Ball, F and Co Ltd

‘Flooring by Henton’ opted for F. Ball products to achieve a high quality LVT floor finish in the company’s own showroom. Firstly, contractors removed old carpet, LVT and wood floorcoverings from the 90m2 floor of the showroom. Contractors next applied Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound over the entire subfloor to create a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of floorcoverings. The showroom has a large glass front, therefore, Styccobond F48 PLUS high temperature grade vinyl adhesive was selected to install wood-effect vinyl planks to ensure the floorcoverings would hold firmly in place when exposed to extreme temperatures.

Stopgap 800 wearcoat has been used to create a visually striking floor finish at a new organic meat restaurant in South London. First, contractors lifted the old wood floorcoverings to ensure it was suitably sound, smooth, and dry. To guard against excess subfloor moisture, contractors applied Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane to isolate excess subfloor moisture. Stopgap 800 Wearcoat was then applied over the entire subfloor. Stopgap 800 was selected due to its capabilities when it comes to upgrading and renovating new and existing internal floors, where floorcoverings are not required to be installed, making it perfect for this project.

Technical representatives from F. Ball have provided flooring with a cost-effective alternative to completely removing and replacing a weakened screed as part of a flooring refurbishment at the Aberystwyth Arts Centre, part of Aberystwyth University. Upon removing old floorcoverings, flooring contractors were faced with an extremely rough screed with weak patches, possibly the result of poor installation or curing techniques, environmental factors or age, that was unsuitable for the application of subfloor preparation products and the installation of floorcoverings. Some weak sections were mechanically removed, leaving about 75mm thickness to be made up. A structural engineer confirmed that the concrete bases were, otherwise, structurally sound. New P5 chipboard was affixed to the wood subfloors with screws and glued at the joins. It is often necessary to completely remove and replace a weakened screed. However, F. Ball technical representatives called upon to conduct a site assessment were able to recommend a less costly and time-consuming solution to make the surface suitable to receive floorcoverings, including quickly raising the level of floors where sections had been mechanically prepared. Firstly, any remaining weak spots in the base would need to be removed by mechanical means along with any surface contaminants to create a clean, sound micro-textured finish. Any dust and debris should also be swept away. Moisture tests indicated subfloor relative humidity (RH) levels in the concrete subfloors were as high as 78%, meaning a moisture management solution would be required. Contractors therefore applied a single coat of Stopgap F77 solvent-free epoxy waterproof surface membrane over the entire area to obtain a continuous barrier against subfloor moisture. Flooring contractors then used Stopgap 600 Base deep section levelling compound to raise the level of floors where weak patches of screed had been removed.  It was also recommended that the chipboard over the raised access floors was checked to ensure that the surface was clean, secure and undamaged before applying a minimum thickness of 0.2mm of Stopgap Fill and Prime over the entire area.  The whole subfloor area was then capped with a layer of Stopgap 1200 Pro high performance levelling compound to create a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of new floorcoverings. The final phase of the refurbishment was to install Nora rubber sheet floorcoverings using Styccobond F48 PLUS. 

A high-performance levelling compound and adhesives from F. Ball and Co. Ltd. have been chosen to install floorcoverings in the Middle East and Africa’s principal healthcare and research centre for the treatment of burns and trauma, the Ahl Masr Hospital in New Cairo, Egypt.Flooring contractors from Cairo-based Tradelink installed floorcoverings throughout the newly built hospital, including in inpatient rooms, intensive care units, nurse stations, blood donation areas, emergency department, administration centre and corridors, a total area of over 5,500m2.Tradelink began by undertaking moisture tests to ensure that the building’s subfloors were dry enough to receive floorcoverings. Surfaces were then primed using Stopgap P131 general-purpose primer to promote the application characteristics of subsequently applied subfloor preparation products.Stopgap Red Bag was then applied throughout to create a perfectly smooth base for floorcoverings to be installed. The water-mix, self-smoothing underlayment is designed for areas that are subject to light wheeled traffic and can be used over normal underfloor heating installations.Styccobond F44 solvent-free acrylic emulsion adhesive was used to install Gerflor Taralay Impression Compact safety flooring throughout the hospital, with the exception of operating theatres and X-ray rooms. Styccobond F44 provides a high bond strength, strong initial tack along with a long open time and is protected against biodegradation.Gerflor Mipolam Elegance EL5 conductive flooring was installed using Styccobond F57 in the operating theatres and X-ray rooms. Carbon fibres in the adhesive mean that when set it will conduct electricity, so when used to install conductive/anti-static floorcoverings, it stops the build-up of electrical charges that can affect sensitive electronic equipment. The solvent-free adhesive also offers strong initial tack and a high bond strength.Finally, Tradelink used Styccobond F60 contact adhesive to install skirting and capping and coving, as well as anti-bacterial PVC wall-guards, throughout the hospital.

