Jan 4, 2023 | Access Mats, News
Like any asset in your project, you must protect your access mats. Regular maintenance is necessary to extend the life cycle of access mats and maximize your investment. Mat washing is an essential service to ensure that your access mats are clean, uncontaminated and safe for your crew and the site. At GFI Solutions, we understand the risk of cross-contamination and the safety hazards of using unwashed access mats, which is why we provide a dedicated washing and cleaning service for all access mats. Read on to learn more about the importance of mat washing!
Keeping Access Mats Clean
Access mats are installed to create a smooth temporary road for machines and crew to access the site easily. They are built to withstand that weight and provide the necessary support for equipment and workers, and since they’re designed to be used on uneven terrain, they are bound to be covered in mud, dirt and grime. If left uncleaned, your access mats are at a very high risk of premature failure. The longer dirt and mud stay on access mats, the higher the risk of moisture seeping into the wood. This often results in mould and could cause your mats to snap and break under pressure. By maintaining your access mats and ensuring that you are constantly washing and bleaching them after each project, you increase the longevity of your access mats and keep your equipment and crew safe.
Don’t Risk Contamination
As you probably already know, work sites that involve the transportation or the use of chemicals, fuel or other biohazard materials could very well cause harm to the surrounding environment. When using access mats in different locations, you must ensure that you are not carrying over any materials that could cause contamination or damage to the new terrain. With GFI Solutions’ mat washing services, we ensure that all access mats are thoroughly washed and bleached to remove the risk of cross-contamination. Our mat washing service adheres to both Provincial and Federal safety standards to provide our customers with safe site access mats to be used in their upcoming projects.
Gain The Highest Return Of Investment
By maintaining your access mats and ensuring that they are regularly washed and cleaned, you extend their life cycle and therefore maximize your investment. As a contractor or project manager, your aim is to stay within the budget and keep the project in scope. Taking advantage of GFI Solutions’ mat washing service allows you to rely confidently on your access mats and ensure that they are fit for your next project.
Comprehensive Site Access Solutions at GFI Solutions
Our team of experts is happy to offer you mat washing, turnkey, installation, delivery, rental and sales service 24/7. We have proudly partnered with many clients across Western Canada to ensure that all their site access needs are met. Contact our team today for more information about our products and services.
Jan 4, 2023 | Access Mats, News
Access mat is a generic term used to describe a large wooden mat designed to withstand heavy equipment’s weight and safely transport material across uneven surfaces. While this is true to a degree, different access mats are designed for various applications and manufactured using different methods. Below we’ll discuss the different types of access mats you might need in your next project.
What Type of Access Solution Do You Need?
Before calling your supplier, you must first carefully plan out the type of access mats you need. Below are the typical access solutions for remote job sites:
1. Worksite Access Mats
Worksite access mats are typically installed throughout a worksite to create temporary roads for machines and crew. While bolted mats are more commonly known as the traditional access matting solution for uneven terrain, Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats have exceeded expectations. CLT mats offer superior performance compared to standard bolted mats and a life cycle generally 3-5 times longer than conventional bolted mats. Using an environmentally friendly adhesive to bond alternating perpendicular layers of wood creates a unique access mat that is 40% lighter and twice as durable as traditional bolted mats. If you’re looking for safe site access mats, you can depend on CLT worksite access mats to offer you the strength and durability you need.
2. Rig Mats
Not all rig mats are created alike. GFI Solutions’ rig mats are also designed using the unique process of Cross Laminated Timber that gives the rig mats unmatched strength. CLT rig mats are designed to equally distribute the weight across the platform rather than on singular pressure points. The use of the environmentally friendly adhesive not only protects the environment and offers a sustainable product, but it also protects the rig mat from any mould that can decrease its life cycle. At GFI Solutions, we are proud to offer a variety of rig mats manufactured in 13-ply, 11-ply, 9-ply and more! We have also worked with customers to customize rig mats and ensure that all their rig mat needs are met.
