Recessed Mat Installation Options
Explore aluminum matting frames and edge profiles for recessed and surface-mounted entry mats.
If your internet is a bit slow, give this page a few seconds to load. It’s worth the wait—you’ll get a detailed look at various aluminum matting installation options so you can make an informed decision on what will work best for your space.
Two Ways to Install Aluminum Entrance Grates
- On a flat surface (surface-mounted)
- In a recessed floor opening
1. Surface-Mounted Installation
If you're installing your mat directly on top of a flat floor surface, we highly recommend adding beveled edging on the sides perpendicular to foot traffic. This reduces tripping hazards and gives the mat a more finished look.
Below are two similar edge profiles. The difference lies in the aluminum mat type they're used with:
- One is designed for rubber-hinge construction (aluminum strips connected with flexible rubber)
- The other is for aluminum-hinge construction (strips slide into each other)
Beveled edge for rubber-hinge style aluminum mats.
Beveled edge for aluminum-hinge style mats.
Here is an aluminum mat with Frame 544 installed on a flat surface:
Frame 544 used for surface installation of aluminum matting.
2. Recessed Installation
By far the most common and professional method for installing aluminum entrance grates is to drop them into a recessed pit in the floor. This creates a seamless transition from floor to mat, which is ideal for high-traffic areas.
However, because recessed mats are pushed, kicked, and rolled over constantly, the edges of the recess can become chipped or damaged. That’s why it’s essential to protect the perimeter with a proper metal frame.
Here’s an example of a standard recessed installation using a perimeter frame:
This frame protects the edges of the recessed area and prevents tile damage.
While this same frame can be used for some surface installations, it's especially useful when pairing aluminum mats with commercial-grade carpet coverings.
In high-traffic commercial zones, we recommend using recessed frames that are anchored directly into the concrete subfloor for maximum durability.
Frame 540 is securely anchored into the concrete base—ideal for areas with heavy rolling loads.
Here's a 3/4" Roll-Grate installed with Frame 448 in a recessed configuration:
Heavy-duty roll grate system using Frame 448.
For extreme-use environments—like airports and transit hubs—you can opt for even deeper frames (up to 4-1/8") to house ultra-heavy-duty grates. These can support up to 300 lbs per wheel of rolling load.
Frame 420 with extra depth for ultra high-traffic applications.
Frame 540 shown below is also recessed and provides a clean, flush finish around the edge of the mat:
Top-down view of Frame 540 installation—smooth and flush with surrounding floor.
Frame 424 below is a more budget-friendly option that still does a great job protecting the perimeter of your recessed matting system:
Frame 424 – cost-effective edge protection for recessed installations.