Jun 16, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Our Canadian terrain faces some unique challenges associated with the ever-changing climate throughout the year. The freeze-thaw cycle and extreme temperatures can leave your work site’s foundation riddled with mud, ice, snow, and uneven ground, making transportation difficult. If you’re a project manager looking to stay on track and budget, site-safe access mats offer safety and affordability with minimal disruption.
At GFI Solutions, we are Canada’s leading provider of access mats, including Sterling Solutions’ line of TerraLam® CLT mats. When it comes to the heavy-duty needs of our drilling sector customers, we know there’s no room for error or subpar mats. Keep reading to learn more about CLT mats!
TerraLam® CLT Matting an Industry Leader
Engineered to be up to 40% lighter than standard bolted mats, GFI’s TerraLam® CLT mats are a step towards incredible quality. Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) provides significant improvements over traditional bolted mats. They’re manufactured through a process that involves adhering perpendicular layers of wood together to create a solid structure that has a 3-5 times longer lifespan. Even under heavy pressure, our TerraLam® mats provide exceptional access solutions that make them well suited for a range of applications and job sites.
TerraLam® has two options in their safety access mats the 500-series and the 300-series. The 500-series lineup is ideal for supporting heavy-duty trucks and tracked equipment like those expected of rig and crane mats. Meanwhile, the 300-series are best suited for general ground protection, access roads, and drilling/equipment staging platforms. At GFI Solutions, our offering of TerraLam® access mats is sure to be the drilling mats you can count on.
CLT Mats V.S. Bolted Mats
While bolted mats or timber mats are the traditional choices for access solutions, that doesn’t mean they’re the best option available in the market. One of the main factors that make bolted mats less suited for most industries is that they’re made from hard and softwood. With no specific standard to control the quality, timber mats have a short lifespan. In comparison, CLT mats are made from high-grade Southern Yellow Pine, which makes CLT mats better suited for heavy-duty jobs and challenging conditions. At GFI, our CLT mats also offer the following advantages:
- High impact resistance and durability.
- 3-5 times the lifespan of bolted mats.
- Glue lamination and wax sealed on all four edges of the mat results in a mat less prone to moisture and rot.
- Resistance to our Canadian climate.
- Solid top, which reduces tripping hazards.
- Decreased shipping costs due to the lightweight nature of the mats (more CLT mats can be shipped in comparison to bolted mats), and more!
GFI Solutions Your Source for Access Solutions
From heavy-duty applications like drilling and rig work to custom roadways for your unique project, GFI Solutions is here to help you build the transportation solutions you need. We are proud to be Alberta’s top choice for safe access solutions; that’s why GFI offers a range of services, including 24/7 rental and sales support, expedited delivery, installation, and more. If you’re looking to try out the durability of our TerraLam® CLT mats before buying or need to replace a failing mat as soon as possible, GFI is here to help. Contact our team today to learn more!
May 26, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Is your project or worksite in need of high-quality, safe site access solutions? While traditional bolted mats may be your first choice, Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats are sure to be your new favourite option. At GFI Solutions, we are proud to be the leading distributor of Sterling Solutions’ CLT mats. These mats offer a range of advantages compared to traditional bolted mats. From affordability to durability and more CLT mats are the new industry leaders for safe site access solutions. Keep reading to learn how CLT mats outperform traditional bolted mats.
What Are CLT Mats?
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats are a new contender in the safe site access market. These innovative crane mats do the same job as traditional bolted mats; however, the similarities end there. CLT mats are made using wood from plantation-grown Southern Yellow Pine and an adhesive that bonds the wood planks together; there’s no need for bolts. Through this unique manufacturing process, CLT mats have a longer life cycle with a range of other advantages, but more on that later. GFI Solution’s TerraLam CLT mats are available in two standard sizes, the 300-series and the 500-series.
Advantages of CLT Mats
Compared to traditional timber bolted mats, CLT mats offer a variety of advantages for your worksite. For starters, CLT access mats are 40% lighter than bolted mats, that weight reduction allows for the transportation of up to 25% more mats per load. That means you save money on delivery costs, but when it’s time for your project to kickoff, you won’t be left waiting for all of your access mats to arrive.
TerraLam mats are also able to withstand a range of temperatures, from as low as -55℃ (-70℉) to as high as 65℃ (150℉). This makes these ground protection mats perfect for our fluctuating Canadian climate. While wood tends to get slippery in wet, muddy, and icy weather, the sturdy top of TerraLam mats is rough, which helps to eliminate the risk of tripping hazards and ensure they can continue performing even in inclement weather.
Are you looking for crane mats that can be interconnected? Our TerraLam mats can be fitted with special “fingers” that work similarly to traditional bolted access mats. At GFI Solutions, we want to find the site access solutions that best fit your needs. So if you’re looking for a safer, more affordable, and longer-lasting site access mat, our TerraLam mats are sure to satisfy.
