High Friction Surfacing

What Is High-Friction Surfacing?

High-Friction Surfacing (commonly referred to as anti-skid or HFS) is a material and installation process by which road surfaces become less prone to skidding and loss of friction. Through increasing skid resistance and reducing braking distance we can reduce the potential for accidents. This revolutionary and innovative surfacing technique is specially formulated to provide exceptional grip and reduce skidding even in adverse weather conditions.

By increasing the anti- skid properties of a surface, this creates more friction between the vehicle tyres and the road surface. HFS significantly reduces the risk of accidents, particularly in critical areas such as intersections, roundabouts, and pedestrian crossings. The aggregate (stone) is available in a range of colours depending on the requirements

Typical locations for High-Friction Surfacing include:

• Road junctions
• Traffic light approaches
• Pedestrian crossings
• Roundabouts
• Roads that have high accident levels
• Around ‘SLOW’ and speed roundels
• Pedestrianised areas

High Friction Surface – versatility across many surfaces

One of the key advantages of HFS, is its versatility. It can be applied to various road surfaces, including asphalt and concrete, making it suitable for a wide range of environments. The surfacing material used in HFS consists of specially selected aggregates and resins, which are applied and cured to create a durable and skid-resistant surface.

The resulting high friction layer offers excellent resistance to wear, ensuring long-lasting performance and minimising the need for frequent maintenance.

Visibility & Safety

Different surface colours can be used  to increase visibility for safety purposes. Since implementation, it has proven to be a highly successful method of road safety. Bold and bright colours are used to instruct or warn drivers when they need to slow down. HFS also possesses increased reflectivity over conventional road surfaces, allowing drivers and pedestrians to see the areas better at night.

Types of High-Friction Surfacing

There are two types of HFS, Hot applied and Cold applied.

Hot applied works by adhesion through heat application to the road surface whilst cold applied works by adhesion to the road through chemical bond.

Although we provide both services, cold-applied systems are often preferred amongst local councils and authorities due to its increased hardwearing nature and longevity. This is a more sustainable method as any excess material can be swept, collected, and used again. The cold-applied method uses a mixture of chemical components and one or more liquids to cover a surface.

Certifications and Capabilities

60% of all our HFS operatives are accredited with Level 2 High-Friction Surfacing qualifications. We also hold BBA certification which allows us to install HFS on all roads including highways. This allows clients to authenticate and specify suppliers for construction of their prospective projects.

THB is accredited to the highest industry standard and are BBA certified. Business’ who successfully complete the rigorous annual audit & inspection process demonstrates not only competency but also expertise, experience and service integrity.

Being BBA certified ensures confidence for a client in the knowledge that we are not only complying to UK standards but operating at the highest of levels when it comes to high-friction road surface installation.