Oct 16, 2023 | Access Mats, News
Knowing what is in the access mats that you plan on purchasing will have many benefits. First, you will learn what the process will be for storing, caring for, and removing them. Secondly, you will better understand what the access mat will do for you. Is it made with durable wood? Is the wood flimsy? Will it withstand the cold, wet seasons? In this blog post, we answer these questions and more. Keep reading to learn more!
Strength of the Longleaf Southern Yellow Pine vs Douglas Fir
Many companies use Douglas Firs for their access mats, but GFI Solutions uses Southern Yellow Pine. Pines, especially the yellow variety, can withstand more psi (pound-force per square inch) than Douglas Firs can. The Longleaf Southern Yellow Pine is recorded at withstanding 14,500 psi, and the Douglas Fir at 12,500 psi.
As North American softwoods go, some have argued yellow pine as the strongest. Our customers need access mats that will not break or shift during their project. Access mats are needed to protect the environment around the worksite and to provide stable ground underfoot. Yellow pine is far superior to achieving this goal.
The Durability of the Southern Yellow Pine
Yellow pine might be the stronger of the two woods, but will it last through the Canadian weather cycles? According to the Janka scale, yes! The Janka scale measures the density of the wood (the higher the number, the better), noting Longleaf Southern Yellow Pine at 870 and Douglas Fir at 660. Denser wood means that the flooring will last longer in better condition. The pine we use in our access mats will last you through the cold Canadian winters and through the rain and heat that come during summer. Plus, if you take advantage of our mat management program, your access mats will last you far more than one project.
Benefits to the Environment
Sustainability is essential to keeping our planet alive, which, in turn, will keep us alive. At GFI Solutions, we aim to build our products sustainably as an investment in our future. We choose to age our trees to maturity, about 20 to 25 years. It’s been documented that trees store more carbon in their maturity than in their youth. By creating a demand for more trees in maturity, we are helping the planet in collecting carbon from the atmosphere. The maturity age gives them more time to create oxygen out of carbon dioxide; another added benefit of letting trees age. The adhesive used to bind the sustainable wood together is biodegradable, making everything about our access mats completely biodegradable.
Access Matting for Any Industry
GFI Solutions is Canada’s trusted business for access mats. We provide quality access mat solutions for different industries working in remote locations or with accessibility issues. Choose access mats that won’t cause hazards to the environment, your machines, or your staff. GFI Solutions access mats protect ecologically sensitive areas while allowing your crew to work efficiently and safely. Looking for access mat rentals? We have that, too! Check out our inventory or send us a message.
Oct 16, 2023 | Access Mats, News
There are regulations for contractors protecting the environment, that ensure that the surrounding area remains impacted as little as possible after the work is performed. These regulations may include:
- Preventing air pollution and ground disturbance
- Prohibiting or managing wildlife interaction
- Tree and vegetation preservation
- Hazardous waste disposal
- And more.
You must operate your construction site in a compliant manner. Keep reading to discover how GFI Solutions’ environmental matting is the perfect solution.
Protect the Environment Around You
GFI Solutions access matting helps prevent hazardous matting waste and protects the ground on the construction site. The CLT access mats are highly durable and stronger than traditional bolted mats. Bolted access mats typically break easier on the job, whereas we designed our CLT environmental matting to be 3-5 times stronger than bolted mats. The result of this is that you get more uses out of them before they begin to break. That being said, when your mat does end up splintering, it’s okay! The wood and adhesive are entirely biodegradable. Plus, GFI’s turn-key services mean our experts can perform your deliveries, installs, and management for you.
Sustainable Access Mats For You
Our GFI Solutions access mats are made to be lightweight to reduce shipping costs, meaning that you save money on transportation costs on top of a higher return on investment. Lighter access mats mean that the cargo takes far less gas to transport, which is both better for the environment and for your pocket. You will also save time by avoiding potential roadblocks caused by the constantly changing Canadian seasons, leaving mud and snow underfoot. Our environmental matting keeps your workers and equipment safe from getting stuck in the mud and snow or slipping on ice. When heavy equipment gets stuck, getting it out can mean a lot of damage to the surrounding habitat as well as unnecessary money and time wasted. Avoid the pain of removing the equipment by using environmental matting.
