Rig Mat vs Access Mat – Who’s Who?

More often than not, the terms “rig mat” and “access mat” are used interchangeably along with a dozen other terms. After 19 years in business, we’ve been asked the who’s who matting question time and time again, and it’s one we love talking about! So, we thought we’d write about some of the differences.

Essentially, matting is a temporary access solution that bridges the gap between where you are and where you want to go. Whether needed for work site access, equipment stabilization, workforce safety, or environmental protection, matting is a proven winner at carrying the load. Used in industries such as oil and gas, mining, construction, and road building, there are multiple matting solutions to choose from in your search for an optimal access solution.

Despite all mats providing the same basic function, there are some fundamental differences between rig mats and access mats, so let’s dive in! What’s an access mat and what’s a rig mat?

Depending on your intended application, either access mats or rig mats are sure to be able to support your mission. When considering which mat to use, it’s important to account for the terrain you are navigating and the types of vehicles that need to pass.

Rig mats are most suitable when heavier industrial machinery needs a stable foundation to support their load or an area needs to be bridged. Made of fir and framed with steel, these mats are reinforced for the most unstable grounds and heavy equipment. They are also used to build temporary bridges over pipelines and other crossings.

Access mats (also known as mud mats, swamp mats, and construction mats), on the other hand, are better suited for oil fields, access, and construction sites. Great for temporary roadways and worksite pads, access mats are an environmentally conscious way to provide safe accessibility that’s quick to lay and easy to demobilize.

What’s unique about Paradox matting solutions?

Over the years, Paradox has tapped into a real understanding of the pain points experienced by a wide range of industries. We have designed matting solutions that are unique and capable of removing those pain points to deliver more opportunities where they are limited. Apart from standard rig and access mats, Paradox provides matting solutions that include:

• Crane Mats: large timber mats with enough strength to stabilize the ground for cranes and other industrial equipment.
• Solid Top with Solid Core Mats: 20% stronger than traditional access mats due to their solid tops.
• Pipeline Crossings: engineered to support over 120,000 lbs with fluid line inlets.
• Composite Mats: a lightweight alternative that is bolted together to create an interlocking pad. They have a higher longevity than wooden mats, reduce transport costs, and make cleaning easier.
• Rubber Mats: an environmentally sustainable option made from recycled rubber that provides high durability and good traction and conforms to the underlying surface.
• Traction Control Mats: designed with steel safety gratings, these mats provide unmatched traction for safe ascent and descent in treacherous areas.

Rig mats, access mats, crane mats, construction mats, timber mats, mud mats, or swamp mats…it doesn’t matter what you call them; that’s what our matting experts are here for. We’ll guide you through the mat selection process and help you determine the perfect matting solution for your project and your budget. Not sure if you even need matting? Give us a call at 1.877.MUD.UGLY, or check out this great resource: To Mat or Not to Mat

As the industry leader in innovative access solutions, Paradox ensures you have solid ground. From sales and rentals to installation, washing, and removal, we’ve got your access matting needs covered. Click here for a comprehensive list of our matting services, or get in touch with our Business Development Rep, Dave Klein at 780.778.0731 | Dave.Klein@paradoxaccess.com

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