical
Designed to withstand repeated use, these mats offer a reliable and affordable way to keep your site accessible without constant repairs or replacements.
Which Industries in Western Canada Depend on Access Mats for Sale?
- Companies across Western Canada generally use access mats for sale to keep projects on track, including:
- Pipeline and Oil and Gas crews are moving rigs across wetlands
- Power Transmission and Distribution teams setting poles in remote locations
- Civil Construction projects needing temporary roads and staging yards
- Mining and Forestry operations that must protect fragile terrain
Keep Your Project Moving with GFI Solutions LTD!
Don’t let mud, snow, or rough terrain slow you down. Our 3-ply bolted Douglas fir access mats are strong, dependable, and built to perform in Western Canada’s toughest environments.
At GFI Solutions LTD, we supply high-quality access mats designed to keep your projects on time and on budget. From selection to delivery, our team ensures you get the right mats and the right support for every job.
Contact us today to discuss your project needs and find the best access mat solution for your site.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long can access mats stay in place?
With proper care, bolted Douglas fir mats can be reused across multiple projects for several years.
2. Can access mats handle extreme cold?
Yes, our mats perform well in freezing temperatures common in Western Canada.
3. Are access mats reusable?
Absolutely. They can be cleaned, inspected, and redeployed, making them a practical and cost-effective solution.
Jan 17, 2025 | News
Navigating uneven or muddy terrain can be a major challenge, especially when it comes to maintaining efficient operations in construction, energy, and other outdoor industries. Muddy or unstable surfaces can severely limit access, delay projects, and create safety risks.
Access mats offer a powerful and practical solution to these frustrating obstacles. In this post, we’ll define what access mats are, explore their various applications, and explain how they can help overcome accessibility challenges. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of how access mats improve mobility, enhance safety, and facilitate smoother operations across diverse environments.
Let’s dive in!
What Are Access Mats?
Access mats are portable platforms designed to make navigation through unstable ground easier. It also supports apparatus and machines like drilling rigs, tanks, and different types of heavy-duty equipment used in construction and other industrial activities. Access mats are also called industrial mats, construction mats, safety mats, rig mats, ground protection mats, mobile mats, mud mats, swamp mats, etc.
Uses
Access mats can be used for the following purposes:
- They provide a flat and stable surface for the workers.
- It makes the operations of heavy equipment possible on unstable or soft grounds.
- They can be used to create temporary parking areas for vehicles and equipment.
- Access mats improve navigation in challenging terrain during natural disasters.
- Heavy equipment and vehicles may damage soft grounds. Access mats help prevent this type of damage.
- It is often used to create temporary foundations.
Address Accessibility Challenges and Ensure Smooth Equipment Movement
Navigating commercial vehicles and heavy equipment becomes difficult in challenging lands like soft ground, muddy construction sites, and uneven surfaces. Strategic uses of access mats in such situations help to create a stable surface and streamline the movement of heavy machinery and vehicles. Smooth and reliable vehicle and equipment movement increases productivity and operational efficiency. Without these portable platforms, we may not be fully able to conduct commercial and industrial operations in demanding environments. In addition, access mats also:
- Reduce downtime;
- Minimize the risk of accidents associated with operating in challenging terrains;
- Prevent equipment damage.
We hope it is now clear to you what access mats are designed for. You can buy versatile access mats from GFI Solutions LTD to resolve accessibility issues in your project area. We offer many access solutions including traditional bolted access mats and our innovative Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) access mats. CLT mats are 5X sturdier than traditional bolted mats. Also, note that our CLT mats are lighter than traditional bolted mats, which enables us to reduce around 60% transportation costs and 40% installation and removal costs. Some of our bestselling access mats are:
- 3-ply SiteSafe™ CLT Access Mats
- 5-ply SiteSafe™ CLT Access Mats
- 7-ply SiteSafe™ CLT Access Mats
- Traditional Bolted Access Mats
Some other products that we offer are rig mats, composite mats, rubber mats, etc. Browse our product pages and explore our full inventory.
Nov 24, 2024 | Access Mats
Have you ever started a project and wondered how to protect the ground from damage or make it safe for heavy equipment to move around? Do you need a strong, reliable surface for your vehicles or machinery to travel over soft or muddy ground? If so, access mats are the perfect solution.
With so many types of these mats available, how can you determine which one is best suited for your project? Should you go with a lightweight option like 3-ply CLT mats, a medium-duty choice like 5-ply CLT mats, or the heavy-duty 7-ply CLT mats? Or maybe traditional bolted mats are the best fit for your needs?
In this blog, we will help you understand the different types of access mats and what they are best suited for. Keep reading to find the perfect mats for your project and learn why they’re such a smart investment.
What Are Access Mats?
An access mat is a heavy-duty mat used to provide stable ground conditions in areas with soft, uneven, or sensitive terrain. Standard size is 8’ x 14’ and commonly made of wood, rubber, or composite materials. They are designed to support the movement and operation of heavy equipment, vehicles, and personnel. Access mats are frequently used in construction, oil and gas, utility, and environmental projects to prevent ground disturbance, reduce equipment bogging, and protect ecosystems. They also help minimize erosion and ensure safe and efficient access to work sites.
