inIf you're in the construction trade, you know that mess and damage are part of the job. Dropped tools, stray bricks, spilt paint, and rogue chemicals are just a few of the daily hazards that can turn a pristine floor into a costly repair job. But what if you could eliminate that risk entirely?
At Indigo, we've been supplying the construction industry with top-tier temporary surface protection materials since 1998. We’ve seen it all, and we know that a little preparation goes a long way. Think of us as your first line of defence against the organised chaos of a building site. Protecting surfaces isn't just about avoiding scratches and spills; it's about safeguarding your reputation, saving money, and ensuring a professional finish every single time.
This guide is your new best mate on site. We'll walk you through everything you need to know about choosing, applying, and removing temporary floor protection. From tough-as-nails boards to self-adhesive films, we’ll help you find the right solution for every surface. Let’s get to it and stop those messes before they happen.
Why Bother with Floor Protection?
It might seem like an extra step in an already packed schedule, but skipping floor protection is a classic case of being penny-wise and pound-foolish. The costs of repairing or replacing a damaged floor can be astronomical, not to mention the potential for project delays and unhappy clients.
Here’s why it’s a non-negotiable part of any professional job:
- Cost Savings: Repairing gouges, stains, or cracks is far more expensive than laying down a protective layer. A small upfront investment saves you a massive headache and a lighter wallet later.
- Client Satisfaction: Handing over a project with immaculate floors speaks volumes about your professionalism. It shows you care about the details and respect the client's property. Happy clients lead to glowing reviews and repeat business.
- Safety: Loose debris, spills, and uneven surfaces are trip hazards. Proper floor protection helps maintain a cleaner, safer work environment for everyone on site.
- Efficiency: A protected floor means you can work with confidence, without constantly worrying about causing accidental damage. This allows your team to focus on the task at hand, boosting overall productivity.
A Guide to Surface Protection Materials
Choosing the right protection is crucial. Using a product designed for carpets on a hardwood floor is a recipe for disaster. Let's break down the main types of temporary floor protection and what they're best for.
For Carpets: Keep Them Clean and Fluffy
Carpets act like magnets for dust, paint, and dirt. Protecting them properly is essential to avoid deep-seated stains that are a nightmare to remove.
Adhesive Carpet Protection Film
This is the go-to for most carpeted areas. An adhesive carpet protection film, often called a carpet protector, is a self-adhesive plastic film that rolls out easily and sticks directly to the carpet.
- How it Works: The film creates an impermeable barrier against liquid spills, dust, and debris. Its adhesive is specially formulated to grip carpet fibres without leaving any sticky residue behind upon removal.
- Best For: Low to medium foot traffic areas, paint jobs, and plastering work. It’s perfect for protecting newly laid carpets during the final stages of a project.
- Top Tip: Ensure the carpet is completely dry before applying the carpet protection film. Trapped moisture can lead to mould or discolouration. Also, remember this is for synthetic carpets only—don't use it on wool!
Felt Floor Protectors
For plusher carpets or areas expecting heavier foot traffic, a felt floor protector offers superior cushioning and absorption.
- How it Works: This product combines a soft, absorbent felt layer with a waterproof backing. The felt soaks up spills, while the backing prevents any liquid from seeping through to the carpet below.
- Best For: High-traffic zones, moving furniture, and projects involving significant liquid use. It provides excellent carpet protection against both impact and spills.
For Hard Surfaces: Defence Against Dents and Scratches
Hard floors like wood, tile, laminate, and vinyl are durable, but they aren't invincible. Scratches from tools, dents from dropped materials, and stains from chemicals can ruin their finish.
Correx Boards and Rolls
Correx is the undisputed champion of heavy-duty surface protection. Made from corrugated plastic, it’s lightweight, waterproof, and incredibly tough.
- How it Works: Available as Correx sheet or in a convenient Correx roll, this material provides a rigid, impact-resistant barrier. Sheets can be easily cut to size and taped together to cover large areas.
- Best For: Virtually any hard surface. It’s ideal for protecting floors from heavy machinery, scaffolding, and high foot traffic. The Correx board format is particularly good for creating walkways.
- Specialist Options: For sites with strict fire safety regulations, flame retardant Correx (also known as fire retardant Correx) is available. Need to boost your brand presence on site? We also offer printed Correx and custom printed Correx with your company logo. Another popular brand of corrugated sheeting is Antinox, which offers similar high-impact resistance.
Builders Board
Think of Builders Board as the cardboard cousin of Correx, but with some clever tricks up its sleeve. This heavy-duty paperboard is treated to be water-resistant.
