How Gypsol screed performs in high-traffic commercial construction
When it comes to commercial construction, especially in high-traffic environments such as offices, retail spaces, schools, and public buildings, floor performance is non-negotiable. Developers and contractors are under increasing pressure to deliver robust, efficient, and low-maintenance solutions that also meet environmental standards and tight project timelines.
That’s where Gypsol liquid screed stands out. Formulated with a high-performance calcium sulphate binder, Gypsol offers an advanced flooring solution designed for demanding applications, delivering on strength, speed, carbon reduction and longevity.
Engineered for heavy footfall
One of the key challenges in commercial construction is achieving a smooth, level floor that can handle continuous use without cracking, warping, or requiring excessive maintenance. Gypsol screeds provide a dense, durable surface that resists shrinkage and thermal movement, making them ideal for high-traffic areas. The material’s self-compacting and free-flowing properties also reduce voids and inconsistencies, resulting in a highly stable finish ready to receive floor coverings like tile, wood, or carpet.
At Wood Wharf in Canary Wharf, Gypsol TS-15 was used to deliver high-performance floors for two landmark residential towers rising 34 and 48 storeys. The project required a screed that could be pumped up to 180 metres without segregation or loss of consistency, an impossible feat for many traditional materials. Gypsol delivered a smooth finish at extreme heights, proving that it’s not just durable, but also adaptable to the most complex construction environments.
Faster installation, less downtime
Commercial projects are often time-critical, with multiple trades relying on screed completion to progress with their work. Gypsol helps accelerate timelines through its rapid installation and drying properties. Large bays, up to 1000m² unheated or 300m² heated, can be laid in a single pour with minimal expansion joints, speeding up the floor preparation process while ensuring a seamless finish.
Because of its quick walk-on time (up to 48 hours) and compatibility with fast-track drying options like Gypsol Rapide, site productivity is significantly enhanced. This is particularly important in retail or hospitality environments, where every day of delay can impact revenue.
Underfloor heating compatibility
Many high-traffic commercial buildings now include underfloor heating (UFH) as standard, whether for energy efficiency or end-user comfort. Gypsol screeds offer superior thermal conductivity, allowing for even heat distribution, lower flow temperatures, and up to 25% energy savings compared to traditional systems. The thin profile of some Gypsol formulations, such as TS-15’s 15mm application, also helps maximise usable space, floor-to-ceiling heights, and load efficiency.
In the Grand Designs project, Gypsol Complete was selected to create an accessible, energy-efficient floor that performed exceptionally well over underfloor heating, demonstrating that its performance benefits translate equally across commercial and residential sectors.
A lower carbon footprint without compromise
In today’s construction landscape, performance must go hand-in-hand with environmental responsibility. Gypsol is manufactured using up to 98% industrial by-products and contains virtually no VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds), significantly reducing its environmental impact. Its embodied carbon sits at just 91.7 kg of CO₂ per tonne, compared to 622 kg per tonne for cement-based alternatives – a reduction of over 85%.
This made it a perfect choice for Canary Wharf’s Wood Wharf towers, where environmental responsibility was as critical as structural performance. By specifying Gypsol TS-15, contractors met strict carbon goals while delivering a highly efficient screed with superior handling and long-term performance.
Why developers and contractors are choosing Gypsol
Whether it’s a retail unit, a healthcare facility, a school, or a high-rise, Gypsol offers commercial builders a compelling list of advantages:
- Durable performance in high-traffic conditions
- Faster installation with fewer expansion joints
- Quick drying times, reducing site downtime
- Excellent heat transfer for underfloor systems
- Reduced carbon footprint for sustainability goals
- Smooth, level finish that supports a range of floor coverings
As regulations tighten and expectations rise, the demand for intelligent, efficient building materials will only increase. With its proven performance across both headline-grabbing and everyday commercial projects, Gypsol is firmly positioned as the future-ready screed solution.
Interested in learning more?
Visit our Gypsol product page or get in touch with our team to discuss how Gypsol can enhance your next commercial project. And don’t forget to follow us on LinkedIn for the latest updates, case studies, and product releases!
