Entrance matting and walk-off systems are fundamental for maintaining clean, safe and attractive building entrances.  

However, several issues and concerns frequently arise regarding the optimal performance and longevity of entrance matting systems (EMS). Below these concerns and how to effectively address them are explored. 

Entrance matting as priority 

Entrance matting should not be an afterthought. It is one of the first things seen when entering a building, and choosing the right product initially can save time and money, and it can also reduce waste in the long run.  

Key benefits 

• Safety: Entrance mats increase slip resistance, especially in wet weather, by drying shoes and trapping moisture and debris. 
• Cleanliness: They act as a barrier, trapping dirt and moisture at the entrance, maintaining cleaner indoor environments and improving air quality. 
• Aesthetics: Available in various designs, colours and textures, entrance mats can complement building decor while serving a practical purpose. 

Function and aesthetics 

EMS come in various forms, including roll mats, modular tiles and recessed mats. They are customisable to fit different entrance configurations and design preferences. Made from high-quality materials, these systems are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic and harsh weather conditions. 

What size is suitable? 

Aluminium construction matting systems can be customised to specifications.

Selecting the right size entrance mat can significantly impact its performance. The general guideline is that when it comes to entrance mats, bigger is better!  

This is because effective matting requires consistent foot contact. A larger mat allows for more opportunities to step on it, thereby enhancing its dirt-removing capabilities. 

Entrance matting comes in various sizes, ranging from domestic doorway widths to larger systems for expansive commercial entrances. They are also available in a variety of thicknesses, depending on the required absorbency. 

Types of EMS 

• Interlocking carpet entrance tiles offer effective dirt and moisture capture. They allow for customisable logos and are suitable for high footfall areas. 
• Robust aluminium construction systems with flexible PVC linking joints are customisable to specifications, with various surface options, including coloured carpet inserts. They are highly durable, with easy handling and installation. Suitable for heavy-duty use, fire- and slip-tested for safety. 
• Barrier matting, also known as entrance matting, provides several practical and aesthetic benefits. It creates a clean and safe entrance, enhancing the building’s image, and reduces slip accidents by scraping off moisture and debris from footwear. Barrier matting also decreases cleaning and maintenance costs by trapping dirt and moisture at the entrance, prolonging the life of interior flooring. 

Cleaning and maintenance  

One of the main issues with entrance matting, particularly interlocking tiles with “open construction”, is the difficulty in cleaning them. Dirt and debris can get trapped under the tiles, making them hard to clean and leading to snapping of the interlocking sections of the tiles when tiles are lifted. 

A solution to this is closed construction entrance matting, which prevents dirt accumulation underneath and enhances durability. This design is easier to clean and maintain, ensuring longer-lasting performance. As the only provider of this solution, COBA Africa stands out in the market by addressing this common pain point. 

Sustainability 

Reducing the demand for virgin materials and minimising the environment impact, some manufacturers produce their products using a diverse blend of waste materials. These include post-industrial and post-consumer sources such as textiles, old carpets, fishing nets and industrial scraps. 

Value in EMS 

Entrance matting and walk-off systems are essential for maintaining clean, safe and welcoming building interiors. 

By prioritising entrance matting and choosing the right products, businesses can enhance safety, cleanliness and aesthetic appeal, ultimately saving time and costs in the long run. 

Entrance matting should not be an afterthought. This article delves into common issues such as function, aesthetics, sizing, maintenance and sustainability concerns, to find the true value in EMS. 

Full acknowledgement and thanks go to COBA Africa (https://www.matting.co.za) for the information in this article.