Vebro Polymers prides ourselves on being able to offer a seamless solution for any scenario, and our objective is to continue to educate the global flooring market and our specification network on the benefits of choosing liquid-applied seamless flooring over alternative floor coverings.
After establishing our brand based on agility of operations, quality products and reliability of service, the next twelve months will see us increase our investment and focus on strengthening our global specification team.
In today’s construction industry, there is a growing focus on safety and sustainability. These pillars influence all manner of design choices and it requires knowledge and expertise to ensure that materials and products are chosen correctly for the job at hand.
Because we know that every substrate is different and service criteria varies from project to project, we have put together a robust specification framework that addresses the specific requirements of each and every surface to deliver a tailor-made solution time after time.
From assessing the condition of the slab to considering installation logistics, evaluating service criteria and understanding the financial, regulatory and environmental implications, the Vebro specification method guides the polymer flooring selection process for any commercial or industrial new-build or renovation project.
While there are many more questions that can – and should – be asked, these considerations are designed to prompt a full site assessment that will ensure the correct resin floor specification.
V = Visuals
What should the surface look like?
The visual appearance of the polymer flooring is a crucial consideration, not only from an aesthetics perspective, but also factoring in wayfinding, navigation and safety. In commercial scenarios, the choice of flooring material may be guided by the overall interior scheme, with a creative approach taken to wayfinding, while in industrial facilities, the choice of finish will typically be more utilitarian with functional demarcation to aid in navigation.
Is the area public facing?
If the area is public-facing, aesthetics become even more important. Polymer flooring in areas like showrooms, lobbies or retail spaces should create a positive impression on visitors, aligning with the company’s brand promise.
Are there any aesthetic concerns?
Even in industrial settings, a visually pleasing workspace can boost employee morale and productivity.
E = Environment
Where is the surface being installed?
The location of the installation greatly impacts the choice of polymer flooring. Different environments have varying levels of foot traffic, chemical exposure, temperature fluctuations and moisture levels. For example, a manufacturing plant might require chemical-resistant flooring, while a food processing facility needs flooring that can withstand regular cleaning and sanitisation.
What are the service criteria?
Understanding the specific demands the flooring will face is vital. Will there be heavy machinery or vehicles moving across it? Will it be exposed to chemicals or potential spills? Will it need to handle extreme temperatures? These criteria will influence the type of polymer flooring system that is chosen.
What is the existing slab’s condition?
The condition of the existing concrete slab is critical. Any cracks, unevenness, latent contamination, or moisture issues can affect the longevity and performance of the polymer flooring. Proper preparation, including crack repair and moisture mitigation – and even the selection of a specialist primer – might be necessary to ensure a successful installation.
B = Budget
How much investment has been allocated to the flooring package?
The budget plays a significant role in determining the type of polymer flooring that can be specified. There’s a wide range of options available, each with different costs associated with materials, installation and long-term floor upkeep. Balancing the desired features with the available capital outlay and maintenance budget is essential.
What is the desired life expectancy?
The desired lifespan of the flooring directly affects the budget and material choice. Some polymer flooring solutions have longer lifespans and may justify a higher upfront cost due to reduced maintenance and replacement needs over time.
R = Regulations
Is compliance with specific standards required?
Depending on the industry and region, there might be specific regulations or standards that the building, or more specifically the flooring must adhere to. This could include general or industry specific safety standards, chemical resistance requirements or slip resistance criteria.
Food processing, production or packaging plants, for example, should aim to adhere to the stringent health and safety guidelines set out by HACCP International. Choosing a HACCP International floor coating system like those Vebro Polymers’ vebrocrete range, can help to satisfy this requirement.
Does the project promote high environmental stewardship?
With environmental concerns a high priority, selecting materials with low VOC emissions or considering flooring systems that can be refurbished or recycled rather than replaced can contribute to the sustainability effort.
O = Operations
What is the install programme?
The installation timeline can impact the overall project schedule. While some polymer flooring solutions require slightly longer curing times or specific environmental conditions for installation, there are a number of incredibly fast cure options that can allow follow-on-trades — or even site handover – overnight.
Will other trades be on site?
If other construction or renovation work is happening concurrently, coordination with other trades is crucial to ensure the flooring installation goes smoothly. In these scenarios, considering the overcoating window, suitable protection and cure time becomes important.
Will equipment be moved out?
Heavy equipment can be moved out or worked around. Both requires careful planning and coordination to minimise disruptions to operations.
Specification support
We’ve put together our Vebro specification method guide for download, or our expert specification team are on hand to work through drawings, discuss levelling screeds, movement joints, drainage details, flexible membranes and each and every part of the specification build-up to ensure the seamless delivery of the flooring package on any commercial development.
Just drop your local team a line.
You can find Vebro Polymers on NBS Source, we are Constructionline certified and part of the RIBA CPD Providers Network.
