WHAT IS SCREED? – EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW

Make a smooth and level base for your flooring with our guide, to floor screed. From unbonded to bonded screeds, The London Screed Company Limited covers the sorts, materials, and applications to assist you with picking the most ideal choice for your task.

Some Basics about Screed

Screed is a slim, top layer of material laid over a concrete base. It is produced using a mix of cement, water, and sharp sand. Screed is utilized to make a surface smoother and more steady.

While not generally so solid as the concrete subfloor it covers, it builds the floor’s strength and works on its appearance. It’s great for covering underfloor pipes and giving a level surface to different flooring, including overlays, tiling, vinyl, carpets, floorboards, and stone.

Difference between screed and concrete

 

Concrete is coarser than screed since it utilizes bigger aggregates and acts as an alternative to cement. You can see pieces of rock and stone in a concrete blend. The screed has a better smoother screed-like appearance. The methods involved with making concrete and screed are comparable. But, concrete intends to give strength, while screed makes a smooth top layer. Screed is typically discretionary. Its smooth consistency assists with remedying lopsided bases and working on their appearance.

Types of Screed

In flooring applications, different types of screed are used. The purpose is to achieve the desired surface quality and functionality. From traditional sand and cement screed to more modern self-leveling. Liquid screed variants, each type offers distinct characteristics and benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the different types of screed available:

BONDED SCREED

The bonded screed is associated with the concrete subfloor (substrate) with an adhesive. It is great for more slender applications where heavy loading is normal. Before holding the screed you want to set up the area by completely cleaning it.

UNBONDED SCREED

Unbonded screed is laid on top of a damp floor isolating it from the concrete substrate. It’s a magnificent decision in buildings where dampness presents a difficult issue. With unbonded screed, it’s vital to screen the drying system. Supposing that it dries too quickly, the edges of the screed can twist.

FLOATING SCREED

Floating screeds are unbounded and for the most part, added to an acoustic or thermal layer. Since it is unbounded, we suggest you add a membrane beneath or over the insulation layer.

What are some basic uses of Screed?

Screed is a versatile material that finds wide-ranging applications in the construction industry. Its unique properties make it an essential component in both residential and commercial projects. Let’s explore some of the primary uses of screed:

Underfloor Heating Systems

Screed acts as an excellent thermal conductor. This makes it ideal for use in underfloor heating systems. When applied over the heating pipes, screed distributes the heat across the entire floor area. This maximizes energy efficiency and ensures cozy warmth in homes and commercial spaces.

Floor Leveling

Inaccurate or uneven floor surfaces can significantly impact the final finish of a flooring project. Screed is commonly used to level out uneven subfloors and create a smooth and seamless base for various floor coverings, including tiles, hardwood, and laminates. Its self-leveling properties result in an even surface. This eliminates potential trip hazards and enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space.

 Industrial Flooring

In industrial settings, screed provides a durable and resilient flooring solution. It can withstand heavy loads, vehicle traffic, and chemical exposure. Industrial screeds are formulated to meet the unique demands of factories, warehouses, and manufacturing facilities, ensuring long-lasting performance and minimal maintenance requirements.

These are a few examples of the diverse uses of screed in construction projects. From residential homes to commercial buildings and industrial facilities, screed plays a crucial role in creating functional, visually appealing, and long-lasting flooring surfaces.

Proper Preparation and Installation of Screed

Ensuring proper installation of screed is paramount for achieving a flooring surface that is not only durable but also of high quality. Let’s look at the step-by-step process, highlighting the critical stages involved in both flooring preparation and screed installation.

Surface Preparation

Before floor screed installation, thorough surface preparation is essential. This involves the removal of any existing flooring materials. Thus ensuring that the subfloor is clean, dry, and free from debris. The professionals from The London Screed Company Limited will address any uneven areas or cracks. They will also vacuum the surface to establish an optimal base for the screed.

Moisture Testing

Moisture levels in the subfloor can significantly impact the performance and longevity of the screeded floor. Conducting a moisture test is imperative to assess the moisture content accurately.

Pouring and Leveling

With the screed mix prepared, pour it onto the surface and spread it evenly using a screed bar or trowel. Work methodically to ensure uniform coverage and an even thickness throughout. Professionals tend to use a straight edge and spirit level to achieve a level surface that meets the project’s specified tolerances for floor screeding.

Drying

Following the screed installation, allow ample time for curing and drying. This phase is critical for the screed to gain strength and for any excess moisture to evaporate.

Concluded

The London Screed Company Limited has got you covered for all your flooring solutions. Our team of experts educates their clients before starting any procedures so you know exactly what you’re going for. With years of experience, we focus on giving the perfect long-lasting and durable floor screeding options.

FAQ’S About Screed

What is a screed?

Screed is a mixture of cement, sand, and water that is applied to a floor to create a smooth and level surface. It is commonly used in construction projects to prepare the floor for the installation of various flooring materials.

What are the three main types of screeds?

There are several types of screed available, including traditional sand and cement screed, self-levelling screed, and liquid screed. Each type has its characteristics and benefits, and the choice depends on the specific requirements of the project.

What are the uses of screed?

Screed is used in various applications in the construction industry. It is commonly used for levelling uneven floors, providing a base for floor finishes, creating underfloor heating systems, and soundproofing. It is versatile and can be used in both residential and commercial projects.

How do I maintain screeded floors?

Proper maintenance is crucial for ensuring the longevity of screeded floors. Regular cleaning is important to remove dirt and debris, and it is recommended to apply a sealant to protect the surface. Any signs of wear or damage should be addressed promptly to prevent further issues.

How do I choose the right screed for my project?

When choosing the right screed for your project, it is important to consider factors such as traffic conditions, floor finishes, and time constraints. Consulting with a professional and understanding the specific requirements of your project can help you make an informed decision.

Why choose The London Screed Company Limited for flooring solutions?

Our experts provide education and years of experience to ensure durable and long-lasting floor screeding options.