Maintaining Your Ground Pro Mats: Essential Tips and Tricks for Longevity

Ground Pro Mats are designed to withstand heavy use and challenging conditions, making them an invaluable asset on construction sites, event spaces, and other high-traffic areas. However, to keep them in peak condition and maximize their lifespan, regular maintenance is essential. In this guide, we’ll cover simple yet effective tips and tricks for maintaining your Ground Pro Mats to ensure they provide reliable performance and durability for years to come.

Why Maintenance is Important for Ground Pro Mats

While Ground Pro Mats are built to be durable, repeated exposure to heavy loads, extreme weather, and various ground conditions can gradually wear them down. Proper maintenance not only preserves their structural integrity but also:

• Reduces replacement costs by extending the mat's lifespan
• Maintains a safe, non-slip surface for equipment and workers
• Prevents ground damage by ensuring mats remain stable and effective
• Supports sustainability efforts through reuse rather than frequent disposal

By following these maintenance steps, you can keep your Ground Pro Mats in top shape, making them a long-term investment in site protection.

1. Regular Cleaning for Optimal Performance

Importance of Cleaning:
Dirt, mud, and debris can build up on the mats over time, reducing traction and creating a slippery surface. Regular cleaning helps maintain the mats’ non-slip properties and prevents unnecessary wear.

How to Clean Your Ground Pro Mats:

• Basic Cleaning: After each use, rinse the mats with a hose to remove loose dirt and mud. For heavy mud buildup, use a soft-bristle brush with mild detergent to scrub the surface gently.
• Pressure Washing: For thorough cleaning, use a pressure washer on a low to moderate setting. Avoid using excessive pressure, as it can damage the mat’s surface.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Refrain from using strong chemicals or solvents, as they may degrade the mat’s material. Stick to mild, biodegradable cleaning agents for the best results.

Frequency:
Clean your mats after every project or whenever significant mud, oil, or debris accumulates on the surface.

2. Inspecting for Damage After Each Use

Why Inspection is Necessary:
Frequent inspections help you catch minor damage before it becomes severe, preventing costly repairs or replacements. Heavy loads, rough terrain, and frequent repositioning can cause small cracks, wear, or warping over time.

What to Look For:

• Cracks or Splits: Inspect the surface for any cracks or splits that may have formed from impact or heavy pressure.
• Worn Traction: Check for areas where the mat’s traction surface may be worn down, especially if used on uneven or rough terrain.
• Warping or Bowing: Look for any signs of warping or bowing, as these can reduce the mat's stability and effectiveness on flat ground.

Action Steps for Damage:

• If minor cracks or worn areas are detected, mark these spots for further inspection. Small cracks may not require immediate repair but should be monitored.
• Severe damage, such as deep cracks or extensive warping, may require replacement to ensure safe and effective ground protection.

3. Proper Storage to Prevent Deformation

Why Storage Matters:
Improper storage can lead to unnecessary wear and tear on your Ground Pro Mats, shortening their lifespan. Exposure to extreme temperatures, moisture, and sunlight can degrade the material, while incorrect stacking can cause warping.

How to Store Your Ground Pro Mats:

• Dry Storage Location: Store mats in a cool, dry area to prevent moisture buildup and UV exposure. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can weaken the material, and moisture can lead to mold or mildew.
• Stacking Mats Correctly: Stack mats flat, making sure they are aligned to prevent warping. Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the mats, as this can cause deformation.
• Cover for Extra Protection: If possible, cover the mats with a tarp or other protective cover to keep them free from dust, dirt, and moisture while in storage.

4. Rotate Mats for Even Wear

Why Rotation is Beneficial:
Using the same mats in high-traffic or high-load areas repeatedly can cause uneven wear, leading to weakened sections that may not perform as well over time. Regularly rotating your mats ensures even distribution of wear and extends the overall lifespan.

How to Rotate Your Mats:

• Identify High-Wear Areas: Observe areas where mats experience the most traffic or heaviest loads, such as entry and exit points or loading zones.
• Swap Mats Periodically: Rotate these high-wear mats with others used in lighter-duty areas after each project or periodically during long-term use.

5. Follow Manufacturer Guidelines

Why Adhering to Guidelines Matters:
Each set of Ground Pro Mats may have specific maintenance requirements based on their design and material. Following the manufacturer’s guidelines helps avoid any practices that might void warranties or reduce the mat’s effectiveness.

Where to Find Guidelines:

• Consult the user manual or installation guide for cleaning, storage, and usage recommendations tailored to your mats.
• If uncertain about any maintenance practices, contact the manufacturer for advice to ensure your mats receive the proper care.

FAQs

1. How often should I clean my Ground Pro Mats?
It’s best to clean your mats after each use, particularly if they’ve been exposed to mud, chemicals, or heavy traffic. Regular cleaning prevents buildup and maintains their non-slip properties.

2. What should I do if I notice cracks or damage on my mats?
Inspect the damage closely. Minor cracks may not require immediate action but should be monitored. For significant cracks or warping, consider replacing the mats to ensure safe and effective ground protection.

3. Can Ground Pro Mats be stored outside?
It’s recommended to store mats in a dry, shaded area when not in use. While they are built to withstand the elements during use, prolonged exposure to UV rays and moisture in storage may degrade the material.

4. Are Ground Pro Mats easy to transport?
Yes, Ground Pro Mats are relatively lightweight and designed for easy transport. However, proper stacking and securing during transport are crucial to prevent any damage.

5. Can I pressure wash my Ground Pro Mats?
Yes, pressure washing on a low to moderate setting is safe for Ground Pro Mats. Avoid using excessive pressure, as it could damage the surface texture.

Conclusion: Prolonging the Life of Your Ground Pro Mats

Maintaining your Ground Pro Mats is essential for ensuring they remain effective, safe, and durable over the long term. By following simple practices such as regular cleaning, thorough inspections, proper storage, and even wear rotation, you can maximize the lifespan and performance of your mats. Investing a little time and effort into maintenance will save you on replacement costs and help keep your project sites safe and well-protected.

Contact Us

For more information on Ground Pro Mats or guidance on their maintenance, visit Blue Gator Pro. Contact us or call us at 628-800-6287 to speak with an expert about caring for your ground protection mats.