At Grassform, we often hear the same misconceptions when it comes to ground protection. Whether you’re managing a major transmission project or a local event, misunderstanding the role of ground protection mats can lead to costly delays, safety issues, and long-term site damage.
Here are the top five myths—debunked.
Myth 1: “Ground protection is only needed for large-scale construction projects.”
Debunked: Ground protection plays a crucial role across many industries—not just construction. From small utility works and landscaping to outdoor events and festivals, the risks of rutting, surface damage, or access issues are very real. Even foot traffic can damage lawns or soft ground, leading to unexpected reinstatement costs.
Myth 2: “Trackway and ground mats are all the same.”
Debunked: This is far from true. Ground protection systems vary in thickness, connection type, weight rating, and material strength. Choosing the wrong mat for the conditions can result in failure or even injury. Our Grassform HD Overlap panels, for instance, provide excellent strength and edge stability, making them ideal for heavy plant and soft ground. Below are detailed specifications for all of our ground protection products:
| Product | Material Type | Thickness | Weight | Strength | Suitable for | PDF link |
| Grassform HD | HDPE (100% Recyclable) | 38mm | 295kg | Unbreakable to over 150 tonnes, Max Allowable Force 205.1 Tonne (CBR10*), Yield Strength 32 MPa | • Very heavy plant • Machinery and multiple vehicles • Eco sensitive and heritage sites | Grassform HD Spec Sheet |
| Grassform HD Overlap | HDPE (100% Recyclable) | 63mm | 225kg | Max Allowable Force 252 tonnes (CBR10*), Yield Strength 21 MPa | • Construction • Transmission • Rail • Geotechnical, Utilities • Telecoms • Heavy Haulage and Cranes • Portable Accommodation • Events and Sports • Wind and Solar | Grassform HD Overlap Spec Sheet |
| Grassform LD | PVC (100% Recyclable) | 24mm | 28kg | Max Allowable Force 10 tonnes | • Temporary and permanent flooring, • Event flooring • Site protection • Temporary roadways • Warehouse flooring | Grassfrom LD Spec Sheet |
| Tufftrak | 100% recycled HDPE / UHMWPE | 38mm | 296kg | Unbreakable to over 150 tonnes | • Heavy plant • Machinery and multiple vehicles • Civil engineering • Construction • Oil and gas • Transmission • Infrastructure • Military sites • Utilities maintenance • Events | Tufftrak Spec Sheet |
| Euromat | HDPE (100% Recyclable) | 12mm | 35kg | Depending on ground conditions, it can hold up to 25 tonnes | • Parks and gardens • Golf courses • Events • Ground protection where vehicles cross | Euromat Spec Sheet |
| Trakmat | HDPE (100% Recyclable) | 12mm | 35kg | Depending on ground conditions, it can hold up to 25 tonnes | • Boat regattas • National parks • Caravan parks • Infrastructure • Cemeteries • Military sites • Landscaping • Events • Parks and gardens • Golf courses | Trakmat Spec Sheet |
Myth 3: “Ground protection is too expensive.”
Debunked: The real cost lies in ground reinstatement, project downtime, and vehicle recovery when ground conditions deteriorate. A well-planned ground protection solution can prevent all of these—and often pays for itself several times over. Protecting your access route is a strategic investment, not an overhead.
Myth 4: “Only heavy plant needs protecting against the ground.”
Debunked: Think beyond machinery. Footpaths, welfare units, storage zones, and parking areas all contribute to ground wear. Without protection, even moderate use can result in compaction and surface damage—especially in wet weather. A full-site strategy is key.
Myth 5: “Ground protection slows the job down.”
Debunked: In reality, it speeds things up. With mats in place, teams avoid delays caused by soft ground, weather disruption, or site access restrictions. Grassform’s experienced crews install quickly and safely, keeping your project moving—rain or shine.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let outdated thinking cost your project time or money. With the right system, installed by the right team, ground protection is a simple, cost-effective solution that supports safety, sustainability, and success.
