What is Rubber Matting? UK Guide to Types, Uses & Prices | Slip-Not

What is Rubber Matting?

Rubber matting is a category of flexible flooring or surface protection material manufactured from vulcanised natural or synthetic rubber. It is produced in sheets, rolls, or tiles and used across a wide range of commercial, industrial, equestrian, and domestic applications to provide anti-slip protection, cushioning, drainage, and durability underfoot.

Types of Rubber Matting

Rubber matting is available in several types, each suited to different uses:

  • SBR Rubber Matting – Styrene-butadiene rubber, the most common type. Black, durable, cost-effective. Ideal for general industrial, agricultural, and gym flooring applications.
  • EPDM Rubber Matting – Ethylene propylene diene monomer rubber. UV-stable and weather-resistant. Used outdoors, in roofing, and in playground surfacing.
  • Nitrile Rubber Matting – Oil-resistant rubber suitable for workshops, garages, and industrial areas with oil or fuel exposure.
  • Neoprene Rubber Matting – High chemical resistance. Used in laboratory, marine, and specialist sealing applications.
  • Anti-Fatigue Rubber Matting – Ergonomically designed thick rubber mats that reduce leg and back fatigue for standing workers.
  • Anti-Slip Rubber Matting – Surface-embossed rubber with diamond, chequer, or ribbed patterns for maximum grip on wet or greasy surfaces.

What is Rubber Matting Made From?

Most rubber matting is made from vulcanised SBR (styrene-butadiene rubber), which is a synthetic rubber compound derived from styrene and butadiene monomers. Recycled rubber matting is made from crumb rubber, typically sourced from end-of-life vehicle tyres. The vulcanisation process cross-links the rubber polymer chains using sulphur under heat, giving rubber matting its characteristic elasticity, strength, and durability.

What is Rubber Matting Used For?

Rubber matting has hundreds of applications across industry, sport, agriculture, and the home. Common uses include:

  • Gym and fitness flooring — cushioning for weights, treadmills, and exercise equipment
  • Industrial and factory flooring — anti-slip protection for workers on hard concrete floors
  • Horse stables and equestrian — anti-fatigue and anti-slip matting for horse stalls and lorries
  • Commercial entrance matting — heavy-duty dirt scraping and water absorption in building entrances
  • Agricultural flooring — cow cubicle mats, dairy parlour mats, and livestock housing
  • Anti-vibration isolation — machinery mounts and engine vibration dampening
  • Electrical safety matting — insulating mats for high-voltage switchgear areas
  • Playground and outdoor surfacing — impact-absorbing rubber mulch and grass mats

How Thick Should Rubber Matting Be?

The correct rubber matting thickness depends on the application:

  • 1.5–3mm — Light-duty liners, drawer mats, shelf protection
  • 4–6mm — General gym flooring, yoga and cardio areas, light commercial use
  • 8–10mm — Standard gym and fitness use, treadmills, light free weights
  • 12–15mm — Heavy gym use, horse stalls, workshop flooring
  • 20–25mm — Barbell and weightlifting platforms, agricultural use
  • 40mm+ — Olympic weightlifting drop zones, heavy machinery isolation

How Much Does Rubber Matting Cost in the UK?

In the UK, rubber matting prices typically range from £5 to £50 per square metre depending on thickness, type, and finish. Standard 4mm SBR rubber rolls cost approximately £8–£12 per square metre. Anti-fatigue rubber mats start from around £25 per square metre. Specialist electrical safety matting can cost £50–£200 per square metre. Slip-Not offers competitive pricing with free UK delivery on all orders.

How to Install Rubber Matting

  1. Prepare the subfloor — Ensure the floor is clean, dry, and level. Sweep and remove any debris or grease.
  2. Measure and cut — Measure the area and cut rubber matting to size using a sharp Stanley knife and metal straight edge. Allow a 5mm fitting tolerance.
  3. Dry lay first — Lay the rubber matting in position without adhesive to check fit and alignment.
  4. Secure — For permanent installation, apply contact adhesive around the perimeter. For temporary use, use heavy-duty double-sided floor tape or leave loose.
  5. Allow to settle — Leave for 24 hours before heavy use to allow the adhesive to cure fully.

Rubber Matting vs Rubber Flooring: What is the Difference?

Rubber matting typically refers to thinner, more flexible sections used for protection, drainage, or anti-slip purposes — often laid loose or with minimal fixing. Rubber flooring generally refers to permanent floor coverings installed in a room or workspace and includes interlocking tiles and rolled flooring systems. In practice, the terms are often used interchangeably in the UK market.

How Long Does Rubber Matting Last?

Quality rubber matting lasts 10–25 years under normal use. Outdoor EPDM rubber matting has a typical service life of 15–20 years. SBR rubber gym mats last 10–15 years in a commercial gym environment. Recycled rubber matting used in horse stables can last 20 years or more. Regular cleaning extends service life significantly.

Is Rubber Matting Recyclable?

Yes. At end of life, rubber matting can be recycled into crumb rubber for use in new playground surfaces, running tracks, and new rubber matting production. Slip-Not offers guidance on responsible disposal of old rubber matting. Many recycled rubber mats sold today are themselves made from up to 95% post-consumer recycled tyre rubber.

Shop Rubber Matting at Slip-Not

Slip-Not is a UK specialist supplier of rubber matting, rubber flooring, rubber sheet, gym flooring, and rubber grass mats. We supply businesses, farms, gyms, and homes across the UK with next-day delivery available. Browse our full rubber matting range or shop gym flooring.