The top 4 challenges facing architects when specifying commercial walk off mats – and how we can help
If you’re an architect, specifier, designer or facility manager, you’ll know that procuring commercial walk off mats comes with its own set of challenges. We’ve addressed four of the most common challenges below, from replacing a recessed walk off mat system to trying to source commercial entrance mats customized for your needs at the last minute.
Challenge #1: There is a height restriction due to the depth of the door mat well
In an ideal scenario, you’d choose a commercial walk-off mat that meets the functional and aesthetic requirements of your site design, and then provide construction teams with the necessary recessed area specifications.
But if you want to replace office entrance mats, or any other interior or exterior walk off mat that has failed or worn away, you’ve likely got some limitations to take into account – essentially specifying in reverse.
You’ll often have little options, as many aluminum entrance matting systems have too deep a grill to fit in an existing recessed area. Our walk off mat systems are the simple solution for restoring entrance recessed door mats. You don’t have to source custom made entrance mats to get exactly what you need: Frontrunner mats are simple to specify, order and install, despite the constraints.
From surface-mounted to recessed applications, Frontrunner fits seamlessly with all door mat well depths and contours effortlessly to the subfloor. And if you’re working with luxury vinyl tiles, carpet and ceramic, we’ve also got you covered with low profile options, meaning you don’t need to create a deeper mat well in the existing subfloor. For luxury vinyl tiles and carpet we recommend Frontrunner SB and SB+ (1/4” high) and for internal ceramic tiles we recommend our low profile Frontrunner Entry and Frontrunner Plus (13/32”).
Challenge #2: You have a niche need
Whether you’re specifying a commercial walk off mat for a building with revolving doors, or for a location with inclement weather, we love helping architects find the right mat for their niche needs.
Small entrance area? Consider Frontrunner Plus or Frontrunner SB+, as these dry and clean in one mat.
Revolving doors or curved walls? Frontrunner Plus can be cut on site quickly and easily without the need for advance templating.
Industrial location? You need a heavy-duty system, like the Frontrunner XT.
Dealing with large debris, like stones, snow and ice?Frontrunner Brush features heavy-duty brush inserts and an extra-wide, slip-resistant open grid; it also comes in a wider grid option (Frontrunner Brush Wide) should you need it.
Underfloor security tagging system? Because Frontrunner is made from PVC, it doesn’t interfere with security systems, making it an ideal choice for department stores and malls.
Trying to match stylish interiors? With over 50 style and color combinations to choose from, it's easy to build a system that suits your environment and needs.
No recessed well?You need Frontrunner SB or Frontrunner SB+. These solid-backed mats can be adhered directly to the existing floor, creating an integrated flooring solution with LVT for carpet tiles. If you are looking for walkways in areas beyond the entrance, they make an excellent walk-off mat with an integrated PVC edge.
Need commercial entrance mats with your logo? We have options to add your business branding to our Frontrunner Entry mats. Find out more here.
Challenge #3: Your deadline doesn’t align with long lead times
While the entrance is the first thing a visitor sees, it’s often one of the last things ordered. Architects and specifiers often don’t have the luxury of time because of lengthy pre-order hurdles when ordering entrance matting for new construction. These time limits require architects to search for a solution that can be ordered quickly with feasible installation as expensive commercial entrance mats that are custom-made for you won’t beat your time constraints.
Frontrunner’s short lead times, customisation options, and simple installation process stops the stress of deadlines (and unnecessary expensive custom orders). Here’s why:
Frontrunner mats are quick and easy to install, and don’t require a specialized spec.
There’s no need to leave a recess in the concrete with our surface-mounted options.
If you’re replacing a recessed door mat because your existing system is failing or no longer suits the traffic level, we have options that will slot in easily, no matter the environmental demands.
Frontrunner is designed to be cut-to-fit on site, making it perfect for entrances with angles, odd shapes, revolving doors, columns, or non-cookie-cutter specs, significantly reducing the lead time from placing an order to installation. These were the driving factors behind Selfridges luxury department stores in Birmingham and Manchester selecting Frontrunner Plus for their new commercial walk off mats – read more about that here.
Challenge #4: You’re having trouble getting relevant info to write up a spec
Architects, specifiers and facility managers come back to Plastex over and over again for commercial walk off mats for a reason.
Our dedicated team of matting experts are on deck to help with any questions or intricate enquiries. We make it simple, easy and best of all – fast – to write in the spec, order, and install attractive and effective entrance matting that suits a range of environment aesthetics.
We always have samples on hand if you need to compare colors and styles, and our comprehensive BIM library gives architects and specifiers quick access to download BIM objects in both Revit and IFC file types for all Frontrunner products.
We also have a wide range of ancillary products, and a simple to understand guide to ordering frames and dividers.
Bespoke matting solutions for every need
Our friendly team is ready to help you find the perfect solution, no matter your entrance matting challenge. Get in touch with us today.