When working on construction sites or event grounds, protecting the surface beneath shouldn’t be overlooked. Heavy machinery, foot traffic, and unpredictable weather can damage grass, soil or other surfaces, leading to costly repairs, project delays, or environmental degradation. Ground matting is an effective, versatile solution that ensures external ground protection, maintaining the integrity of the ground while
providing a stable, safe work surface.
Why Is Ground Matting Important?
Here are some of the key reasons why ground matting is essential for external ground protection:
- Prevents Damage to Sensitive Surfaces: Whether you're working on a grass field or a construction site, heavy equipment and constant foot traffic can cause significant damage. Ground matting creates a barrier between the equipment and the surface, distributing the load and preventing ruts, soil compaction, and damage to the grass.
- Provides Safety and Stability: Wet, uneven, or soft ground can create hazardous conditions for workers and equipment. Ground mats ensure a stable, slip-resistant surface, which reduces the risk of accidents. This is especially important in construction, where the stability of machinery and other heavy equipment is crucial for both safety and efficiency.
- Sustainability and Environmentally Friendly Solutions: Many modern ground mats are made from durable, recycled materials, making them an eco-friendly choice. Reusable and long-lasting, ground matting not only protects the environment by minimising surface damage but also reduces waste by being a sustainable, cost-effective solution.
- Versatile Applications: Ground matting is ideal for a variety of situations. Whether you're setting up for an outdoor event, creating temporary roadways at a construction site, or protecting lawns during a festival, ground mats provide reliable external ground protection. Their flexibility allows for quick installation and removal, which is a bonus for projects that require a quick turnaround.
Types of Ground Matting Available
There are various types of ground matting systems designed to meet different needs. Some common options include:
- Heavy-Duty Mats: Made from HDPE, these mats are designed to withstand up to 80 tonnes, making them ideal for construction sites and heavy equipment use.
- Pedestrian Walkway Mats: These mats are designed to create safe walking paths in areas where foot traffic is high, such as festivals, outdoor exhibitions, or public spaces.
- Interlocking Mats: Perfect for larger-scale projects, interlocking mats can be quickly and easily installed to cover large areas, providing a continuous protective surface.
The Benefits of Choosing Ground Matting for Your Next Project
Opting for ground matting as a form of external ground protection brings numerous benefits beyond just protecting the ground surface:
- Cost-Efficiency: By minimising ground damage, you avoid costly restoration work. Reusable mats also eliminate the need for constantly purchasing new materials.
- Reduced Environmental Impact: Protecting the ground means less environmental disturbance and erosion, which is crucial in ecologically sensitive areas.
- Time Savings: Installing ground mats is faster than other ground protection methods. Mats can be laid and removed swiftly, reducing project setup and breakdown times.
- Improved Site Accessibility: Ground mats improve accessibility for both people and vehicles, even in difficult weather conditions. This helps keep your project on schedule regardless of muddy or uneven ground.
Choosing the Right Ground Matting for Your Needs
When selecting ground matting, consider the following factors to ensure optimal external ground protection for your site:
- Weight and Load Requirements: Consider the type of equipment or foot traffic that will use the matting. Heavy-duty machinery will require more durable mats.
- Surface Conditions: Assess the type of ground the mats will protect, whether it's soft grass, gravel, or uneven terrain.
- Project Duration: Some mats are designed for temporary use, while others are built to last through long-term projects. Understanding the duration of your project will help you choose the most suitable matting.
At Sitepro Direct, we offer a selection of ground protection products. Below are some of our top products that ensure optimal external ground protection.
PROGUARD Heavy Duty Access Mats
Designed for construction sites, these Proguard Heavy Duty Access Mats are built to handle extreme loads and challenging ground conditions. Made from high-density polyethene (HDPE), these mats are ideal for creating temporary roadways or access paths for heavy machinery. Their design ensures durability and longevity, while the mats themselves are lightweight and easy to install.
Key Features:
- Suitable for heavy-duty machinery and vehicles
- UV-resistant and weatherproof
- Interlocking design for enhanced stability
PROGUARD Premium Ground Protection Mat
Manufactured from 100% recycled LDPE (low-density polyethene), these mats are both eco-friendly and incredibly tough. Each mat features a non-slip pattern on one side, ensuring maximum traction for vehicles and pedestrians, even in wet or uneven conditions.
Designed with practicality in mind, these Premium Proguard ground mats incorporate two lifting handles on each end, making them easy to manoeuvre and install. Additionally, they include connecting holes in all four corners, compatible with 2- and 4-way connectors as well as U Pin connectors, allowing for secure interlocking and enhanced stability across large areas. Despite their heavy-duty design, these mats weigh only 22kg each, making them lightweight and highly versatile.
Conclusion
For industries that require effective external ground protection, ground matting is an essential solution. Whether you’re working on a construction site or hosting a large outdoor event, investing in high-quality ground matting will protect both your work and the environment.
Contact us today to find the right matting system for your next project!
