Entrance mats have different features depending on where they are to be placed. They are made from different materials which have an impact on performance. For instance, mats designed to dry footwear are not suitable for outdoor use since they may become saturated with water when it rains. On the other hand, outdoor scraper mats are not effective in removing fine dirt and dust.

Outdoor Entrance Mat:

When placing entrance mats outdoors, they need to be durable and effective in all weather conditions. Typically made of rubber or PVC, outdoor entrance mats rarely have any fabric. Their main function is to remove dirt, mud, salt, sand, and grit.

The ideal choice of outdoor entrance mat will depend on the type of dirt that you need it to remove. Areas with heavy mud will require a scraper mat with a large raised tread. Areas with lots of rain will require a mat with holes, allowing water to flow away from the surface of the mat.

It’s important to consider the type of traffic that enters the entrance. For example, if there are wheelchair users or pushchairs, bevelled edges or low-profile mats are a better choice. If people are wearing high heels, the holes in the mat should not be big enough to cause a tripping hazard.

Typically, an all-rubber mat with raised scraper nubs and drainage holes is the preferred choice for an outdoor entrance mat. Rubber is a durable material that can withstand any weather condition without cracking, splitting, or curling.

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Rubber Ramp Mat Outside Double Doors

Indoor Entrance Mat:

Indoor entrance mats are often the only mats used in buildings, so it’s crucial to choose effective ones. These mats should be able to dry moisture and remove dirt, requiring a mat with both scraping and mopping or wicking action.

Typically, indoor entrance mats feature coarse fibres or a scraping tread profile to remove dirt, and a fabric top to facilitate drying. They should filter dirt away from the walking surface, preventing it from being tracked off the mat by subsequent foot traffic.

As these mats need to retain dirt and moisture, it’s important to choose a mat that is easy to clean and quick to dry. Mats made of man-made fibres, such as nylon, PET, polypropylene, or microfibre, are a good choice.

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Choosing Mats for Partially Covered Outdoor Entrances:

Choosing the right mat for a partially covered entrance can be challenging since it needs to withstand all weather conditions and effectively remove all types of dirt. The choice of mat will depend on how exposed the entrance is to the elements and the type of dirt commonly tracked into the building.

A rubber-backed mat is an ideal choice as it can resist all weather conditions and temperatures, and is less prone to splitting, cracking or curling compared to PVC mats. However, it may still be necessary to opt for a mat with drainage holes or a bi-level fabric mat that can quickly dry to avoid becoming waterlogged during rainfall. If selecting a fabric mat, ensure that it is UV-resistant and less likely to discolor when exposed to sunlight.

The mat should possess scraper properties to remove heavy dirt and be easy to clean or hose down when needed.

Mat Recommendations: Aqua Barrier, Rubber Ramp Mat

If you’re still unsure about which entrance mat is right for your business, our team of experts is here to help. Feel free to reach out to us by calling 0121 312 3222 or visiting our contact page. We’re always happy to provide personalised advice and help you find the ideal matting solution for your unique needs.