UltraTile Case Study: Precision tiling under pressure at VW Car Showroom

Project: Volkswagen Car Showroom

Contractor: A&L Tiling Ltd

Client: Black Circle Interiors

Area: 600sqm (completed over two phases)

Tiles: 600 x 600mm porcelain tiles and 1200 x 200mm plank porcelain tiles

Substrate: Concrete

A&L Tiling Ltd, owned and operated by Adrian O’Clements, was appointed by Black Circle Interiors to complete 600sqm of floor tiling at a busy Volkswagen car showroom. The project was delivered in two phases to allow the showroom to remain fully operational throughout the works, adding significant logistical and time pressures.

Overcoming Preparation Challenges

Initially, a separate contractor has been brought in to apply the damp proof membrane and smoothing compound to accommodate the height requirement of the showroom’s floor electrical boxes. Unfortunately, this work had not been carried out correctly, resulting in inconsistent levels across the floor.

A&L Tiling Ltd was asked to step in and remedy the situation. To achieve the required height and deliver a flat, tile-ready surface, Adrian and this team applied over 300 bags of UltraFloor Level IT Two, creating a smooth, consistent base suitable for large-format porcelain tiles.

There are many reasons why Level IT Two has become UltraFloor’s most popular floor leveller. Its exceptional flow characteristics make it a very easy material to apply to a variety of subfloors in both commercial and domestic flooring projects. Its low odour formulation means this fantastic all-rounder leveller is equally suited to confined areas, proving particularly popular in the education, health and hospitality sectors.

With a set time of 2.5 hours, Level IT Two can receive bonded floor coverings after just 8 hours, making it an ideal choice for projects with a tight deadline. What’s more, because Level IT Two is available as a two-component system, it takes the guesswork out of mixing, reducing site errors and guaranteeing a perfect application every time.

To maintain progress and minimise disruption, the team used a BIHUI mixing station, significantly speeding up the mixing and application process. With the project already impacting scheduled working days, Adrian and several team members went above and beyond to ensure deadlines were met.

Product Specification and Installation

Once the subfloor was corrected, the team primed the concrete using UltraFloor Prime IT Multi-surface Primer.

Formulated to promote adhesion to all UltraFloor smoothing underlayments, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer reduces pinholing, minimising the risk of costly failures. With a coverage rate of 200sqm at a 3:1 dilution, Prime IT Multi-surface Primer is a must-have product for all flooring installation projects.

The porcelain tiles were installed using ProGrip FX tile adhesive (grey), providing the high bond strength and reliability required for a high-traffic commercial environment. Large format tiles call for serious strength, and ProGrip FX delivers. This fibre-reinforced, single part, semi-rapid adhesive is purpose built for demanding tasks. Its advanced formula not only boosts bonding power with added fibres but also offers superior non-slip performance, making it to the go-to choice for secure, stress-free large format tiling installation.

Schlüter movement joints were incorporated throughout the installation in line with British Standards, ensuring long-term performance and durability.

Phase Two: Tight Timelines, High Standards

The second phase covered an additional 180sqm, with A&L Tiling Ltd responsible for all preparation works. The process involved:

• An initial layer of UltraFloor Level IT Two
• A full coat of UltraFloor DPM damp proof membrane
• A final layer of Level IT Two to ensure precise floor heights

Once preparation was complete, the team installed a combination of 600 x 600mm and 1200 x 200mm porcelain tiles, again working extended hours to maintain the tight programme and keep the project running smoothly.

The Result

Despite challenging preparation issues, phased working conditions, and demanding timescales, A&L Tiling Ltd successfully delivered a high-quality, compliant installation. The finished showroom floor is smooth, level, visually striking, and built to withstand the demands of a busy commercial environment.

The project highlights the importance of correct subfloor preparation, reliable products and a skilled installation team willing to go the extra mile to deliver outstanding results under pressure.

To find out more about UltraFloor’s and UltraTile’s award-winning product portfolio, please visit Instarmac.co.uk. You can contact their team of flooring and tiling experts by emailing enquiries@instarmac.co.uk or calling +44 (0) 1827 254402.