Site Access Solutions at GFI
GFI Solutions offers a range of matting services beyond sales and rentals; some of our other services include delivery and installation, inventory management, mat washing and more. In addition to a robust stock of highly in-demand mats, we offer 24/7 customer support; that way, our team at GFI can connect you to the site access solutions you need. For all of your temporary pathways, crane mats, and general access mat needs, GFI is here to help. Contact our team to learn more!
May 26, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Cranes and rig work is one of the most challenging applications for rig mats. The immense weight of this machinery can cause traditional rig mats to crack under pressure. Luckily there’s a solution for this problem! At GFI Solutions, we have the access mats you need to ensure that your project operates smoothly and safely. As Alberta’s premier supplier of CLT crane mats, GFI Solutions is proud to offer high-quality access mats. We know our team of experts can assist you in determining which Terrlam mats would be best suited for your application. Read more to learn more about our line of crane mats.
How CLT Mats Work
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats are made by bonding alternating perpendicular layers of wood with an environmentally safe adhesive. Mat strength lies in its ability to transfer weight to the surface below through the mat. Adhered CLT mats distribute the load weight more evenly than bolted mats, even when confronted with heavy loads. This, in turn, allows CLT mats to be more durable than the competition.
Since GFI’s CLT mats are engineered with quality in mind, they’re guaranteed to last and withstand the wear and tear of your project’s job site. At GFI, we have confidence in our TerraLam mats; that’s why we won’t charge you for any damage or replacement costs. But if damage does occur, repairs are no sweat! Our TerraLam mats are easy and inexpensive to repair. Compared to traditional access mats, which often require removing rusted or bent bolts, our mats are solid wood and don’t contain any bolts that could need replacing.
Benefits of CLT Mats
Switching from bolted mats to GFI’s CLT crane mats comes with many perks. CLT mats are lighter and safer than traditional bolted mats. Our TerraLam mats have a textured solid top surface which helps to eliminate tripping hazards. Since they’re made using adhesive rather than bolts, our mats also are free from puncture injuries or vehicle damage as there are no bolts to protrude from damaged mats. Our CLT mats are also environmentally conscious as all the wood used in manufacturing them is made from plantation-grown southern yellow pine. GFI’s CLT mats are lighter, long-lasting, safer, and sustainable.
At GFI, our commitment to you extends further than simply offering a great product. We also are happy to provide 24/7 rental and sales support, inventory management, expedited delivery, mat washing and more!
Access Mats at GFI
At GFI, we pride ourselves on making long-term relationships with you, our customer. That’s why a GFI expert will work with you to find the best solution for your project—interested in making the switch from traditional mats to GFI Solution’s CLT crane mats? Contact us today, and one of our knowledgeable team members will be happy to assist you.
May 19, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Today there are plenty of environmental standards and practices your project must comply with to move forward with the work at hand. Unfortunately, traditional access mats come with various issues that can make them problematic to work with. After learning about some of the common problems of conventional matting options, GFI Solutions has a better solution: the TerraLam 300 3-ply and TerraLam 500 5-ply Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) access mats. CLT mats are engineered to be stronger and more durable than traditional bolted ones, but they do more than outperform bolted mats. CLT mats also provide significant environmental advantages for your project. Continue reading to learn more about how CLT access mats can make your worksite more environmentally conscious.
Protects the Ground Below
Access mats provide more than just a temporary roadway to your project site; they also provide a crucial layer of protection to the surrounding terrain and ecosystems. They minimize the damage and disruption caused to the area by heavy equipment by shielding the ground from physical and chemical damage. This preventative system allows your site to comply with remediation and environmental standards. Access mats also will enable you to have better movement across bodies of water like creeks, rivers, marshlands, ditches and more without permanently changing the landscape of where you’re working.
At GFI Solutions, we care about the future; that’s why all of our TerraLam mats are built using sustainable forest practices. The wood used in our mats is plantation-grown Southern Yellow Pine. What does that mean for sustainability? Well, Southern Yellow Pine is grown to harvestable maturity within 20 years. Compared to other traditional access mats that use oak wood, oak takes about 100 years to mature for harvest. Also, the adhesive used to bond the pine together is chemically inactive before leaving the manufacturing facility. Therefore CLT mats present no harm to the environment.
Prevents Cross-Contamination
Another significant environmental concern for site operators is cross-contamination. If cross-contamination isn’t managed adequately within the regulated standards, your project could face some substantial fines. GFI Solution’s CLT access mats can help reduce this risk as they act as a barrier between your equipment and the ground. Also, the adhesive used in our CLT mats prevents invasive species from embedding themselves, unlike traditional mats. Additionally, properly cleaning your mats in between jobs further reduces the chance of cross-contamination and further protects the environments where you’re working. Luckily at GFI, we offer mat washing and a range of other services to keep your project safe and on schedule.
Recovery Time is Reduced
Environmental remediation is a significant part of any project nowadays. Using site access solutions can make the recovery process that much easier. They serve as a temporary measure to reduce your project’s environmental impact on the area you’re working. Site access mats can easily be installed or removed from site to site. As long as they’re clean before moving to a new location, you’ll be reducing your environmental impact one mat at a time.
