How is a seamless floor installed?

In this article, we will examine the installation process of seamless flooring and provide you with a detailed explanation of the key steps involved. Learn more!

The installation of seamless flooring is gaining popularity and provides a modern and visually appealing solution for floor coverings. Unlike traditional flooring options that have visible joints, a seamless floor stands out with its smooth, seamless surface and high durability

This technique offers a variety of design options and can be used in various areas such as residential spaces, bathrooms, or commercial and industrial buildings

Seamless floors create an illusion of spaciousness and transform your living area into a cozy and comfortable space. In this article, we will examine the process of laying seamless flooring and provide a detailed explanation of the key steps and techniques involved.

Pay attention to the following points when preparing the substrate:

In order to begin the installation of a seamless floor, thorough preparation and planning in collaboration with the client and, if necessary, with other trades on the construction site are essential

Regardless of the material, whether it’s a mineral trowel floor or pouring floor, floor covering made of epoxy resin, Ciré concrete, or micro cement – thorough preparation of the existing floor surfaces (concrete floor, screed, tiles, etc.) is a crucial step in the installation of a jointless floor. Ensure that the floor is free of loose debris, dust, grease, or oil, and that it is sufficiently firm without any localized issues

Furthermore, it is important to check the levelness of the substrate in order to achieve the desired end result. Depending on the condition, the substrate can be prepared through methods such as shot blasting, granulate blasting, milling, or coarse grinding. Additionally, the substrate must meet the requirements of the relevant standards and guidelines in terms of readiness for installation

For normal cement screeds, the moisture content must not exceed 3%. Concrete surfaces, cement-bonded hollow plank ceilings, and on-site poured ceilings must have a minimum age of 6 months.

If there is underfloor heating, please consider the following: the underfloor heating must be turned off at least three days before installation and can only be turned on again at the earliest seven days after installation. In the case of outdoor areas, there are also several factors that need to be taken into consideration during preparation

It is also important to allocate enough time for installation, as the various floor design methods require different drying times. Additionally, it is essential to monitor the room temperature and humidity to ensure optimal conditions for the installation and drying of the floor covering.

Ensure proper ventilation during application and drying, but avoid draughts and strong sunlight, and protect the surface from dust. In temperatures above 25°C, the accelerated reaction can cause visible streaks, even in the cured state. The humidity, in addition to the floor and room temperature, plays a crucial role in the processing and curing. High humidity, especially when combined with low temperatures, delays the curing process, thereby extending the time for reworkability. After application, it is essential to protect the material from direct contact with water.

In addition to the machines and tools for installing seamless floors, the number of personnel is also crucial for a smooth installation. For example, a minimum of 4 individuals are needed for the cast razzo (this information pertains to medium-sized areas)

Coating existing floor coverings such as tiles, screed, or concrete is indeed possible, but it requires special preparations and thorough evaluation of suitability, load-bearing capacity, and adhesion. Prior to the coating process, it is necessary to remove any wood floors, vinyl, or similar materials

Techniques for installing seamless flooring

The application of floor surfaces can be done using various techniques. Each technique has its own features. Here, we will explain two popular methods for installing seamless flooring:

Pouring floor

This method involves pouring a liquid/pasty mixture onto the prepared substrate. The mass is then evenly spread using a squeegee. Thanks to its self-leveling property, this technique ensures a uniform distribution of the material across the entire surface.

Then, the surface is smoothed using a flat trowel or a smoothing sword in slalom-like movements. This technique provides additional ventilation for the filler and results in a smooth, slightly clouded surface. It is particularly well-suited for covering large areas

After the specified drying times of the floor leveling compound, it can then be impregnated and/or sealed.

Spachtelboden

In this method, a filler compound is applied to the prepared surface and then spread evenly with a spatula or a smoothing trowel to achieve the desired thickness. The material can be applied layer by layer or all at once, depending on the system. Typically, filler floors have a height of 3mm

This mixture can consist of cement, epoxy resin, acrylic, or other materials. It provides a resilient and low-maintenance floor surface. Applying and smoothing it requires precise work to achieve a uniform and seamless finish

The specific spatula technique and the personal touch of the applicator lead to each floor becoming a unique masterpiece. After the recommended drying times, it can then be further enhanced through impregnation and/or sealing.

