Page 92 - CFJ_Apr26

SECTOR FOCUS FLOORING IN HEALTHCARE

Creating a base ‘For preparing subfloors in areas that vertical flooring accessories. The strong
The fastest-drying smoothing compound are subject to heavy loads and high bond formed by F Ball’s Stycco Flex, for
on the market is walk-on hard from 30 foot traffic, such as hospital wards and example, restricts the movement of PVC
minutes and allows floorcoverings to be corridors, the application of a heavy- accessories that occurs over the lifetime
installed from as little as 45 minutes after duty smoothing compound will ensure of an installation or with temperature
application, without compromising on the long-term performance of the changes. This gives the advantage of
quality or finish. installation. Low odour, latex and protein eradicating gapping at joints – a benefit
When selecting a smoothing compound free-formulations can be used to prepare in healthcare environments, ensuring
for use in biologically sensitive settings, subfloors while nearby areas remain in there’s no breeding ground for bacteria. Its
contractors should look for protein-free use.’ solvent-free and hazard-free properties
formulations, which do not promote the Floorcovering installation mean it is an excellent alternative to
growth of bacteria. Many healthcare Continues the company: ‘Vinyl sheet and traditional contact adhesives in such
facilities will not permit the use of safety flooring are commonly installed in environments, and its resistance to
products that contain latex because of the hospitals and other healthcare settings. water means it will tolerate wet cleaning
prevalence of allergies to the material. For this purpose, acrylic adhesives are techniques.’
A time-saving solution also exists available that are moisture resistant and Compatibility check
for situations where floorcovering protected against biodegradation, allowing Concludes the company: ‘To prevent a
installations are part of refurbishments them to effectively withstand deep substandard finish or even complete
where old adhesive residues, including cleaning procedures. floor failure, it’s always recommended
bitumen and carpet tile tackifiers, are ‘Solvent-free vinyl adhesives, with a to check the compatibility of particular
present. For these situations, specialist range of additional features, are now floorcoverings and adhesives. To do this,
smoothing compounds are available that available that can also be used to install contractors can consult the adhesive
can be applied over existing residues, both floorcoverings and PVC flooring manufacturer’s Recommended Adhesives
without the need to prime beforehand, accessories, such as skirting, capping- Guide or floorcovering manufacturer’s
saving valuable time. and-coving, which are frequently installed guidance.’ 
Says F BALL: ‘The latest advancements in hospitals to make cleaning of floors www.f-ball.co.uk
in technology have enabled F Ball and Co easier.
to create a water-mix version, Stopgap ‘Some rapid-drying, flexible cartridge To read more from F.BALL & CO - visit the
1500, which is also protein-free. adhesives are also suitable for adhering Brand Leaders section on our website

Brochure from Mapei tailored to soft coverings in healthcare sector

APEI has launched a brochure tailored to soft coverings in
Mthe healthcare sector. Highlighting key areas in hospital and
medical settings, the guide carefully explores considerations and
demands, including resistance, hygiene and safety. It also includes
tailored installation build-ups for different materials, spanning
sheet vinyl, rubber and linoleum, conductive and anti-static/
dissipative resilient floors, LVT and textiles.
The brochure is available as a hard copy and online at
www.mapei.co.uk
Installation areas in healthcare environments are complex and
diverse. In response, Mapei’s brochure is divided into a series of
individual settings, including receptions and communal spaces,
canteens, operating theatres, diagnosis and treatment rooms,
patient wards, kitchens and bathrooms, archives, offices and
temporary medical spaces.
Each location includes highly visual images showing installed
floors and walls, along with a clear product build-up including the
subfloor (and various site-specific conditions), suitable repair and
preparation products, adhesives and resilient surfaces. Wall build-
ups include substrate, wall covering and decorative mouldings.
Key criteria within each environment are explained, from
stringent VOC requirements and resistance to chemicals in
medical settings, to non-slip on steps and stairs. An overview
table of surface material, recommended product and relevant
EN certification is also included for quick reference, along with
a series of UK case studies, including Royal Gwent Hospital’s
Endoscopy Unit. 
info@mapei.co.uk To read more from MAPEI - visit the
Mapei brochure on healthcare www.mapei.co.uk Brand Leaders section on our website

92 CFJ April 2026 www.contractflooringjournal.co.uk
@CFJMagazine