Solutions to problems you didn't know you had (Part II)

Through decades of fielding questions and first-hand experience, problem solving and solution seeking, we have learnt priceless lessons and no doubt, have a solution for a problem you may not even know you have. This week we continue to explore alternative building methods and in particular, look at fast tracked new structures.

We have a solution for a problem you may not even know you have.

With so many building projects being fast tracked now and structures having to be completed within really tight deadlines, you need to be very cognisant of the fact that you may encounter unconventional sub floors.

As vinyl flooring is completely reliant on the substrate onto which it is adhered to, it is critical that you understand the intricacies of what you're faced with.

Marine Ply/Plywood substrates

Considerations as follows:

1. Board thickness
2. Board quality
3. Board layout
4. Bracing
5. Preparation
6. Specialist detailing and procurement/ manufacturing of shower floors needs to be accommodated for the bathroom

These items MUST be detailed at the outset as wood will expand and contract. 

Unless correctly supported or braced, the boards will move to an extent where you may experience the following issues:

• Tripping hazards
• Welds opening
• Cracks and unhygienic conditions
• Bathrooms failing due to moisture ingress

Slab construction

Generally cheaper than the marine ply option, the following apply:

1. The substrate density and level must be specified
2. Expansion joints must be considered
3. What other finishes have been specified (epoxy etc) and how will we traverse those thresholds (different levels)?
4. How will the exterior doors be finished (weather bar etc)?
5. A moisture barrier will be required and must be detailed with a supplier in terms of self levelling/ glue type etc. Will the supplier be happy with the reduced programme and be happy to guarantee the product even if they don't have the conventional 28 days for curing?
6. Bathroom detailing must be closely considered to ensure the necessary detailing
7. Correct detailing at the outset of specialist drain requirements

Did you know that we're able to detail full bathrooms, showers and wet rooms in vinyl on both these substrates?

Please note, that if the building is for temporary use as a Covid facility, we can also offer:

1. A temporary vinyl installation, on both the substrates above
2. An option of detailing where the internal partitions can be removed later, to reconfigure the area for a different use.

If you want to know more about any of the details above, or if you have a challenge not yet discussed, we would be thrilled to partner with you in solution solving.

If you'd like to find out about the benefits of vinyl sheeting and get the latest insights on vinyl flooring and wall protection from our team of experts, subscribe to Polyflor Insights, and we'll send our latest tips and tricks straight to your inbox!