DAMP-PROOF MEMBRANES SUB FLOOR SUCCESS
The substrate and its preparation play a vitally important role in the success of any flooring installation, and a poorly or inadequately prepared substrate will very often lead to problems within the finished floor. Mapei offer a wide range of products that can be used in sub floor preparation, so we looked at a job carried out by BAC Flooring contractors.
BAC Flooring contractors expertly applied Mapei products during the refurbishment of the Five Rivers restaurant in Walsall. After ensuring the substrate was sound, Mapei’s solvent- free acrylic-based primer Eco Prim T and the fibre reinforced self-levelling compound Ultraplan Renovation Screed were utilised in preparation for the vinyl floor covering. Eco Prim T is a multi-purpose primer for interiors which acts as a bonding aid to improve adhesion of levelling compounds. Eco Prim T can be used for preparation of surfaces in all cementitious substrates, gypsum, anhydrite, wood, plywood and all absorbent substrates.
Mapei’s universal levelling and smoothing compound Ultraplan Renovation Screed was then applied. Ultraplan Renovation Screed was specified because of its flexibility to be used over the timber substrate. The flexibility of the product is attained through the carefully researched formula and, in particular, its fibre content. This results in Ultraplan Renovation Screed
48 ‘
being suitable for applying over a variety of substrates including existing and new concrete, floorboards, chip- board panels, plywood and parquet. It also provides a fast and flexible solution with exceptional drying speeds.
Ultraplan Renovation Screed can be laid up to thicknesses of 30mm per application and is ideal for refurbishment projects. It is also suitable for both domestic and commercial use, provides excellent resistance to loads and is compatible with underfloor heating systems. It is also certified EC1 low emission of volatile organic compounds (VOC).
The most common cause of resilient floor failures is moisture within the sub floor. If the substrate is new concrete or sand/cement screed, then prior to proceeding with the installation, the moisture content must first be established. If it is found to
SUB FLOORS &
SUB FLOOR CONTAMINATION IS THE MOST PROMINENT CAUSE OF FAILURES AFTER EXCESSIVE MOISTURE
be above the recommended levels for the particular floor covering, then measures must be taken to control the release of the retained moisture. By the inclusion of a surface damp proof membrane, the release of moisture vapour can be regulated and controlled. Mapei manufacture surface applied liquid damp proof membranes such as Mapeproof ESM and the EC1 certified Mapeproof 1K Turbo which would resolve this common problem.
Existing substrates should be mechanically prepared to remove all contamination such as existing levelling compounds, old adhesives, plaster, paint, oil and grease, and any residues from other trades. Ceramic or quarry tiles and other hard finishes may need de- greasing with detergents to remove waxes and polishes that may have been applied during the life of the floor. With new floors, it will be
necessary to remove any laitence and curing agents from the surface to reveal a sound surface.
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An even textured, clean, firm and contamination free surface is only part of the equation. It is also essential that the substrate is stable, sound, fit-for-purpose and free from cracks, voids, ridges, loose and/or friable areas. In other words it must be in good condition and be appropriate for the intended purpose.
Preparation is the key to every successful installation. If the appropriate measures are followed then the finish should last for many years. In order to get the best possible result, Mapei’s technical representatives can offer their advice or a site visit when required.
www.mapei.co.uk
www.tomorrowsflooring.com
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