Protection of Interior Flooring

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Ceramic tiles, terrazzo, granite, hardwood and marble are of the popular flooring options that are most preferred by commercial building owners. While they are a valuable investment for improving the look of your business, they can be costly to maintain and replace without the right protection. Over time, tracked in moisture and dirt causes your flooring to develop scuffs, scratches, stains, and marks.

In addition, tracked in debris can cause the deterioration of your floors over time especially if it means that your flooring is exposed to water, sand, salt, and other substances. However, using entrance matting will eliminate the damaged caused by visitors tracking dust and debris from outdoors inside. Here are some important statistics about flooring maintenance and how matting can provide floor protection in order to help extend the life of your flooring.

94% of Dirt Comes From Foot Traffic

It is shocking but 94% of the direct that enters your workplace is actually coming from the soles of shoes or tyres of wheeled traffic. As a result, you have the option to prevent dirt from coming into your business if you take the necessary steps to protect your floors with matting.

First Impressions Are Important

If you want to impress your customers and employees, you need to make sure that your business always looks like it is in top shape. By installing matting, you can ensure that your floors are clean and that they remain in good condition.

Entrance Matting Prevents Accidents

Slip and trip accidents can be very costly for businesses and can be easily avoided with the installation of quality entrance matting. This is especially important if there are wet areas in your business or areas that are prone to spills. In fact, businesses have paid out over $100 million in personal injury damages. If you want to avoid a lawsuit that could potentially devastate your business, then you need to invest in matting.

86% of the Total Costs of Commercial Flooring Is in Maintenance

From cleaning to surface protection, 86% of the costs of commercial flooring is actually in maintenance. This is because business owners must regularly pay for services to clean and protect their floors due to traffic throughout their business. With matting, installed the floors could be protected from direct contact and only the matting would need to be replaced in case of damage instead of the floor surface itself.

Given the cost of installing and maintaining commercial flooring, it only makes sense to prolong the life of your investment as much as possible. Anti-slip matting offers the best possible protection that is cost-effective and can protect your floors, as well as, your staff and customers.

Contact Allway Matting

From supply to install, from tile removing to screeding recesses, Allway will do what it takes to make your matting needs effective. To learn more about our products or to request a quote, call us on 1300 255 929 or send an email to sales@allway.com.au.

The Role of Anti-Fatigue Matting

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Yes you can increase productivity, Reduce fatigue and injury claims by simply installing anti-fatigue matting

How often have we all felt it – pain throughout the body resulting from long days working or standing in the same position.  It is known as one of the most common causes of physical fatigue in the workplace.   In fact, apart from headaches, low back pain is the largest cause of pain and physician contact in the Australia.  So what’s being done to end the pain and suffering of your workers?

Physical fatigue occurs when muscles are constricted and blood flow is reduced.   Because the heart is forced to work harder to pump blood through these constricted areas, the body runs out of energy.  The result is pain, discomfort and fatigue. Anti-fatigue mats work by increasing subtle movement of leg and calf muscles, which then promotes an easier flow of blood back to the heart.

In a formal study at the Center of Ergonomics at the University of Michigan, Ergonomist Mark Redfern concluded that different standing surfaces can have dramatic effects on physical fatigue.  The study involved fourteen subjects at the Ford Chesterfield Trim Plant who were required to stand throughout their entire shift.  A variety of floor conditions were tested, from concrete to a 11.5cm rubber anti-fatigue mat.  The results were conclusive.  Workers who were forced to stand on hard concrete floors for long periods of time suffered significant levels of fatigue and discomfort in the legs, back and throughout the body.  On the other hand, workers who stood on anti-fatigue mats were able to reduce the level of fatigue and discomfort by as much as 50%!

How do Anti-fatigue Mats Work?

Standing for long periods of time on hard floor surfaces is very uncomfortable and causes physical fatigue. Leg muscles become totally static and constricted as they work overtime to keep that person in an upright position. Blood flow is greatly reduced causing pain and discomfort.

