There are traditionally three groups of mats: Standard size mats, Modular mats and Roll mats. Each have their pros and cons depending on for what purpose and where they are used. In this blog, we explore the use of roll matting, to help you make the right decision when choosing mats for your own requirements.
Types of roll matting
Just as there are different groups of mats, there are also different types of mats within these groups. The most common types of roll mats are as follows:
- Anti-slip roll mats
Designed to help prevent slips in areas at risk of low traction, such as wet, greasy or oily areas.
- Anti-fatigue roll mats
For use in areas where workers are standing or walking on hard floors for extended periods throughout the day. Anti-fatigue roll mats provide comfort underfoot to increase productivity.
- Dust control roll mats
These include entrance / barrier roll mats, which are designed to remove dirt and water to stop it spreading further around a building. Used at entrance areas or along corridors.
- Leisure roll mats
For wet areas to provide traction or comfort, such as around swimming pools, shower areas or changing rooms for example.
Entrance roll matting designed to stop dirt and water
Why use roll matting?
As you will deduce from the various types of roll mats, there are several reasons why you would choose to use roll mats over other types of matting.
- Cover large runs
Roll mats are the ideal mat for this purpose, they can cover large runs quickly and easily. They are far more practical than putting several fixed size mats side by side, which may constitute a trip hazard. Tiles will achieve the same result, but take longer to assemble and tend to work out as a more expensive option.
- Choose your length
Roll mats can be cut to bespoke lengths, so that you get the exact length you require. They can also cover far larger lengths than most fixed size mats are able to.
- Floor protection
Roll mats are a good choice for protecting floors that may otherwise become damaged or worn, along corridors or production lines for example.
- Price
Roll mats are almost always the more cost-effective option to give you the most coverage in comparison to fixed size and modular mats.
Roll mat used along a picking line
Where to use roll matting
There are countless options for where you may wish to use roll mats, so we’ve listed some of the more common uses below:
- Production lines
- Warehousing
- Walkways and corridors
- Entrance areas
- Kitchens
- Pool side
- Shower blocks
- Changing areas
- Behind bars
- Reception desks
- Production locations
- Laboratories
- Theatres
The limitations of roll matting
Just as there are many reasons why you would want to choose roll matting, there are also times where it wont be the ideal solution. Fixed mats or modular mats may be better suited.
Roll mats are generally cut off a roll to the size you require and are unlikely to come with a factory
finished edge. The edge may not be bevelled or it may fray depending on the material it is made of. Unbevelled edges may pose a trip hazard, so you may have to go with another mat group to overcome this.
Even though roll mats can be cut to bespoke lengths, they are not so friendly when it comes to the choice of widths. Most roll mats tend to come in a fixed width of 3 foot / 91cm which is fine for most cases, but not ideal for all.
Runs must be straight without curves or kinks. Roll mats don’t tend to bend well around obstacles, so you will find they kink or lift as a result, which can cause a trip hazard. If the run is straight, then you’re good to roll.
What to do next?
Hopefully we’ve helped you understand where and why you should be using roll matting. If you require any further information or have questions which haven’t been answered in this blog, please call our matting experts on 0121 313 6748 and well be happy to help.
If you’ve decided that roll mats are the right type of mat for you, then you can see a range of roll mats on our Mats4U website here.