Fast-track products from F. Ball have enabled a school hall to be refurbished after damage caused by floods. To begin with, contractors removed existing wooden blocks from the floor and used a mechanical scabbler to remove old adhesive residues. Stopgap F77 one-part waterproof surface membrane was applied due to high moisture levels in the subfloor, followed by a subsequent application of Stopgap 1200 Pro to provide a smooth surface for the receipt of new wooden floorcoverings. Once cured, contractors used Styccobond B95 high performance wood flooring adhesive to install new oak blocks over the entire floor area.

Stopgap 300 HD smoothing underlayment and Stopgap P131 primer have been used to create a ‘textbook perfect’ flooring finish at Amtico’s training academy. Firstly, ceramic tiles were removed from the existing concrete subfloor along with remaining adhesive. Next, Stopgap P131 primer was used to help promote adhesion. Stopgap 300 HD fast-drying, heavy-duty levelling compound was applied to create a smooth, durable base for the new floorcovering. Luxury vinyl tiles were installed using a vinyl adhesive. Finally, entryway matting was installed on one half of the prepared subfloor and carpet tiles were installed on the other half.

High performance subfloor preparation products from F. Ball have been used in a major housing development in London. Firstly, a moisture test was taken which indicated that the sand/cement screed subfloors were dry enough to proceed with the installation. After priming the surface with Stopgap P131 primer, contractors applied Stopgap Green Bag 114 at a 3mm thickness to smooth out any undulations. Stopgap Green Bag 114’s fast setting and high strength properties made it ideal for this development as it dried quickly and was strong enough to withstand heavy-duty foot traffic once work restarted.

F. Ball products have been used to install floorcoverings, as part of a life-changing residential refurbishment. Contractors began by priming the concrete subfloor using Stopgap P131 general purpose primer, before applying Stopgap Fast-Track 30 floor smoothing underlayment to level the rooms. Styccobond F73 PLUS heavy duty adhesive provided the high bond strength needed to secure Tarkett Primo Safe-t vinyl sheet and LVT. Plywood sheets were firmly affixed to the existing floorboard subfloor, and Stopgap 500 Micro was used to smooth over screwheads and the joints between panels. Contractors then installed LVT, again using Styccobond F73 PLUS adhesive.

F. Ball conducted extensive on-site moisture tests before recommending the use of Stopgap P131 primer for both the 650m clinic and a 200m MRI Scanning room. Priming helped control the absorption and improve the adhesion of the Stopgap Green Bag smoothing underlayment, recommended for its fast setting properties and suitability in heavy duty applications. Styccobond F44 was then trowel applied on two types of vinyl – one for each room – to give a high bond strength, strong initial tack and a long open time. Styccobond F61 heavy-duty contact adhesive was then used to secure skirting.

F. Ball products have been used in a resilient flooring installation capable of withstanding high temperatures as part of the refurbishment of Cardiff Castle visitor centre. Firstly, old carpet and ceramic tiles had to be uplifted. Contractors then mechanically prepared the subfloor. Next, Stopgap P131 general-purpose primer was applied to the subfloor, enabling promotion of the application characteristics and stop the unacceptably rapid drying of subsequently applied levelling compounds, in addition to preventing pinholing. Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound was then applied over the entire subfloor to create a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of new floorcoverings.

Flooring preparation products donated by F. Ball have been used to install high-quality floorcoverings in the newly-built clubhouse at CB Hounslow United FC. Stopgap P121 acrylic primer was used to prime the subfloor before Stopgap 1100 Gypsum was applied to create a perfectly smooth surface ahead of the installation of the floorcoverings. Styccobond F41 carpet tile tackifier was then used to install high-quality, bitumen-backed Desso carpet tiles to create a border around the perimeter of the function room. Lastly, wood-effect, Tarkett vinyl sheet floorcoverings were installed using Styccobond F46 solvent-free, pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive.