In this situation the employees’ heart is forced to work harder to pump blood through these constricted areas and his body begins to run out of energy. However, if a person is allowed to stand on an anti-fatigue mat, his muscles will subtly contract and expand as they adjust to the flexibility of the mat.

This muscle movement increases blood-flow and increases the amount of oxygen reaching the heart. And fatigue is greatly reduced.

Allway Matting is your source for Safety Mats, Non-Slip Mats, and Anti fatigue Mats. If you don’t see the safety mat you need, call Customer Service on 1300 255 929.

How can anti-fatigue matting save you money?

We refer to the aches and pains of long term standing as Cumulative Standing Trauma (CST) – excessive stress on the spine and back muscles due to stagnant body positions or poor distribution of body weight which may cause pain and injury. Fatigue and pain caused by such long term standing is too often overlooked.  Unfortunately, workers are suffering the consequences on a daily basis.  Companies are losing literally billions each year in reduced productivity, increased worker compensation costs, higher insurance rates and absenteeism.

Since back injuries accounted for 31% of all compensable workers claims in 1994, it is important to not aggravate an existing problem or cause a new one through Cumulative Standing Trauma. CST may also lead to (1.) pronation – the extensive flattening of the foot, which results in arch and heel pain, and (2.) varicose veins caused by the stagnation of blood in lower extremities.  All of these problems can ultimately lead to long term and costly health issues. Anti-fatigue mats are designed to reduce the aggravation and injury associated with CST, thereby reducing costs.

The plight of the standing worker is very real.  The National Safety Council, in its publication “Ergonomics”, recommends the use of anti-fatigue mats, as do numerous ergonomists, industrial hygienists, occupational nurses, risk managers, and loss control agents, safety engineers and insurance companies.  Luckily, millions of workers are now benefiting from these recommendations.

The right anti-fatigue mat for the right application can go a long way towards easing the situation and creating a more productive quality driven environment.  Making a conscious effort to place employee comfort and protection as a priority will ensure healthier, happier, and more productive employees

Advantages of using carpet tile flooring

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Carpet tiles are versatile, durable and ideal for family rooms, playrooms, basements and can also be utilised for beautiful area rugs. They are also known as carpet squares or modular carpet. Modular carpets are a stylish and modern alternative to standard carpet rolls. The popularity of carpet tiles has grown rapidly during the past decade because of many reasons. Here are few advantages of installing carpet tile flooring for your home or business.

Ease of Installation

Most of the time a professional is required for installing a broadloom carpet. However, when it comes to carpet tiles anyone who is handling the project can install it by themselves. Carpet tiles can be installed or removed with ease. All you need to install a carpet tile is an adhesive or a double-sided carpet tape. You can save a lot of money by handling the installation all by yourself.

Easy to maintain

Carpet tiles are not only simple to maintain but are also extremely easy to clean as well. In case a specific area of the floor becomes damaged, only the faulty tile can be replaced without disturbing the complete flooring. Since carpet tiles do not absorb water, they are ideal for high traffic areas in both residential and commercial properties.

Eco-friendly

Most of the carpet tiles made for your home or business are made using recycled material. Hence it is an ideal option for home and business owners who want to do their bit about conserving the planet.

Endless options

With modular carpet tiles, you can mix and match various colours to create innovative floor designs. For business owners, carpet tiles are a reliable option since the tiles can be designed according to the company’s logo. Carpet tiles can add the much-needed flair to your family room or make your kid’s playroom colorful and creative.

Maintains indoor air quality

Indoor air quality can be a huge concern and have an impact on your overall health, comfort, productivity, and wellness. Carpet tiles are manufactured with recycled materials that don’t contain toxic, petroleum-based chemicals. The dust-capturing feature of the carpet tiles helps in improving the air quality.

Great variety to choose from

Apart from being available in an extensive selection of colours and styles, you can create your own carpet tile design by combining different tile patterns together. Off late, carpet tiles have been in the trend mostly for their aesthetic appeal.

