Q: Can I special order mats?
A: Absolutely! There are many common size mats in our inventory but if you need something uncommon, we can easily build it for you. About 20% of our orders are custom, which really just means non stocking sizes. Please contact one of our sales people to assist with your special order.
Q: What type of mat do I need?
A: There are a number of types of mats including; crane, dragline, laminated, steel, and composite mats. Our product information section gives a detailed explanation for each mat. Determining which mat to use will include looking at cost, type of use and type of equipment used on the job. Please contact one of our sales people to help in your decision.
Q: What is an exposed bolt vs. cabled mat?
A: Exposed bolt mats have a section of the timber cut away (notched) to expose part of the steel rod which allows the bolt to be used as a lifting or choking point. Most timber mats are made this way. Cabling a mat allows for quick lifting in muddier situations where hooking up to a notch may be less desirable.
Q: What size bolts (rods) are used in the mat?
A: Normally on 12” mats we use standard sized rods which can range from 7/8” to 1”. Some larger 12” mats will have 1.25” rods on the lifting ends. We can also make a mat with specific rods to your specifications.
Q: What type of wood is used in your mats?
A: We produce mats across the U.S. from both hardwood and softwood. The Hardwood mats are normally made from more durable species like oak, hickory, birch or maple. Softwood mats can be made from Douglas Fir, Hemlock or Southern Yellow Pine.
A: Laminated mats are 2 or 3 ply layers made from 2” thick x 8” wide boards which are connected together with either nails or carriage bolts. The standard sizes are 8’x14’ or 16’. These are also called swamp mats, construction mats, board road mats or oilfield mats. Crane mat is a broad term designated for mats made with large timbers. Typically these timbers are 8” or 12” thick and connected with a number of steel rods through the timbers. Larger heavy equipment typically work off these mats since they are some of the most durable mats.
A: Rig mats are commonly used in the oil and gas drilling industry although the mat’s strength and durability makes them ideal for many applications. Our rig mats are made using all w6x15 steel beams (including the cross members) with wood inserts. The standard sizes are 6”x8’x30’ and 40’ and 3 or 4 beam. Many of our rig mat orders are custom, so if there is a certain size or specification you need, contact one of our experienced sales people for assistance. Click on the product information link for more details.
For more information and photos of the different types of mats, please see our more complete explanations in our product information section.
