Substrate definitions
The term 'substrate' refers to any solid substance to which another substance is applied so that the second substance adheres to the substrate.
As a variation of ‘substratum’, the term can refer to a layer of residual bedrock, sediments or deposits that are found beneath the topsoil. For the construction of foundations, the substrate type (e.g. soil, rock, clay, and so on) is one of the factors that will determine the type of foundation used.
The term is also used for ‘filler’ products,applied to brick, ceramics, concrete, plaster, and so on.
With regard to sealants, paint and other surface finishes, the substrate is the surface to which they are applied.
Biodiversity in new housing developments: creating wildlife-friendly communities, published by the NHBC Foundation in April 2021 defines a substrate as: ‘A medium on which vegetation grows, including soils, sub-soil, wood and masonry.’
PAS 9980:2022, Fire risk appraisal of external wall construction and cladding of existing blocks of flats – Code of practice, published by BSI Standards Limited in 2022, defines substrate as: ‘a construction onto which other materials or products are attached or applied… In the case of a cladding system, its substrates typically include masonry and lightweight framing systems, such as an SFS (steel framing system).’
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
Restoration and renewal of the Palace of Westminster
A complex project of cultural significance from full decant to EMI, opportunities and a potential a way forward.
Apprenticeships and the responsibility we share
Perspectives from the CIOB President as National Apprentice Week comes to a close.
The first line of defence against rain, wind and snow.
Building Safety recap January, 2026
What we missed at the end of last year, and at the start of this...
National Apprenticeship Week 2026, 9-15 Feb
Shining a light on the positive impacts for businesses, their apprentices and the wider economy alike.
Applications and benefits of acoustic flooring
From commercial to retail.
From solid to sprung and ribbed to raised.
Strengthening industry collaboration in Hong Kong
Hong Kong Institute of Construction and The Chartered Institute of Building sign Memorandum of Understanding.
A detailed description from the experts at Cornish Lime.
IHBC planning for growth with corporate plan development
Grow with the Institute by volunteering and CP25 consultation.
Connecting ambition and action for designers and specifiers.
Electrical skills gap deepens as apprenticeship starts fall despite surging demand says ECA.
Built environment bodies deepen joint action on EDI
B.E.Inclusive initiative agree next phase of joint equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) action plan.
Recognising culture as key to sustainable economic growth
Creative UK Provocation paper: Culture as Growth Infrastructure.
Futurebuild and UK Construction Week London Unite
Creating the UK’s Built Environment Super Event and over 25 other key partnerships.
Welsh and Scottish 2026 elections
Manifestos for the built environment for upcoming same May day elections.
Advancing BIM education with a competency framework
“We don’t need people who can just draw in 3D. We need people who can think in data.”