MatTek/ AllwayMatting is your one-stop destination for high-quality carpet tiles and wool rugs. To find out more about how carpet tile flooring will save your money and time, give us a call at 1300 365 012

An Overview of Pool and Shower Mats

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There’s nothing more relaxing than a shower after a hard day’s work. And who doesn’t look forward to a swim in the pool on a day off? Most people enjoy being near the water. However, very few actually take safety precautions in these places seriously.

What is so risky about entering and exiting a pool, you may ask. You probably never considered any risk here. Similarly, going for a shower or leaving one were never considered unsafe. However, these are two situations when a slip or fall could result in serious injuries.

Pool and shower mats can help avert slips and falls and are conveniently used in homes, hotels and in outdoor recreation facilities.

Why Use Pool and Shower Mats?

Pool and shower mats that can be used around swimming pools and in bathtubs are made from PVC, rubber or fabric. Pools mats made from heavy-duty PVC loop are frequently used in change rooms, on ramps, near bathtubs apart from around the swimming pool. Basically, any place that can have people slipping or falling due to water spills needs a pool or shower mat.

PVC loop mats have a flexible, spaghetti-like surface. The PVC loop is made from PVC filaments that are resistant to UV. The surface is resistant to many types of chemicals. Water and dirt can easily flow through the mat. The mat is easy to clean and the buoyant surface of the mat offers comfort to bare feet.

How to Keep Your Pool and Shower Mat Clean?

The best part about the PVC loop pool and shower mats is that they are extremely easy to clean. The water and dirt within the mat can be drained away easily. You can also clean them by simply shaking them out.

For intense cleaning, you can use some mild detergent and a low-pressure hose.

Rubber and fabric shower mats can be cleaned in the bathtub or you may clean them in the washing machine.

Customise Your Shower Mat

Looking for a shower mat that matches your bathroom or pool decor? It is not hard to find customised shower mats that are available in colours, sizes and shapes of your choice.

Talk to us at Allway Matting for the best quality pool and shower mats. We can also customise for hotels, recreation areas and homes.

Simple yet Functional

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Entrance mats are a simple way to halt dirt and grime at your entrance. They are simple and are available in functional designs. Without mats, dirt gets trapped in the buildings. Trapped dirt later cause scratches and damaged floors. Foot traffic further agitates the dirt and spreads it throughout the property. This dirt can later settle anywhere in the air ducts as well as the blinds.

Entrance mats present inside and outside your entrance serves as immediate defense for bad weather conditions. For example, inclement weather might quickly make your marble flooring subject to falls and slips. Slippery conditions are potential liabilities. Although an open marble lobby looks stunning, safety comes first.

Allway Matting can help you with Entrance Mats

At Allway Matting, we have a wide range of Entrance mats to match up to your specific needs. If you have any queries, get in touch with us today.
You can call our customer friendly team at 1300 255 929 or fax us at 1300 255 930. Alternatively, you could drop us a message or send us a query at: sales@allway.com.au.
You could also visit our head office at: 14 Sydney Rd, Bayswater, VIC 3153. The Allway Matting team will be glad to assist you with our complimentary technical advice and product sample services.

Reasons to consider a wool rug for your building

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By adding a wool rug to your building, you get to enjoy a wide array of benefits. Apart from adding the element of style, rugs also deliver multiple functional advantages. It is important to determine what rug material suits your building the most.

Rugs made of wool makes an ideal option for your building because they are extremely durable and soft. A wool area rug can completely change the decor and ambience of your building.

What are the properties of wool which make it the most preferred rug material?

A healthy rug option

Wool is a non-allergic, hygienic and natural material. It keeps your bedroom free from bacterial growth and dust mites. This makes wool rugs an amazing option for people suffering from asthma. As an added advantage, wool rug provide you with the much-needed grip which is very crucial for things like balancing, for maintaining good posture and to prevent accidents happening.

