A building’s Entrance Matting System plays a key role in creating an inviting and safe environment for the users. The majority of dirt that enters a building is brought in on the soles of shoes and tyres of wheeled traffic. This can make interiors look dirty and unattractive and cause damage to interior floor finishes. This is where an effective Entrance Matting system can reduce the ingress of dirt and moisture in the building. But how do we assess the cost of Entrance Matting?

The true cost of entrance matting can be assessed in two different ways; its monetary value and the value gained as a result of installing Entrance Matting. Let’s talk about the second bit of that statement – “the value gained as a result of installing Entrance Matting”. A badly installed or a faulty Entrance Matting system can often do more bad than good as it might not stop all the dirt or moisture being trafficked into the building. This simple fault can have drastic consequences and create unnecessary health and safety hazards. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) estimate that slip, trip and fall injuries cost the UK approximately 1 billion pounds per year (HSE.gov.uk). Dirty and wet floors are a major cause of slips and trips and it only takes one occupant to slip and file a case against the building owners and create a negative impact. The cost therefore is the amount it takes to settle the case or pay compensation. The lack of entrance Matting can also mean your cleaning expenses are increased. As few as 150 people entering a facility can track almost half a kilo of dirt in a 5-day work week – costing over £30,000 annually to remove! (solutions.3m.co.uk) This is where Entrance Matting plays a vital role in removing up to 80 percent of dirt and debris and prevent it from entering the building. Additional benefits of a proper Entrance Matting also include: improved air quality by removing dust particles that may otherwise enter the building, and improved aesthetics.

Let’s look at the first bit of the statement “The true cost of entrance matting can be assessed in two different ways; its monetary value”. Different situations will require different options of matting construction. INTRAform Double Module for example is one product which carries superior moisture absorption capabilities, it’s cost will be determined by the square meterage, inserts used and the frame its manufactured from. E.g. using state of the art INTRAlux elite inserts will likely increase costs but be highly effective at retaining dirt and moisture. In areas where dirt and grit are a common problem, products such as INTRAbrush, a flagship zone one matting system can be installed. Its cost will vary as it is manufactured using the highest quality recycled PVC. Similarly, INTRAflex XT not only offers superior performance but stunning visual appearance. Once again, the inserts and the type of construction will determine the cost.

Ultimately, choosing to invest in proper entrance matting will not only keep the costs of your building maintenance down but also help in the long run in reducing slips and trips and any legal cases that come your way! With the safety of the occupants at stake, there is no room for any error.