CLT Mats at GFI Solutions
At GFI Solutions, we aim to respect our world’s soil, water, air, and natural habitat; that’s why we conduct our business in an environmentally responsible manner. Our TerraLam mats are one way your project can put the environment first. Contact our team to learn more about the other great benefits of TerraLam access mats.
May 19, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Is your oil and gas project looking for safe site access solutions that allow your crew and equipment to keep moving? At GFI Solutions, we have the products you need to ensure safety and efficiency on your worksite. Our line of access mats can easily withstand the demands of heavy machinery like rigs and cranes, providing your team with safe access solutions from uneven terrain and unpredictable weather. GFI Solutions is proud to offer Canadian businesses access mats they know they can trust and depend on in various job applications. Keep reading to learn more about how oilfield mats benefit your job site.
What are Oilfield Mats?
Oilfield mats, also called rig mats or ground protection mats, are used during oil rigging. They provide a physical barrier between oil equipment and the ground below. There are plenty of environmental, financial, and safety benefits of oilfield mats. Regarding safety, rig mats provide a safe and clean working environment for crew members. This leads to significant financial savings as you reduce the chances of slip and fall injuries. Environmentally rig mats create a barrier between your workers and whatever is below your worksite. They also minimize your environmental footprint by reducing ground disturbances and preventing soil and weed contamination.
Completing a project in the oil and gas industry is dangerous without mats, but that’s not the only industry to use these access mats. From oil and gas to construction, refinery, and more ground protection mats are essential for many industries. Using GFI Soltuions’ rig mats will stabilize and support oil rigs and other equipment to give you peace of mind and establish a safe job site.
CLT Mats Make a Difference
GFI Solutions’ Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats quickly become the preferred choice for oilfield mats. CLT mats are made using an innovative process involving bonding alternating perpendicular layers of environmentally sustainable wood with an adhesive. Bonding the planks together allows the mat to weigh less and flex under the weight of heavy equipment and machinery without breaking. Since they weigh up to 40% less than traditional bolted mats and offer a life cycle that is 3-5 times longer, CLT mats are a worthwhile investment for your project. At GFI, we offer TerraLam CLT mats in the 300 and 500 series.
Make the Switch to TerraLam® CLT Mats Today
GFI Solutions has the products you need to ensure the safest and most efficient transportation of goods to and from a worksite. Our mats meet the high demands of rigs, cranes, and heavy machinery. We offer a diverse range of products and services, including installation, delivery, mat washing, and inventory management. GFI Solutions partners with clients across Canada and offers 24/7 support for your site access needs. Contact us today to get started with our TerraLam® CLT mats!
May 19, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Are you looking for a temporary access solution to get your team through your next job?
At GFI Solutions, you have the opportunity to test-drive our access matting before you commit to a permanent purchase. Renting our range of CLT (Cross Laminated Timber) and bolt-on mats is a simple solution to keep your project on track, comply with environmental and sustainability standards, and keep your team safe. GFI is here to ensure you have the resources to stay on top of the challenges our Canadian weather throws at you. At GFI Solutions, we offer all-inclusive matting solutions, including rentals, sales, delivery, and installation. Continue reading to learn more about renting access mats.
Our Offering of Access Mats
At GFI Solutions, we genuinely understand the importance of providing safe access solutions for your project. You can count on us to supply you with some of the highest quality swamp mats available. CLT access mats go above and beyond the standards set by traditional timber bolted mats. Our mats offer superior performance and an extended lifespan even with heavy loads. Our CLT mats are made through a cutting-edge process that bonds alternative layers of wood with a unique adhesive. Our TerraLam 300 and 500 series mats will keep your crew safe and secure no matter your application. GFI is sure to be your preferred choice in site access with a range of sizes and weights available and the ability to customize your mats.
Rental Friendly Solutions
Renting safety products should be simple. However, at GFI, we know that that’s not always the case. That’s why our rental solutions are hassle-free. We offer same-day shipping, expedited delivery options, and on-site installation. If you’re debating renting or buying access mats, one of our experts can assist you by reviewing your project and scope of work. From there, we can determine the best possible solution for your business. If your rig mats become damaged or need replacing, GFI won’t charge you for any replacement or damaged-related costs. Our crew are some of the most efficient in the industry, and they’re backed by 24/7 service and support. At GFI, we strive to create long-term relationships with our clients; that’s why we will always provide you with the best options for temporary roadways.
Ready to Rent with GFI Solutions?
GFI Solutions is Western Canada’s leading provider of access mat solutions, including CLT rig mats, access bridges and more. At GFI, we know that site access solutions are often a sizeable investment and that purchasing outright may not always be a reality. Renting can be a viable way to meet the needs of your current project. If you’re debating whether you need to buy or rent, contact our team today, and we will be more than happy to assist you.