3. Crane Mats
Crane mats are designed to withstand heavier loads and equipment than other access mats, as they are manufactured using a steel frame to add support. GFI Solutions supplies crane mats that are reliable and safe for any crane operation and transportation, even on the most challenging terrain. We have worked with many partners in the oil & gas, civil, environmental and petrochemical industry to provide them with cost-effective and safe access crane mats.
Rent or Buy Safe Site Access Solutions
At GFI Solutions, we offer mat rental and purchase services to our clients to ensure that they find the safest site access solution at a cost-effective price. We understand the challenges of managing a remote worksite and keeping your project in scope while staying within your budget. We also provide clients with the following services to ensure that all their site access needs are met:
- Turn-key
- Delivery and installation
- Inventory management
- Planning and consultation
- Mat Washing
Partner with GFI Solutions for All Your Site Access Solutions
Contact our 24/7 sales and service support team to learn more about our site access products and services today!
Dec 28, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Managing an industrial project in Western Canada during our harsh winter season can be very challenging, especially when it comes to facilitating the transportation of goods and equipment. Finding reliable access mats to create solid and sturdy temporary roads can be difficult, especially with Canada’s challenging terrain.
At GFI Solutions, our mission is to help customers in all industries overcome the problems currently associated with available matting options. We are proud to introduce Cross Laminated Timber mats that are engineered to be more durable and stronger than current matting options while also being cost-effective and environmentally friendly. Learn more about our CLT products below!
What Are Cross-Laminated Timber Mats?
CLT mats are manufactured using the process of bonding layers of wood perpendicularly with an environmentally friendly adhesive instead of bolts. They are also manufactured using Southern Yellow Pine wood, which is stronger and more sustainable than traditional Douglas Fir. The unique manufacturing process creates reliable CLT mats that are:
Flexible and Strong
CLT mats are designed to offer exceptional strength and flexibility to be able to assist heavy machinery and provide the support needed. Using an adhesive to bond the mats together instead of bolts creates a mat with a smooth surface and without any gaps. This allows the CLT access mat to be more flexible and flex under pressure as heavy weight is equally distributed throughout the surface.
Durable in Tough Conditions
CLT mats also provide superior performance in cold weather as they have been tested in temperatures as low as -70ºF. The adhesive also protects the access mats from any damage that may occur due to moisture, extending their life cycle. When operating in muddy, wet or even icy conditions, GFI’s access mats solid top make transportation safe for your crew and equipment as the mud and snow can be quickly cleared off.
Environmentally Friendly
For those who are looking for a more sustainable choice, CLT access mats are the perfect choice for you. All GFI’s CLT access mats are built with sustainable forest practices, as we only use Southern Yellow Pine wood. Unlike Oak, Southern Yellow Pine is grown to harvestable maturity in 20 years, which minimizes the negative impacts on the environment.
Multiple Options
As GFI Solutions manufactures, supplies, delivers and installs CLT mats, we have an extensive inventory of access mats for all your needs. Our CLT mats are available in 3-ply, 5-ply, 9-ply, and more! We are also able to provide customers with customized CLT mats that adhere to their unique needs.
Rent or Buy
All of GFI’s access mats are available for purchase or rent. We understand that some projects require a certain number of access mats for a short period of time, with no place to store them after completion. Our access mat rental service is designed to give customers peace of mind when it comes to storing and transporting mats wherever they go.
Find CLT Mats at GFI Solutions
At GFI Solutions, you can find a range of site-access products and services for your every need. We offer access mats, rig mats, crane mats, access bridges and more! Contact our team today to learn more!
