Architect: Anshen & Allen
Contractor: P Plunkett Tiling Contractors
Type of works: supply and installation of Mapei heated screed and floor- and wall-tiling.

The extensive construction and refurbishment of the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) and Freeman Hospital, Newcastle has involved a system of Mapei products to install heated screed and subsequent floor and wall tiling.

The project, led by Architects Anshen & Allen required a fast-track system of screed, adhesive and grout within the main entrance atrium at the heart of the hospital.

The programme’s schedule was reduced with the help of Mapei’s Topcem. The rapid-drying screed was specified for use with a Velta underfloor heating system. A Topcem screed is completely dry in 4 days ready to receive all types of floor covering, or as in this case only 4 days before commissioning the heating system.

Screed and tile installations were undertaken by P Plunkett Tiling Contractors. Due to the high volumes of foot traffic converging within this area, it was necessary to use a high performance, heavy duty system of products to cope with these conditions. Mapei’s Adesilex P4 rapid-setting, full contact, thick bed adhesive was specified to install 1,800m² porcelain floor tiles.

Keraflex Maxi adhesive was used to install polished porcelain wall tiles. Flexible, with good adhesion strength and no vertical slip, Keraflex Maxi is suitable for thin or thick bed fixing.

Walls and floors were then finished with Ultracolor Plus grout in anthracite to complement the Black and Lead Grey tiles. The water-resistant grout was ideal due to its in-built flexibility and fast setting and drying properties.

Mapei is the world’s largest manufacturer of adhesives, sealants and chemical products for building. With over 70 years experience, Mapei is a specialist in the production of quality products for the installation of all types of wall and floor coverings, and has a vast range of admixtures and repair products for concrete and building materials.