F. Ball products have been used in the refurbishment of the flooring in the ‘Jupiter’ ward at Chelsea & Westminster hospital in Chelsea, London. Firstly, the subfloor was primed with Stopgap P131 general-purpose primer to promote the adhesion of the underlayment, prior to the application of the fast-setting, minimal preparation two component smoothing underlayment, Stopgap 1200 Pro. In as little as four hours, Stopgap 1200 Pro is ready to receive floorcoverings, therefore, contractors were able to return a short time later to install a selection of Polyflor floorcoverings in the ward using Styccobond F46, a solvent-free pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive.

F. Ball’s high performance subfloor preparation and adhesive products have been used to renovate the floor of a 160m2 school hall at Christ Church CE Primary School in Kent. A combination of Stopgap 600 deep section base compound and Stopgap 200 Smooth acrylic floor smoothing underlayment was used over a Stopgap Waterproof Surface Membrane, firstly to build up the subfloor to the required thickness and then create a smooth, durable surface on which the final floorcovering could be laid. Styccobond F46 pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive was used to secure the vinyl Polyflor XL floorcovering to the finished subfloor...

With use of the company’s primers, floor smoothing compounds and adhesives, a floorcovering installation at the new Christ Church School in Frome proved to be a master class from F. Ball and Co. Ltd. The subfloors were prepared by applying Stopgap P131 primer, followed by Stopgap Green Bag fast setting smoothing underlayment. Heckmondwike Hippo carpeting was then installed in the entrance area using Styccobond F3 Flooring Adhesive. Flotex carpet was laid in classrooms, secured by Styccobond F44 Acrylic Flooring Adhesive, which was also used to install Altro Walkway vinyl floorcovering in community areas and toilets...

Floor preparation products from F. Ball have been used in the refurbishment of Cliffs Pavilion, a theatre located in Southend-on-Sea. Firstly, the joisting was repaired and reinforced where necessary. Following this, a 25mm plywood subfloor was installed and primed using Stopgap P131, a primer designed to promote adhesion to smoothing underlayments and prevent uncontrolled rapid drying. Stopgap 500 Micro floor finishing compound was then used to fill the plywood joints and the subfloor was prepared with Stopgap 700 Superflex to create a flat, smooth surface free from undulations. Once dried, Karndean Van Gogh wood floorcoverings were installed.

Products donated by F. Ball and Co. Ltd., including the company’s Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound, have been used to prepare subfloors as part of the renovation of the Coventry Caribbean Community Centre prior to its reopening to coincide with Coventry’s UK City of Culture status last year. Firstly, they removed old floorcoverings, revealing a rough screed. A moisture test also indicated that subfloor relative humidity levels were above the 75% maximum threshold for installing floorcoverings. Installers therefore opted to use Stopgap 1200 Pro to smooth subfloors.Stopgap F77 one-part waterproof surface membrane was then applied to prevent excess subfloor moisture attacking floorcoverings and adhesives, potentially causing complete floor failure.Once dry, the surface was primed using Stopgap P141, which is designed especially to promote the adhesion of levelling compounds to non-absorbent surfaces, including waterproof surface membranes. Another layer of Stopgap 1200 Pro was then used to create a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of new floorcoverings.Once the levelling compound had cured, Amtico Spacia stone-effect LVTs were installed in the majority of the floor area, with cream-coloured hexagon tiles positioned around the bar area for visual interest.

Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS vinyl adhesive has been used to install a luxury vinyl tile floor finish at the Pavilion Bar on Norfolk’s Cromer Pier ahead of BBC television programme ‘Antiques Roadshow’ shooting an episode from the pier. Contractors took up worn carpet tiles and securely screwed down plywood sheets over the boardwalk subfloor, prior to installing Altro Wood Safety LVT’s. Styccobond F49 was applied prior to the installation of LVTs. Unlike other water-based adhesives, Styccobond F49 is resistant to water, making it the ideal choice for an installation such as this situated directly above the sea.

Delivering ‘the perfect flooring installation’ for luxury Crystal cruise ship, the Crystal Endeavour, has been achieved by flooring contractors.To guarantee the highest levels of aesthetics and durability, flooring contractors used Styccobond flooring adhesives and Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound.To install carpets, contractors opted for a dual bond system comprising Styccobond F40 and F3 adhesives. Styccobond F1 rubber latex adhesive was used to seal carpet edges to reduce the risk of fraying and fibre loss, maximising the longevity of the installation.Luxury vinyl tiles were installed using Styccobond F46 pressure sensitive adhesive, which provides instant grab to prevent tiles and planks from sliding as adjacent tiles/planks are laid into the adhesive. Prior to installing the LVT, flooring contractors used Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound to create a perfectly smooth and level subfloor surface.

