Between high temps, dry conditions, and heavy daily use, summer can be tough on construction mats. Whether you’re using crane mats, access road panels, or laminated mats, proper seasonal care can help them last longer and perform better. A few small maintenance habits go a long way toward protecting your investment and your worksite.
Keep Them Clean
Summer tends to kick up a lot of dust, especially on busy job sites. When that dust gets trapped between mat surfaces or accumulates underfoot, it can reduce traction and conceal small issues, such as cracks or splinters. Make it a habit to sweep or rinse mats down at the end of the day, especially in high-traffic areas.
Watch for Heat Damage
Wooden mats exposed to extreme heat and sun can dry out and become brittle. This leads to splintering, warping, or cracking—none of which are good for safety or stability. If possible, store mats in shaded areas when not in use, or rotate them regularly to distribute sun exposure and wear evenly across your inventory.
Check for Warping After Storms
Sudden summer downpours can soften the ground under your mats or cause them to absorb moisture and dry unevenly. After any big storm, give your mats a once-over. Make sure they’re still level and haven’t shifted or become unstable. Let soaked mats dry out completely before stacking or storing them to prevent mold or mildew.
Rotate High-Traffic Sections
If certain areas of your site get more traffic than others, those mats will wear out faster. Consider rotating mats periodically, especially those under heavy equipment or frequently used access points. This helps keep stress and weight more evenly distributed, extending the overall life of your mats.
Inspect Often
Summer’s fast pace can make it easy to skip small inspections, but catching damage early is key. Loose boards, exposed cables, or chipped corners should be addressed immediately to prevent equipment damage or accidents.
Need mats tough enough to handle the heat? With a large inventory of hardwood crane mats, laminated mats, and job site skids available for rent 24/7, Ritter Forest Products makes it easy to get what you need—fast! If you’re unsure which mat options are right for your summer project, our team can walk you through available styles and help you choose the best fit. We’ll even talk you through rental options to keep your site safe and productive without the hassle.
Visit us online to browse our mat rentals today, and complete our contact form for more information.
