We’re obviously used to answering questions about bog mats here at GJ Mats HQ. So, we thought we’d put together a top ten of our most asked, and the internet’s most searched, queries. 

Bog mats provide stability and protection on ground that is unstable, uneven, or environmentally delicate. They are used to create temporary access roads, support heavy machinery, provide a safe, stable work platform, prevent soil erosion and impaction, and safeguard sensitive habitats.  

Bog mats are usually made from European or tropical hardwoods. At GJ Mats we supply Ekki bog mats which are made from the tropical variety. These are the strongest, most durable, and long-lasting timber mats, offering outstanding performance in the harshest conditions. The wood for our mats is all sourced from Forestry Stewardship Council (FSC) certified forests, so we know it has been responsibly grown and harvested and is of the highest quality available. 

Timber mats have a variety of applications, so they come in a range of sizes and thicknesses. At GJ Mats, we stock:  

1 metre width bog mats in lengths of 2 – 7 meters with thicknesses ranging from 70mm (for loads up to 35 tonnes) to 200mm (for more heavy-duty use and extreme conditions). (View specifications.) 

The size and thickness you need for your project will depend upon the type of wood, the terrain, load bearing capacity and the use. Your bog mat supplier will be able to talk you through the best options for your specific project. 

Bog mats distribute weight more evenly across the ground’s surface, providing a safer, more stable surface to work on whilst protecting the underlying terrain from damage by people and heavy vehicles.  

Bog mats are critical for site safety and operational viability. They keep things running smoothly. Without solid timber mats in place, there is increased risk of trips and falls, vehicles becoming stuck or unstable and site access becoming compromised.  

Top quality bog mats are also durable and reusable, weather resistant, sustainable, and easy to install. 

Yes, they can. Hardwoods are incredibly strong and resilient. Our Ekki bog mats can withstand extremes of temperature, harsh weather conditions and consistently perform well in even the wettest climates. Our recent work for Bohlen & Doyen’s Tidal Project is a prime example of just how robust Ekki mats can be.  

The bog mats you choose depends upon several factors, including:  

• The ground conditions on site: for example, if the surface you’re working on is particularly soft or boggy, you will need thicker mats. 
• The load capacity: the weight and size of any vehicles and equipment must be assessed. 
• The length of the project: If your ground protection needs to be in place for the longer term, it’s worth choosing thicker, more durable timber mats. 

Installation requires careful evaluation of the site conditions before laying and securing the interlocking mats. Proper maintenance includes regular inspection of the wood to spot any early signs of wear and tear, cleaning to remove mud etc. and storing the mats properly to reduce the risk of rot or warping. 

If you hire bog mats, your suppliers will obviously take care of that for you. 

Bog mats can last for a few years to decades. It all depends on the type of wood they are made from and how they are cared for. As they’re made from the highest quality tropical hardwood, GJ Ekki bog mats can last up to 50 years.  

You will find bog mats in use wherever there is a requirement for stable access, secure working platforms or habitat protection. This can include construction sites, oil and gas installations, music festivals, sporting events, disaster zones, railways, and infrastructure projects.  

If you have any more questions about buying or hiring bog mats for a specific project, why not get in touch? 

Contact our bog mat sales team for advice and a free quote today.