Do’s and Don'ts of Temporary Floor Protection

Ensure the effectiveness of your chosen temporary floor protection by following these do's and don'ts. It begins with choosing the right material, and the list goes on.
April 8, 2024 by
Do’s and Don'ts of Temporary Floor Protection
SP Group Global Ltd

Temporary floor protection materials are common in construction sites or buildings under renovation. These covers are used to protect floors to ensure they won’t get damaged from dropped tools or get stained from splatters. Here are the do’s and dont’s to ensure they provide optimal protection.

DO choose the right floor protection

Different types of flooring require specific protection materials, and choosing the right one is key for effectiveness. For instance, Floorgard Corry Board Sheet is an excellent option for concrete or hardwood floors in projects with high foot traffic or risk of dropped tools; STIXX Carpet Protector adheres well to short pile fibre carpets and so on.

Let’s imagine you’re renovating your living room with brand-new carpeting, and you want it safe from spills and stains while you work in other parts of the room. Using a carpet film can ensure your carpet remains as good as new.

DON’T forget to secure the floor protection

Failure to do so can lead to ineffective protection and slipping hazards. Various methods can be used, but this will depend on the material and the surface it’s being applied to. A common approach is using protection tapes like reinforced tape. These are designed to secure the edges and corners of the protective sheets. 

Note: Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper application.

DO clean and prepare the surface

Clean the floor surface before applying any protection material for effective protection. Failure to do so undermines the purpose of using such floor solutions.

For instance, a thick floor card material like Tuffcard is a great floor protection but if debris is left uncleared and trapped underneath it, these particles can scratch the floor when stepped on.

Overall, proper cleaning before material application ensures that the intended protection is achieved. 

DON’T neglect heavy traffic areas

Identify high-traffic zones or areas prone to impact from heavy equipment. This lets you apply floor protection where it’s needed most. Secure the solution in these locations, such as using rubber matson walkways. These mats absorb the impact of workers wearing heavy boots or carrying large machinery. Their ribbed surface also offers extra grip that minimises slipping hazards.

DO regular inspections

Regular inspections enable you to spot any areas where the covering may have shifted or worn down. This allows you to identify and fix any damage or re-secure it as needed. Remember, a little attention goes a long way in keeping your floor protection intact throughout your project.

DON’T compromise floor safety

If you’re rushing to finish a refurbishment and decide to skip applying floor protection, you risk damaging your floors. A dropped tool could cause a scratch or crack, or someone could slip in a high-traffic area. The consequences of compromising safety can go beyond inconvenience. It may result in working overtime to fix the damage that could have been prevented. 

Always prioritise safety and invest in the right floor protection for a smoother and safer building or renovation project. 

Need more advice or information? Our 5-star rated customer service is ready to help you with further queries. Contact us via hello@s-pgroup.com or call us at +44 (028) 9442 8611 to get a quote.