PEM® Matting Installation Tips and Instructions

* Tools needed: Utility Knife, Straightedge, Square, Caulk Gun (optional for adhesive) *

  1. PEM® has a top and bottom side. The loops on the top side are bonded tighter for added durability. As the mat is rolled out, the top side will be facing up. Please keep this side up at all times.
  2. PEM® may be slightly curled on the ends when first unrolled. In outdoor applications, for best results, perform installation when temperature is at or above 50° F. Roll the matting out a few hours in advance of installation. Allow matting to lay in the sun. The material will warm up, relax, and lay flat. Be conscious not to pull or stretch the material prior to installation. For indoor applications, a hot air gun (or hair dryer) may also be used to eliminate the curls.
  3. A utility knife can be used to cut PEM® To avoid any frayed edges, it may be necessary to cut the material twice before pulling the two pieces apart.
  4. Apply to a smooth surface. Avoid using PEM® to cover holes or voids, or high spots in the surface.
  5. If piecing rolls of PEM® together, Pro Fix seam adhesive is available.
    Click here for detailed instructions or call 1-800-783-2358 for additional information. Pro Fix seam adhesive should be used prior to securing or adhering PEM® to the applied surface.
  6. PEM® can be left loose as runners for applications such as pool decks, locker rooms, restrooms, or shower areas. PEM® can be permanently secured to a surface with specialty adhesives if necessary. (see steps 7 & 8)
  7. To bond PEM® to: wood, concrete, steel, or ceramic tile, GE 1800 silicone is recommended (12 tubes needed per roll). Apply a 1/4" bead in a herringbone "V" shaped pattern every 4-6 inches. Apply the silicone to a clean dry surface at a temperature above 50° F. Cure time 24 hours.
    Click here to view adhesive bead pattern diagram or call 1-800-783-2358 for additional information.
  8. To bond in water play and underwater applications, SB-909 is recommended. Qty. 12 tubes are needed per roll. Apply a 1/4" bead in a herringbone "V" shaped pattern every 4-6 inches. Apply the SB-909 to a clean dry surface at a temperature above 50� F. Allow 7 full days of dry time before activating spray equipment, or allowing foot traffic. Full cure time is 28 days.
    Click here to view adhesive bead pattern diagram or call 1-800-783-2358 for additional information.
  9. PEM® may also be screwed into wood surfaces. A 2" stainless steel flat-head deck screw is recommended. Apply a screw every 6" around the perimeter of the matting. If heavy foot or vehicle traffic will be common, additional screws can be applied throughout the center of the applied area in two rows 12" apart. A washer can be used in conjunction with the screws if necessary. Screws are not recommended in bare foot applications.

 

A few suggestions:

  1. To further reduce the risk of injury, keep PEM® free from debris by periodically:
    • Sweeping away grass clippings or leaves.
    • Cleaning away mud, dirt, or other material buildup. (Power washing is not recommended as a high pressure stream of water could damage PEM®).
  2. Use warning signs in conjunction with PEM® to point out treacherous footing areas.

* For complete details, tools & instructions with pictures, please click here to request a copy of the PEM® Field Manual (29 pages, 6MB PDF)