Corrugated plastic board is one of the go-to options for floor protection by many trades. It’s lightweight, easy to work with, and offers protection from impact, dirt, and debris. But how strong is it? This article breaks down its strengths so you know what it can handle.
Corrugated Plastic Board + Protection It Provides
Corrugated plastic board (or sheet) is a twin-wall plastic sheet made from polypropylene (PP). Simple as that—now, you’ll often see the term ‘twin-wall’ used to describe this material, especially for floor protection products.
The twin-wall structure of corrugated plastic board is what gives it strength and flexibility without being heavy or bulky. It’s a step up from cardboard and a lighter, more flexible alternative to hardboard.
This makes corrugated plastic board one of the most lightweight, versatile, and shock-absorbent materials on the market. One good example is our best-selling Floorgard Corry Board Sheet.
It’s a temporary floor protection made from polypropylene that offers impact protection through its corrugated twin-walled structure. This fluted core creates a gap between the floor and the object above, reducing the impact on the floor. For instance, against drop tools, foot traffic, and trolleys being wheeled back and forth. Ideal for construction, refurbishment, and fit-out projects.
Note: To visualise the twin-wall structure, look at the board from the side, edge, or cut edge. You should see the ribbing (which may run in straight or angled lines) between two straight lines, one at the top and one at the bottom.
Compression Strength and Impact Resistance
These vary depending on the thickness of the corrugated plastic board. The thicker it is, the larger the gap it can create between the floor and the object above.
Using Floorgard Corry Board as the same example, thinner sheets range from 2mm to 3mm. These are lighter and ideal for light-duty applications, such as protecting hardwood floors from light debris and paint spills.
Moving up to 4mm-6mm thickness, which offers an enhanced buffer than the thinner ones. The thickness option available is 10mm. It provides maximum coverage and can endure heavy foot traffic, sharp impacts, and prolonged use.
One of the best features of our corry board is it remains lightweight regardless of the thickness level.
Using Corrugated Plastic on Various Floor Types
Corrugated plastic boards can be laid on most floor types, particularly hard floors. These include concrete, tiles, vinyl, laminate, and timber. Just lay the board down, trim it to fit if needed, and you’re good to go. If it needs securing, low-tack tape and reinforced tape will keep it in place without messing up the floor.
But that’s not all! Corrugated plastic boards aren’t just for floors. They can also be used on walls, stairs, countertops, pillars, and more. They’re also handy under heavy equipment, guarding surfaces from impact damage.
Pretty versatile, aren’t they?
Strong Enough to Reuse—and Recycle Too!
You can reuse corrugated plastic boards a fair few times. They tend to hold up well before showing any real signs of wear, as long as they’re looked after. Avoid heavy damage, like deep cuts or crushing, and one sheet can get you through multiple projects.
As for recycling, the polypropylene material itself is recyclable. You can check with your local recycling centre to confirm they accept PP sheets.
It’s great practice to follow, but it can be time-consuming. To save you the hassle, consider our Floorgard Corry Board, which be recycled as part of our Blue Cycle Recycling Scheme.
Our team will coordinate directly with your site foreman to gather and collect them. Certification is issued once the used materials arrive at the recycling facility. This makes it easy for you to use plastic without the hassle of logistics or finding the right facility.
For consultation and quotations, reach out to us at +44 28 9442 8611 or email customercare@s-pgroup.com. Our 5-star rated customer service is ready to assist you in finding the right Floorgard Corry Board for your needs.
SP Group is a trusted construction supplier in the UK and Ireland.