What is High Friction Surfacing (HFS)?
High Friction Surfacing is a thin, resin-bonded surfacing using calcined bauxite aggregate to deliver high skid resistance and texture where braking/turning demand is highest. In procurement and day-to-day terminology, you’ll also hear it called HFS, anti-skid surfacing, skid resistant surfacing, or bauxite surfacing — typically referring to the same safety application.
Fast answer
If you need higher skid resistance at a hazard site (approach, crossing, bend, junction), HFS is the specification-led solution designed for that job.
Where HFS is specified
HFS is most commonly specified at locations where stopping distance and stability matter most — and where surface friction needs to remain high over time.
- Approaches to traffic signals, junctions and roundabouts
- Sharp bends, downhill sections and braking zones
- Pedestrian crossings and high footfall interfaces
- Bus lanes, high-risk lanes, conflict points and short-stacking sites
- Entries/exits, merge points and other hazard locations
We cover London, the South East and the Home Counties, and we self-deliver the work — not broker it — so quality and programming stays under one roof.
Specification & compliance (Type 1 / HAPAS / BBA)
For highways work, Type 1 HFS is typically installed to the relevant specification, including SHW Clause 924, with site suitability referenced by recognised category guidance. We install to manufacturer and specification requirements, including preparation standards and quality checks, so the finished surface performs as intended.
What clients usually ask for
- HAPAS/BBA certification evidence
- Site type suitability and correct system selection
- Preparation, cleanliness, and adhesion controls
- Clear method statement + QA handover
Performance: skid resistance, bauxite aggregate & durability
Type 1 systems use high-quality calcined bauxite designed to maintain friction and texture. On appropriate sites and with correct installation, HFS is used specifically to improve safety outcomes by increasing friction where drivers must slow, stop, or change direction.
| What matters | Why it matters on real roads |
|---|---|
| Bauxite aggregate (PSV) | Higher PSV supports long-term skid resistance under traffic. |
| Skid resistance (SRV) | Higher SRV reduces braking risk at approaches, crossings and bends. |
| Adhesion | If the system doesn’t bond correctly, performance and longevity suffer — preparation and QA are critical. |
| Durability | Designed for multi-year performance when the correct system is specified and installed for the site. |
We’ll advise on suitability, constraints, and how to get the best outcome for your site — particularly where repeat risk exists and a “quick patch” approach is not appropriate.
Our delivery process (self-delivered)
- Site review: location type, risk, geometry, traffic and constraints.
- Preparation: cleaning, repairs as required, and prep standard to support adhesion.
- Installation: resin application and aggregate broadcast to the system method.
- Cure & reopen: rapid cure systems minimise disruption where closures are costly.
- QA handover: photos, method confirmation and completion notes.
Want this tied into your wider surfacing plan?
Use our Treatment Selection Guide to compare options, then apply HFS where the hazard profile demands maximum skid resistance.
FAQ
Is “anti-skid surfacing” the same as HFS?
In most highway contexts, yes. “High friction surfacing”, “HFS”, “anti-skid surfacing” and “skid resistant surfacing” are commonly used to describe the same safety application. The spec typically determines the exact system class (e.g., Type 1).
Where do you deliver HFS?
We self-deliver across London, the South East and the Home Counties (including Kent, Surrey, Sussex, Essex, Hertfordshire, Berkshire and Buckinghamshire). If you’re outside this area, ask — we’ll advise.
How quickly can HFS reopen to traffic?
It depends on the system and conditions, but rapid cure systems are commonly used to minimise closure time. We’ll confirm programming and cure windows at site planning stage.
Do you have HFS case studies?
We’re adding dedicated HFS case studies. In the meantime, we can share relevant examples and photos on request and will publish formal case studies as they’re released.