We are contemplating the use of a rubber walk-off mat for a high traffic area at a winter resort with lots of snow. The guidelines don't say either way whether a rubber mat would be acceptable- any experience with this specific material?
You rely on LEEDuser. Can we rely on you?
LEEDuser is supported by our premium members, not by advertisers.
Go premium for
Keith Amann
Vice PresidentWSP Built Ecology
67 thumbs up
February 17, 2012 - 11:10 am
We have not used rubber mats, but I believe any roll-out type mat should be acceptable, provided it meets the needs of the project for capturing dirt and particulates, is 10' long in the direction of travel, and is maintained weekly (at a minimum) by a contracted vendor. You will need to show service contracts and maintenance schedules as supporting documentation.
Allison Beer McKenzie
Architect, Director of SustainabilitySHP Leading Design
LEEDuser Expert
646 thumbs up
February 17, 2012 - 11:27 am
I have always used fiber loop/rubber mats. I wouldn't think that all rubber would be a problem, but page 513 of the BD+C reference guide does mention that the mat system should be appropriate to the project climate. So, you may want to be prepared to show that all rubber mats are typical/appropriate for your climate to be safe.
Susan Walter
HDRLEEDuser Expert
1296 thumbs up
February 17, 2012 - 1:37 pm
I'm less certain because the intent of the mat is to capture the dirt, grime and other items and prevent them from entering the building. Not knowing the specific product, most rubber products tend to be a little slick from that aspect and without a fiber loop, they don't tend to scrub much dirt of your shoe/boot/ice skating blades.
Being originally from the great snowy north, I'd have to ask why you wouldn't be contemplating some sort of grille system that would catch, melt and drain the snow that will come into the building. The rubber mats work great when you're stepping off the ice skating rink and don't want to damage your blades. If you are walking across them in ski boots, they can be a little slippery. You're also likely providing more than 10' of mats as they become quickly squishy with melting snow.