case-studiesUK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), Lancaster - Ucrete

Ucrete Installation - UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), Lancaster

UKCEH is one of the UK’s leading environmental research organisations, undertaking research into climate change, pollution, water resources and ecological systems. The laboratory environments required a durable, chemically resistant flooring solution capable of withstanding demanding operational conditions and exposure to aggressive cleaning regimes and solvents.

The flooring installation formed part of a wider laboratory refurbishment programme and was delivered in coordination with the principal contractor and project team.

System Selection

Working with Sika and the wider project team, a 9mm Sika® Ucrete® UD200 system was selected for the laboratory areas.

Particular consideration was given to laboratory rooms B81 and B83, where exposure to solvents including hexane and dichloromethane was anticipated. The increased 9mm thickness was chosen to provide enhanced protection against prolonged chemical exposure whilst delivering excellent impact, abrasion and thermal shock resistance.

The flooring was installed in Ucrete Blue N. This darker colour was selected to provide a clean, professional appearance whilst reducing the visual impact of any potential colour variation associated with long-term UV exposure from natural daylight entering the facility.

Surface Preparation

The existing concrete substrate was mechanically prepared using diamond grinding equipment fitted with dust extraction systems. This removed surface contamination and provided a suitably profiled surface for installation of the flooring system.

Following preparation, the substrate was thoroughly cleaned, vacuumed and inspected to verify suitability before application commenced.

Proper preparation was critical in achieving optimum adhesion and long-term system performance.

Installation

The flooring works were completed in a carefully planned sequence to align with the wider refurbishment programme.

The 9mm Sika® Ucrete® UD200 system was installed throughout the designated laboratory areas to provide a seamless, dense and hard-wearing finish capable of resisting both daily operational wear and chemical exposure.

Sika® Ucrete® RG coving was installed to wall perimeters and upstands, creating a fully integrated floor-to-wall detail that improves hygiene standards, facilitates cleaning and removes vulnerable junctions where contaminants can accumulate.

Quality control inspections were undertaken throughout the installation to verify substrate condition, application standards and overall system performance.

Challenges

Laboratory environments place significant demands on flooring systems due to the potential exposure to aggressive chemicals, solvents and intensive cleaning regimes.

The project required a flooring solution capable of delivering long-term chemical resistance while maintaining durability under daily operational use. The works also had to be coordinated with other trades to maintain progress across the wider refurbishment programme.

Through careful planning and collaboration, the flooring installation was delivered efficiently and in accordance with the project requirements.

The completed installation provides UKCEH with a robust, seamless and chemically resistant flooring system specifically designed for laboratory use.

The 9mm Sika® Ucrete® UD200 system delivers enhanced protection in areas subject to potential solvent exposure, while the integrated coving detail provides a hygienic and easily maintained finish.

The project was completed safely, on programme and to the satisfaction of the client and project team, providing a long-term flooring solution capable of supporting ongoing scientific research activities.