Protection.

Floor protection is applied immediately after installation to isolate the finished surface from subsequent trade work — painters, glaziers, cabinet installers, cleaners.

Common systems include breathable corrugated board for engineered timber and heavy-duty adhesive-back films or hardboard for vinyl and hybrid. Selection depends on the intensity of subsequent trade activity and the duration between installation and handover.

Protection is a supply and site coordination item. Responsibility for procurement, installation, maintenance and removal should be assigned in writing at the trade programme stage, not negotiated at handover.