Composite Mats vs Wood
Using Plywood as Ground Protection
Plywood is the most popular and cheapest form of wooden ground protection. There are a number of different options for wood mats such as softwood or hardwood, and solid or laminated plywood. They are usually used for steel tracked vehicles and the load ratings are not definitive and can vary from sheet to sheet, and the load capacity also deteriorates over time. Although plywood is a cheaper option, this type of ground protection has many downsides and are not cheaper in the long term due to their shorter life expectancy compared to polyethylene mats.
Due to the porous structure of plywood, it can absorb a lot of water, and this water absorption leads to these mats becoming heavy, weak and leads them to rot more quickly and become infested with rodents, insects, and bacteria which further increases the risks of wooden mats failing.
The average load bearing capacity of plywood mats can vary from sheet to sheet due to the differences in the density, quality, ground, weather, and overall usage conditions of the wood.
The cost over time of replacing and maintaining plywood quickly adds up with the average lifespan of plywood being very short and dependent on where and how it is used but with our ground protection mats, you can rest assured that they will last for years.
Drawbacks of Plywood
- Absorbs water/liquids which increases weight and accelerates rotting and de-lamination of ply mats
- Risk of cross-contamination from oils, chemicals, and fluids
- Very susceptible to fungi, bacteria, insects and rodents
- No traction creates an unsafe often slippery surface for equipment and personnel
- Safety hazard from splinters or debris
- Inconsistent strength properties from mat to mat
- Very limited lifespan resulting in a higher cost over time
Comparison to Mats