How GFI Mats are Created to be Environmentally Friendly
We do our best to make sure that you are satisfied with our environmental matting by constructing it from wood from trees that have been allowed to mature for over 20 years. Doing this allows the trees to capture more carbon and clean more air before serving a new purpose as environmental protection from heavy equipment.
GFI Solutions sorts our used mats into different grades, reusing our access mats as long as it is safe and helpful to do so. We offer our customers the choice of using new mats or our used mats. In the winter, used mats are often preferred for outdoor use, as small dents and scratches create better grip for machines and workers.
GFI: Environmental Matting Solutions for All
Whether you are looking to reduce your company’s impact or simply comply with your environmental regulations, matting from GFI Solutions is your answer. With different grades available to rent or buy, GFI can supply you with the access mat resources and services you need to do your part. Contact us today to ask about what grades of mats we currently have available.
Oct 2, 2023 | Access Mats, News
Crane mats are critical in providing stability and support for heavy equipment. However, suppose these mats are not installed correctly. In that case, the risk of an accident or damage to your equipment dramatically increases, regardless of the quality of your crane mats. Fortunately, GFI Solutions can ensure that your crane mats are correctly installed with our mat installation solutions. Next, we will review how GFI Solutions’ crane mat installation services set your project site up for success, safety, and stability. Continue reading to learn more.
First, a Site Assessment
Before starting any crane mat installation, GFI Solutions will conduct a comprehensive site assessment. Our team will evaluate the ground conditions, including the soil type, terrain stability, and potential obstructions, to identify any soft or unstable areas requiring additional reinforcement or other solutions. By understanding your site’s specific challenges, GFI Solutions can present you with various new and used crane mat solutions to ensure maximum stability and safety.
Choosing the Right Crane Mats
Selecting the appropriate matting solutions for your project is essential. So consider your project’s needs, such as required weight capacity, crane mat size, and quantity of mats. At GFI Solutions, our team can help you determine the best crane mat options and the number of mats your project needs. That way, you can rest assured that your crane mats can handle the load requirements of your equipment and other site conditions. At GFI Solutions, we offer a wide range of high-quality new and used crane mats designed to meet various project needs, providing the reliability, stability and durability you need for success.
Planning the Layout and Configuration
Once GFI Solutions has determined your worksite’s conditions and the number and sizes of crane mats your project will need, our team will begin planning the layout and configuration of your crane mats. That way, GFI Solutions can implement the crane mat installation process efficiently and effectively. Our team will map out the required coverage area(s) and determine the optimal placement of your crane mats to provide the necessary support and stability for your equipment.
During this process, GFI Solutions’ access solution experts will consider factors such as ground slope, load distribution, and access points for equipment and personnel. A well-planned crane mat layout will minimize movement of the mats, improve work efficiency, and enhance your worksite’s overall safety.
Ensuring Proper Mat Alignment and Connection
During the installation of your crane mats, the GFI Solutions team will pay close attention to the mat’s alignment and connection. Our team will ensure that your crane mats are aligned and connected correctly to form a continuous, level surface that will not shift or separate during equipment operations. Effective mat alignment and connection are crucial for maintaining stability and reducing the risk of accidents or equipment damage.
Crane Mat Installations and More at GFI Solutions
When you need crane mats for your worksite, trust GFI Solutions to have the necessary inventory. Our team is available 24/7 to assist you with your crane mat installation needs or questions. In addition to our inventory of crane mats and installation services, GFI Solutions also provides several turnkey services to meet your specific project requirements. With our expertise and reliable products, GFI Solutions is your trusted partner for efficient and safe crane mat installations and more. Contact us today to learn more!
Sep 20, 2023 | Access Mats, News
When it comes to ensuring the success and safety of industrial operations across Calgary’s energy, construction, and mining sectors, finding the right rig mat supplier is critical. Rig mats are essential in providing a stable foundation for heavy equipment, protecting the environment, and enhancing worker safety. Next, we will explore some key considerations and benefits of choosing a dependable rig mat supplier like GFI Solutions. Continue reading to learn more about why GFI Solutions should be your top choice for rig mats in the Calgary region.
