First impressions matter. A quality entrance mat protects your floors, keeps your premises clean, and projects a professional image. This guide helps you choose the right entrance matting for your building.
Why Entrance Matting Is Essential
Up to 80% of dirt in a building is tracked in through the entrance. Effective entrance matting:
- Reduces cleaning costs – Traps dirt before it spreads
- Protects flooring – Prevents scratches and wear
- Improves safety – Removes moisture to prevent slips
- Enhances appearance – Creates a welcoming entrance
- Extends floor life – Reduces wear on internal flooring
The Three-Zone Matting System
For maximum effectiveness, commercial buildings should use a three-zone matting system:
Zone 1: Scraper (External)
Heavy-duty mats to remove coarse dirt and debris. Usually rubber or metal grid construction.
Recommended length: 1-2 metres
Zone 2: Scraper/Wiper (Vestibule)
Combination mats that continue to scrape while beginning to absorb moisture.
Recommended length: 2-3 metres
Zone 3: Wiper/Drier (Internal)
Absorbent mats to remove remaining moisture and fine particles.
Recommended length: 2-3 metres
Total recommended matting: 5-8 metres of coverage (12-15 steps)
Types of Entrance Mats
1. Coir Entrance Mats
Natural coconut fibre mats are excellent scrapers and highly sustainable. Perfect for external use.
Best for: Outdoor use, eco-conscious businesses, traditional aesthetics
2. Rubber Entrance Mats
Durable rubber mats with scraping ridges or bristles. Excellent for high-traffic commercial entrances.
Best for: Shops, offices, industrial entrances
3. Barrier Mats
Needle-punch or polypropylene mats that trap dirt and absorb moisture. Available in matting rolls.
Best for: Internal vestibules, reception areas
4. Deluxe/Premium Mats
High-quality mats with superior absorption and professional appearance. Often customisable with logos.
Best for: Hotels, corporate offices, prestige locations
Choosing the Right Size
- Minimum: Mat should allow 3 footsteps (approx. 1.5m)
- Recommended: Full door width plus 15cm each side
- Commercial: At least 2m depth for adequate dirt removal
Installation Options
- Surface mounted – Mat sits on existing floor (most common)
- Recessed/well mounted – Mat sits in a frame flush with floor level
- Carpet tiles – For permanent installations
Maintenance
- Vacuum or shake out daily in high-traffic areas
- Deep clean weekly with appropriate cleaner
- Rotate mats to ensure even wear
- Replace when pile is significantly worn
Our Top Picks
🚪 Best for External: Heavy Duty Coir Mat
Natural coconut fibre, excellent scraping action, sustainable choice.
🏢 Best for Commercial: Bevelled Rubber Mats
Heavy-duty, professional appearance, trip-safe bevelled edges.
Need Advice?
Browse our complete entrance matting range or contact us for a free consultation.
Free UK delivery. Logo mats and custom sizes available.
