Acoustic partial access flooring installed in multi-million pound apartment

The flooring solution was fitted throughout the apartment, which spans 630 square metres.

Management Construction Technology (MCT) undertook the task of installing it to maintain maximum possible floor-to-ceiling height, whilst still being able to run all the necessary services beneath it.

Knauf’s FHB system flooring was able to level the uneven substrate; with no drying time, the system is suitable for hardwood, marble and carpet finishes.

Installing the panels

The gypsum fibre panels are engineered with a tongue and groove edge, allowing for a strong bond when laid. This creates a monolithic floor – the ideal substrate for porcelain or natural stone finishes.

Floor finishes can be bonded directly onto the panels, eliminating the need for de-bonding layers.

As part of a partial floor access, GIFAfloor panels are designed to span over pedestals at a maximum of 600mm centres over voids up to 1.2m high.

To make the installation of cabling as easy as possible, frames and panels can be incorporated within the system to provide access to the void below the floor.

Achieving acoustic performance

Circular acoustic pads were fitted on top of the adjustable pedestals that support the FHB25 panels of gypsum fibre board.

The pads achieved a performance of more than 5dB above Part E requirements when tested, ensuring high acoustic insulation for the property.

A sustainable solution

With a thermal conductivity of 0.44 W/mk, the floor panels have been designed to work with any underfloor heating system.

As there is no screed to dry after installation, an underfloor heating system can be installed and commissioned swiftly so that the floor finishes can be laid within hours.

The panels are made with sustainability in mind, using fibres from recycled paper,which are mixed with natural and flue gas desulphurised gypsum.

Use of the panels can reduce the cement content of a building and cut the load on tower blocks, reducing steelwork and foundation requirements.