Screeding

Traditionally floor screed is a mixture of sharp sand & cement mixed at a ratio of between 3 to 5 parts sand & 1 part cement depending on the requirements.

For the most part a ratio of 4 to 1 is sufficient for the most requirements, early applications used reinforcement using a hex or chicken wire mesh, from the early 90s fibers were added to the mix to replace the reinforcement mesh.

PPF fibers remain the most popular method of screed used today allowing for micro-movement in the base without cracking, trying times for screed floors vary depending on the environmental conditions, screed mixture & additives, and the overall depth to obtain the required level.

The floor screed is composed of cementitious materials and sand blended based on a suitable mix design and applied to provide a leveled surface for the floor finish which is introduced to the surface of the floor screed. So, the floor screed is the base for the floor finish and greatly influences the performance of the floor finish.

Five essential steps to get your floor screeding right:

• The right floor screeding contractor
• The right floor screed
• The right screed mix
• The right process for installing the screed
• The right measures for screed protection

The benefits of screed :

Screed is generally used to create a smooth, bump-free finish to internal floors or surfaces. As well as providing aesthetic improvements to the concrete base, the screed can also lengthen its life – the compact mix of sharp sand and cement in floor screeds provides a durable and long-lasting top layer that protects the floor from the impact of constant use and heavy footfall. It’s not unusual for the screed to be laid as the finish – it can look very smart and provide a functional floor, especially in commercial locations. It can also be used as a base for final floor finishes such as resin flooring. Screed’s properties also make it ideal as an insulation material for underfloor heating pipes.

• Application

Floor screed is applied using a straight edge, which are available in wooden, plastic or metal. A smoothed finish may be achieved using a trowel or power float.

• Systems

There are three main systems for providing screeded floor solutions: – bonded, unbounded or floating

• Bonded

Bonded screed is achieved when a full contact is made between the concrete slab/substrate base floor and the top-level screed. In order to achieve the bond, it may be required to pre-treat the base slab before laying the top layer of screed.

• Unbonded

An unbonded screed is achieved when there is no adhered connection between the screed and the concrete base, for example when a screed is laid over a damp proof membrane.

• Float

A floating screed is produced by applying a screed over the top of an insulation base.

BENEFITS OF WALL SCREEDING

Screeding your wall before painting brings out the real beauty and quality of your paint. It gives it a more compact and beautiful look than only painting your wall. They must be considered as an essential option before painting as they give a perfect outlook to your walls. Screeding helps to remove any cracks, flaws, or holes in your walls.

When you properly level off your wall with screeding before applying quality paint over it, it helps you not only get a perfect look for your wall but also strengthens the integrity of your painting – it won’t wear off so easily.
In fact, silk and shiny paints on a screeded wall give a perfect outlook of high-quality interior designs. For perfectly smooth and shiny walls, screeding before painting is highly recommended.

Professional Plastering Services can either build your screeded floor to the specifications provided by your architect or advise you on the best solution for the specific requirement you have.