Product Testing

As the variety of floorcoverings and installation locations grow ever larger, so does the performance requirement of adhesives and subfloor preparation products. Different floorcoverings can demand a different performance from the adhesives that secure them. This is why the range of specialist adhesives increases in number in line with that of floorcoverings.

Full compatibility of the adhesive with the floorcovering is crucial to ensure an excellent bond. The integrity of the bond guarantees that the floorcovering remains securely fixed throughout the life of the installation.

Only adhesives fully tested to British and European standards and endorsed by floorcovering manufacturers can be totally relied on.

All F. Ball flooring adhesives and floor preparation products are subject to extensive testing in the Company’s climate controlled laboratories and testing facilities.

Adhesive Testing

  • 90° Peel Test – measures the bond strength of an adhesive between various types of floorcoverings and different substrates.
  • Castor Chair Test – used as one of a range of tests to assess the suitability of an adhesive with a specific floorcovering. The machine consists of three castors that rotate over a rotating platform. A maximum weight of 90kg can then be applied as the platform rotates for 25,000 revolutions, changing direction every 60 cycles.
  • Flec Test – used to measure the level of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in adhesives. F. Ball strive to formulate adhesives that provide low emission VOCs with all the high performance characteristics demanded by modern day decorative floorcoverings.

Floor Preparation Product Testing

  • Flexural Test – Determination of flexural strength to BS EN 13892: Part 2 using a tensometer. The test is a measure of the resistance to bending and is used to give an indication of the products durability when in service.
  • Shrinkage Test – Shrinkage apparatus is used to determine length change of hardened cement based products. It is used as a guide to assess the stability of the product after application.
  • Flow Test – A simple flow test gives an assessment of the flow properties of smoothing compounds. This test indicates the ability of the mixed material to flow under its own weight, this is particularly important for pump application.