Naturally flame resistant

Wool carpets are naturally flame resistant and if it does come in contact with fire, it has the ability to self-extinguish itself. Wool rug’s fire resistant attributes include:

  • Does not ignite easily because it has a very high ignition temperature of 570-600° C.
  • A low heat of combustion (the measure of the amount of heat energy released in the burning process)
  • Does not melt or stick while burning
  • Low flame-spread

Long-lasting

Apart from being highly durable, wool rugs maintain its luxurious look for many years. Due to its natural strength, it is capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic and is resistant to stains too. The wool rug is an excellent choice to elevate the look and feel of your building.

Eco-friendly

Since wool rugs are biodegradable and can be recycled, it will never turn out to be as waste in long run! Even when the wool rugs turn out to be pretty old it need not contribute to the landfill, it can be recycled and used as several other products.

Strength

The chemical structure of wool renders the fiber amazing flexibility and strength. Hence the fiber can be compressed or stretched very easily and reverts to its original shape with ease. Hence wool rugs look exceptionally good for a longer duration.

Wool rugs are stylish, sustainable, authentic, energy efficient, easy to clean and safe for you and your customers. The only way to enjoy the benefits of wool rugs is by experiencing it. Its resilient feature helps in easy recovery from crushes and stains caused by footsteps or furniture. Wool rugs are a beautiful combination of beauty and functionality. Wool rugs are available in a wide range of styles, patterns, colours, and designs.

AllwayMatting offers you a fantastic collection of wool rugs. Feel free to call us at 1300 255 929 for any additional questions you have.

Quality Restroom Mats to Keep Facilities Cleaner

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Matting (rubber, foam, acrylic, etc.) is commercially available for safe, domestic and office use with a high brand-equity value among all types of citizens and corporate employees. These mats are manufactured with exclusive compliance to the requirements of Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). Depending upon the application, a specific quality of these mats can be procured and utilized for the purpose. Salient applications of these mats are given below.

Bathrooms

Bathrooms are usually constructed with smooth flooring and tiled walls. Being frequently used both at the domestic and office environment, they are prone to accumulation of algae and fungi. These contribute to a slippery area. Apart from this, they are a fresh breeding ground for bacteria to incubate and multiply. This situation leads to infection for human beings and domestic animals as well. Hence, hygiene has to be taken care of in these premises.

Antimicrobial treated-mats ensure absence of algae and fungi and related bacteria. Apart from hygiene, these mats provide high safety for the users from slip and fall and consequent injury. This is especially relevant to business owners and corporate groups as they are responsible for the safety of the workers during office hours. This is achieved because the rubber protrusions of these mats grip to the floor and enable firm flooring for safe use, free from hazards. This is particularly so, as the area remains wet owing to repeated use of water. Hence, such mats are suitable for wet area.

Restrooms

Restrooms are provided with a variety of facilities such as wash basin, commodes and urinals. The maintenance of these restrooms has been done traditionally by frequent washing and use of disinfectants. However, this method involves frequent human labour and temporary shutdown causing inconvenience to urgent users. Restroom mats are a replacement for overcoming these disadvantages. The EPA- approved high-quality mats can be used under wash basin, urinals and within toilets surrounding the commode area. They are eco-friendly good absorbents. The holes in the wet-step mat provide for easy draining of water and provide slip-resistant features.

In recent times, disposables are preferred both for domestic and office use in view of their easy availability as cheap products in bulk quantities. Disposable urinal mats come under this category, providing anti-septic and anti-microbial environment for the users. Apart from this, launderable mats are also available with poly-propylene matrix which facilitates rapid water evaporation. Features such as attractive fabric borders and rounded corners add décor to the interiors.

