A clean and aesthetically pleasing entrance will always leave a positive impression on the entrants. Installing Entrance Matting therefore should be a top priority. But before we discuss why the correct length of entrance matting matters, it is important to understand the fundamental reasons to use Barrier Matting.

• Firstly, an effective matting system can reduce the amount of dirt and moisture tracked into a building and increase the public safety.
• Secondly an effective matting system removes and retains dirt and moisture, therefore improving the aesthetics of the internal floorcoverings, adding a sense of longevity to the building.
• Lastly, the maintenance costs are reduced as less dirt is tracked in as a result of an effective Entrance Matting system. We understand that some buildings strive to achieve a BREEAM rating standards and by using less energy on cleaning can be one factor that can go towards this.

Now that we have a grasp of why Entrance Matting is important, it is crucial to understand the technical side of an entrance matting installation and why length matters.

Ultimately, the sole purpose of an entrance mat is to trap dirt; essentially it acts as a dustbin. When people walk over matting some wipe their feet however asking everyone to do this especially in public buildings, such as shopping centres, is practically not possible, therefore a spill off area is required. We recommend matting should cover the full width of entrance…EASY! But what about the length, what should the front to back dimensions be? Well this is dictated by a number of factors as listed below:

1. What is the volume of Traffic
2. What is the type of traffic
3. Where is the matting located (external or internal)
4. For more factors click here…

Entrance Matting Traffic

According to Entrance Flooring System Association (EFSA) traffic can be split into Low, Medium, High. Less than 80 people per hour is classed as ‘Low’ and a minimum of 3-4 metres is recommended, up to 400 people per hour is classed as ‘Medium’ and therefore 6-7 metres is recommended, if the volume of traffic is around 800 people per hour which is classed as ‘High’ a minimum of 8-10 metres of length is recommended.

Having the right length of matting can significantly reduce the number of slips and trips related accidents. Entrance Matting impacts aesthetics, safety, sustainability of the building and cost to maintain it. Having the right industry and product knowledge can go a long way in achieving all of above and enhance the building.

To make it easier we have created a handy guide on how to specify Entrance Matting, click here to download for FREE today. Alternatively, you can call our dedicated team for entrance matting requirements or questions you may have on 01425 472000.