3-Ply CLT Access Mats
Cross-laminated timber (CLT) mats offer a stronger alternative to traditional bolted mats. Unlike bolted mats, where weight is distributed through the bolts, CLT mats evenly distribute weight across the entire surface due to their fully adhered board to board manufacturing process. The 3-ply version is lightweight and easy to handle, making it an excellent choice for projects requiring durability and support for heavy loads.
5-Ply CLT Access Mats
The 5-ply CLT mats are a step up in terms of strength and durability. In fact, with more layers of wood, they can handle heavier loads compared to the 3-ply mats. These mats are so strong they are used to replace steel frame rig mats and crane mats up to 8” thick.
7-Ply CLT Access Mats
For heavy-industrial projects, 7-ply CLT mats are the ideal choice. Engineered for maximum strength, these mats are built to withstand the most demanding jobs, including supporting the heaviest machinery and accommodating high-traffic areas. 7-ply CLT access mats can serve as a robust alternative to steel frame rig mats and crane mats up to 12 inches thick.
Traditional Bolted Access Mats
Traditional bolted access mats in Alberta have been around for a long time. They are manufactured by fastening 2’x8’ wooden planks together perpendicular with heavy duty bolts. This design provides exceptional strength and durability, making them ideal for projects involving heavy equipment and demanding conditions.
Which Access Mat Is Right for You?
Choosing the right access mat for your project depends on what you need. Let’s break it down to help you decide which one is best for your job.
3-Ply CLT Access Mats: Lightweight and Affordable
If your project involves heavey equipment or vehicles, 3-ply CLT mats are a great choice. These mats are:
- Lightweight: They are easy to transport as well as move around, which saves you time and effort.
- Durable: Manufactured and engineered for very heavy loads, they can handle many everyday tasks like creating a stable road, platform or ROW suitable for heavy equipment.
5-Ply CLT Access Mats: Stronger for Medium-Duty Projects
When you need a bit more strength, 5-ply CLT mats are the next step up. They offer:
- Better Durability: With more layers of wood, these mats can support heavier loads than the 3-ply version.
- Easy Handling: Even though they are stronger, they are still a lighter option than crane mats or steel frame rig mats.
7-Ply CLT Access Mats: Built for Heavy-Duty Work
For large-scale and demanding projects, 7-ply CLT mats are the way to go. Here’s why:
- Maximum Strength: With seven layers of wood, these mats are designed to handle the heaviest machinery.
- Perfect for Heavy Machinery: Whether it is cranes, large excavators, or high-traffic areas, 7-ply CLT mats can take on the toughest jobs.
Traditional Bolted Access Mats: A Reliable Classic
If you prefer something tried and tested, traditional bolted mats are worth considering. These mats:
- Offer Solid Support: They have been used for years and are strong enough for heavy equipment.
- Are Widely Available: Many industries rely on bolted mats because they have proven to be effective.
Final Thoughts
Whether you need lightweight 3-ply mats, durable 5-ply mats, heavy-duty 7-ply mats, or traditional bolted mats, we at GFI Solutions LTD are here to help. We always offer a wide range of high-quality access mats to suit all types of jobs. Besides, our mats are reliable, durable as well as designed to meet the needs of your specific project. Plus, with our excellent customer service and competitive prices, we make it easy to get the right mats for the job without hassle.
Ready to find the perfect access mats in Alberta for your project? Reach out to us today and let us help you choose the best solution for your needs!
Oct 23, 2024 | Access Mats
Whether big or small, construction projects have their share of difficulties.
One frequent problem is going over the budget. Unexpected hold-ups, damage to the ground, or heavy equipment getting stuck can all lead to extra expenses.
But what if there was an easy way to stop these issues and keep your project on schedule? Of course, there is! Access Mats – the crucial tool for construction sites. These adaptable mats can be used as temporary roads, work areas, drilling platforms, and more. They not only offer stability and protection for your site but also help you avoid expensive delays and damages.
Access mats provide temporary surfaces for vehicles and machinery to move around easily without even harming the ground. So, even if your construction site is muddy, uneven or, it needs a solid surface to run cranes or trucks – access mats are the perfect choice.
Now, take a look at how these mats can help avoid going over budget.
Prevent Expensive Ground Repairs
When large machines travel over bare/unprotected ground, they can create deep tracks, compact the soil, and harm the environment.
Fixing the ground after a project can be very costly. Using access mats helps by providing a strong, protective surface that spreads out the weight and pressure, keeping the ground safe. This reduces the need for expensive repairs at the end of the project.
Avoid Equipment Delays
When equipment gets stuck in mud or rough areas, it can mess up your project timeline. When machines stop working, progress slows and costs go up. Using access mats gives you a solid, flat surface, which lowers the chance of equipment getting stuck and lets your machines move easily, even in tough conditions.
