How to Protect Grass, Soil and Lawns from Heavy Equipment Damage

September 1, 2014

Why Ground Protection Matters? Grassed areas and soft soil don’t recover easily from machinery tracks. A single day of heavy traffic can cause lasting damage that takes weeks or months to fix. For sites that need to look professional or remain usable—like golf courses, parks, or public venues—this kind of damage creates avoidable delays and cost.

Machinery used for landscaping, grave digging, or construction isn’t light. Skid steers, diggers, trucks and cranes all place a significant load on the ground, which presses down and cuts into the surface below. Without a physical barrier, turf can be scalped, ruts can form, and soil structure can collapse.

What Happens When Ground Isn’t Protected?

Leaving the ground exposed during machinery use increases the risk of:

Soil Compaction: The weight of vehicles presses the air out of soil, reducing its ability to absorb water or support plant life.
Permanent Track Marks: Tyres and tracks leave deep impressions that don’t naturally disappear.
Scorched Turf: Heat from engines and sun reflection can bake grass beneath stationary vehicles.
Drainage Problems: Flattened or uneven ground redirects water in the wrong direction, causing pooling or erosion.
Repair Costs: Damaged turf often needs replacing, reseeding or regrading, all of which cost time and money.

These effects aren’t just cosmetic. They impact long-term use of the area and create safety hazards for pedestrians and workers.

When and Where to Use Ground Protection Mats

Ground protection mats are widely used across industries that rely on heavy equipment. Key scenarios include:

Moving excavators across a newly turfed site
Allowing crane access over soft soil
Protecting fairways on a golf course
Conducting cemetery work without damaging lawns
Creating temporary driveways during event setup
Providing stable access in wet or sandy locations

In each case, mats prevent direct contact between machinery and the surface. They also improve traction and keep mud, turf and debris off the tyres.

Features to Look For in Ground Protection Mats

Not all mats offer the same quality. Below are the core features that matter:

Feature	Why It Matters
High Load Capacity	Supports trucks, loaders, and cranes without cracking
Dual-Sided Tread	Improves grip in dry, wet, or loose ground conditions
Handles or Lifting Holes	Speeds up setup and repositioning
Pin Holes on Corners	Anchors mats on slopes or soft surfaces
UV Resistance	Prevents brittleness under long-term sun exposure
Insulating Material	Protects turf from heat damage underneath

Heavy-duty polyethylene is the standard material for most high-performance track mats. Cheaper alternatives often warp or crack after limited use.

What Sets Matshop’s Ground Protection Mats Apart

Matshop’s mats are engineered for practical field use. Every detail supports safer handling, better protection, and longer product life.

Ergonomic Handles: Built-in handles on both sides allow for easier two-person lifting and placement, improving safety during transport and setup.
Reinforced Corners with Pin Holes: Each mat includes corner holes designed for secure ground anchoring or lifting via crane when needed.
Material Strength: The high-density polyethylene construction is rated for use with both rubber and metal tracks. It supports everything from mini-loaders to semi-trailers.
Tread Pattern: Both surfaces have a purpose-built tread design that delivers traction in wet, dry, and uneven environments. The design also reduces slippage and tyre spin, even on sloped terrain.
UV Protection: Designed to remain stable and flexible under extended sun exposure—no cracking, peeling or fading.

These mats are used across mining, events, civil works, and municipal operations for one reason: they perform under pressure.

Choosing the Right Size for Your Project

Not every task needs the biggest mat. Selecting the right size improves handling, saves costs, and meets the specific site need. Use the chart below to guide your selection.

Mat Size Guide

Size (mm)	Common Use Case	Suitable Vehicles
600 x 2400	Tight access areas, backyard work	Skid steers, small excavators
900 x 2400	Moderate width paths or driveways	Excavators, small trucks
1200 x 2400	General-purpose for wide equipment	B-double trucks, cranes, large loaders

The largest size can also be laid in a crisscross pattern to distribute weight across multiple contact points. This helps on soft or uneven ground.

Tips for Using Ground Mats Effectively

To get the best results and extend the life of the mats, follow these practices:

Plan the Route: Map out traffic zones and turning areas before equipment moves in.
Overlap Edges for Stability: Slightly overlapping the mats increases load spread and stability.
Anchor When Needed: Use pins or stakes to prevent mat shifting on inclines or loose ground.
lean After Use: Remove soil buildup and check for damage after each job to avoid long-term wear.
Store Flat: Keep mats in a flat, dry stack to prevent warping.

These small habits reduce replacement costs and improve site safety.

Final Thoughts: Why Ground Protection Pays Off

Using protection mats on soft surfaces isn't just about aesthetics. It prevents delays, keeps machinery stable, and protects sensitive environments. Damage to turf or soil adds cost, extends downtime, and reflects poorly on site management. One investment in durable matting can prevent dozens of repair jobs later.