Frequently Asked Questions

What are GroundGuards’ mats made from?
Most of our ground protection mats are made from recycled High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) which is extremely strong and lightweight. Some from our lighter duty range are made from Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE). The FastCover range of mats are made from recycled PVC.

Are they environmentally friendly?
Yes, most of our mats are made from 100% recycled plastic and all are fully recyclable at their end-life.

What are GroundGuards’ mats used for?
Our range of ground protection mats can be used to create temporary car parks and roadways, walkways, trackways, access roads, haul roads, compound areas, tree root protection, grass reinforcement, driveway matting, ground cover, motorhome parking and much more.

How do I determine which mat system I should be using?
We have a range of light, medium and heavy duty matting solutions. Our specialists will be happy to discuss your project and advise on the best product to suit your needs. Considerations will include the duration of your project, the size and type of vehicles using the mats, the frequency of traffic, the load-bearing capacity of the ground, and the need for portability and reusability.

How do the mats join together?
Our mats are designed to connect together quickly and simply. Depending on the product, connection methods include shoulder bolts, interlocking flanges or joining clips.

How much do the mats weigh?
We have mats in all shapes and sizes. Our lightest duty mat weighs 14kg, our heaviest 350kg. Our most popular mats, MaxiTrack and MultiTrack, weigh 40kg and 39kg respectively.

How much weight can I put on the mats?
As with all ground protection mats, the support they provide is dependent on the firmness of the ground they are standing on. The website shows two loadings per product: “Comfortable” which is the loading that the mats will comfortably take in normal situations, and “With Caution” which is the loading that may be used for short term or single-use access, providing ground conditions are suitable. In all cases, if you have any questions, please just call us on +44 (0)113 267 6000 to discuss.

Can I use mats to cross a trench?
GroundGuards’ mats are not designed for bridging purposes. We have specialist trench cover products, TrenchGuard and TrenchPlate, designed for this specific purpose.

Are plastic mats prone to cracking or bending?
All plastic mats will flex to follow ground contours. However due to the exceptionally high grade of HDPE used in our premium mats, they are guaranteed against cracking or breaking.

Are your mats suitable for steel tracked vehicles?
Not all of them. We have a limited range that are suitable for steel tracks. Please call our friendly customer service team on +44 (0)113 267 6000 for specific information about this.

Do I need to hire a hiab or lifting machine?
Our mats are extremely lightweight, weighing between 14kg and 40kg, so they are easy for one or two workers to manoeuvre by hand without the need or specialist lifting equipment. The exception is the heavy duty XtremMat range. This requires special lifting equipment which we have available.

Do you offer a Buy Back service?
Yes we will buy back second hand MultiTrack and MaxiTrack mats at very competitive rates, at three different condition points. This works out very cost effective for longer term projects, when compared to hiring. Please call our friendly customer service team on +44 (0)113 267 6000 for specific information about this.

Are your mats available for purchase as well as hire?
Yes GroundGuards’ mats are available to purchase or hire.

Do you deliver nationally?
Yes we deliver across the UK and aim for a 24 hour service.

Do you offer an international service?
Yes GroundGuards is a global business and we deliver solutions world-wide.

What’s the best way of cleaning plastic mats?
Pressure washing with cold water is all that is needed. For hire companies processing large quantities of mats we can offer automated washing plants.

What is the expected lifespan of your mats?
Our mats are designed for longevity with a typical lifespan of up to 10 years or more, depending on frequency and type of use.

Do you do site visits?
Yes. Please call our friendly customer service team on +44 (0)113 267 6000 for specific information about this.

Do you offer an installation service?
Yes. Please contact us with your postcode and we’ll recommend a local third party installer.

Can I get a product sample?
Yes we can send you a free sample of any GroundGuards’ products upon request.

At what point does it become cheaper to purchase rather than hire?
If your project is for a few months then we would recommend purchase with our Buy Back option.

I have a tool hire shop with a small yard, how do I store mats efficiently?
Our SafeStore Stillages are the ideal way to store and transport mats safely and efficiently. Up to 25 mats can be stored in one stillage. To save space, stillages can also be stacked vertically up to six layers high on firm level ground.

What quality controls are your stillages rated to?
Our SafeStore Stillages are independently certified for loading and stacking.

Can your mats be used for tree root protection?
Yes we have several mats in our range that are suitable for tree root protection and will satisfy arboricultural requirements. Please call us on +44 (0)113 267 6000 for advice.

Do I need to prepare the surface that mats are to be laid on?
Your site may require some preparation if the ground is in poor condition. Please send us site photos, or ask for a site visit.

What other support can GroundGuards offer me?
Our comprehensive after-sales support package includes free site visits, expert consultation, product samples, team training, marketing support and access to online resources.