Why Choose Hardwood Over Softwood Mats?
Softwood mats come from trees like Douglas-fir, Hemlock, and Spruce-Pine-Fir (S-P-F). While softwood mats may have a lower upfront cost, they are much more prone to damage, especially when used with heavy, steel-tracked equipment. Softwood mats tend to crack, splinter, and fail under pressure, leading to high breakage rates that can exceed 12-15% annually.
In contrast, we construct our hardwood mats from dense, durable species like Oak, Hickory, Hard Maple, and Cherry. These mats handle tough conditions. They have breakage rates of only 3-5% over a year.
Unmatched Durability and Weight Capacity
Blizzard Mats designs hardwood crane mats for heavy-duty use. Steel-tracked machinery, which often destroys softwood mats, causes little to no damage to our hardwood mats. We make most of our mats from strong hardwoods like Oak and Hickory. These woods are exceptionally tough and can handle stress well.
Hardwood mats offer superior weight capacity compared to softwood alternatives. The strong structure of hardwood, especially from trees like Oak and Hickory, can support heavy machines. This includes cranes, bulldozers, and excavators without breaking.
Breakage Rates and Performance Flexibility for Long-Term Use
The allowable breakage rate depends on various factors, including the type of terrain (e.g., flat fields vs. uneven wetlands or rolling terrain), the equipment used (steel-tracked machinery or rubber-tired), and whether the mats are new or used Grade A.
For mats used for over 8 months, we account for an acceptable percentage of breakage based on these conditions:
- 8-12 months: 7-8% breakage allowed
- 13-18 months: 9-17% breakage allowed
- 18-24 months: 18-25% breakage allowed (can keep the mats)
- 25-36 months: 35-40% breakage allowed (can keep the mats)
Softwood mats struggle to support heavy loads, especially with steel-tracked equipment, making hardwood crane mats the best choice for projects requiring high-strength solutions.
At Blizzard Mats, we stand behind the quality and performance of our hardwood Access and Timber mats by allowing for breakage in these scenarios.
No Hidden Fees for Broken Mats
At Blizzard Mats, transparency is key. We have never charged our customers for broken mats, and we stand by this policy. we do not bill customers for damaged mats after completing a project. We handle breakage at no extra cost to you. We build our hardwood mats to last, and we handle any natural wear and tear with integrity.
Just as Affordable as Softwood Mats
One of the most common misconceptions is that hardwood mats are significantly more expensive than softwood alternatives. In reality, our high-quality hardwood mats are often priced lower than softwood mats due to reduced freight costs, as they are transported over shorter distances.
Additionally, hardwood mats are far more durable, with only about 3-5% breakage per year compared to 12-15% or more for softwood mats. This means our hardwood mats not only last longer but also save customers substantial costs over their lifecycle, providing exceptional value for your investment.
When you consider the low breakage rates of our hardwood timber mats, the total cost is lower. We also never charge for broken mats. This makes hardwood a better choice than softwood. Fewer replacements, fewer project delays, and no unexpected fees mean that hardwood construction mats are a smarter financial choice.
Mat Buyback Programm
Blizzard Mats provides a comprehensive buy-back program for Grade A and Grade B mats, enabling customers to return their mats after completing their projects and recover part of their investment.
Additionally, we offer disposal and remediation services for Grade C mats at a competitive cost, delivering turnkey support solutions to meet all your matting needs.
Wood Mats Grading
We partner with a third-party grader from the largest mat company in the world, a team that has graded over 1 million mats and managed hardwood mills. As part of our program, we will grade your mats for free, ensuring you receive the most accurate assessment and optimal value for your return.
On-Time Delivery Guaranteed
At Blizzard Mats, timely delivery is part of our promise to keep your project running smoothly. We work with trusted, large logistics companies. This helps us deliver your hardwood crane mats and other products on time.
This efficient system helps prevent delays that can cause expensive work stoppages. It ensures your materials are ready when your project starts.
Efficient Installation and Handling
Blizzard Mats provides comprehensive installation and handling services. Our team ensures that workers install hardwood construction mats and other products quickly.
They are ready for use as soon as they arrive. This easy process helps prevent delays and avoids extra work interruptions. This way, your project can move forward without setbacks.
Outstanding Customer Support
At Blizzard Mats, we prioritize transparency, durability, and customer satisfaction by offering a comprehensive suite of turnkey support services.
Our hardwood mats are engineered for superior performance, and we stand by our commitment to never charge for broken mats. This dedication to quality and service has earned us a trusted reputation in the industry.
- Comprehensive Turnkey Services: We handle logistics, installation, removal, grading, storage, cleaning, disposal, and more. From road and work platform designs to project management, our expert team ensures seamless execution.
- Expert Guidance: Our specialists provide tailored advice to help you choose the best hardwood mats for your project, ensuring long-lasting performance and durability.
- Real-Time Shipment Tracking: Track your deliveries in real time to ensure materials arrive on schedule, minimizing potential delays and keeping your project on track.
- Quality Assurance: With robust quality control systems and high-grade mat specifications, Blizzard Mats delivers solutions that exceed industry standards and customer expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Are hardwood mats more expensive than softwood mats?
Our hardwood mats are actually priced lower than softwood mats and experience significantly less breakage—3-5% per year compared to 12-15% or more per year for softwood. Additionally, they last longer, saving the end user substantial money over their lifecycle compared to softwood mats.
What is the main advantage of hardwood mats?
The biggest advantage of hardwood mats is their strength and durability. They have a much lower breakage rate compared to softwood mats, making them a better long-term investment. Hardwood crane mats are ideal for supporting heavy machinery and industrial equipment.
Do you provide your services all across North America?
Blizzard Mats provides delivery and environmentally friendly services across both Canada and the United States.
How reliable are your delivery times?
We guarantee timely delivery by partnering with top logistics companies. Our mats arrive on schedule, preventing delays and work interruptions.
What if I receive broken mats?
We do not charge for broken mats. Simply return the damaged mat, and we will handle the rest. Blizzard Mats has no hidden fees for mat breakage.