Quality and Durability
One of the top considerations when selecting a rig mat supplier is the quality and durability of their rig mats. At GFI Solutions, our rig mats are manufactured using high-quality materials that can withstand the rigours of Calgary’s various work environments. Our rig mats are constructed from Douglas Fir and 3- or 4-rail steel frames to ensure they are strong and durable. GFI Solutions’ traditional rig mats are built to withstand heavy loads and extreme weather conditions; that way, you can rest assured that our rig mats will provide your project with long-lasting performance, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
Customization Options
Each project within the Calgary region will have its own unique requirements and specifications. A reliable rig mat supplier, like GFI Solutions, will offer custom manufacturing options to meet those specific needs. Whether it’s adapting mat dimensions, providing specific connection systems, or accommodating specialized equipment, the ability to tailor rig mats to project requirements enhances their effectiveness and efficiency. Partnering with a supplier, like GFI Solutions, that can deliver customized solutions ensures seamless integration of rig mats into your project’s workflow.
Timely Delivery and Support
Efficient project timelines are crucial for success, and a dependable rig mat supplier will understand the importance of timely delivery. Fortunately, GFI Solutions has a proven track record of prompt, efficient, and expert service. Our team can meet your project’s deadlines, and we offer reliable transportation and logistics solutions. Additionally, GFI Solutions takes pride in providing comprehensive 24/7 customer support, including on-site assistance, mat management services and quick response times to address any concerns or issues that may arise during your project.
Safety Compliance
Worker safety is of utmost importance across Calgary’s industrial sector. When choosing a rig mat supplier, ensure they adhere to industry safety standards and regulations. GFI Solutions prioritizes safety by providing access solutions with anti-slip surfaces, proper connection systems, and adequate load-bearing capacities. In particular, our used rig mats undergo stringent inspections and testing to guarantee their reliability and safety. By partnering with a safety-conscious supplier like GFI Solutions, companies can create a safer work environment and reduce the risk of accidents or equipment damage.
GFI Solutions: Your Rig Mat Supplier
Choosing a reliable rig mat supplier is a critical decision that can significantly impact the success, safety, and efficiency of your industrial operations in the Calgary region. At GFI Solutions, we understand the importance of selecting the right rig mat supplier, and we are committed to providing high-quality, customizable, and sustainable rig mats that meet the unique requirements of Calgary’s industrial sectors. Contact our team today to learn more about GFI Solutions rig matting options!
Sep 20, 2023 | Access Mats, News
Meeting deadlines and delivering projects on time is crucial for your company’s client satisfaction, profitability and competitive advantage. To outperform the competition, your company must constantly seek innovative solutions to streamline operations and maximize productivity. Fortunately, one solution that offers significant time-saving benefits is crane mat rentals from GFI Solutions! Below, we will explore how renting crane mats from GFI Solutions can optimize your project’s timelines and enhance your bottom line. Keep reading to find out more!
Rapid Access to Mats
When it comes to your project, delays in acquiring the necessary equipment can be detrimental to your timelines. Owning crane mats requires careful planning, storage, and transportation, which can consume your valuable time and resources, especially if your company is small. However, by opting for crane mat rental from GFI Solutions, your company can gain immediate access to the mats you need.
GFI Solutions has a comprehensive inventory of crane mats readily available for immediate use or purchase. This eliminates the time-consuming procurement, transportation, and storage processes, ensuring that your project can start immediately without unnecessary delays.
Efficient Setup and Removal
At GFI Solutions, installing and removing your rented crane mats is streamlined and efficient, further contributing to your time savings. Our crane mats are designed to be easily deployed and retrieved, minimizing the labour and effort required during mobilization and demobilization. This straightforward setup process allows your crew to focus on their primary tasks rather than spending excessive time on mat installation. With the efficient setup and removal of GFI Solutions’ crane mat rentals, your project can progress smoothly, allowing for faster completion and better adherence to your project’s timelines.
Mitigation of Weather-Related Delays
Weather conditions can significantly impact your project’s schedule, especially when working on rugged terrains. Unstable ground conditions, such as mud, soft soil, or uneven surfaces, can make operating cranes and heavy equipment safely and efficiently rather challenging. Without a secure foundation, this may result in costly delays, project setbacks, and equipment damage.
