What Flow Applied Resin Flooring Is
Flow applied resin flooring – also known as self-smoothing or self-levelling resin flooring – is a seamless flooring system installed as a liquid resin screed that naturally levels across the substrate before curing into a smooth and durable surface.
Typically installed at a 2-3mm thickness (or slightly thicker, depending on specification), these systems are poured or squeegeed onto prepared concrete to create a flat, visually consistent finish with great mechanical performance.
A self-levelling epoxy floor coating is commonly used where clients require:
- A smooth, seamless finish
- Durable industrial performance
- Easy cleaning and maintenance
- Resistance to traffic and chemicals
- Improved appearance and light reflectivity
Flow-applied systems are particularly suitable for environments that require a balance between durability and aesthetics, including manufacturing facilities, industrial sites, warehouses, showrooms, and mixed-use environments. Where appropriate, we also specify complementary systems such as a resin flooring system or systems designed for areas that experience heavy wear but are not constantly wet.
How It’s Specified & Where It Sits in FeRFA Classification
Flow-applied flooring systems are generally classified within FeRFA resin flooring standards as Type 5 or Type 7 systems, depending on thickness and intended use. These systems are designed to produce a smooth or lightly textured finish and may be installed in gloss or matt finishes depending on operational and aesthetic needs.
Typical characteristics include:
- Thickness generally between 2 and 3mm
- Seamless finish
- High abrasion resistance
- Chemical resistance
- Optional anti-slip dressing
- Suitable for medium to heavy-duty environments
The correct specification depends on:
- Traffic loads
- Chemical exposure
- Cleaning regime
- Substrate condition
- Desired finish
- Environmental conditions
Epoxy vs Polyurethane Flow Systems
The two most common chemistries specified for flow-applied floors are epoxy and polyurethane resin systems.
Epoxy flow systems are often selected for their:
- High-gloss finish
- Excellent compressive strength
- Strong abrasion resistance
- Cost-effective durability
Polyurethane flow systems are commonly used where:
- Greater flexibility is required
- Thermal shock resistance is needed
- A matte finish is preferred
- Chemical resistance is critical
| System Type | FeRFA Classification | Typical Thickness | Finish Options | Typical Use |
| Epoxy Flow Applied | Type 5 | 2-3mm | Smooth | Warehouses, manufacturing, showrooms |
| Polyurethane Flow Applied | Type 5/7 | 3-6mm | Smooth | Food production, hygienic areas |
| Anti-Slip Flow System | Type 7 | 4-6mm | Smooth | Workshops, loading areas |
Note that the base classification for these flooring types is smooth, but textured, slip-resistant finishes can be applied.
As expert epoxy floor installers, Impact Floors has the experience and knowledge needed to recommend the best chemical-resistant flooring systems and anti-slip resin flooring for your needs.
Why Specifiers Choose Flow Applied Floors
Seamless Finish & Hygienic Cleaning
The seamless surface removes joints, grout lines and weak points, improving hygiene standards while simplifying cleaning and maintenance routines. The smooth finish of a self-levelling epoxy floor also enhances light reflectivity and creates a cleaner, more professional appearance, particularly valuable in:
- Showrooms
- Visitor-facing production areas
- Pharmaceutical facilities
- Electronics manufacturing
- Commercial workshops
Heavy Traffic & Chemical Resistance
Flow applied flooring systems can withstand demanding operating conditions, including:
- Forklift traffic
- Pallet trucks
- Trolley
- Foot traffic
- Oil and solvent spills
- Abrasion from regular use
With the correct substrate preparation and resin selection, these systems provide excellent long-term resistance to impact and wear.
Faster Install, Lower Lifecycle Cost
Compared with thicker screed systems, flow-applied resin floors typically require less material and can be installed more quickly, helping reduce operational downtime.
Additional long-term benefits include:
- Lower maintenance requirements
- Easy cleaning
- Reduced repair frequency
- Extended service life
- Cost-effective lifecycle performance
| Flooring Type | Durability | Surface Levelling | Typical Service Life |
| Standard floor paint/coatings | Moderate | Limited | 2-5 years |
| Impact flow applied resin | High | Excellent self-levelling | 10-20+ years |
Where Flow Applied Flooring Performs Best
Warehouses & Distribution Centres
In warehouse environments where traffic is regular but ultra-thick screeds may not be needed, flow applied systems provide an excellent balance between durability, smoothness and cost-efficiency. Learn more about our warehouse flooring solutions.
Showrooms, Workshops & Automotive Assembly
Automotive and commercial environments often require flooring that performs under heavy traffic while maintaining a clean and professional appearance. Our self levelling epoxy flooring systems are regularly installed within:
- Automotive workshops
- Assembly areas
- Display spaces
- Commercial garages
- Mixed-use industrial environments
Explore our automotive flooring options.
Clean Rooms, Food & Pharmaceutical Production
Seamless polyurethane and epoxy systems are often used within hygiene-sensitive environments due to their cleanability and chemical resistance.
Suitable applications include:
- Food processing
- Pharmaceutical manufacturing
- Electronics production
- Clean rooms
- Packaging facilities
View our food processing flooring and pharmaceutical flooring systems.