Oct 11, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Rig mats should be your trusted access solution when it comes to crane and rig work in remote or challenging environments. The considerable weight of cranes and rigs can cause traditional bolted mats to buckle under pressure. Fortunately, GFI Solutions has the access solutions your Edmonton project needs to keep your rig operation moving smoothly. Our range of TerraLam Cross Laminated Timber rig mats can provide a safe and secure foundation for your heavy equipment and crew. While at the same time protecting the environment your project is working within. Continue reading to learn more about the differences between access mats and rig mats and some services GFI Solutions is proud to offer. Keep reading to learn more!
What’s the Difference Between Access Mats and Rig Mats?
Within the matting industry, it’s common for access mats and rig mats to be confused with one another. Often consumers will mix these terms interchangeably, thinking they’re the same product. However, in reality, access mats and rig mats are similar but ultimately different. Below we’ll discuss the differences between access and rig mats.
Access Mats
Access mats are a form of temporary access equipment that are often used to access work sites in environmentally sensitive areas, challenging terrains, or remote areas. Access mats are typically made from wood and steel. At GFI Solutions, our CLT mats are manufactured from cross-laminated timber from Southern Yellow Pine. Access mats are an overarching term for all temporary access matting solutions. In contrast, rig mats are a more specified type of mats.
Rig Mats
Access mats that are primarily used to withstand significant loads or heavy machinery are called “rig mats.” Rig mats are steel-framed to handle a range of weights up to about 2667 lbs. This steel frame enables the mat to withstand cranes, rigs, and other heavy equipment commonly used on worksites. At GFI Solutions, we are proud to offer a range of TerraLam CLT rig mats. These rig mats are manufactured from Southern Yellow Pine and have a 3-5 times longer lifespan than traditional bolted mats. That means that your project can save time and money by using CLT mats instead of bolted mats in the long term.
Quality Service All Year Round
GFI Solutions is proud to offer our customers 24/7 service all year round. Our team of access solutions specialists is available to support your project’s operation. Our matting expertise and exceptional customer service can help you keep your project within time and budget, with turn-key services to inventory management, mat washing, and more. GFI can provide you with the tools to get the job done. Our rig mats abide by construction and environmental guidelines. They are tested thoroughly to ensure excellent performance no matter the challenging conditions your project may face. GFI Solutions can ship however many mats you need anywhere in Canada.
Trust the Experts on Access Solutions
At GFI Solutions, our team understands that your project comes with its own unique challenges. We are confident in our range of access solutions. We can answer any questions you may have regarding our products and services. GFI Solutions’ head office is located in Whitecourt, Alberta, with additional offices in Calgary, Grande Prairie, and Edmonton. So if you’re looking for reliable access solutions, contact our team at GFI Solutions today!
Oct 11, 2022 | Access Mats, News
If you’re looking for reliable and durable rig mats for your project, look no further than GFI Solutions. We have the products you need to guarantee safety and efficiency on your project. Our line of CLT rig mats can withstand the demands of heavy equipment, volatile weather conditions, and challenging terrain. GFI Solutions is proud to offer our customers top-notch 24/7 customer service, so our team is here to answer your questions day or night. Are you interested in knowing more about GFI’s CLT rig mats? Continue reading to learn more!
What Does CLT Mean?
GFI’s TerraLam Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats are made from the wood of Southern Yellow Pine trees and a unique eco-friendly adhesive. The adhesive used in CLT mats provides a moisture barrier which protects the mats from potential rot and decay. That means these mats have an extended lifespan that outperforms traditional bolted mats. Each TerraLam CLT mat is engineered, and quality control tested to ensure top-quality and optimal grade of lumber and performance. GFI’s CLT mats are also lightweight, which means we can fit up to 72 mats per load so that you can save on transportation costs. CLT mats from GFI Solutions are an excellent option for any project!
Why Use Rig Mats?
There are plenty of reasons why your project should use rig mats. Some of those reasons are as follows:
- Help Extend the Working Season: Rig mats allow workers to continue drilling, digging, and operating other heavy equipment even when ground conditions are no longer favourable.
- Creates Better Work Surfaces: Using rig mats provides your workers and equipment with a stable and even foundation to work on.
