In this blog post, we’ll take a look at steps four to seven in Flowcrete’s flooring specification roadmap, which offers advice on the importance of specifying the correct flooring system for your environment.

These crucial steps will help you to identify key points that should be considered, such as the type of traffic, necessary levels of impact and slip resistance as well as anticipated UV exposure.

Step 4 – Types of Traffic

Types of traffic determine the level of wear resistance and durability the flooring system needs.  However be aware that the term “Foot Traffic” can mean different things including bare feet, running shoes, flat shoes or high heels.  High heels cause pointed pressure on a flooring system and should be treated as a different type of traffic to flat or cushioned soled shoes.  Other types of traffic to consider include wheeled, forklift or vehicular traffic.

It is also important to consider the volume of the traffic.  For example, public spaces such as stadiums, shopping centres and retail facilities will experience a higher level of foot traffic than an office environment and therefore require a higher level of abrasion resistance.

Step 5 – Impact Requirements

A workshop environment can be required to stand up against heavy machinery or dropped tools and parts.  If a flooring system is used that doesn’t provide the required thickness, then the decking can begin to chip away, potentially exposing the substrate to further impact, dirt and chemicals.  It is important to learn about the elements that may cause impact within the environment, as this will allow you to correctly consider the required thickness of the flooring system.

Step 6 – Slip Resistance

What are your slip resistance safety requirements?  It is imperative that the flooring system you select can reach your slip resistance requirements. Different industries and environments require different levels of slip resistance. For example a restaurant dining area could require an R9 rating, whereas the kitchen would require a rating of R11-R12. Correct specification of slip resistant flooring can minimise your exposure to slip and trip hazards.

Step 7 – UV Exposure

Did you know there is a difference between UV Stable and UV Resistant? It is important to consider whether your floor will be exposed to low-level UV rays or full sunlight.  UV Resistant sealers will protect your floor from degradation but will not stop your floor from changing colour.  UV Stable sealers provide the same protection whilst also ensuring that you will experience no colour change.  Assess your UV requirements and ensure you’re selecting a floor which will provide the desired protection.