University College London

Project Description

UCL London at Here East commissioned GSS Flooring to specify and install a new resin flooring system to replace an existing floor finish within one of its Faculty of Engineering Sciences facilities. The brief required a heavy-duty resin floor that combined slip resistance with ease of cleaning, while meeting a critical operational requirement: the surface had to be exceptionally smooth and flat to allow high-tech air skates (Air Bearing Modules) to glide a few millimetres above the floor, enabling the safe movement of heavy equipment and machinery.

The project covered a total area of 3,000m² and required precise installation to meet both performance and tolerance demands.

Preparation Process

The first phase of the project involved the complete removal of the existing resin floor using state-of-the-art remote-controlled, diamond-bladed floor grinding equipment. This process ensured the removal of all existing coatings and contaminants while preparing the substrate to receive the new resin system.

Once preparation was complete, the floor was thoroughly cleaned and primed with an epoxy primer to promote optimal adhesion and long-term performance of the new flooring system.

Substrate Preparation and Joint Reinstatement

Following priming, careful attention was given to ensuring the substrate was suitable for a precision resin installation. All existing expansion joints were identified and protected during the installation process to ensure continuity and structural integrity.

Upon completion and curing of the resin system, all expansion joints were accurately reinstated back through the cured resins to allow for future movement and to maintain the floor’s long-term durability.

Resin Flooring Application

A 4mm self-smoothing polyurethane resin screed was installed across the full 3,000m², delivering a seamless, level, and hard-wearing surface capable of meeting the facility’s demanding operational requirements.

Once cured, the floor was sealed with a coloured polyurethane seal coat to enhance durability, slip resistance, and ease of maintenance. A final seal coat was then applied to complete the system and provide a uniform, high-quality finish.

Outcome

The completed floor provides a robust, seamless, and precisely level surface tailored to the advanced needs of the Faculty of Engineering Sciences. The new resin system successfully supports the operation of Air Bearing Modules, allowing heavy machinery and equipment to be moved safely and efficiently across the space.

In addition to meeting stringent flatness and performance criteria, the floor delivers long-term durability, improved safety, and ease of cleaning—providing UCL with a future-proof flooring solution suited to a high-tech research environment.