In a previous blog, we covered the many benefits of installing a dry screed flooring system over traditional, wet screed. If you missed it, you can read it here: Dry screed v traditional screed floors – all you need to know!
In this blog, we take a more detailed look at the Knauf GIFAfloor system which utilizes a range of high-density gypsum fibre floor panels, ideal for new builds or refurbishment projects.
GIFAfloor panels can span between joists and across 300mm-1200mm voids on linear bearing systems to provide the perfect stable base for brittle or heavy flooring finishes in high loading application areas.
The boards are available in two sizes (1200x600mm and 600x600mm) and a range of thicknesses from 18mm to 38mm.
Knauf GIFAfloor panels are manufactured in a lamination process and pressed to the optimum density, resulting in an inherently strong and consistent product. Engineered tongue and grooved edge profiles ensure a strong bond when laid, creating robust monolithic floors with excellent load-bearing capability. The addition of frames and panels can be incorporated to give access into the void below the floor.
These panels can be used to span over joist or a cradle and baton system. When installed over acoustic battens or resilient layers, the high mass of GIFAfloor creates high acoustic performances with the feel of a solid floor underfoot.
The stability and strength of Knauf GIFAfloor is not just excellent across traditional solid timber and engineered timber joists but also steel sections and trapezoidal metal sheet.
Knauf GIFA floor panels can be cut and worked to create steps and slopes, suiting any floor design. The system is also effective in enhancing the performance of underfloor heating.
GIFA has a standard tongue and groove edge and only requires Knauf GIFABond Blue to fix the boards. This adhesive is blue so that it’s easily recognizable as the correct adhesive to use and ensuring the installed system is compliant with specifications.
Knauf Flooring edge strips are required for expansion and to combat flanking sound transmission.
For the Knauf pedestal system you will also need Knauf support glue and Knauf thread sealer for a fully compliant system.
The boards can be cut using polycrystalline diamond blades (PCD) along with class M extraction unit and appropriate PPE.
Knauf’s flooring range includes products that can improve the acoustic performance of the system such as:
GIFA’s low thermal resistance and high thermal conductivity improves response times whether heating or cooling the floor. This means reduced CO2 emissions when compared with chipboard and improved under floor heating response times compared with traditional screed.
GIFA will also optimise the benefit of air and ground source heat pumps. So whether it’s during the build phase or when the building is occupied, Knauf dry screed boards are helping to reduce the environmental impact of the building.
The Knauf range of dry screed flooring is available through Encon’s national branch network. The full range includes boards that are suitable for use on solid substrates, over cradle and baton systems or direct onto joists. Contact us to find out more.
Nationwide Delivery
