Wondering what all the buzz is about when it comes to CLT mats as a viable solution for worksite access assistance? As an increasingly preferred alternative to traditional timber mats, cross-laminated timber mats offer superior performance as well as significant savings for project managers throughout Canada. Designed to handle even the toughest of jobs, CLT mats are depended on by professionals in the oil & gas, pipeline, and power industries to create dependable roads in rough conditions, promote safety on the job site, and minimize the damage done to the surrounding environment.
GFI Solutions is Western Canada’s leading source for access mat sales and rental, stocking the highest quality products from Sterling Solutions, including their line of TerraLam® access mats and bridges. Our team of experts partner with industrial businesses across the nation to provide exceptional services and resources, no matter the size and scale of your job. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding TerraLam® access mats.
What Are CLT Mats?
Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) mats are an engineered wood product that is created via bonding alternating perpendicular layers of wood with a special adhesive to create the finished product as opposed to the previously common bolted structure. Because of their construction, CLT mats are incredibly durable in addition to being light-weight and environmentally conscious.
Why Are TerraLam® Mats An Engineered Product?
Engineered products out-perform bolted and traditional timber mats, which are typically made up of a variety a mixed hard and softwood, with little attention being paid to lumber grade. This, in turn, results in inconsistency across mats, whereas engineered mats are reliable and uniform, with every product perform to the highest standards.
Are CLT Mat Resistant To De-lamination/Water Damage/Rot?
TerraLam® CLT mats are constructed with southern yellow pine #2 grade kiln-dried lumber, using a moisture-activated polyurethane adhesive. The wood’s existing water helps cure the adhesive, creating an exceptional bond that is resistant to cracking and peeling, as well as de-lamination. In addition, the seal used on the mats makes them water-resistant and far less likely to rot.
What Kind of Conditions Can TerraLam® Mats Handle?
TerraLam® mats have been tested successfully in temperatures as low as -70°F and as high as 150°F. While all wooden mats can be slippery in wet, muddy, and icy conditions, the solid top of TerraLam mats makes removing precipitation, mud, and dirt easy.
What Makes CLT Mats So Strong?
CLT mat strength can be attributed to the mat’s ability to flex and transfer weight through the entire unit, rather than just the location of the mechanical fasteners.
Can TerraLam® Mats Be Repaired?
Yes. Since TerraLam mats are a solid block of wood, necessary repairs can be done at less expense than with bolted mats. Repairs to bolted mats often require removing rusted or bent bolts and fragmented boards. Damaged TerraLam mats are safer on the job site than a damaged bolted mat, as a damaged CLT mat does not expose crews to puncture risks or equipment damage.
What Sizes Are Available?
TerraLam mats® are available in 3-, 5-, or 7-ply construction as follows:
- TerraLam® 300 – 8’ wide x 14’ or 16’ long
- TerraLam® 504 – 4’ wide x 16’ or 18’ long
- TerraLam® 508 – 8’ wide x 16’ or 18’ long
- TerraLam® 700 – 8’ wide x 16’ or 18’ long
Ready To Learn More?
Contact GFI Solutions today to learn more about TerraLam CLT mats, as well as our comprehensive range of related services! With 24/7 assistance available, we’re always here to help.