Having the correct mats in the correct location can not only look good, but also save you time and money on cleaning costs.
Polyamide entrance mats are designed to be moisture-absorbent and assist in dirt removal from shoes. Non-polyamide mats serve as the first line of defence for your facility and are most effective when used alongside a polyamide entrance mat.
Zone 1: Exterior entrance
In this case, the entrance mat it is located outside, where rain and moisture can easily reach its surface. A traditional polyamide insert, such as Symphony2, is highly absorbent. However, once the insert reaches its saturation point, it becomes less effective at removing moisture and dirt, resulting in wet, dirty and potentially hazardous floors inside.
Zone 1 Solution:
The best solution for Zone 1 is a non-absorbent entrance mat that removes dirt and solid debris from shoe soles. While shoes may still be wet upon entering the building, they will be clean. This is why ReTread inserts work best when combined with a polyamide mat inside. ReTread is a recycled rubber insert used in Advance Flooring's aluminium entrance matting systems.
Zone 2: Interior wind lobby
Zone 2 is typically located inside a wind-lobby, where most of the shoe cleaning occurs. The ReTread insert removes large amounts of dirt and grit, but moisture and finer debris still remain.
Zone 2 Solution:
In Zone 2, an entrance mat with a polyamide insert such as Symphony2 is ideal for absorbing moisture and removing residual dirt. Advance Flooring's entrance mats with polyamide inserts—such as Shuttle, Axis and Orbit—are specifically designed for this purpose.
Zone 3: Main foyer
After passing through Zones 1 and 2, people enter the main foyer or entranceway of the building. Some moisture and dirt may still remain on shoes, especially if the Zone 2 mat is too small. But how big should the Zone 2 mat be? Find out here.
Zone 3 Solution:
An entry carpet is the ideal choice for Zone 3. Designed for use in either Zone 2 or 3, entry carpets such as ScrapeRIB, Symphony2 and Bross are stylish, functional and highly effective. They also provide a seamless transition from the entrance area to the building’s main flooring—whether carpet, polished concrete, rubber or vinyl. If the Zone 2 mat is appropriately sized, Zone 3 may simply feature an entrance tile such as Gecko, or transition directly into carpet tiles. Zone 3 is about completing the cleaning process and ensuring a smooth transition into the main foyer.
Why should I have a Zone 3?
Zone 3 bridges the entrance mat and the interior floor surface. It also compensates for an undersized wind lobby (Zone 2). Industry reports indicate that:
- 50-60% of dirt and moisture is removed after one metre of entrance matting.
- 75% is removed after three metres of entrance matting.
- 90% is removed after six metres of entrance matting.
If your Zone 2 mat is only three metres deep, an Entrance Carpet in Zone 3 will complete the cleaning process and provide a polished transition.
