Damp subfloors are one of the most common causes of delay on refurbishment and fast-track construction projects. Where excess moisture is present within the substrate, contractors are often faced with additional preparation works, programme disruption and the potential need for a surface damp proof membrane (DPM) installation before flooring can be laid.
A recent industrial unit project in Gloucester has demonstrated how Gerflor’s new Tarasafe Ultra HOP safety vinyl floorcovering can provide a practical alternative. Installed within the WC and cleaners’ cupboard areas of the new build development, Tarasafe Ultra HOP in the Opal finish was selected by AOC Flooring as part of a fast-track flooring solution where moisture within the subfloor could have otherwise delayed the installation programme.
Rather than undertaking additional remedial works or waiting for the substrate to dry, the project team utilised the benefits of Gerflor’s looselay Tarasafe safety flooring system to continue installation efficiently and keep works progressing on site.
Designed specifically to support faster installation with reduced disruption, Tarasafe Ultra HOP is suitable for installation on damp substrates up to 97% RH (Relative Humidity) without the need for a surface DPM or moisture vapor suppressant. This helps minimise extensive subfloor preparation requirements often associated with traditional fully adhered flooring systems.
The Gloucester project provided a practical real-world example of how looselay flooring systems can help contractors manage challenging site conditions while maintaining programme efficiency.
Installed by AOC Flooring, the project also formed part of Gerflor’s wider initiative to showcase the practical benefits of looselay flooring solutions across commercial and refurbishment environments. Gerflor representatives Rob Walker (Technical Manager) and Chris Pursey (Specification Manager) supported the project and installation process.
Olly Clift, Project Manager from AOC Flooring explained: “The product was originally recommended to us by a local builder working on the industrial unit development. We use Gerflor flooring products regularly because we know we can rely on them to deliver both installation efficiency and a high-quality finish, Tarasafe Ultra HOP was again no exception.”
Olly Clift further added “The condition of the subfloor could easily have created delays on site, so having a flooring solution that could be installed over a damp substrate, without the need for additional surface DPM works was a tangible advantage. The looselay system was straightforward to install, performed exactly as expected and looked excellent once fully fitted and welded. Products that help keep projects moving while still delivering the required levels of safety and durability are always valuable, and we would certainly put Tarasafe Ultra HOP forward for future projects where a looselay flooring solution is required.”
As part of Gerflor’s growing looselay flooring portfolio, Tarasafe Ultra HOP has been engineered to combine installation flexibility with the performance requirements expected within demanding commercial environments. The product can be walked on immediately after installation, helping to reduce downtime and disruption on live sites or fast-moving projects.
Rob Walker (Technical Manager) added: “Projects like this are exactly where Tarasafe Ultra HOP can demonstrate its value. Damp subfloors can often create programme delays or additional preparation requirements, so being able to provide a looselay safety flooring solution suitable for these conditions offers clear practical benefits for contractors.”
Chris Pursey (Specification Manager) commented: “As demand continues to grow for faster, more flexible flooring systems, the Gloucester project highlights how looselay flooring solutions are becoming an increasingly important option within both refurbishment and new build environments, particularly where programme pressures and challenging substrate conditions are present.”
The Gloucester installation demonstrates how Tarasafe Ultra HOP is helping contractors overcome one of the most common challenges in flooring projects, damp subfloors, without compromising on safety, performance or programme timescales. By reducing the need for extensive subfloor preparation and allowing immediate access following installation, the innovative looselay safety flooring solution provides a practical, reliable option for both refurbishment and new build applications. As project teams continue to seek faster, more efficient installation methods, Tarasafe Ultra HOP is proving to be a valuable addition to Gerflor’s portfolio of high-performance flooring solutions.
Supporting Information
Gerflor Company Overview
Gerflor is a leading manufacturer of high-performance contract flooring solutions, specialising in safety flooring designed to support safer, more durable and hygienic environments across a wide range of commercial sectors.
Gerflor’s safety flooring collections combine slip resistance, durability and ease of maintenance, helping to reduce long-term maintenance requirements while supporting safety in demanding environments. Offering slip resistance ratings ranging from R10 to R12, Gerflor safety floors are widely specified within healthcare, education, industry, housing, hospitality and commercial applications.
Developed to meet the practical needs of contractors, specifiers and end users, Gerflor safety flooring solutions are designed to balance long-term performance, safety and installation efficiency across both refurbishment and new build projects.
Overview of Gerflor products installed on the Gloucester Industrial Unit Project
Tarasafe Ultra HOP
Tarasafe Ultra HOP is a high-performance looselay vinyl safety flooring solution from Gerflor, developed to support fast-track refurbishment and new build projects where reduced disruption, faster installation and long-term durability are essential.
Suitable for installation on damp subfloors up to 97% RH without the need for a DPM, Tarasafe Ultra HOP helps contractors overcome one of the most common causes of programme delays on site. Its looselay installation format reduces the need for extensive subfloor preparation and allows areas to be walked on immediately after installation, helping minimise downtime and keep projects moving efficiently.
Designed for heavy traffic commercial environments, Tarasafe Ultra HOP delivers 36+ HSE compliant slip resistance and combines durability with easy maintenance and hygienic performance. Reinforced with a glass fibre grid and treated with SparClean® surface protection, the product is suitable for demanding environments including healthcare, education, commercial and industrial applications.
As part of Gerflor’s wider looselay flooring portfolio, Tarasafe Ultra HOP provides a practical alternative to traditional adhered flooring systems, helping support faster project turnaround times while reducing disruption on site.
Key Benefits
- Suitable for damp subfloors up to 97% RH
- No DPM required
- Looselay adhesive-free installation
- Immediate trafficking after installation
- Reduced subfloor preparation requirements
- 36+ HSE compliant slip resistance
- Suitable for heavy traffic commercial environments
- 100% recyclable with 29% recycled content
- 12-year warranty
To learn more about Gerflor safety flooring solutions, request a free sample or speak to a specialist, call 01625 428 922, email contractuk@gerflor.com or visit Gerflor UK.