Retail Back-of-House & Public Buildings
Flow applied flooring also performs well in:
- Service corridors
- Plant rooms
- Retail stockrooms
- Public sector buildings
- Loading bays
These systems provide a practical long-term solution where a balance of robustness and appearance is required.
Our Flow Applied Flooring Installation Process
Phase 1 – Site Survey & Substrate Assessment
We begin every project with a detailed assessment of the existing concrete substrate, including:
- Crack and defect inspection
- Moisture testing
- Damp-proofing checks
- Surface contamination testing
- Load and traffic evaluation
The correct industrial floor preparation is essential for resin adhesion and longevity.
Phase 2 – Resin Specification & Finish Selection
We tailor every flooring system to each individual site’s requirements. This includes the selection of epoxy or polyurethane flow systems, optional anti-slip finishes, colour and demarcation options, as well as the choice of a gloss or matt finish.
We also provide industrial line marking and anti-static resin flooring where required.o key operational zones.
Phase 3 – Installation to BS 8204-6 / FeRFA Standards
All installations are completed in accordance with recognised industry standards, including BS 8204-6 and FeRFA guidance to ensure installation quality, durability and compliance. Application methods may include pouring, squeegee application, spiked roller finishing and controlled curing procedures
Phase 4 – Aftercare & Maintenance Programme
Following installation, we provide guidance on cleaning, maintenance and re-coating or seal-coat schedules if required, helping to maintain your floor’s performance and lifespan.

Why Industrial Operators Choose Impact Floors
Clients across the UK choose Impact Floors thanks to our combination of technical expertise and fully-managed project delivery.
We offer:
- Over 20 years of industrial flooring experience across a wide range of sectors
- In-house installation teams – no subcontractors
- Nationwide project delivery
- FeRFA membership and industry best practice compliance
- Bespoke flooring specifications for each project
- Custom colours, finishes and safety markings
- Long-term maintenance support
- Strong focus on safety, durability and lifecycle value
Our systems are designed not only to meet specification requirements, but to support operational efficiency and minimise disruption over the long term.
Flow Applied Flooring Projects in Action
Impact Floors installed a 3mm polyurethane self levelling screed system as part of a major industrial flooring installation for Adept Building Consultancy Ltd. The aim was to deliver an aesthetically professional and durable finish that would meet the requirements of a high-traffic industrial environment.
The self levelling screed was installed over 140 sqm of the facility, creating a hygienic, seamless and chemically-resistant surface within the site’s operational areas.
Flow Applied Flooring FAQs
What thickness is typically used for flow-applied resin flooring?
Most flow applied systems are between 2-3mm thick, although we may recommend thicker specifications depending on traffic levels and operational demands.
Is flow-applied flooring suitable for heavy traffic/forklift use?
Yes. Correctly specified and installed systems are highly resistant to forklift traffic, pallet trucks and heavy industrial use.
Can anti-slip or static-dissipative finishes be specified?
Yes. We can incorporate anti-slip, anti-static and textured finishes where required.
How long does installation take, and what is the cure time before use?
Installation times vary depending on floor size and specification, but many systems can be returned to light foot traffic within 24 hours.
What maintenance is required to ensure the longevity of a flow flooring system?
Routine cleaning, periodic inspections and prompt attention to damage or contamination will help maximise the lifespan of the flooring system.
Request a Free Flow Applied Flooring Survey
Flow applied resin flooring offers an effective balance of durability, seamlessness, chemical resistance and long-term value. Whether you need a hygienic polyurethane finish for food production or a durable self levelling epoxy floor coating for warehouse traffic, the experienced, in-house team at Impact Floors will work with you from initial assessment through to installation and aftercare to deliver performance, compliance and reliability.
Request a free site survey and flooring specification today.
Choose a Colour that Suits You
All of the flooring systems that we install are available in a range of standard colours. (See colour chart) However, any RAL or BS colour can be manufactured to order to provide bespoke requirements, for example your corporate colours.

Sahara

Safety Red

Light Grey

Buff
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For bespoke industry flooring solutions talk to Impact Flooring today.
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Impact House, 4 Short Street, Nuneaton, Warwickshire, CV10 8JF
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