Top 5 Uses of Timber Crane Mats in Canada’s Oil & Gas, Mining, and Infrastructure Projects

Jan 14, 2026 | Timber Mats

Canada’s construction and industrial sites often operate on demanding and unpredictable ground. It could be due to soft soil, an uneven surface, and ground stability issues. Such conditions can delay the project and add to its hazards. This is where timber crane mats provide a strong and stable base for heavy equipment, helping to reduce these challenges and keep projects moving safely.

Built from high-quality hardwood or fir timber, these mats are designed to support heavy loads while protecting the ground underneath. They serve a wide range of purposes across industrial worksites.

In this blog, we will highlight the top five uses of timber crane mats and explain why they are essential for major industries operating across Canada.

What Role Do Timber Crane Mats Play on Heavy-Duty Sites?

Crane mats are not like the average wooden access mats. Timber crane mats are built to handle heavy machinery and rough work sites. They are made from solid hardwood or Douglas fir planks bolted together that can efficiently handle and support crane outriggers or heavy equipment, even when the ground underneath is soft or uneven. Crane mats are commonly produced in heavy-duty dimensions that range from 8–12 inches thick, 4 feet wide, and 16–40 feet long. Their strong build makes them a go-to choice for tough industrial and construction jobs.

Here is why timber crane mats are chosen for heavy-duty sites:

Thick timber planks distribute extreme loads evenly
Wide mats provide stable platforms for equipment.
Length supports cranes and large lifting zones
Hardwood construction ensures durability in harsh sites

How Timber Crane Mats Are Used Across Canada’s Oil & Gas, Mining, Renewable and Infrastructure Sites

In Canada, the oil, gas, mining, renewable, and infrastructure sectors undoubtedly form a strong base upon which Canada’s economy is built, investing billions every year in critical projects. These projects require high-quality crane mats to ensure smooth, efficient, and productive operations.

Here are the top 5 applications of timber crane mats across these industries:

1. Crane Outrigger Support in Oil & Gas Sites

In oil & gas projects, cranes are frequently used to lift heavy machinery and set up new equipment. Unfortunately, the ground is not always stable; this is where timber crane mats provide a solid and stable base. They prevent these heavy machines from sinking and reduce the risk of tipping on the uneven ground.

2. Creating Safe Paths for Heavy Equipment in Mining

The grounds in the mining sites are often uneven or loose due to constant shifting as the crews dig deeper. This makes it tough for loaders, excavators, and other heavy equipment to move safely around without getting stuck. Timber crane mats provide a stable, reliable surface. They help crews navigate the site smoothly while protecting the ground from wear or causing any further damage.

3. Building Temporary Roads for Infrastructure Projects

Across Canada, major infrastructure projects such as pipelines, bridges, and utilities require temporary roadways to move heavy equipment and machinery seamlessly. Here, crane mats can be used to hold up heavy traffic, even on soft or uneven ground, so that crews can easily move loads efficiently.

4. Protecting Ground in Remote and Seasonal Worksites

Remote locations and freeze-thaw cycles often make the soil unstable to bear heavy loads. Timber crane mats help spread the weight evenly, reducing rutting and wrecked terrain. In addition, they help in protecting sensitive areas such as underground utilities so that operations can be carried out safely even in tough conditions.

5. Leveling Equipment Staging and Laydown Areas

Large-scale construction projects—such as oil and gas, mining, renewable energy, transportation, and hydroelectric developments—often require temporary working surfaces for cranes and heavy equipment. Crane mats can be configured to create pads, access routes, or staging areas, providing a stable, load-bearing surface where permanent ground improvements are impractical or unnecessary.

Make Your Worksite Safer and Smarter with GFI Solutions LTD!

In demanding industries like mining, oil and gas, and renewables, smooth operations and safety go hand in hand. At GFI Solutions LTD, we offer reliable crane mats that are designed to support heavy machinery and protect workers on-site.

We provide both new and used crane mats, available for rent or purchase. With our high-quality access solutions, we deliver the support you need to keep your crew and equipment safe, even on the toughest worksites.

Explore our inventory today and get the right mats for your project!

FAQs

What timber crane mats are mainly used for?

