Want to know more about screeds and what they can do?

Screed comes in a range of types to suit different needs. Our guides explain how different types of screed work and the benefits of their unique properties, helping you to make a well informed choice.

Screed is a durable and economical material for flooring that has an easy installation process. It can be applied quickly to large surface areas, making it ideal for commercial construction projects with tight timelines. Moreover, it can be easily coloured, allowing designers to create custom aesthetics.

There are three general applications of screed:
1. Floating application – the screed is laid onto a compressible layer (insulation board or acoustic matting) to create the final level floor
2.Unbonded application – the screed is laid onto the structural subfloor, normally onto a plastic sheet (DPM or slip membrane) to stop the rise of moisture into the final level floor
3.Bonded application – the screed is laid onto the structural subfloor by using a glue to stick/bond the screed to the structural subfloor, creating the final level floor

The most common mistakes screed installers make are not preparing the subfloor, not accommodating for environmental factors such as damp or extreme temperature, and incorrect application technique. Our recommended installers make it their job to avoid such mistakes.

You can walk on a screed floor as soon as it is dry enough, which will vary depending on the product and environmental circumstances. It is recommended that you wait at least 24–48 hours before commencing with light foot traffic.

A visual inspection can give you a clue to whether or not screed is dry – look out for factors such as colour, texture and visible signs of dampness. However, for more precise readings, seek out an approved tool or method to test the moisture content of a screed – such as a hygrometer test, a plastic sheet test or a Calcium Bomb (CM) test.