Stopgap 600 Base deep section base compound and Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS adhesive were amongst products from F. Ball used to install floorcoverings in the new premises of the Echt franchise of the Dutch home deco retailer Decorette.Work was undertaken by Decorette Woonatelier Schuyt in Vught, as part of an arrangement that will in turn see Decorette Woonatelier Echt install floorcoverings at the Vught location when it is refurbished later in the year.After installers began by removing old ceramic tiles and mechanically preparing the subfloor to remove adhesive residues, floor levels needed to be raised by 11mm.To do this, flooring contractors applied Stopgap 600 Base deep section compound at a thickness of 7mm. The product is suitable for applications at thicknesses between 5–50mm prior to being capped with a suitable F. Ball smoothing compound. Its fast-drying properties meant that this could take place just three hours later, allowing flooring contractors to return the next day to install floorcoverings.Pressure sensitive adhesives from F. Ball were then used to install PVC planks in a herringbone formation in the 200m2 area. Floorcoverings were adhered using Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS temperature tolerant adhesive in the areas near the showroom’s floor-to-ceiling windows, which had the potential to cause solar gain and, consequently, extreme temperatures and temperature fluctuations – this can cause floorcoverings to expand and contract significantly, leading to unsightly tenting and gapping at the edge of vinyl floorcoverings over time. Styccobond F46 was used to install vinyl planks in other areas. The pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive provides a high bond strength that increases as it is trafficked, as well as strong initial tack, to reduce the likelihood of tiles or planks moving around while working.Raymond Schuijt, franchise owner and installer at Decorette Schuyt, said: “We love using F. Ball adhesives and smoothing underlayments as they are top quality and very easy to work with. The range is well thought out and contains solutions for every situation you can imagine. I can always count on their technical support if I have any queries too. They’re only ever a phone call away and will gladly undertake site assessments to advise on the required subfloor preparation and floorcovering installation processes.”

F. Ball smoothing underlayment and adhesives have played starring roles in the installation of floorcoverings as part of the major refurbishment and extension of one of Scotland’s busiest theatres, Eden Court at Inverness. Flooring contractor Jack Carmichael (Flooring) Ltd of Elgin, were responsible for the installation of floorcoverings throughout the project. This involved a basement cinema, the main 850 seat auditorium, a second 250 seat theatre, a bar and restaurant, box office, foyer bar and dance studio and associated dressing rooms and toilets...

F. Ball products including Styccobond F48 PLUS fibre-reinforced high temperature grade vinyl adhesive, have helped transform a disused agricultural building into a new state-of-the-art distillery and visitor centre at Treggudick Manor, Cornwall.Flooring contractors installed a variety of floorcoverings, including vinyl sheet and tiles, wood and carpet tiles, throughout the 620m2 space at the English Spirit Distillery.The installation began by mechanically grinding the building’s recently installed power floated concrete screed to create a ‘key’ for subsequently applied subfloor preparation products. Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane was then applied to create a barrier to prevent excess subfloor moisture attacking adhesives and floorcoverings, potentially leading to floor failure.Following this, contractors primed the surface using Stopgap P141 primer, and once dry Stopgap 300 HD levelling compound was applied in the kitchen that serves the café. Elsewhere, Stopgap 1200 Pro high performance levelling compound was used to create a perfectly smooth base for floorcoverings.Styccobond F48 PLUS was chosen to install Altro Ensemble wood-effect Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVTs) in the restaurant and shop, each comprising an area of approximately 100m2.In the kitchen, Altro Stronghold ‘Dolphin’ grey vinyl safety flooring was adhered with Styccobond F73 PLUS one-part, moisture-curing heavy-duty adhesive and in the offices, Styccobond F41 carpet tile tackifier created a permanently tacky film to hold Heckmondwike flint grey carpet tiles firmly in place when subject to normal foot traffic but enable them to be lifted and replaced should they become worn or damaged.

Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS vinyl adhesive has helped to take the floors up a gear in the West Bromwich showroom of Evans Halshaw. Styccobond F49’s temperature-tolerant properties made it the perfect choice of adhesive. It was applied by flooring contractors for the installation of the LVTs. Stopgap P141, an acrylic primer for non-absorbent subfloors, was applied over the original ceramic tiles, to help promote the adhesion of the levelling compound to the subfloor. Once the primer had dried, Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound was then applied to the entire area, before the installation of new LVT flooring.

