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Wet Area Matting Terms Glossary

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Welcome to the First Mats glossary on Wet Area Matting, a complete resource for understanding the various terms and concepts associated with matting in wet environments. As a leading provider of high-quality wet area matting in the UK, First Mats is committed to helping businesses and public facilities maintain safe, hygienic, and comfortable spaces with our range of matting products.

Wet area matting is crucial for ensuring slip resistance, comfort, and hygiene in locations exposed to water, such as swimming pools, changing rooms, shower areas, and Wudu (Ablution) areas. This glossary is designed to provide clear and concise definitions of key terms, equipping you with the knowledge required to choose the best matting for your specific needs.

Whether you are new to wet area matting or seeking to expand your knowledge, this glossary covers a wide range of topics, including materials, drainage systems, key features, and relevant safety standards. Our goal is to support you in creating safer and cleaner environments with effective matting.

Explore the terms below to gain a deeper understanding of wet area matting, and do not hesitate to contact our team at First Mats for further guidance or questions.

Antibacterial Coating

A treatment applied to matting to prevent the growth of bacteria, helping to maintain a hygienic surface in wet areas.

Barefoot Comfort

Matting designed to provide a comfortable surface for barefoot users, commonly used around pools, showers, and changing rooms.

BS EN 13552 (Slip Resistance Standard)

A British Standard specifying the slip resistance requirements for surfaces, including wet area matting.

Chemical Resistance

The ability of matting to withstand exposure to cleaning chemicals, chlorine, and other substances commonly found in wet areas.

Closed Cell Structure

A material structure where cells are completely enclosed, preventing water absorption and promoting hygiene.

Drainage Holes

Openings in the matting that allow water to pass through, keeping the surface dry and reducing slip hazards.

Drying Time

The amount of time it takes for matting to dry after exposure to water, crucial for maintaining a safe and slip-resistant surface.

A type of matting with a slatted or grid design that provides excellent drainage and slip resistance, often used around pools and in showers.

Floor Drain Compatibility

The ability of the matting to fit or align with floor drains, ensuring proper water drainage in wet areas.

Hygienic Properties

Features of the matting that prevent the growth of mould, mildew, and bacteria, essential for maintaining cleanliness in wet environments.

Interlocking Mechanism

The system used to connect matting tiles securely, creating a seamless and stable surface.

Lateral Drainage

The direction in which water drains across the surface of the matting, ensuring efficient water flow and drying.

A type of matting made from looped PVC strands, providing a cushioned and slip-resistant surface for wet areas.

Low Profile Matting

Matting with a low height, making it easier to walk on and reducing the risk of tripping.

Moulded Edging

Edging designed to prevent trips and falls, typically added to the perimeter of matting installations.

Non-Porous Material

A material that does not absorb water, ensuring the matting remains dry and resistant to bacterial growth.

Non-Slip Backing

A backing material that prevents the matting from sliding on wet floors, enhancing safety in wet environments.

Open Grid Design

A design with large openings that allow water and debris to pass through, keeping the surface dry and clean.

Perimeter Strip

A strip that runs around the edge of the matting installation, providing a finished look and preventing tripping hazards.

Poolside Matting

Matting specifically designed for use around swimming pools, providing a slip-resistant and comfortable surface for barefoot traffic.

PVC (Material)

Polyvinyl Chloride, a durable and flexible material commonly used in wet area matting for its water resistance and durability.

Quick-Dry Surface

A matting surface designed to dry quickly after exposure to water, reducing the risk of slips and maintaining hygiene.

Raised Surface Matting

Matting with an elevated surface design that promotes drainage and reduces contact with water.

Resilient Material

Matting made from materials that can withstand heavy foot traffic, water exposure, and harsh cleaning agents.

Sanitary Design

A design that prioritises hygiene, with features like smooth surfaces and easy-to-clean materials to prevent the buildup of dirt and bacteria.

Seamless Installation

An installation method where the matting tiles fit together without gaps, creating a continuous surface that is easy to clean and maintain.

Shower Room

A designated area with showers where wet area matting is commonly used to provide safety and comfort.

Shock Absorption

The ability of matting to cushion and reduce impact, providing comfort and protection in areas where people may fall.

A specific brand of matting known for its high slip resistance, durability, and suitability for wet environments.

Slip Resistance

The ability of a matting surface to prevent slips, particularly important in wet areas like pools and showers.

Spaghetti Matting

A type of matting made from PVC strands that resemble spaghetti, offering a cushioned and slip-resistant surface.

Temperature Resistance

The ability of the matting to withstand various temperatures without deforming or losing its properties.

Textured Surface

A surface design that enhances grip and reduces the risk of slipping, often found in wet area matting.

Two-Way Drainage System

A drainage system that allows water to flow in two directions, ensuring efficient water management.

UV Resistance

The ability of the matting to resist degradation from exposure to ultraviolet light, important for outdoor wet area applications.

UV Stabilisation

A treatment applied to matting to protect it from the harmful effects of UV rays, extending its lifespan in outdoor environments.

Waterproof Matting

Matting designed to completely repel water, ensuring a dry and safe surface in wet environments.

Wear Resistance

The durability of matting in resisting wear and tear, particularly in high-traffic wet areas.

A specific area in Islamic facilities where ritual washing (Wudu) is performed, requiring hygienic and slip-resistant matting.

Zone Separation Mats

Mats used to separate different areas, such as wet and dry zones, ensuring safety and cleanliness.

Author

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Richard O'Connor is a Director at First Mats. He has deep knowledge in areas like Manufacturing, Warehousing, Marine, and Health & Safety. Richard's insights have been featured in well-known publications such as Bloomberg Business, The Sun, and Reader's Digest. His blend of industry expertise and passion for sharing makes him a sought-after voice in his fields.

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