They help to support cranes, provide stability to heavy equipment, and protect the ground on uneven terrain.

Are timber crane mats appropriate for the weather in Canada?

Yes, they work very well in wet soil and cold temperatures, as well as dynamic seasonal conditions, provided they are maintained properly.

3. How are timber crane mats different from steel-frame rig mats?
Timber mats are designed to handle concentrated loads, such as crane outriggers, while steel-frame mats are better suited for rolling loads and high-traffic areas.

Embrace the Green: Popularity of Cross-Laminated Timber Mats in the Market

Feb 22, 2024 | Timber Mats

Forget clunky metal and flimsy plywood, there’s something new in the town: cross-laminated timber mats. These unique and innovative mats are shaking up the construction industry with their surprising versatility, sustainability and strength. So, buckle up because we are going to dive into the world of cross-laminated mats and the reasons surrounding the future of temporary access and ground protection.

What Is Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)?

Cross-laminated timber, the latest eco-friendly superhero is on the way. Unlike their outdated counterparts, these sustainable mats skip the clunky bolts and depend on a strong and environmentally friendly adhesive. This magic glue holds the layers of lumber together at right angles, creating a solid panel of wood which appears to be sturdy as well as significantly lightweight.

Consider these mats as the multitaskers that are ready to tackle temporary access roads, and work platforms, and even protect delicate grounds. Built with a minimum of 3 layers of lumber, each laid perpendicularly and bonded together to provide maximum strength. Made from fast-growing renewable timber, these mats are the champions of sustainability.

Hey, don’t underestimate this innovative wonder!

Cross-laminated timber mats are engineered wood panels that act as the prime face of the construction industry. Let’s unleash the many good reasons why it is championing the trending construction domain.

Eco-Warrior:

Bid farewell to the traditional steel and concrete. Presenting the very high-quality CLT mats that are made from fast-growing, renewable timber that is the champion for the environment. Every mat you see and choose is a step towards a greener and sustainable future, leaving lighter footprints on our planet.

Offers Strength Like No Other:

Are you quite skeptical about its strength and quality? Do not let the “wood” fool you. Our CLT mats are surprisingly strong and special thanks to their innovative construction. Pay attention to the layers of lumber that are glued together at the right angle to create a solid panel that withstands heavy loads from trucks and cranes, making them ideal for temporary work platforms and roadways.

Featherweight Champ:

In comparison to their steel counterparts, CLT mats are incredibly light. This makes the product easier and faster to install, saving you time, money, and maybe ensure peace of mind too. Imagine the efficiency boost you can actually experience with this lightweight mat material.

Cost-Effective Hero:

You may find the initial investment to be a bit higher but these CLT mats offer a longer lifespan and require less maintenance than imagined. In the long run, these installations will not only save you money but also reduce waste, making them a smart financial decision.

Versatility Is the Key:

Think of CLT mats as the ultimate multitaskers of the construction world. They are not just for temporary roads; they can also be used for right of ways, work pads, staging areas, and even protecting delicate ground. They adapt to various needs, making them incredibly versatile.

Easy Does It:

Installing and removing CLT mats is a breeze, even with smaller equipment. Their lighter weight makes them easier to handle, reducing labour costs and speeding up the process.

Ready to join the cross-laminated timber mat revolution? Consider these mats for your next project and experience the difference. Remember, it’s not just about building stronger structures, it’s about building a more sustainable future, one mat at a time.

Conquer Any Terrain with GFI Solutions LTD.: Your Cross-Laminated Matting Matchmaker

Forget the struggle of sourcing the right matting for your project. GFI Solutions steps in as your true partner, providing customizable solutions for any size or challenge. Whether you need a handful of mats for a quick fix or a massive rollout for environmental protection, we’ve got you covered.

Think you’re stuck with swamps, mud, or treacherous streams? Think again! With over a decade of experience under our belts, we’ve tackled it all. We don’t just offer mats – we offer expertise. We’ll work side-by-side with you to understand your project’s unique needs and recommend the perfect matting solution, regardless of location, terrain, or scale. Want to talk to our team? Dial 1-833-GFI-MATS or visit our website to have a glance at our exclusive timber mats that are on sale. Contact us today!