- How it Works: It rolls out flat and stays put, providing a robust layer of builders board floor protection. It’s breathable, which is a huge plus for newly laid floors like cured concrete or freshly finished wood that need to breathe.
- Best For: Protecting sensitive hard surfaces like hardwood, tile, and stone. It’s excellent for absorbing spills and protecting against scratches and dirt.
Hard Surface Protection Film
Similar to its carpet counterpart, hard surface protection film is a self-adhesive solution for smooth, non-porous floors.
- How it Works: This film sticks to surfaces like tile, vinyl, and factory-finished hardwood to shield them from paint, dust, and light scratches.
- Best For: Quick and easy protection during painting, decorating, or light renovation work. It’s not designed for heavy impact, so it's best used in low-traffic areas or in conjunction with a more robust material like Correx.
For Everything Else: Versatile Protection Solutions
Some jobs require a more general approach, especially when you need to protect multiple surface types or odd shapes.
Polythene Sheeting
Good old polythene. This is one of the most versatile and cost-effective materials on any building site. Often referred to by the brand name Visqueen, this is your basic waterproof barrier.
- How it Works: Polythene sheeting comes in various thicknesses (gauges) and can be draped over furniture, laid across floors, or used to create dust barriers.
- Best For: General dust and splash protection. It’s great for covering furniture, appliances, and large areas quickly. For an extra layer of safety, consider fire retardant polythene or flame retardant polythene.
Dust Sheets
The classic painter's dust sheets are still a staple for a reason. They are reusable, absorbent, and easy to throw over anything that needs protecting.
- How it Works: Made from cotton or a polycotton blend, they absorb paint drips and spills while protecting surfaces from dust and light scratches.
- Best For: Painting and decorating projects. They are perfect for covering furniture and floors during light-duty work.
Window Protection Film
Don't forget the glass! Windows are expensive to replace. A stray bit of render or a paint roller flick can cause permanent damage.
- How it Works: Window protection film is a clear, low-tack adhesive film that protects glass from scratches, plaster, and paint without blocking natural light.
- Best For: Any job where windows are exposed to potential damage. It’s a must-have for plasterers, painters, and external rendering jobs.
The Step-by-Step Guide to Perfect Protection
Step 1: Preparation is Key
Before you lay down a single sheet, get the surface ready.
- Clean Thoroughly: Sweep, vacuum, or mop the floor to remove all dust, dirt, and debris. Applying protection over a dirty surface can trap grit, which can then cause scratches underfoot.
- Ensure it's Dry: This is non-negotiable. Applying protection to a damp surface can trap moisture, leading to watermarks, mould, or adhesive failure. Give freshly cleaned floors or newly cured surfaces ample time to dry completely.
- Test a Small Area: If you're using an adhesive product like a protection film for the first time on a particular surface, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first. Leave it for 24 hours to ensure it removes cleanly without damaging the finish.
Step 2: Application
- Start at One End: Begin laying your protection material from one end of the room, working your way towards the exit to avoid walking over the freshly laid product.
- Overlap Seams: For films, boards, and sheeting, overlap the edges by at least 5cm (2 inches) to create a continuous, sealed barrier. This prevents dust and liquids from seeping through the gaps.
- Secure with Tape: Use a quality protection tape to join seams and secure the edges of non-adhesive materials like Correx or Builders Board. Make sure the tape is suitable for the surface you're applying it to.
- Smooth It Out: For adhesive films, use your hands or a soft cloth to smooth out any air bubbles as you unroll. This ensures a secure bond and prevents tripping hazards.
Step 3: During the Project
Inspect your floor protection regularly for any rips, tears, or lifted seams. A small breach can compromise the entire protective layer. Patch up any damage immediately with tape or a fresh piece of material.
Step 4: Removal
- Clean the Surface: Before you lift the protection, give it a good sweep or vacuum. This prevents any loose dust and debris from contaminating the clean floor underneath.
- Lift with Care: For adhesive films, pull them up slowly and carefully at a 45-degree angle. Don't rush, as yanking can leave adhesive residue or damage the surface.
- Roll and Dispose: Roll up the used materials as you go to contain the dirt. Dispose of them responsibly according to local regulations. Many materials like Correx and polythene can be recycled.
Ready to Protect Your Project?
Taking the time to properly protect your floors isn't an extra chore; it's a mark of a true professional. It saves you money, keeps clients happy, and ensures the finished project looks as good as the hard work you put into it. With the right materials and a solid plan, you can tackle any job with the confidence that your surfaces are safe and sound.
From heavy-duty temporary carpet protection to versatile sheeting, Indigo has everything you need to keep your sites clean and damage-free. Explore our full range and find the perfect solution for your next project.
Click here to buy now and shield your surfaces with the best in the business.