Skid steers and bobcats are used on projects of all sizes and commonly are used to move dirt, supplies and materials into areas that are difficult to access with a full size vehicle. When loading supplies across an unstable, sandy or wet substrate, tires and tracks can slip and the equipment can slide to the sides of the access way. Construction matting can be used to protect the equipment as well as the substrate below. Using GPM as skid steer mats can help make the access way more stable and prevent track slipping, rutting, spilling of materials, or even property damage. GPM also provides a layer of protection for curbs and sidewalks against direct impact from vehicles and equipment. While plywood and steel plates can also be used to provide access and stabilize the substrate, there is a tradeoff between durability and portability. Scout GPM strikes a balance between these an provides contractors a durable, water proof solution that is easy to relocate and transport to the next job.

Link to XINXINGHUAGONG

Scout Ground Protection Mats are extremely durable and lightweight. The HDPE is also free of arsenic and does not absorb water or rot. Scout matting can support up to 80 tons of weight depending on the substrate and yet can also bend to avoid cracking. The mats are embedded with a diamond pattern of nubs which provide traction to vehicles and can also be turned over to provide a pattern better suited for pedestrian traffic. Scout GPM are ideal for construction projects where small equipment such as skid steers are moving across unstable substrates and prevents soft soil from rutting. The mats are quickly assembled and linked together into any configuration needed to fit the job. With a 10+ year lifespan, the Scout Ground Protection Mats offer a significant return on investment for contractors around the world.

Ground Protection Mats vs Wood Boards

With the arrival of spring, the sound of chirping birds is joined by the sounds of outdoor construction, landscaping and tree maintenance. Regardless of the size and scope of the work, there are countless reasons for protecting the ground beneath a project as well as the equipment used to complete it.

Whether you are a contractor, landscaper or arborist, you are responsible for ensuring that your clients' property is not damaged by equipment and workers. If the job calls for heavy machinery, ground protection is crucial not only for preventing ruts in grass and turf but for keeping equipment from getting stuck in the mud.

Protecting your customers' property can save you thousands of dollars in repair and replacement costs, but using the right ground protection is the key to success. While wood is often considered the cheapest form of ground protection, it may not be the wise choice in the long run.

The Downsides of Using Wood for Ground Protection

There are a number of different options for wood mats, including softwood or hardwood and solid or laminated plywood. Plywood is the most popular form of wooden ground protection among many contractors because it is inexpensive. However, this type of ground protection may not be as economical as it first appears.

Wood Absorbs Water

For starters, the porous structure of plywood makes it prone to absorbing a lot of water. This causes mats to become heavy and weak, accelerates rotting and makes them vulnerable to bacteria, insects and rodents. Wood mats provide little to no traction, which can result in a slippery surface for equipment and workers.

Wood's Load Bearing Capacity Varies

In addition, the average load bearing capacity of plywood mats can be inconsistent from sheet to sheet due to differences in density, quality, surfaces and weather. The load capacity also deteriorates over time, contributing to a limited lifespan that results in frequent repair and replacement, increasing the cost of wood mats over time.

For more information, please visit plastic ground mats.

The Benefits of Ground Protection Mats

There are numerous benefits to using ground protection mats instead of wood.

Mats Protect and Stabilize Surfaces

These rugged mats have been developed specificallyto protect and stabilize surfaces and prevent destruction caused by heavy use. They virtually eliminate damage where vehicles cross lawns, turf, mud and swampy areas, while providing easy movement for vehicles. This makes ground protection mats ideal for a range of uses, from utility and heavy construction, tree maintenance and turf and grass care to golf courses, cemeteries or wherever ground restoration is a factor.

Mats Can Bear Hefty Loads and Provide Superior Traction

By displacing the weight of heavy machinery, ground protection mats help create a solid temporary foundation while reducing the impact of the equipment on the surface below. These mats feature a cleat design that gives vehicles the traction they need to operate efficiently and avoid getting stuck in muddy or sandy work sites.

Why Choose AlturnaMATS?

AlturnaMATS offer exceptional strength, durability and protection compared to other ground protection mats, and will save you money if you are currently using wood. Made from ½' thick recycled polyethylene, these mats bend but don't break, withstand extreme temperatures and won't rot or deteriorate. They are practically indestructible.

The performance of AlturnaMATS is far superior to plywood, providing maximum equipment traction and a load capacity designed to disperse up to 120 tons. You can build a continuous working platform or temporary roadway in minutes thanks to their easy linking system, which allows multiple ground protection mats to be connected and interlocked. Cleaning is as simple as hosing them off, and you can re-use them over and over again. The company's Lifetime Limited Warranty means you'll get the most out of your investment.

Traffic Safety Direct is an AlturnaMATS authorized dealer, so you know you are getting the real thing. Our 4'x 8' ground protection mats come in black or white, and smaller sizes are also available (call for pricing.), and fast delivery ensures you will have what you need for all of your spring projects. Order yours today!

Want more information on dura mats? Feel free to contact us.

Still have questions about why ground protection mats are better than wood boards for temporary roadways and work areas? Give us a call. Our knowledgeable sales team is happy to help.