Apr 11, 2022 | Access Mats, News
GFI Solutions is one of Canada’s leading suppliers of safe-site matting solutions, including swamp mats, access mats and bridges. We help deliver and install your choice of access mats as well as offer service and support 24 hours a day throughout Canada.
When you’re starting a project, you might face the dilemma of whether you need to order swamp mats or access mats; we can help clear up the confusion. For starters, the term “swamp mats” is technically only used in southern regions where worksites witness warm, swampy grounds which require matting to cross. In practice, there are no differences between swamp mats and access mats; the terms are both used interchangeably depending on where you are in the world. With that said, there are different uses for access mats which you should be aware of before sending out your order. We’ll take a closer look at the different types of mats below and help you choose the best option for your project!
Access Mats
The type of matting suitable for your project will depend on where you plan to use it. If you’re looking to build a temporary road that is reliable and budget-friendly, then you should be looking to install Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) access mats. You can either choose the TerraLam® 300 CLT or the TerraLam® 500 CLT, depending on the requirements of the worksite.
TerraLam® 300 CLT Specifications:
- 3-ply cross-laminated timber
- Southern Yellow Pine
- Weight: – 1,350 lbs.
TerraLam® 500 CLT Specifications:
- 5-ply cross-laminated timber
- All layers are made from Southern Yellow Pine
- Weight: – 2,667 lbs.
Rig/Crane Mats
Rig and Crane access mats assist with transportation requirements and provide a stable foundation for heavy equipment used, such as rigs and cranes. These types of mats have a steel frame to be able to handle the increased loads of heavy machinery and prevent future breakages.
The cost of rig/crane access mats is usually more expensive than regular CLT access mats, which is why you need to be sure what type of access mats you require before placing your orders. If you’re not sure which option would be best suited for your project, contact our team of experts for more information.
Benefits of CLT Access Mats
CLT access mats are more substantial, more durable and safer than bolted matting. CLT access mats are designed to offer better performance at a lower cost as well as:
- 3-5 times the lifespan of bolted mats
- Lower shipping costs
- Solid matting tops that reduce worksite hazards
- Every mat delivered will perform to your specifications
With GFI Solutions’ access mats, you will no longer worry about damage or replacement costs. We ensure that our customers never have to pay for damaged mats or if they need to replace them. Ever!
Want To Spend Less On Access Mats?
Contact GFI Solutions to learn more about TerraLam® Products today.
Oct 12, 2021 | Access Mats, News
Need dependable swamp mat solutions that save you time, money, and offer a long-lasting lifecycle that provides superior ROI? GFI has you covered! As one of Canada’s most trusted suppliers of site access solutions, including swamp/access mats, bridges, and a wide range of support services GFI Solutions makes it easy to overcome the challenges of the Canadian landscape and seasons, all while staying on track and on budget for your project. With a vast inventory of site-safe access mats, 24/7 shipping, and delivery as well as on-site installation and more, keeping your job site safe and efficient has never been easier!
Swamp Mats at GFI
Tired of dealing with equipment constantly getting stuck in the dirt or mud, facing constant challenges due to sudden weather changes, and losing valuable time and money on the job? You need access mats! CLT access mats are one of the leading site access solutions on the market today and are designed to improve on traditional bolted mats by helping you save up to 40% on labour and equipment, and up to 60% on shipping costs. For swamp mats, rig mats, and everything site access-related, GFI Solutions is your first choice provider, Canada-wide!
Swamp Vs Access Mats
Not sure what site access solutions you need? No problem! GFI’s highly qualified team is here to help. While many of us are familiar with the popular terms “access mats” and “swamp” mats, not everyone knows that they actually refer to the same product. This is vital to know when ordering, especially if you’re looking for heavy-duty solutions that can handle oversized equipment. In this case, you’ll want to look at rig or crane mats instead.
Why the confusion where swamp and access mats are concerned?
Simply put, the use of access matting terms tends to vary regionally, particularly down south where there are marsh and swamplands that require access solutions as opposed to the issues faced here in Northern Canada.
Site Safe Access Mats At GFI
Are you ready to experience the best access matting solutions on the market? CLT access mats blow the competition out of the water, and despite being newer in the industry, have quickly become the go-to standard for major projects. Unlike traditional bolted mats, CLT mats are constructed by alternating perpendicular layers of wood and bonding them together with a special adhesive for unmatched strength and performance. This method of construction means that the mats are able to flex with each load to distribute weight evenly, resulting in increased strength and longevity. Additional benefits of site safe CLT mats include:
- High impact resistance and durability.
- 3-5 times the lifespan of bolted mats.
- Glue lamination and wax sealed on all 4 edges of the mat to make it less vulnerable to moisture and rot.
- Able to withstand the Canadian climate, all year-round.
- Solid matting top reduces tripping hazards, as well as the tired damage to vehicles.
- Lower shipping costs due to the lightweight nature of the mats (up to 60% more load capacity), and more.