Gussterrazzo

The cast terrazzo is created by combining marble stones of different sizes, quantities, and types with a colored binder, resulting in a dynamic aesthetic. Through grinding and polishing, the marble stones are highlighted, bringing forth the distinctive appearance of disordered mosaic effects

Using a cement-based, quick-setting binder and a carefully selected terrazzo mixture of stones and color, terrazzo floors with a minimum thickness of 10 mm up to a maximum of 50 mm can be installed for indoor applications. This versatile flooring option is suitable for all types of surfaces, including concrete, cement screed, tiles, and natural stone

Before the seamless cast terrazzo can be installed, the subsurface preparation is carried out, depending on the condition. Afterwards, the delivered binder, the color powder packaged according to the amount of binder, and the marble mixture are mixed with water on site and applied to the surface using a trowel, to achieve the required installation thickness. The freshly applied mixture is then smoothed, compacted, and deaerated using a surface smoothing device, also known as a buffing rod

After the initial coarse sanding, which is done on the next day, the surface is cleaned. It is important to ensure that there are no dust particles in the compacted or air voids. Then, the terrazzo surface is filled with a tinted pore filler. Once it has hardened, the grinding process continues until the desired grain size and gloss level are achieved. After sanding and thorough cleaning, the terrazzo floor is then treated with “doppo Polish” to provide protection and enhance its appearance

Recommendation: Use a single disc machine with a spatula plate. Typically, grinding is done up to a diamond grain size of 400 (depending on customer preferences). Although the process is labor-intensive, the results are impressive.

Aftercare and Maintenance of a Seamless Floor

After the jointless floor has been installed, it is important to take appropriate measures for post-treatment and maintenance in order to ensure long-lasting beauty and functionality of the floor covering.

Depending on the selected material, the seamless floor requires an adequate amount of time for drying and curing. It is important to adhere to the recommended drying times in order to prevent any damage or premature wear. During this period, it is advised not to place heavy objects on the floor and restrict access to the room.

Mineral-bound fillers are not usable in practice without impregnation or sealing. Therefore, it is necessary to protect the surface of the jointless floor with a vapor-permeable impregnation or sealant to prevent dirt, stains, and wear. Depending on the type of floor covering and the specific area of application, different sealing products can be utilized.

Although the floor covering is very easy to maintain, regular cleaning and maintenance with suitable methods and products is essential. It is important to avoid using abrasive cleaning agents and tools to prevent scratches or damage. Scratching or scrubbing should be avoided at all costs. We recommend cleaning the floor with a damp microfiber cloth and clean water, or using a vacuum cleaner with soft brush attachments

In any case, it is important to remove any dirt that is brought in from the outside before wiping. Depending on the type of flooring, specific cleaning products may be necessary. It is recommended to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations in this regard. IBOD offers special cleaning products for all types of flooring systems. These cleaning and care products can also serve as a thoughtful after-sale gift.

Preventive measures – tips for your end customers

To ensure that the surface maintains its initial beauty, it is advisable to take some preventive measures:

Clean walk-off areas

The use of ample entrance mats or dirt-trapping mats in the entrance area helps prevent dirt and moisture buildup, as well as enhances safety, especially in areas prone to slipping hazards

Felt gliders

Applying felt glides to chairs, table legs, sofas, armchairs, or large vases and shelves helps protect the floor and prevent scratches. Remember to replace the felt glides regularly.

Underlay mats

Place vases, pet food bowls, or similar items on an underlay mat to avoid prolonged moisture

Rotating chair

To ensure long-lasting protection against wear and tear on the surface seal, we recommend using swivel chairs with type W chair castors. Additionally, we suggest using transparent polycarbonate protective mats as a base.

Conclusion on how to install a seamless floor

The installation of a seamless floor covering in a concrete look, such as our “doppo Ambiente,” requires careful preparation, precise work, and proper post-treatment. Manufacturers and, at the same time, craft businesses like IBOD play a crucial role in selecting the suitable floor covering, preparing the substrate effectively, and ensuring a professional application

A premium seamless floor offers numerous advantages such as a seamless appearance, customizable design possibilities, and a long-lasting surface.

It is crucial to consider the specific requirements of the space and the customer’s preferences in order to choose the optimal installation technique and the suitable material. Collaborating closely with companies like IBOD can assist you in leveraging our expertise and experience to achieve the best possible results.

The trend towards seamless flooring, as described in different types of seamless floors, is continuing and constantly offering new developments and possibilities. Future innovations could bring new materials, techniques, and designs to create even more versatile and visually appealing jointless floor coverings.

In conclusion, installing a seamless floor requires expertise, precision, and care. By thoroughly preparing the surface, selecting the appropriate installation technique, and following the recommended maintenance guidelines, you can achieve impressive and durable results that meet your customers’ expectations.