Hygienic environment in bathrooms and rest rooms are a delight to the users. Maintenance of good health is top priority of individual families and corporate giants as the medical cost for treatment of infection and injury is stupendous. The use of matting supplied by professional manufacturers supports brand equity concept and ensures uniform quality assurance. This adds to the confidence of the employees and benefits the Management in terms of productivity. The use of mats ensures minimal use of water preventing odour and erosion. Sanitation as an important aspect of living is emphasized.

Difference between PVC and Rubber Backed mats

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We are often asked the difference between PVC and rubber backed entry mats. At every possible opportunity we would encourage customers to use rubber backed entry mats for a number of reasons. We have put together this guide on the major differences and the benefits of rubber backing over PVC backed entry mats. 

Appearance and material descriptions

Rubber backed and PVC backed entry mats will appear very similiar to the eye, However, don’t be fooled by descriptions as many companies will claim and list their products as rubber in the description but if you look at the product description in more detail, the product material is in fact plastic.

PVC backed mats leave gaps making them look old and worn quickly

Cost

An important point is that rubber backed entry mats will be a more expensive then a PVC backed entry mat. However the cost difference will soon pay itself of as you will get up to 4 times the life period out of rubber then you would with PVC backed mats. Rubber backed entry matting is far superior endurance and resilience over PVC backed mats making this product more economical over time. PVC backed matting, although cheaper, is not as hard wearing and will cost more than rubber backing in terms of durability and replacement over its lifetime.

Durability and resilience of rubber backed entry mats

Rubber backed matting is chosen by all types of industries and commercial sectors because it is tough and strong and seen as a good investment. Rubber resists most impacts and circumstances. It is anti-tear, resistant to oil, chemicals and cigarettes. It does not rot or decay. It can withstand heavy impacts, scrapes and bumps. It doesn’t shrink expand or crack. Its highly resilient properties mean that rubber backing retains its appearance for a long time. Rubber is also safer to use because it remains anti-slip and isn’t subject to wear and tear which would cause the flooring to be unsafe.

PVC backing in comparison has little or no resilience and therefore does not have the same durability as rubber flooring.

PVC backed Mats shrink

Noise insulation

Another benefit and quality of rubber backed entry mats over PVC backing is that rubber absorbs sounds and noise. Sound in buildings and on walkways is deadened by using rubber backing and it is ideal in environments with heavy foot traffic such as libraries, offices, retail premises and schools.

Rubber’s safety

Another priority for our customers is when it comes to safety. Rubber backing holds a number of significant and important safety properties that PVC backing does not.

Rubber backing is waterproof, and even when it’s wet it is naturally slip-resistant. Because rubber is also flame resistant and has low smoke emission in the event of a fire, rubber is used in high risk areas in buildings such as fire escapes. Rubber is non-toxic and will not release noxious fumes into the air.

Environmentally friendly

Being eco-friendly and recycling responsibility is equally important and with this in mind rubber backing is far more environmentally friendly than PVC flooring when it comes to its environmental impact.

Rubber is not toxic or hazardous. PVC can contain toxic bi-products and contains toxic additives that can contribute to illnesses and allergies as well as causing a health hazard. PVC is also a high pollutant because it contains heavy metal content and chemical additives and it can also leak chlorine and carcinogens. Softeners known as phthalates can leak out of PVC floors when they are washed or can be emitted into the air and attach to dust causing airborne distribution.

Rubber is easily recycled by shredding or shredding and then processed. Rubber flooring and matting can also be made of up to 80% recycled rubber and contains no harmful substances to the environment.

So there you have it. We hope this guide has helped you to understand the important and beneficial differences between rubber backing and PVC backing.

One of our most common Rubber backed entry mat.

Premium Scraper / Entrano Rollstock Edged

Different Types of Entry Matting

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Are you considering installing walkoff mats in your business? Here are the reasons why you need walkoff mats and how they can help save you money.

Visitors Make Your Floors Dirty

According to research, 70% to 80% of dust, dirt, and grime is tracked indoors from visitors to your business. This means that there could be permanent damage to your floors if you do not do anything to keep this debris off your floors.

