Difference between PVC and Rubber Backed mats
We are often asked the difference between PVC and rubber backed entry mats. At every possible opportunity we would encourage customers to use rubber backed entry mats for a number of reasons. We have put together this guide on the major differences and the benefits of rubber backing over PVC backed entry mats.
Appearance and material descriptions
Rubber backed and PVC backed entry mats will appear very similiar to the eye, However, don’t be fooled by descriptions as many companies will claim and list their products as rubber in the description but if you look at the product description in more detail, the product material is in fact plastic.
Cost
An important point is that rubber backed entry mats will be a more expensive then a PVC backed entry mat. However the cost difference will soon pay itself of as you will get up to 4 times the life period out of rubber then you would with PVC backed mats. Rubber backed entry matting is far superior endurance and resilience over PVC backed mats making this product more economical over time. PVC backed matting, although cheaper, is not as hard wearing and will cost more than rubber backing in terms of durability and replacement over its lifetime.
Durability and resilience of rubber backed entry mats
Rubber backed matting is chosen by all types of industries and commercial sectors because it is tough and strong and seen as a good investment. Rubber resists most impacts and circumstances. It is anti-tear, resistant to oil, chemicals and cigarettes. It does not rot or decay. It can withstand heavy impacts, scrapes and bumps. It doesn’t shrink expand or crack. Its highly resilient properties mean that rubber backing retains its appearance for a long time. Rubber is also safer to use because it remains anti-slip and isn’t subject to wear and tear which would cause the flooring to be unsafe.
PVC backing in comparison has little or no resilience and therefore does not have the same durability as rubber flooring.
Noise insulation
Another benefit and quality of rubber backed entry mats over PVC backing is that rubber absorbs sounds and noise. Sound in buildings and on walkways is deadened by using rubber backing and it is ideal in environments with heavy foot traffic such as libraries, offices, retail premises and schools.
Rubber’s safety
Another priority for our customers is when it comes to safety. Rubber backing holds a number of significant and important safety properties that PVC backing does not.
Rubber backing is waterproof, and even when it’s wet it is naturally slip-resistant. Because rubber is also flame resistant and has low smoke emission in the event of a fire, rubber is used in high risk areas in buildings such as fire escapes. Rubber is non-toxic and will not release noxious fumes into the air.
Environmentally friendly
Being eco-friendly and recycling responsibility is equally important and with this in mind rubber backing is far more environmentally friendly than PVC flooring when it comes to its environmental impact.
Rubber is not toxic or hazardous. PVC can contain toxic bi-products and contains toxic additives that can contribute to illnesses and allergies as well as causing a health hazard. PVC is also a high pollutant because it contains heavy metal content and chemical additives and it can also leak chlorine and carcinogens. Softeners known as phthalates can leak out of PVC floors when they are washed or can be emitted into the air and attach to dust causing airborne distribution.
Rubber is easily recycled by shredding or shredding and then processed. Rubber flooring and matting can also be made of up to 80% recycled rubber and contains no harmful substances to the environment.
So there you have it. We hope this guide has helped you to understand the important and beneficial differences between rubber backing and PVC backing.
One of our most common Rubber backed entry mat.
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