Blow Torch Mats

About Blow Torch Mats

Blow torch mats, also known as soldering mats or plumbers' heat mats, are essential safety equipment designed to protect work surfaces and surrounding areas from intense heat during soldering, brazing, and torch work. Constructed from heat-resistant materials such as glass fibre, silicone, or ceramic composites, these specialised mats can withstand temperatures exceeding 500°C, providing a crucial barrier between your blow torch flame and potentially flammable materials.

MyToolShed.co.uk stocks professional-grade blow torch mats from trusted brands including Monument and Faithfull, offering excellent durability and heat resistance for tradespeople and serious DIY enthusiasts. Available in various sizes and heat ratings, these lightweight, portable mats can be easily positioned wherever heat protection is needed, whether you're working on copper pipework behind wooden joists, soldering joints near plastic components, or brazing fittings in confined spaces.

Applications

Blow torch mats are essential equipment for a wide range of trades and applications:

• Plumbers and Heating Engineers – Soldering copper pipes, brazing joints, and working on central heating systems
• Gas Safe Registered Engineers – Installing or repairing gas pipework and appliances
• Roofing Contractors – Lead work and hot air welding of roofing membranes
• HVAC Specialists – Refrigeration line installation and air conditioning system work
• Automotive Technicians – Brake line repairs and exhaust system modifications
• Maintenance Engineers – Repair and installation work across industrial and commercial facilities
• DIY Enthusiasts – Home plumbing projects requiring torch use

Choosing The Right Blow Torch Mats

Size and Coverage: Consider the work area you need to protect. Standard mats range from approximately 200mm x 200mm for small-scale work up to 600mm x 600mm for extensive protection around kitchens, bathrooms, or multiple fixtures.

Heat Resistance: Ensure the mat's temperature rating exceeds your blow torch's heat output. For standard plumbing soldering, mats rated to 500-600°C are generally sufficient, whilst brazing applications may require higher ratings.

Material Construction: Glass fibre mats offer excellent heat resistance and durability for professional use. Look for double-layer or reinforced construction for enhanced protection and longevity, particularly for demanding sites.

Flexibility and Portability: Flexible mats can be shaped around pipework and positioned in confined spaces more easily than rigid alternatives. Consider mats with eyelets or hanging holes for convenient storage in your van or toolbox between jobs.

Safety Information

Always inspect the work area before beginning hot work and remove any flammable materials. Ensure your blow torch mat fully covers all vulnerable surfaces and extends beyond the immediate work area to catch sparks or molten material. Hot work on construction sites and in commercial premises often requires a permit-to-work system under HSE guidance.

Regularly inspect your mat for signs of damage, excessive wear, or degradation. Replace mats showing significant charring, holes, or reduced flexibility, as compromised mats offer inadequate protection. After completing torch work, check the protected surface and surrounding area for any signs of heat damage or smouldering before leaving the site.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I clean my blow torch mat after use?

Allow the mat to cool completely, then brush off any debris or flux residue with a stiff brush. Most glass fibre mats can be wiped with a damp cloth if needed. Avoid using harsh chemicals or submerging the mat in water, as this may compromise the heat-resistant properties.

Do I still need a blow torch mat if I'm working on a concrete floor?

Yes, blow torch mats serve multiple purposes beyond protecting the floor. They prevent damage to adjacent pipework, protect fixtures and fittings, catch molten solder droplets, and provide a defined safe work zone. MyToolShed.co.uk recommends using a mat even on non-flammable surfaces for comprehensive protection.

How long should a professional-quality blow torch mat last?

With proper care and storage, a quality blow torch mat from brands like Monument or Faithfull should provide several years of regular professional use. Lifespan depends on frequency of use, temperatures encountered, and how carefully the mat is handled and stored.