Swamp Mats at GFI
GFI Solutions distributes site access products across Canada and is proud to offer a wide range of mats for every application. Our team of experts offers our customers access to 24/7 rental and sales service, as well as mat washing, installation, turnkey services, and more. Learn more about our products by contacting our team today!
May 26, 2021 | Access Mats, News
Are you in need of site-safe access matting solutions that make it possible to cross tricky landscape scenarios like swamps and uneven terrain? Tired of struggling with bolted mats that can fail under pressure? CLT access mats are the perfect way to protect your machinery, create easy transport paths to and from your site, and save on shipping. As one of Canada’s top suppliers of site-safe access mats, you can count on our team to help you find the right fit and finish for your specific application. Learn more about the benefits of CLT swamp/access mats below!
Break the Mold
It’s no secret that, for years, the site access industry loved its bolted mats. While traditional bolted products did serve a specific purpose, Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats are built to improve upon the performance of their predecessor with unparalleled results on every single job. Whether you’re looking for standard mats (or swamp mats, as they’re often called down south), or something capable of doing the heavy lifting, we have you covered. Key benefits to using swamp mats on-site include:
- Creates a solid and secure base for both workers and equipment
- Keep everything clean and dry all year round
- Protects valuable equipment from mud and other environmental stressors
- Improve traction for transport
- Remove easily, allowing you to leave without a trace
- Lightweight, making them much less expensive to ship and transport (up to 25% lighter than traditional oak mats!)
Simply put, site-safe CLT access mats have lots to offer on any job site.
GFI Solutions: Canada’s Source For Trusted Site Access Solutions
As Canada’s leading provider of site access solutions, we understand just how important cost-effective matting services are to your daily operations. That’s why we’re proud to offer 24/7 support for sales and rentals, as well as advanced site management services including inventory management, mat washing, expedited delivery installation and more. Whether you’re looking to test out the durability of CLT mats before buying or are looking to invest in your next matting purchase, we’re here to help. Contact our team today to learn more.
Nov 5, 2020 | Access Mats, News
In need of new sites access mats that are built to perform? Whether you’re in the oil & gas, petrochemical, or energy sector, there’s no doubt your job sites can benefit from reliable access solutions that allow you to conquer the Canadian wilderness and keep your project on track. Access mats, also known industry-wide as “swamp mats” are an invaluable resource that makes it easy to create makeshift roadways in less than ideal solutions to facilitate the safe transportation of materials to and from site. At GFI, we’re proud to be one of Canada’s top suppliers of CLT access/swamp mats, as well as your exclusive source for Sterling Solutions’ TerraLam® products. Our team is here to answer your many inquiries about all things access matting, including what the difference between access, swamp and rig mats are. Below we’ll talk a little bit about the main differences to be aware when choosing the right CLT product for your application. Read on to learn more!
Let’s Talk Phrasing
If you’re confused as to what the difference between access, rig, and swamp mats is, you’re not alone. In fact, one of the biggest sources of confusion amongst customers, and even professionals, is ensuring that everyone is on the same page when talking about a product. Because the matting industry tends to use all three terms interchangeably, it can be understandably difficult to figure out which is which, and more importantly, which one you need! To save you time and a few headaches, the following is a brief rundown of each category as defined by manufacturers:
Access Mats AKA Swamp Mats (commonly called Swamp Mats)
Access mats are the most widely used site access product and depending on the region you’re in, may be also referred to as a “swap mat”. Standard access mats are ideal for creating temporary roads and on-site infrastructure to facilitate the safe transportation of goods and equipment and can handle a wide range of weights.
Rig Mats
Rig mats specifically refer to any access mat designed to handle heavier loads, such as those found when handling a crane or rig. Rig mats usually feature a steel frame that reinforces the mat in order to prevent sudden breakages. As a result of these steel frames, rig mats tend to cost more, meaning that you’ll want to ensure you know exactly what you need prior to ordering to avoid sticker shock.
Why Choose CLT Mats Over Bolted Models
Created to be an innovative alternative to bolted mats, Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats have a wide range of benefits to consider. Such benefits include:
- High impact resistance and durability.
- 3-5 times the lifespan of bolted mats.
- Able to withstand the Canadian climate, all year round.
- Solid matting top reduces tripping hazards, as well as the tired damage to vehicles.
- Lower shipping costs due to the lightweight nature of the mats (25% more CLT mats can be shipped compared to bolted products per load), and more.
GFI Solutions is proud to be Canada’s only supplier of Sterling Solutions’ range of TerraLam® products, including both the 300 and 500 models mats, access bridges and more. Built from the highest quality Yellow Southern Pine wood fibres, which are up to 30% stronger than Douglas fir trees, TerraLam® CLT mats are bonded together with an environmentally friendly adhesive and distribute weight through the entire mat for superior performance. This translates to increased savings, better performance and a killer ROI that just can’t be beat.
Looking For Access Mats? GFI Solutions Is Here To Help
GFI’s team of experts is available for 24/7 support including sales and rentals all throughout Canada. Contact us now to learn more!
