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When construction projects move into challenging environments, whether it's a utility transmission project, renewable energy development, pipeline route, or remote infrastructure site, ground
Traditional timber mats have long supported temporary access roads and work platforms, but engineered wood technology has introduced a stronger, more efficient alternative. One of the most innovative developments is Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT), an engineered wood product designed to deliver exceptional strength, durability, and weight distribution while remaining significantly lighter than conventional matting solutions.
At Sterling, we use CLT technology to create high-performance access mats that help contractors navigate difficult terrain with greater efficiency and reliability.
Cross-Laminated Timber, commonly known as CLT, is a highly engineered wood product made from multiple layers of kiln-dried dimensional lumber bonded together using industrial-grade adhesives.
Unlike traditional timber products, CLT is engineered as a complete structural system. Strict manufacturing standards help to ensure predictable performance and consistent engineering properties.
Because the materials, adhesives, and production process are tightly controlled, CLT delivers reliable, science-backed performance that traditional wood products cannot consistently match.
The defining feature of CLT is its unique layered design.
Individual boards are arranged side by side to form a layer. Each subsequent layer is rotated 90 degrees before being bonded to the previous layer.
This cross-laminated configuration creates a mesh-like structure that distributes loads in multiple directions rather than concentrating force along a single grain orientation.
Benefits of the Cross-Laminated Design
The result is a mat that effectively supports heavy equipment while minimizing stress concentrations that can lead to failures in conventional timber products.
Strength begins with the raw material.
Sterling's TerraLam CLT access mats are manufactured using Grade 2 or better Southern Pine, a wood species known for its excellent structural performance and favorable strength-to-weight ratio.
The real advantage comes from combining this strong base material with a cross-laminated design. Cross-laminated layers and structural adhesives work together to create a panel that performs as a single, highly durable unit.
What Makes CLT Stronger?
Together, these elements create a mat capable of handling heavy equipment, repeated loading cycles, and demanding jobsite conditions.
Can CLT Handle Heavy Construction Activities?
Yes. The multi-layer design absorbs impacts and distributes forces from heavy equipment and repeated loading. This gives CLT impressive shock absorption and vibration resistance characteristics.
Performance Advantages Include:
For temporary access roads and work platforms, this translates into a mat that can withstand the daily rigors of construction while maintaining structural integrity.
Weight impacts transportation, installation, and overall project efficiency.
Lighter mats can reduce freight costs, simplify deployment, and increase productivity across the project lifecycle.
Although CLT behaves like a solid structural panel, its engineered construction allows it to remain significantly lighter than many traditional timber alternatives.
Benefits of Lightweight CLT Mats
For large-scale projects that require extensive matting, these advantages can have a meaningful impact on schedule and logistics.
Cross-laminated timber access mats are ideal for projects requiring reliable ground access across sensitive, unstable, or difficult terrain.
Common applications include:
Wherever heavy equipment must safely access challenging ground conditions, CLT provides a strong and dependable solution.
As construction projects become larger and more complex, contractors need access solutions that balance strength, efficiency, and reliability.
Cross-Laminated Timber delivers all three by combining the natural strength of Southern Pine with advanced engineered design. The result is a lighter, stronger alternative to traditional timber matting that helps contractors improve access, reduce logistical challenges, and maintain productivity in difficult environments.
For utilities, renewable energy developers, pipeline contractors, and infrastructure teams, CLT provides a proven solution for today's toughest access challenges.
Understanding the strength of Cross-Laminated Timber starts with seeing the manufacturing process behind it. Watch our short video to learn how layers of Southern Pine are engineered into high-performance TerraLam® access mats designed for demanding jobsite conditions.
▶️ Watch the How It's Made Video Here
Sterling's Cross-Laminated Timber access mats are engineered to help contractors overcome challenging site conditions while improving efficiency, safety, and performance. Contact our team to discuss your project requirements and determine whether CLT is the right solution for your next jobsite.
What is Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT)?
Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is an engineered wood product made by bonding multiple layers of dimensional lumber together, with each layer positioned perpendicular to the next. This design improves strength, stability, and load distribution.
How are CLT access mats made?
CLT access mats are manufactured using kiln-dried dimensional lumber, structural adhesives, and a controlled production process. The layers are bonded together to create a strong, unified panel with predictable performance.
Why are CLT mats stronger than traditional wood mats?
CLT mats distribute loads through multiple cross-laminated layers that work together as a single structure. This engineered design improves stability, durability, and overall strength.
What wood species is used in TerraLam® CLT mats?
TerraLam® mats are manufactured from Grade 2 or better Southern Pine, a species known for its excellent strength-to-weight ratio and structural performance.
How does cross-laminated timber distribute weight?
Each CLT layer is rotated 90 degrees from the next, creating a grid-like structure that spreads loads across the entire mat and helps reduce ground pressure concentrations.
Are CLT mats lighter than traditional timber mats?
Yes. TerraLam® CLT mats can weigh up to 50% less than comparably sized traditional timber mats while still delivering exceptional structural performance.
Can CLT mats support heavy equipment?
Yes. CLT access mats are engineered to support the heavy equipment commonly used in utility, renewable energy, pipeline, and civil infrastructure projects.
Do CLT mats absorb shock and vibration?
Yes. The multi-layer construction naturally absorbs impacts and dampens vibration, helping mats perform well under repeated loading conditions.
What industries use CLT access mats?
CLT access mats are commonly used in:
Are CLT mats environmentally friendly?
Yes. CLT mats are manufactured from sustainably sourced Southern Pine, a renewable resource. They also help reduce ground disturbance compared to many traditional access methods.
What is the difference between CLT mats and traditional timber mats?
Traditional timber mats are built from large individual timbers fastened together, while CLT mats are engineered using multiple layers of dimensional lumber bonded with structural adhesives. This results in more consistent performance, improved load distribution, and lighter overall weight.