The Truth About Fitted Entrance Matting: Why It Often Fails and What You Can Do About It
When you step into a shop, office, or commercial building, you expect a clean and safe entrance. But have you ever noticed those yellow 'Beware Wet Floor' signs appearing right inside the doorway after a bit of rain or snow? Or perhaps you've seen loose mats scattered on the floor inside the entrance, acting as last-minute solutions to mop up excess water? This is often a sign that the fitted entrance matting in place is not doing its job properly.
Why Does Fitted Entrance Matting Often Fail?
Fitted entrance matting is supposed to be the first line of defence against dirt, moisture, and debris being tracked into a building. However, many of these systems are ineffective, and here’s why:
1. Lack of Proper Absorption
Many fitted entrance matting systems feature a combination of metal or plastic grids designed to scrape mud from shoes. While this can be effective for removing dirt, it does very little to absorb water. Some systems do incorporate absorbent materials, but these are often too thin, sparse, or made from low-quality materials that don’t soak up enough water. As a result, moisture is carried inside, creating slip hazards and increasing cleaning costs.
2. High Cost, Low Performance
One of the biggest misconceptions is that high price equals high performance. Many of these systems cost upwards of £450 per square metre, with some installations costing significantly more. However, despite the hefty price tag, they often underperform when compared to more affordable and practical alternatives. Paying more does not always guarantee better quality, particularly when the fundamental design of the matting is flawed.
3. Difficult to Repair or Replace
Another major drawback of traditional fitted entrance matting is that if one section becomes damaged or worn out, the entire system often needs to be replaced. Many of these systems have metal components running throughout, making it difficult to repair a single section without dismantling the entire installation. This not only increases maintenance costs but also means businesses must deal with unnecessary downtime and disruption.
What Are the Alternatives?
If your existing fitted entrance matting isn’t working effectively, or if you’re looking for a new solution that actually does the job, there are better options available. The key is choosing a matting system that effectively removes dirt and absorbs moisture while being durable, cost-effective, and easy to maintain.
1. High-Performance Textile Entrance Matting
Unlike traditional metal or plastic grid systems, high-performance textile entrance matting is designed with superior absorbent properties to trap moisture and dirt at the entrance. These mats can:
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Absorb water efficiently, reducing slip hazards.
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Trap dirt and debris before they spread through the building.
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Be easily cleaned and maintained, extending their lifespan.
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Fit seamlessly into existing mat wells for a sleek and professional appearance.
2. Modular Entrance Matting Systems
Modular entrance matting provides an excellent alternative because it allows for easy replacement of worn-out sections without requiring a complete overhaul. These mats are designed in tile or panel formats, making them highly adaptable for different entrance sizes and traffic levels. Key benefits include:
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The ability to replace only damaged sections, reducing long-term costs.
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Customisable configurations to fit any entrance layout.
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Excellent dirt and moisture retention properties.
3. Loose-Lay Entrance Mats
For those who do not want to commit to a fully fitted system, loose-lay entrance mats offer a highly effective and flexible solution. These mats can be placed strategically in high-traffic areas and moved as needed. Features include:
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Easy maintenance – simply remove, shake out, or vacuum.
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Heavy-duty rubber backing to prevent movement and curling.
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High moisture absorption to keep floors dry and safe.
Choosing the Right Entrance Mat for Your Needs
When selecting an entrance matting system, consider the following factors:
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Foot Traffic Volume – High-traffic areas require durable, absorbent mats that can withstand constant use.
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Weather Conditions – If your entrance is exposed to rain or snow, opt for mats with excellent water absorption properties.
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Ease of Maintenance – Choose mats that can be cleaned quickly and easily without requiring expensive replacements.
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Compliance with Safety Standards – Ensure your matting complies with workplace safety regulations to reduce slip and trip risks.
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Aesthetic Appeal – Your entrance is the first impression visitors get of your business, so choose mats that enhance the overall appearance.
The Bottom Line: Function Over Form
Fitted entrance matting should not just look good—it needs to perform effectively. If your current matting system is failing to keep your floors dry and safe, it’s time to consider alternatives that provide real results. Investing in high-quality, functional entrance matting will not only improve safety and cleanliness but also reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Need Help Finding the Right Matting Solution?
At Mats4U, we specialise in providing high-performance fitted entrance matting that actually works. Whether you need a custom-fitted solution, modular matting, or a simple yet effective loose-lay mat, we’ve got you covered. Our expert team is ready to help you find the perfect matting system for your business.
Contact us today by phoning our staff on 0121 313 6748 or email sales@mats4u.co.uk to discuss your entrance matting needs!