F. Ball’s Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS vinyl adhesive, a revolutionary development in temperature tolerant adhesives, has been used to install luxury vinyl tiles in a shopping park food court that is subject to temperature change and heavy footfall. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause floorcoverings to expand and contract over time, leading to tenting and gapping. The innovative formulation of Styccobond F49 limits any movement and holds the floorcovering firmly in place.  Importantly, the adhesive also delivers the instant grab associated with pressure sensitive adhesives, which, until now, hasn’t been available for temperature tolerant adhesives.

A floor preparation system from F. Ball has been used to install 2,700m2 of floorcoverings at Glasgow University Library. First, old linoleum floorcoverings were removed. Over this area, Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane was applied due to excessive relative humidity levels. Stopgap 1200 Pro smoothing underlayment was applied on concrete sections of the subfloor. An F. Ball primer was applied to a ramp constructed from plywood before Stopgap 700 smoothing underlayment was used to receive floorcoverings. In the entranceway, Styccobond F46 adhesive was selected to install vinyl sheets, with Styccobond F41 carpet tile tackifier used to install carpet tiles.

Products from F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s System LVT range, including the company’s fast-track, fibre-reinforced transitional adhesive, Styccobond F58 PLUS, have been used to install luxury vinyl tiles in an ambitious, modern self-build property in rural Cambridgeshire.Flooring contractors began by thoroughly vacuuming the building’s concrete subfloor to remove dust and debris. F. Ball’s technical service team recommended treating the subfloor as a newly installed screed for the purposes of moisture management, despite being installed months earlier, as it had been left exposed to the elements since. Therefore, Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane was used to create a barrier to prevent excess subfloor moisture attacking adhesives and floorcoverings, potentially causing floor failure.Once the waterproof surface membrane had cured, the surface was primed using Stopgap P141. Stopgap 300 HD heavy-duty levelling compound was then applied over the entire ground floor to create a perfectly smooth base for the receipt of floorcoverings. The product’s high compressive strength and excellent self-levelling properties help create a flawless finish when installing LVTs, while ensuring a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing floor finish even when subject to high levels of wear.The contractors then used Styccobond F58 PLUS and Styccobond F49 Hybrid PS temperature tolerant, moisture resistant, pressure sensitive adhesive to install wood-effect LVTs over the 372m2 area. Styccobond F49 was used where floor-to-ceiling windows were likely to cause temperatures to rise significantly as a result of solar gain.Styccobond F58 PLUS was used to install vinyl tiles everywhere else. The fast-track adhesive enables floorcoverings to be installed from as little as five minutes after application, transitioning from a wet-lay adhesive to become fully pressure sensitive. Reinforcing fibres in the formulation provide resistance to lateral movement, holding tiles firmly in place and reducing the potential for them to slide around when working. The adhesive’s high bond strength and strong initial tack also prevent excess adhesive oozing between joints, facilitating easier application.All of the products used in this installation feature in the F. Ball System LVT range: subfloor preparation products and adhesives which, used in combination, can help achieve optimum results when installing LVTs.Commenting on the project, Richard Argyle of 4 Floor Fittings, said: “It’s the best screed I’ve ever done. The levelling compound had no imperfections whatsoever. Styccobond F58 PLUS allowed floorcoverings to be installed over large areas in one go while helping with the precise alignment of LVTs. The result is a visually striking finish in keeping with the rest of the project.”

F. Ball products have been used to install vinyl safety flooring at the Great Western Railway train depot in Penzance. Flooring contractors installed 400m2 of flooring in the depot. Firstly, to combat the excess subfloor moisture, which can cause extensive damage to floorcoverings and lead to costly remedial work, contractors used a combination of Stopgap F77 and Stopgap F78 Waterproof Surface Membranes. The fast-setting, minimal preparation Stopgap 1200 Pro smoothing underlayment was then applied over the area. A short time later new Polyflor Polysafe Standard PUR flooring was installed using Styccobond F46, a solvent-free pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive.

A range of high performance products from F. Ball have been used in the refurbishment of Grosvenor House; the 5-star luxury hotel on Park Lane, London. Once the subfloors had been prepared, contractors applied Styccobond F40 to the subfloor to create a release bond for the new installation. When the adhesive had dried to a tacky coating, contractors installed a new underlay to protect the carpet and provide added comfort. Styccobond F3 with its buildup of strength and protection against bio-degradation properties, was then used to permanently bond the new 12-row Axminster carpet.

