FOR industrial applications where floorcoverings aren’t required, rapid setting, industrial grade self-smoothing wearing surface compounds, such as F Ball’s Stopgap 800, are said to offer an ideal solution.

Says the company: ‘It has a special class abrasion resistance, making it perfect for upgrading and renovating new and existing internal floors in heavy-duty industrial applications, such as factories, warehouses and workshops.

‘For external applications or for situations that may nominally be inside but still subject to external weather conditions, a purpose-designed exterior grade smoothing underlayment is required. Stopgap 850, for example, can be used in light to medium duty areas and once cured is unaffected by rain or frost. If required, it can be finished with a suitable non-slip coating, or it can be left as a standalone exterior wear surface.’

The company continues: ‘The moisture tolerant properties of the product mean it can also be used internally over damp, uneven concrete and sand/cement screeds prior to the application of a waterproof surface membrane.

‘In areas where water or other fluids may come into direct contact with the cured smoothing underlayment, F Ball recommends the surface is treated with a sealer, such as Stopgap Seal, a water-dispersed modified polyurethane sealer. This provides a hygienic and protective surface and eases maintenance by reducing the adhesion of dirt and other debris. It also offers a level of chemical resistance to many commonly found chemicals in industrial/commercial applications.

‘If it’s the case that an internal floor requires a floorcovering, such as vinyl or other resilient material, a smoothing underlayment formulated for heavy-duty use should be selected instead. This will ensure the floor will be able to withstand heavy, concentrated loads, for example, from the wheels of a trolley used to transport heavy equipment or machinery.’
www.f-ball.co.uk