Rubber Takes On PVC

If you’re into matting (and we take it that you are, since you’re checking out a website dedicated to mats), then you are probably already aware that dust mats and roll matting can come with either rubber or PVC backing. What you may not know, is how these backings really compare and what the vital differences between them are. Let us enlighten you on the main product contrasts in the great rubber versus PVC debate:

Mat Properties	Rubber	PVC
Cost	More expensive upfront Last for years over PVC Better return on investment	Less expensive upfront than rubber Does not last as well Will have to be replaced long before a rubber mat
Durability	Preferred choice of industry Reliable and tough Extremely durable even in high/low temperatures Tear-resistant Impact-resistant Resistant to most oils and chemicals	Prone to cracking, warping Can dry out over time
Versatility	Can be used across every business/ industry Works with underfloor heat systems Option of 3mm heavy-duty backing	More suited to low-traffic, light-duty use Does not react well to drastic temperature changes
Safety, Comfort and Performance	Anti-slip, even when wet Anti-static Anti-microbial Resistant to oils/ chemicals Anti-fatigue comfort Sound absorption Non-toxic Recyclable	Smooth and light – can migrate easily No anti-fatigue comfort Does not absorb sound in the same way as rubber Can affect air-quality Can emit toxic by-products

And the winner is....

Rubber is definitely the more expensive option up front, but – if you can afford it - will reward you with better performance and value from the very beginning to the very end of its lifetime (which will be longer than its PVC counterpart).

Rubber also comes with a host of benefits that PVC can only dream of giving. Our recommendation every time will be for rubber over PVC, but it’s good to have the PVC option there if budget is tight and you only need a mat for light use.

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