Jun 30, 2022 | Access Mats, News
Swamp mats play a crucial role in ensuring your job site is safe, accessible and abiding by environmental standards. Access mats, also referred to as swamp mats, allow for the safe transportation of materials to and from your project site, allowing work to proceed on pace and budget. Rugged terrain, challenging weather, and remote work sites shouldn’t slow your project down. At GFI Solutions, we are proud to support our fellow Canadian businesses with safe site access solutions for any job. With a comprehensive inventory that features industry-leading access solutions, GFI is one of Canada’s leading suppliers of swamp mats and more. Learn more about the difference between a swamp and access mat and GFI’s offering of site access solutions below.
Swamp Mats or Access Mats?
You’ve likely heard of both swamp and access mats throughout the industry, but what’s the difference? Well, it’s relatively simple; swamp mats and access mats both refer to the standard matting solutions used to create temporary roadways and on-site infrastructure that allows for the safe transportation of equipment, goods, and workers. At GFI Solutions, we offer a range of access matting solutions that can handle a variety of weights, including traditional bolted mats and the premier Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats.
There is little difference between swamp mats and access mats; the only thing setting them apart is that the term swamp mats are typically a regionally specific term. In climates that are generally humid and marshy, access mats are called swamp mats; however, those same mats will be called access mats in our more northern environment. However, it is essential to note that swamp/ access mats are not the same as rig mats. Rig mats are heavy-duty access solutions used with large equipment such as excavators.
CLT Mats at GFI Solutions
Our wild Canadian landscape and weather are among the most challenging obstacles companies must face while working on their project. Sudden shifts in temperature and precipitation can make a worksite muddy and icy overnight, so moving heavy equipment can be nearly impossible. Luckily GFI Solutions has the CLT access mats you need to make your job site better to navigate and keep your project moving on time. CLT mats are designed to outperform traditional bolted mats. With a life cycle that’s 3-5 times longer than bolted mats and 25% lighter, it’s no wonder how CLT mats can save you time and money.
Swamp Mats, Access Solutions, and More at GFI
At GFI, we are proud to distribute site access solutions across Canada. As a premier distributor of Sterling Sterling Solutions’ range of TerraLam® products, including their 300 and 500 model access mats, access bridges and more, we will have the site access solutions you need. Our team of industry experts offers our clients access to 24/7 rental and sales service, mat washing, expedited delivery, turnkey services, and more. Learn more about access solutions by contacting our team today!
Feb 16, 2022 | Access Mats, News
With winter finally on its way out, it’s time to make sure that your swamp mats (more commonly referred to as access mats throughout Canada) are ready for peak construction during the summer months. Thanks to the superior strength and versatility of Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) access mats set up doesn’t need to be complicated. GFI Solutions is proud to be Canada’s leading source for site safe access mats and to assist you with all of your site access needs from delivery and installation to mat washing and storage.
Below, we’ll cover some basic tips for the upkeep of swamp mats to help extend the lifetime of your access mats and keep them in top condition from job to job. Read on to learn more!
Make the Right Selection
The number one way to ensure your mats last as long as possible is to select the right fit for the specific needs of your job site. For sites with heavy equipment or intensive hauling needs, for example, consider looking at easy duty mats like CLT 500 or 800 models that can handle the same capacity as rig or crane mats. When speaking with your dealer, be honest about the needs of your project, the condition of your job site. We’ll be able to help you find the best fit for your specific needs and advise you of any specific needs that you’ll want to keep in mind.
Installation
Choosing the right mats is key, but making sure they’re installed correctly is just as important. Mats that aren’t placed properly run a higher risk of breakages, and can lead to headaches in the long run. GFI Solutions is happy to offer onsite installation services all year round to make sure you can operate with full confidence and minimal issues!
Placement
Not unlike installation, placement plays a huge role in ensuring you get the most out of your mats. The superior performance of CLT mats hinges on the unique overlapping plank design of the timber, so making sure that these strong points are best leveraged after installation is vital for the best outcome. Your installation experts will make sure that everything is put where, and how it needs to be for success.
Monitor Vehicle Speed
One of the biggest onsite factors that can degrade your mats quickly is undue stressors like vehicle speed, especially if your fleet has chains on during the winter or other abrasive/impacting features that will put a strain on the wood. To reduce the damage caused by transport convoys, have your trucks reduce their speed and proceed carefully in areas where access matting is used; doing so will go a long way towards keeping things safe and strong.
Cleaning and Storage
Finally, once your job is complete, your next phase of maintenance should ensure that all mats are cleaned to avoid any chemical damage as well as the risk of cross-contamination. Storage will also play a part in avoiding damage from the environment, so having safe options in place should always be a priority for enhanced ROI on your swamp mat investment.
GFI Matting Solutions: Your Choice for Worksite Success
GFI Solutions is proud to offer full-scale worksite matting support, including rentals, sales, delivery, installation, and mat washing, Canada-wide. Our inventory of site safe swamp mats features both 300 and 500 series mats, the ability to customize as needed multiple sizes for all models for added convenience. In addition to a robust stock of in-demand mats, we offer 24/7 support, meaning you’ll always have access to the site access solutions you require. Contact us today to learn more!