Specialist floor levelling compounds and adhesives from F. Ball have been used to install a mixture of hard-wearing, stylish textile and vinyl floorcoverings at Hampton School in South West London. Starting in the sixth form areas, flooring contractors made a feature of the long and narrow atrium by mirroring the footprint of the mezzanine floor overlooking the breakout area onto the floor below, using a 50/50-split of Calgary Cement and Grey Forbo Flotex carpets.To achieve this, the old fibre-bonded carpet in the 250m2 room was first removed, revealing a sound, dry, concrete subfloor, which was primed using diluted Stopgap P131 general purpose primer before the application of Stopgap Green Bag levelling compound. Once the levelling compound had cured, Styccobond F44 acrylic adhesive was used to secure the PVC-backed carpet. Over in the maths’ corridor, contractors had to remove fibre-bonded carpet tiles affixed to wooden parquet blocks, leaving behind old bitumen adhesive residues. To prepare the subfloor, Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound was applied. Once cured, Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane was applied as a moisture test had indicated the presence of excess subfloor moisture, with relative humidity levels exceeding the 75% threshold for the project to progress without a moisture management solution.Next, Stopgap P141 primer was used to promote the adhesion of a subsequently applied second layer of Stopgap 1200 Pro. Finally, the 100m2 area was finished with wood-effect luxury vinyl tiles. 

Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound and F46 pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive have led the way in refurbishing floors at Heythrop Park, near Chipping Norton in Oxfordshire, following its acquisition by Warner Leisure Hotels, as part of a four-year, £40 million renovation.Flooring contractors were commissioned to install a range of floorcoverings throughout the site’s public areas, including in the 300-year-old, Grade II-listed manor house, which is set in a 440-acre country estate, as well as the adjoining hotel complex.The project included work in the reception, two ground-floor theatres, bar, restaurant and lounge areas, as well as connecting staircases and corridors, in the modern part of the hotel.Stopgap 1200 Pro high-performance levelling compound was used to raise subfloor levels so that LVT floorcoverings and inlaid carpet would sit perfectly flush with previously installed ceramic tiles, with areas divided by custom-made CAT brass edging strips. Stopgap Micro Rapid fast-setting, fast-drying floor finishing compound was used to address minor subfloor imperfections.Stopgap 1200 Pro was also used to create a perfectly smooth surface for grey loose-lay Forbo Coral carpet tiles in the entranceway of the reception, where heavy-duty made-to-measure Newhay grid entrance well matting was installed.Behind the reception desk, Plusfloor concrete-effect luxury vinyl tiles were installed with Styccobond F46 pressure sensitive adhesive, which provides a high bond strength that increases as it is trafficked, as well as strong initial tack, meaning that tiles or planks won’t move around while working. The indefinite open time offered by the product negates the risk of late placement, another advantage when there’s complex designs and patterns.Contractors installed bespoke Brintons carpet in a small seating area on one side of the reception and in front of the entrances to the larger of the hotel’s two ground-floor theatres and Late Lounge Bar, as well as on the steps and accessibility ramp leading from the reception to the 120m2 area, using a dual bond system. This involved using Styccobond F3 to create a permanent bond between carpet and underlay, with the Styccobond F40 providing a peelable bond between the underlay and subfloor.In the theatre, where guests can enjoy live music, drama and comedy performances, Stopgap 1200 Pro was used to patch repair existing subfloors, including where stanchions had been removed, before installing custom-made dark black and blue Newhay carpet.Bespoke Newhay carpet was also installed in the Late Lounge Theatre, which was also furnished with an Amtico wood-effect LVT dancefloor adhered with Styccobond F46. Styccobond F46 was used to install Harlequin Standfast high-performance vinyl sheet on both of the theatres’ stages.Amtico Signature basketweave, wood-effect LVTs were installed in the Late Lounge Bar up to seating areas with bespoke Newhay carpet and ceramic tiles around the bar, as well as on the steps leading to the Late Lounge Theatre. A feature was created in the centre of the room with a large area of herringbone wood-effect LVTs and a border of Amtico Signature Cirrus Twilight grey planks.Similarly, in the first floor ‘Pub and Kitchen’, Karndean ‘Van Gogh’ salvaged wood-effect LVTs were installed up to the bar area, where a border was created using Karndean ‘riven slate’ grey ‘Knight Tiles’, and areas with tables and chairs, where Alternative Flooring ‘Anywhere Rope’ natural carpet was installed. The LVTs were installed up to ceramic tiles around the bar and seating areas with bespoke Newhay carpet.Plusfloor wood floorcoverings were installed on the main staircase leading from the reception to the first and second floors, extending onto the first floor landing and lounge area, using Styccobond B95.Where there were steps in the areas being renovated, including the main staircase, Stycco Flex rapid-curing, flexible tube adhesive was used to affix custom-made CAT brass stair nosings.

