What types of entrance matting are there?

The main types are: scraper mats (aggressive surface to remove heavy dirt and mud), barrier mats (fabric or coir surface to absorb moisture and fine dust), combination mats (scraper plus absorbent layers), and recessed well systems (aluminium or nylon inserts fitted into a floor recess). For heavy commercial use, a scraper-then-barrier matting zone is most effective.

How long should an entrance matting system be?

For effective contamination control, entrance matting should extend a minimum of 4 to 6 metres (approximately 8 to 12 walking steps) from the building entrance. Short mats of 1 to 2 metres only partially clean footwear. The HSE recommends matting of sufficient length that both feet contact the mat surface at least twice during entry.

What is the best entrance matting for commercial buildings?

For high-traffic commercial buildings, a two-zone system works best: a heavy-duty rubber scraper mat (6 to 12mm) immediately outside or at the threshold, followed by a 2 to 3 metre absorbent barrier mat inside. Aluminium recessed well systems with nylon or rubber inserts provide the most durable solution for high-footfall lobbies.

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What Is Entrance Matting? Types, Standards and UK Complete Guide 2026

Q: Why is entrance matting important?

Entrance matting is important because up to 80% of the dirt in any building enters on the soles of shoes. Without effective matting, this dirt is tracked onto internal floors - damaging surface finishes, increasing cleaning frequency, and creating slip hazards. Entrance mats also reduce moisture ingress, preventing wet floors that cause slips and water damage.

Jun 05, 2026by Rubberco Flooring Experts

What Is Entrance Matting?

Entrance matting is specialist flooring installed at building entrances to trap dirt, moisture and debris from footwear before it is tracked inside. An effective entrance matting system removes up to 85% of dirt and moisture within the first 4 to 6 metres of entry, significantly reducing cleaning costs, floor damage, and slip hazards on internal floors. It is a requirement of good building management practice and is recommended by the HSE for all premises where wet or contaminated footwear is likely.

Why Is Entrance Matting Important?

Research consistently shows that up to 80% of the dirt in any building enters on the soles of shoes. Without effective entrance matting:

Dirt and grit are tracked onto internal floor finishes, causing premature wear and scratching
Moisture from rain is carried inside, creating wet floors and slip hazards
Cleaning costs increase significantly
Hard floor surfaces (tiles, vinyl, polished concrete) require more frequent mopping and maintenance

Effective entrance matting is one of the most cost-effective investments in building maintenance, with payback typically measured in reduced cleaning costs within 12 months.

Types of Entrance Matting

Rubber Scraper Mats

Heavy-duty rubber mats with an aggressive ribbed, studded or brush surface designed to mechanically scrape mud, grit and debris from the soles of shoes. Typically 6mm to 12mm thick. Best positioned immediately outside the entrance door or in a recessed door threshold. Highly durable, weatherproof, and suitable for outdoor or semi-outdoor positioning.

Barrier Mats (Absorbent)

Fabric-topped mats with a rubber backing, designed to absorb moisture and capture fine dust particles that pass through the scraper zone. Positioned immediately inside the entrance door. Available in carpet-tile style (easy replacement of worn sections), printed logo mats (brand identity at reception), and heavy-duty polypropylene for maximum moisture absorption.

Combination Scraper-Barrier Mats

Mats that combine a rubber scraper surface with an absorbent insert in one product. Suitable for single-mat positions at smaller entrances where space does not allow a two-zone system. Less effective than a dedicated two-zone approach but provides a practical compromise for limited-space entrances.

Recessed Well Matting Systems

Aluminium framework fitted into a recess cut into the floor level with the surrounding surface. Inserts can be nylon brush, rubber studded, or aluminium ribbed. The recessed system is the most durable solution for high-footfall commercial lobbies, hotels, public buildings, and transport hubs. Inserts can be removed and cleaned or replaced without disrupting the frame.

Entrance Matting Zone Dimensions

The HSE recommends matting sufficient for both feet to contact the mat surface at least twice during entry. Minimum recommended dimensions:

Building Type	Recommended Total Matting Length	Zone Configuration
Small office or retail (under 20 staff)	2 to 3 metres	Single combination mat
Medium commercial building	4 to 5 metres	1m scraper + 3m barrier
Large commercial or public building	6 metres minimum	2m scraper + 4m barrier
Transport hub or high-footfall retail	6+ metres	Recessed system plus barrier
Care homes or NHS premises	4 to 6 metres	Focus on moisture absorption and slip safety

Entrance Matting and UK Regulations

Entrance matting is not mandated by a single piece of UK legislation, but is strongly implied by several:

Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 - require employers to keep workplaces and routes to them safe and free from hazards, including wet floors
Equality Act 2010 - entrances must be accessible; uneven or loose mats can be a hazard for wheelchair users and those with mobility impairments
Building Regulations Part M - requires accessible and safe entrances in new build and major refurbishment

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between entrance matting and anti-fatigue matting?

Entrance matting is designed for contamination control at building entrances - its primary function is scraping and absorbing dirt and moisture from footwear. Anti-fatigue matting is designed for standing comfort - its primary function is cushioning and reducing physical strain for workers who stand for long periods. They are different products with different specifications, though some entrance mats have anti-fatigue properties as a secondary benefit.

How often should entrance mats be cleaned?

Rubber scraper mats: shake or hose down weekly, pressure wash monthly. Barrier or carpet mats: vacuum daily in high-traffic areas, deep clean or launder monthly. All mats: inspect weekly for wear and replace when the surface no longer provides effective scraping or absorption.

Can rubber entrance mats be used outdoors?

SBR rubber entrance mats are suitable for sheltered outdoor positions (under canopies, in recessed door thresholds). For fully exposed outdoor positions in direct sunlight, specify EPDM rubber compound which is UV-stable and will not crack or degrade from sun exposure. SBR rubber will degrade outdoors within 1 to 3 years.

How do I choose the right size entrance mat?

The mat should be at least as wide as the door opening (typically 800mm to 1200mm) and at least 1 metre deep. For optimal performance, extend depth to cover 4 to 6 paces (1.5m to 3m). Always ensure the mat is recessed or has bevelled edges to prevent a tripping hazard at the mat perimeter.

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What Is Entrance Matting? Types, Standards and UK Complete Guide 2026

What Is Entrance Matting?

Why Is Entrance Matting Important?