By utilizing GFI Solutions’ crane mat rentals, your company can overcome weather-related challenges and maintain productivity even in adverse conditions. Our crane mats provide a stable and level surface, enabling crane operators to work confidently, regardless of terrain. This reduces the risk of accidents, equipment damage, and time-consuming workarounds, ensuring that your project stays on track no matter the conditions you may be facing.
Streamlined Project Execution
In addition, the use of GFI Solutions’ crane mats also improves operational efficiency. With a solid foundation provided by our crane mats, your crews can work more efficiently and effectively. The stability and support offered by our mats enhance the productivity of crane operators by allowing them to focus on their tasks without the concerns of ground instability.
Moreover, GFI Solutions’ crane mats reduce the time spent resolving issues related to uneven or unstable ground conditions. By minimizing the need for extensive site preparation or installing other temporary stabilization systems, your crew can devote more time to critical project activities, accelerating your project’s timelines and optimizing your resource allocation.
Rentals and More from GFI Solutions
GFI Solutions’ crane mat rentals offer companies valuable time-saving benefits critical for optimizing project timelines. By choosing GFI Solutions for all your access solution needs, you can ensure your project starts on time, progresses smoothly, and meets your desired deadlines. Contact us today to learn more about GFI Solutions’ crane mat rentals and our other access solutions!
Sep 15, 2023 | Access Mats, News
Across the industrial sector, heavy machinery, large equipment and challenging terrains are commonplace. That’s why having reliable and efficient access solutions is critical. This is where GFI Solutions’ range of temporary access mats comes into play. Our versatile mats offer a range of benefits in industrial applications as they provide safe and stable access to otherwise inaccessible locations. Next, we will explore the versatility of GFI Solutions’ temporary access mats and how they enhance productivity and safety in various industrial settings. Keep reading to find out more!
Enhanced Safety
In any industrial environment, safety should be a top priority. GFI Solutions’ temporary access mats offer a reliable solution for creating safe pathways, even in hazardous or challenging conditions. Our traditional bolted and CLT access mats are designed to withstand significant loads, providing stability for equipment and vehicles while minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries. Whether you’re working on a muddy construction site, oil and gas operations or a mining site, GFI Solutions’ temporary access mats offer a secure surface that ensures your workers can confidently navigate the area.
Access to Challenging Terrains
Often industrial projects work in remote or challenging locations such as wetlands, marshes, or even sandy areas. GFI Solutions’ temporary access mats excel in such conditions by distributing the weight of your vehicles and equipment, preventing them from sinking into the ground below. With our new or used mats in place, construction, maintenance, and transportation becomes more cost-effective and efficient, and GFI Solutions’ access mats eliminate the need for extensive ground preparation or the creation of permanent roads.
Environmental Preservation
As the industrial sector continues to push for more sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices preserving the environment has become a significant concern in these applications. GFI Solutions’ temporary access mats provide an eco-friendly alternative to other access solutions. Companies can reduce their ecological footprint by utilizing our mats (especially our CLT access mats). Moreover, GFI Solutions’ access mats help prevent soil erosion and protect sensitive ecosystems, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural environment during industrial operations.
Versatility in Different Industries
GFI Solution’s inventory of new and used traditional bolted and CLT access mats can be used across various industries. For instance, our mats are essential for creating temporary roads and pathways on remote sites in the oil and gas sector, allowing for more efficient transportation, maintenance and operations. While at the same time, access mats enable smoother operations in construction projects by providing stability for machinery and equipment, allowing the projects to progress regardless of weather or ground conditions. The agricultural industry can also benefit from temporary access mats, as they facilitate better access to fields for harvesting and managing crops. Overall, GFI Solutions’ temporary access mats are incredibly versatile and durable, making them suitable for almost any project, regardless of the industry.
Access Mats and More from GFI Solutions
Temporary access mats are indispensable across numerous industrial applications as they provide multiple benefits. By investing in GFI Solutions’ access mats, companies can ensure the smooth operation of their projects, mitigate risks, and achieve greater productivity.
At GFI Solutions, we recognize the importance of temporary access mats. We are committed to providing innovative solutions that cater to the evolving needs of industrial environments. That’s why we offer several temporary access mat solutions, including traditional bolted mats, CLT access mats, and used mats. Contact our team today to learn more about our inventory of access solutions!
