Whether you work from home or you spend a lot of time at your desk gaming or working on creative projects, you might be worried about the state of your hardwood floors. Chair mats for hardwood floors put a protective layer between your desk chair and the floor, keeping it from getting scratched or pitted.
When choosing the right chair mat for hardwood floors, you need to consider factors such as size and material. If you want a high-end version, the Lorell Tempered Glass Chair Mat is the top choice.
What to know before you buy a chair mat for hardwood floors
Construction material
The most noticeable difference between a basic entry-level chair mat for hardwood flooring and a higher-end model is the construction material.
Vinyl or polyvinyl chloride: Inexpensive chair mats tend to use vinyl or PVC. These materials do provide decent protection between the chair and floor, but they also have durability and safety issues. Slippage is a common issue with either vinyl or PVC unless the mat also contains a backing material. These materials can also be difficult to flatten if they arrive in a roll.
Polycarbonate: Midrange chair mats are often made from a sturdier form of plastic called polycarbonate. Polycarbonate chair mats are often shipped flat to avoid curling, and they have been designed to provide more grip on a relatively smooth surface such as hardwood. Polycarbonate is also more durable than either vinyl or PVC.
Tempered glass: At the highest end of the spectrum is tempered glass, which provides maximum durability and adhesion. A tempered glass chair mat always arrives flat, and many models incorporate a protective lip to keep the chair and occupant in the proper location.
Dimensions
The ideal dimensions of an office chair mat are generally determined by the size of the desk and workspace. Many manufacturers offer a range of sizes, typically rectangular or square. The type of flooring can also play a role in sizing a chair mat. Before ordering a chair mat, it helps to measure the width of the desk and the distance of the chair from the desk.
Many office chair mats incorporate an extension or lip that fits under the desk and provides additional protection from shoe scuffs. This also provides a good parking space for the chair between uses. A lip is not essential to protect a hardwood floor from damage, but many users do find it helpful.
Ease of use
A chair mat shipped in rolled form may not be ready for service right away. Some vinyl or PVC models require a few hours of off-gassing to reduce any chemical odors upon arrival. Eliminating the curl or fold can also take some time and effort, such as placing the mat in direct sunlight for at least an hour.
The level of adhesion between the mat and the flooring is also a consideration. Chair mats for carpeting often contain special studs for additional grip, but chair mats for hardwood floors must be smooth. The bottom surface cannot be too abrasive, because that would damage the floor’s finish. A quality chair mat should remain securely in place while the user performs routine movements in the chair. Some slippage may be unavoidable, but the mat should not be so slick that a serious fall could occur.
Chair mat for hardwood floors features
Color selection
Many chair mats designed for hardwood floors are made from clear materials to allow the natural aesthetics of the flooring to be seen. However, some manufacturers also offer chair mats in gradations of gray, black or neutral colors. There are also chair mats available in bolder tones that accent the room’s overall color scheme.
Antistatic properties
Standard chair mats for hardwood floors can build up static electricity over time, and that charge can be released into a computer or other sensitive electronics with the touch of a finger. Special antistatic chair mats are designed to dissipate any build-up of static electricity before it can be discharged. This information should be included on the product description or packaging.
Chair mat for hardwood floors cost
The least-expensive chair mats for hardwood floors will most likely be constructed of vinyl or PVC and cost less than $35. A quality midrange chair mat made from a more durable polycarbonate can retail in the $35-$70 range. High-end tempered glass chair mats can cost $70 or more, but the performance quality is exceptional.
Chair mat for hardwood floors FAQ
How can I tell which is the top and bottom side of my new chair mat?
- Most chair mats designed for hardwood floors have a smooth side and a textured side. The bottom side is smooth to protect the flooring, and the top side is textured to provide more traction for an office chair with caster wheels. Some manufacturers attach a sticker or other marker before shipping to indicate proper orientation.
Why does my chair mat have an extended tongue?
- Many chair mats for hardwood floors are square or rectangular, and they are designed to protect the flooring beneath the chair. A chair mat with an extended tongue or flap is designed to fit under the desk and provide a barrier between the floor and the user’s feet.
Which chair mat for hardwood floors should I get?
Best of the best chair mat for hardwood floors
Lorell Tempered Glass Chair Mat: available at Amazon
Our take: Made from tempered glass, this mat is extremely durable and will last many years to come.
What we like: You can choose from three sizes — 36-inch, 50-inch, and 60-inch. It’s scratch-resistant, so it stays smooth for a long time. It holds up to 1,000 pounds of weight. It’s easy to wipe clean.
What we dislike: It’s more expensive than PVC and polycarbonate models, especially in larger sizes.
Best bang for your buck chair mat for hardwood floors
AiBOB Office Chair Mat for Hardwood Floors: available at Amazon
Our take: The entry-level price of this polyethylene chair mat makes it ideal for remote workers who need to protect their home flooring from the wear and tear of office chairs.
What we like: The affordable price point is appealing for those who need multiple mats. The mat is designed specifically for hard surfaces, including wood, tile, concrete and linoleum. It’s constructed from polyethylene and contains no BPA or phthalate. The surface is easy to clean and resists staining.
What we dislike: A strong chemical odor upon arrival is a common complaint, requiring a longer airing-out period before use.
Honorable mention chair mat for hardwood floors
Amazon Basics Vinyl Office Chair Mat for Hard Floors: available at Amazon
Our take: This vinyl chair mat is an affordable alternative to high-end models promoted by Big Box office supply stores.
What we like: Measuring 47 by 35 inches, it’s large enough for most users. It does not contain BPA, phthalates or heavy metals. The mat is designed specifically for hardwood flooring, not carpeting. It’s transparent and scuff-resistant, so you can see that floor beneath.
What we dislike: Some buyers say it doesn’t flatten adequately.
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Lauren Corona is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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What type of chair mat is best for hardwood floors?
Polycarbonate chair mats are often shipped flat to avoid curling, and they have been designed to provide more grip on a relatively smooth surface such as hardwood. Polycarbonate is also more durable than either vinyl or PVC.
Are chair mats worth it?
In short, yes, chair mats are worth it. Chair mats can protect your hard floors from scratches and scuffs and protect your carpet from damage or spills. Chair mats also can reduce lower back and leg pain by making it easier to slide across the floor.
What is the most durable chair mat material?
Polycarbonate is the toughest, most durable and reliable chair mat material. With a rigid surface, polycarbonate chair mats provide the best hard floor protection, ideal for frequent use.
What chair mat does not crack?
Cleartex Ultimat chair mat is the ultimate in quality and durability. This clear lipped mat for carpet flooring is made from sturdy polycarbonate, which has double the strength of PVC – and the added benefits that it won't scratch, crack, buckle, curl at the edges, or discolor and it has no odor.