Prevent Weather-Related Delays
Your project can’t wait on bad weather. However, rain, mud, and other conditions can make it very difficult for vehicles and workers to move around the construction site. Heavy rain and muddy conditions lead to delays, missed deadlines, and of course, increased costs.
Using access mats can eliminate this costly risk. Access mats provide a stable surface that does not get affected by the weather, allowing work to continue even in challenging conditions. Using access mats will help you stay on schedule and avoid costly downtime.
Quick Site Setup and Removal
In construction, time is valuable. Access mats are easy to install and remove, helping you quickly create temporary roads or work areas. The ease of use means you can start your project sooner and finish it faster, avoiding any extra delays that could increase costs.
Extend Equipment Life
Rough or uneven ground can harm your equipment, causing more frequent repairs or replacements. This can become costly over time. Access mats -offer a safe, flat surface for your machinery to work on. This smooth surface reduces damage to tires, engines, and hydraulic systems. As a result, the equipment lasts longer – saving you money on frequent repairs and replacements over time.
Bottom Line
If you have a project, you need to consider buying or renting the best-quality access mats for construction sites? Contact GFI Solutions LTD today!
While we offer traditional bolted douglas fir access mats we also offer many other access solutions. One of our solutions is Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) access mats which are made using advanced Cross Laminated Timber technology. That’s why these mats are 3 to 5 times stronger when compared to bolted mats. All our access mats are extremely durable, eco-friendly, and can withstand harsh conditions.
Our standard mats measure 8 feet by 14 feet and are 5 inches thick. However, we can also create custom sizes to fit the unique needs of your construction project.
We offer both rental and purchase options for access mats including 3-layer SiteSafe™ CLT Access Mats, 5-layer SiteSafe™ CLT Access Mats, 7-layer SiteSafe™ CLT Access Mats, SiteSafe™ Rubber Access Mats, Traditional Bolted Access Mats, Rig Mats and Crane Mats.
Explore our full product range today at our website! Our experts can also guide you with installation, delivery, or cleaning services.
Call us today!
Sep 30, 2024 | crane mats
Do you or your company handle onsite projects, like commercial construction, civil construction, or renewable (wind power) energy projects? Soft, wet, or rough and uneven grounds are unstable to withstand the weight of heavy machinery during navigation. Here’s where timber crane mats are used to create a solid work foundation and support these heavy loads.
What Are Timber Crane Mats?
Crane mats are made of large timbers, used for creating strong work surfaces to withstand cranes and other heavy and large machinery navigation during construction or renewable energy, like wind-power projects. These timber crane mats are considered heavy-duty matting solutions due to their unique specifications. Here are some worth mentioning:
- Green in moisture content
- Extra thick compared to conventional timber access mats, such as 8” to 12” thick, 16′ to 40′ in length and 4′ wide
- Specially designed to support robust machines, like cranes and larger ones
Hence, when undertaking civil or commercial construction or renewable projects, it’s best to rely on timber crane mats for the best access solutions.
Advantages of Using Timber Crane Mats
First, understand in which projects you should use crane mats. We recommend it for onsite projects that require cranes and other heavier machinery. For instance:
Civil construction
Various industrial construction projects, such as building tunnels, highways, overpasses, or even dams, involve cranes and other robust machinery, where ground protection and site safety become crucial. Crane mats are the best way to create a solid work surface here as a temporary road or platform, whether in a remote area or a built environment.
Wind-power projects
Renewable energy projects, especially wind power projects, where the use of heavy machinery, such as generators, blades, and even cranes sometimes, is common for wind turbine installations. Whether the ground is firm or soft, it fails to withstand the heavy loads of these robust machinery and becomes unstable, while damaging the ground, like causing soil erosions. Crane mats distribute the weight of machinery evenly and eliminate the need for ground restoration at the end of the project.
Commercial Construction
The construction of commercial buildings also involves the use of cranes. Yet, having a solid work platform is necessary to ensure the safety of the project and crews. Soft, rough, or unstable—crane mats can be used on any work surface to provide ground protection, especially the gas and water lines below, and stability to the work platform.
Timber crane access mats not only ensure a safe environment or withstand the heavy loads of machinery, but they also offer the following benefits to this kind of project as well:
Stability
Unstable grounds, like uneven terrain and soft soil, can cause accidents, like tipped-over cranes or larger machinery. Using crane mats ensures a stable and solid work foundation so the crew can perform machinery navigation confidently, safely, and efficiently.
These crane mats are efficient at smooth weight distribution of cranes and other machinery that protects the ground below and eliminates the risks of damage to the site, plants, and roots. As a result, you can save on restoration costs while preventing soil erosion.
Durability
Timber crane mats are perfect for use on any work surface, from muddy conditions to wet ones to across streams, due to their durability to support the weight of heavy machinery for longer. In fact, crane mats made of thicker timbers can be reused in another project as well.
So, thinking of renting or buying used timber crane access mats? Count on us. At GFI Solutions, we have the best quality crane mats 4′ wide by 20′ long by 12″ thick available for rent and purchase. To ensure your equipment and crew work safely, consider it for your next project.
For more, contact us today!
