Woodside Leisure Centre, Watford

A leisure centre refurbishment project required the installation of a high-performance subfloor within a new mezzanine fitness studio. The wider development was focused on enhancing the facility’s exercise offering, including the creation of a dedicated space for group fitness activities. The floor construction needed to provide a stable, level and durable base capable of supporting dynamic loading, while also preparing the surface for the installation of a sprung timber sports floor designed to deliver comfort and performance.

The mezzanine structure comprised a steel-framed block and beam construction, requiring careful consideration of loadings and material selection. A levelling system was needed that could achieve application depths between approximately 35mm and 50mm while maintaining a balance between structural suitability and long-term durability. In addition, the programme required an efficient installation process to support the overall refurbishment timeline and minimise disruption to the facility.

Preparation of the substrate was carried out using weberfloor 4716 primer, a water-based primer designed to regulate substrate porosity and improve adhesion. This ensured a consistent interface between the base and the levelling system, reducing the risk of surface defects and supporting uniform curing across the application area.

The levelling layer was formed using a pump-applied application of weberfloor fibre 4310, a fibre-reinforced, self-smoothing screed suitable for renovation and floating floor constructions. Installed across approximately 190m², the product provided the necessary build-up to achieve a level surface while maintaining a relatively low applied weight compared to traditional screeds, making it well suited to the mezzanine structure.

weberfloor fibre 4310 is designed for application at thicknesses between 5mm and 50mm and offers excellent flow and self-smoothing characteristics. The inclusion of fibre reinforcement enhances durability and dimensional stability, making it particularly suitable for areas subject to regular movement and dynamic loads, such as fitness environments. The product delivers a smooth, consistent finish capable of meeting the requirements of subsequent specialist floor systems.

The installation programme benefited from the material’s fast-drying performance. The screed allowed access for light foot traffic within approximately 2 to 4 hours and was ready to receive floor coverings within 12 to 24 hours, depending on conditions. This supported the efficient sequencing of works and enabled follow-on trades to proceed without delay.

The completed subfloor provided a durable and level base for the installation of a sprung timber sports floor, designed to offer shock absorption and enhance user comfort during physical activity. The overall flooring system met the technical and performance requirements of a modern fitness facility, delivering both strength and resilience under regular use.

The combination of weberfloor 4716 primer and weberfloor fibre 4310 provided a practical and efficient solution tailored to the constraints of a mezzanine installation within a leisure environment. The system delivered the required balance of performance, weight management and installation speed, ensuring the upgraded fitness studio could be brought into use within the required timeframe.