- Protects the Environment: You must follow stringent environmental regulations across numerous industries. Rig mats are an eco-friendly option that protects the environment from potential contamination that could come from your equipment.
- Better Navigate Difficult Terrain: Instead of attempting to carve out a workable roadway in marshy or challenging terrain, you can place a rig mat down instead. That saves you both time and effort when navigating unfavourable ground conditions.
At GFI Solutions, our range of TerraLam CLT rig mats can provide your project with safe and reliable access solutions, regardless of how remote your worksite is. We even offer TerraCross access bridges for those times when you need to navigate over creeks, rivers, or other challenging terrains where mats just won’t do the trick. Our team can assist you in determining the number of rig mats your project needs, and we provide our customers with 24/7 support. So when you need access to solutions, trust the experts at GFI Solutions.
Your Choice for Quality Access Solutions
GFI Solutions is proud to offer a range of CLT access products, including 300, 500 model mats, TerraCross bridges, and more. In addition to our extensive inventory, GFI also offers turn-key services, inventory management, mat washing, and delivery and installation services, to name a few. Our team is committed to providing our customers with exceptional service and high-quality products and services you can trust and depend on. If you’re interested in learning more about GFI’s rig mats, contact us today!
Oct 4, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Are you looking for an affordable access mat solution for your project? If so, then CLT access mat rentals from GFI Solutions are an excellent option for you! TerraLam CLT mats are quickly becoming an industry favourite for access matting. They provide numerous benefits compared to traditional bolted mats. At GFI Solutions, we have the knowledge and experience to assist you with all of your access needs. From TerraLam CLT mats to access bridges and exceptional service, you can trust our team to help you keep your project accessible and operating safely. Below, we’ll discuss some benefits of renting access mats from GFI Solutions and a more in-depth look at TerraLam CLT mats. Continue reading to find out more!
Rent with GFI Solutions
Renting the safety access products your project requires should be a straightforward process. That’s why at GFI Solutions, our rental options are hassle-free. GFI offers same-day shipping, on-site installations, expedited delivery options, and more to our rental customers. In addition to the previously mentioned benefits, rentals also reduce your upfront costs. They are an affordable option if you’re testing TerraLam’s CLT mats for the first time. Suppose you’re unsure whether renting or buying is the right solution for you. In that case, our team of experts can assist you in determining your best option. GFI Solutions is here to help you with access mat rentals across Canada.
Engineered for Success
Compared to traditional bolted mats, CLT access mats are more durable, lightweight, and easier to install. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats are made from Southern Yellow Pine and glued together with environmentally friendly adhesive. By utilizing adhesive instead of bolts, the weight of CLT mats is significantly less than traditional bolted mats. That means you can fit more CLT mats per load, so transporting these access mats is more affordable. Also, since these mats are manufactured using high-quality materials, their lifespan is 3-5 times longer than traditional bolted mats. Overall, CLT mats come with a range of benefits that ultimately make them the more affordable option. Below are some specs on the TerraLam 300 and 500 CLT mats:
- 3-ply cross-laminated timber
- Bevelled edges
- Weight: – 1,350 lbs.
- 5-ply cross-laminated timber
- Bevelled edges
- Weight: – 2,667 lbs.
Your Source for Access Solutions
Your worksite comes with its own unique challenges, which means you may need rig mats, access mats, or both! GFI’s CLT mats are up to the challenge if you’re looking for affordable access matting for demanding environments. At GFI Solutions, we are proud to offer mat rentals. If you’re looking for access mats but don’t want to worry about long-term storage and transportation, renting is an excellent option. We even provide our customers with 24/7 support. So if you’re having issues, you can get a hold of us at any time, and one of our experienced team members can assist you. Our team of experts at GFI can assist you in determining the appropriate amount of mats for your project and answer any questions you may have. Contact us today if you’d like to learn more about access mat rentals at GFI Solutions!