Floor preparation products donated by F. Ball and Co. Ltd. have enabled an outbuilding to be turned into a therapy room for Jack Tyreman, from Burythorpe in Yorkshire, who was left with severe head injuries after a road accident four years ago when he was 18.The room provides a space with amenities, including an entertainment system and sofa, where Jack can relax and enjoy spending time, with the potential for it to house exercise equipment to assist with rehabilitation in the future.After a botched construction left the original building unusable while exhausting initial funds raised for the project, local tradespeople, including Richard Forbes, owner of Forbes Flooring, stepped up to offer their services for free to complete the project. F. Ball technical representative for the North East, John Rowlands arranged for the donation of flooring installation products. Floorcovering manufacturer Interface also donated LVT and carpet tile floorcoverings.A team of three fitters from Forbes Flooring began the flooring installation by grinding the surface of the new concrete screed to ensure it was suitably smooth. A moisture test indicated that subfloor relative humidity levels were low enough to proceed with the installation without the requirement of a moisture management solution.Contractors then primed the subfloor using P131 general-purpose primer before applying Stopgap Fast-Track 30 levelling compound – the fastest setting levelling compound on the market allows floorcoverings to be installed in as little as 45 minutes after application.Once the levelling compound had cured, a combination of Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVTs) and carpet tiles was installed over the 40m2 area. Styccobond F46 pressure sensitive adhesive was used to adhere Interface ‘Studio Set’ wood grain LVTs on one half of the room. Styccobond F41 carpet tile tackifier was used to secure Interface graphite-coloured ‘Employ Lines’ carpet tiles. The adhesive dries to a permanently tacky film that will hold loose-lay carpet tiles securely in place when subject to normal foot traffic while allowing them to be lifted and replaced at a later date should they become damaged or worn.Commenting on the project, Richard Forbes said: “At first, we were asked if we would undertake the work for a fee, but we didn’t want any payment for it. Things can be very cutthroat nowadays, and it’s good to be able to look out for other people. I’d like to thank David Edmondson at Interface as well as John Rowlands at F. Ball for supporting the project. Using F. Ball’s Fast-Track 30 meant that we could achieve a quick turnaround, allowing other trades to do what they needed to.”On the benefits of the therapy room for Jack, his mum, Julie, added: “It’s got all the things in it a young lad needs and to help him get on with life, as well as a place to relax on his own and with other people. He loves it.”

F. Ball products have been used for the installation of vinyl sheet safety flooring and carpet tiles as part of the refurbishment of Kingussie Courthouse in Scotland. Contractors were called to install flooring over an anhydrite subfloor which contained underfloor heating. Before applying Stopgap 1100 Gypsum smoothing underlayment, they primed the subfloor with Stopgap P121 acrylic primer. Stopgap 1100 Gypsum smoothing underlayment was then applied throughout the area. Contractors next used Styccobond F46 pressure sensitive acrylic adhesive to install the vinyl sheet flooring. Next, Styccobond F41, a solvent free acrylic polymer emulsion adhesive was used to fit the carpet tiles.