While cleaning can reduce the damage, it is better not to have it tracked into your business in the first place. Instead, use walkoff mats to trap the dirt and liquids before they reach your floors.

Cleaning Costs Increase Without Walkoff Mats

It is estimated that the cost of removing a 0.5 kilogram of dirt from a building can costs nearly $800 in cleaning costs. In fact, it takes just 150 people entering your workplace to track in a pound of dirt during a 5 day work week. That means that you will end up spending tens of thousands of dollars every year just to keep your floors clean without walkoff mats.

Carpets Accumulate Dirt Quickly

Some business owners opt to install carpet in order to protect their concrete floors from damage caused by dirt and liquids. Unfortunately, this is not really a cost-effective solution because one square metre of carpet can accumulate nearly a kilogram of dirt in just one week.

Under wet conditions, this figure climbs to twice that. As a result, you will end up spending a considerable amount of money on cleaning your carpets. In high traffic areas, you may even have to replace the carpet more often than advertised by the carpet manufacturer’s warranty.

Walkoff Mats Keep Your Business Clean

Walkoff mats are the most effective way of stopping dirt and moisture at your entranceways, while helping to keep your building maintenance costs to a minimum and your floors in top condition. They are also effective for internal use in high traffic areas, including office hallways, kitchens, freight elevator entrances, and factory entrances.

With branded walkoff mats you can convey a positive image for your business to employees and customers by showing that you care about their safety as well as the overall appearance and cleanliness of your facility.

Contact MatTek

From supply to install, from tile removing to screeding recesses, Allway will do what it takes to make your matting needs effective. To learn more about our products or to request a quote, call us on 1300 255 929 or send an email to sales@allway.com.au.

Allway Matting & Flooring becomes MatTek

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Allway Matting & Flooring has now merged with MatTek. MatTek is the Australian manufacturer and wholesaler of commercial and industrial matting.

This acquisition gives our loyal Allway customers access to the largest range of mats in Australia, as well as customised solutions produced in house with the fastest turnaround times, all backed by the highest level of service that only a passionate family business can offer.


About MatTek
MatTek was founded in 1972 and is still 100% owned and managed by the founding family. We are a 100% owned third generation family business. It is our commitment to having core products in stock, tailor making effecting solutions to customers exact requirements in house and sourcing raw materials from the most suitable sources around the globe that has positioned MatTek as the first choice in mats and matting throughout Australia.


Our Bayswater warehouse will now become the Victorian office and warehouse for MatTek, our best-selling products will be available for pick up from here and all other items will be available for same day despatch from our Sydney factory.


Allway Matting & Flooring will rebrand as MatTek. This transition will occur over three months.


We are looking forward to strengthening our relationship together. Enjoy our expanded product range, backed by our passionate trained team that go the extra mile.


Should you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact MatTek on 1300 365 012, sales@mattek.com.au or online www.mattek.com.au.

What logo mat is best for my building?

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With products and materials changing constantly to keep up with the demands of life and branding it is important to make sure you choose the right logo mat to suit your area.

MatTek try to keep it simple by providing our customers with 2 categories.

Printed Motif Mats

  1. Great for promotions
  2. Unlimited colours
  3. Moisture absorption
  4. No extra cost for larger prints

Printed logo mats are firstly used for a superior, attractive and colourful finish to promote brand awareness. Secondly they are used to absorb moisture and act as a dirt barrier to the internal building.

Precision Cut Logo mats

  1. For high traffic areas
  2. Eye catching and functional
  3. Fantastic dirt and moisture retention
  4. Large format options.

Unlike a traditional ‘printed’ Logo Mat, precision inlaid logo mats are even suitable for busy entrances, meaning they not only look fabulous, but are functional too. These mats are used firstly for absorbing moisture and dirt and secondly to enhance your entry with colour and brand awareness. These are perfect for high traffic areas.

Contact MatTek

Call us on 1300 255 929 or contact to discuss your project