• Does InstaSlab need a certain foundation or can it be placed anywhere?

If the ground where you want to place the InstaSlab is already compacted and levelled, the InstaSlab can be placed directly on the ground. However if it is on soft soil or grass, it is advised to remove the grass and top 10-15 cm of soil and replace it with compacted type 1 substrate to create a level and compact surface for placement. InstaSlab's job is to transfer the load to the ground. The better prepared the ground is, the longer the InstaSlab will last and the more weight it can hold.

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• Can the InstaSlab be used as a walkway / for walking surfaces?

It is not advised to use InstaSlab by itself for walking surfaces because it becomes slippery when wet. However, it can be used as a surface to lay permanent walking surfaces on, such as paving tiles. It can also be painted with a rubberized material to create great walking surfaces. (i.e. Car park entrance pathway)

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• How durable is InstaSlab? 

The InstaSlabs are made of a Concrete Canvas material called CCT1, which has a BBA (British Board of Agrément) Certification for a lifespan of 120 years. The initial hydration is the key indicator of longevity, the slabs need at least 3.5 litres of water per square metre during installation. For further details download our datasheet.

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• How much load can an InstaSlab carry?

The InstaSlabs are made of a Concrete Canvas material called CCT1, which has been tested and deployed in civil construction projects for over 20 years. The material has a compressive strength of 45 MPa or 4,500 Tonnes/m2. Although this seems a massive load capacity due to its thickness the structural capabilities are limited. Therefore, when used as a slab we rely on the bearing capacity of the substrate to work together with the slab.

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• How can the InstaSlab hold so much weight when it is so thin?

While thin, it has a durable 3D fibre matrix holding in pockets of cement, creating very high strength for its thickness. In the case of extreme pressure, the 3D fibre matrix will deform, changing shape but maintaining most of the structural integrity by keeping the cracking events compartmentalised within the matrix pockets. This is different from traditional concrete where cracks will permanently compromise its structural integrity by propagating through time.

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• Can the InstaSlab be used as a driving/parking surface?

We do not recommend our InstaSlabs for moving cars. When turning, the friction of the wheels turning can damage the fibre on top of the material. Over time, this will expose the interior 3D fibre matrix creating a permanent damage to the material. 

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• How does an InstaSlab foundation compare to a traditional concrete foundation in price and in time to install? ​

Our experience tells us that when contracting a small concrete slab through builders a traditional concrete slab can cost upwards of £60 per square metre. This includes all the hidden costs like transport, skips, and others. In contrast, InstaSlabs cost around £41 per square metre, including shipping and VAT, with no extra hidden cost, material waste, or long waiting periods. While an InstaSlab is always ready to use within 24 hours, traditional concrete can take up to 2 to 3 weeks to cure and be ready to use. Additionally, pouring a traditional concrete foundation usually takes much more time and physical labour.

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• What health and safety precautions should I take when handling InstaSlab?

General PPE precautions for concrete should be taken; face masks, protective clothing and gloves should be worn when handling CC. CC does not contain measurable amounts of soluble chromium (VI) and is not classified as an irritant. Consult the CC & CCH (M)SDS document here for more information. InstaSlab does not contain any asbestos.

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• What type of lightweight structures can go on top of the InstaSlab?

The InstaSlab is designed to support lightweight structures such as sheds, green houses, summer houses, small log cabins, horse shelters, dog runs, containers, water tanks, oil tanks, etc. For more detailed information, contact us with your specific needs.