F. Ball and Co. Ltd.’s newest high-performance water-mix smoothing underlayment, Stopgap 1500 AquaPro, and Styccobond F48 PLUS temperature tolerant fibre-reinforced adhesive have enabled a fast-track LVT installation as part of barn conversions to create three holiday cottages in rural Nottinghamshire.Flooring contractors installed floorcoverings in bedrooms, open-plan living and dining areas and corridors of three previously disused farm buildings of varying size, a total area of over 200m2.Work began by sanding down the new concrete bases, which had been installed as part of the renovation of the properties, by mechanically preparing them, removing any laitance, contamination, dust and debris, to leave a solid, sound, micro textured surface to receive floor preparation products.A moisture test was undertaken by one of F. Ball’s technical representatives to ensure that the building’s subfloors were dry enough to receive floorcoverings. Surfaces were then primed using Stopgap P131 general-purpose primer to promote the application characteristics of subsequently applied subfloor preparation products.Stopgap 1500 AquaPro was applied to create a perfectly smooth base for floorcoverings. Fast-setting and fast-drying, it is walk-on hard in as little as 60 minutes after application and ready to receive floorcoverings from just four hours. The product uses the latest technology to offer a water-mix smoothing underlayment that can be applied over old adhesive residues, including bitumen, carpet tile tackifiers and ceramic tile adhesives. As it is moisture resistant, it can be applied to damp subfloors prior to the application of a waterproof surface membrane.Flooring contractors then used Styccobond F48 PLUS to adhere 7-inch wood-effect vinyl planks in each of the three cottages. The temperature tolerant adhesive holds floorcoverings in place when subject to high temperatures, which may be an issue as a result of solar gain caused by large patio doors. This can cause tenting and gapping at the edges of vinyl floorcoverings as a result of repeated expansion and contraction over time. Fibres in the adhesive also provide high initial grab, a benefit when installing LVTs.Commenting on the project, Anthony Holmewood, fitter at Forester Flooring, said: “Using Stopgap 1500 AquaPro meant that we could complete the work in less than a week. We opted for Styccobond F48 PLUS to install LVTs mainly because we like the adhesive, but also for the reason that floorcoverings are exposed to direct sunlight in some areas.”

Players at Macclesfield FC enjoyed a speedy win thanks to the help of Styccobond F58 PLUS. The ‘no time to wait’ adhesive made quick work of the installation of LVTs and rubber floorcoverings as part of the creation of a new state-of-the-art gym at the Leasing.com stadium.  Flooring contractors began the project with a subfloor moisture test, which indicated high Relative Humidity (RH) levels in the subfloor, necessitating a moisture management solution to prevent excess subfloor moisture attacking floorcoverings and adhesives, potentially causing floor failure. Having removed surface laitance and old paint from the concrete subfloor on the lower floor, the contractors carried out surface repairs using Stopgap 460 Exterior Repair fast-setting rapid repair mortar. A single coat of Stopgap F77 waterproof surface membrane created a barrier against the excess subfloor moisture. Once the waterproof surface membrane had cured, the surface was primed using Stopgap P141 primer for non-absorbent surfaces before the company’s Red Bag self-levelling compound was applied at a thickness of 3mm to provide a perfectly smooth base for floorcoverings.   Styccobond F58 PLUS was used to affix charcoal-grey, wood-effect Kährs Calder Herringbone LVTs to create a bold statement in the main weights, cardio and boxing rooms, and changing areas.  Throughout the gym, rubber floorcoverings were also installed at fitness stations, using the adhesive in its wet state, to provide a soft cushion underfoot for customers using the equipment.  Upstairs, contractors made necessary repairs, including filling day joints, before priming the subfloor, this time opting for Stopgap P131 general purpose primer. Due to high RH readings contractors applied Stopgap F78 waterproof surface membrane. Once cured, Stopgap Red Bag self-levelling compound was again used to create a base for subsequently installed LVTs, completing a premier workout area for strength and resistance and cardio machines.

Committed to supporting the NHS, F. Ball helped support frontline NHS workers by donating floor preparation materials and adhesive to assist in the installation of temporary flooring at a former aircraft hangar, which was turned into a food distribution centre for the SalutetheNHS.org initiative. Styccobond F46 Pressure Sensitive Adhesive, Stopgap 460 Exterior Repair Compound and Stopgap Isolator Membrane were used by flooring contractors to complete the transformation.

Marine-certified floor preparation products have been used to deliver a high-performance refurbishment for several deck areas on P&O Ferries’ ‘Pride of Rotterdam’ passenger ship. The deck floors, where necessary, were prepared with Stopgap 1200 Pro levelling compound. Styccobond F46 pressure sensitive adhesive was used to install the vinyl floorcoverings. Next, Broadloom carpet was installed using Styccobond F3 flooring adhesive which has excellent wet grab and early build-up of strength properties and Styccobond F40 High Tack adhesive, as part of a dual bond system.

A range of F. Ball products have been used to deliver a high quality, long-lasting floor finish in Plaisterers Hall, as part of a refurbishment following flood damage. Contractors first applied Stopgap P131 general purpose primer over the subfloor, to seal the entire area, and to aid adhesion of the smoothing underlayment. Once the primer had dried, contractors applied two component smoothing underlayment Stopgap 1200 Pro over the entire screed. Styccobond F3 water-based rubber/resin flooring adhesive that has excellent wet grab with an early build-up of strength, was used to adhere the carpet to the subfloor.