When it comes to flooring and construction, the term screed is often mentioned—but what exactly is it?
If you’re planning a building project, renovation, or simply researching flooring options, understanding screed is essential.
This versatile material plays a crucial role in achieving strong, smooth, and durable floors.
What is Screed?
Screed is a thin layer of material, typically made from cement, sand, and water, that is laid over a concrete subfloor. Its main purpose is to create a smooth, level surface ready for the final floor finish—whether that’s tiles, vinyl, wood, or carpet. Unlike structural concrete, which forms the base of a building, screed is more about providing precision and finish.
Types of Screed
There are several types of screed available, each suited to different projects:
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Traditional sand and cement screed: A hand-mixed option, ideal for general domestic and commercial flooring.
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Liquid or flow screed (self-levelling): Offers a perfectly level finish, dries quickly, and is especially useful for underfloor heating.
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Polymer-modified screed: Contains additives for improved strength, flexibility, and reduced drying time.
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Fibre-reinforced screed: Extra durability and reduced risk of cracking, making it perfect for high-traffic areas.
Why is Screed Important?
Screed provides a number of benefits in construction and flooring:
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Level surface: Ensures floor coverings sit evenly and look professional.
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Durability: Helps distribute load and extends the lifespan of the finished floor.
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Compatibility with underfloor heating: Encases heating pipes or cables, aiding heat transfer.
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Versatility: Suitable for residential, commercial, and industrial environments.
How is Screed Applied?
The application process depends on the type of screed being used:
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Preparation: The subfloor must be clean, dry, and free of dust or grease.
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Mixing: Traditional screed is mixed on-site, while liquid screed is delivered pre-mixed.
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Pouring and spreading: The screed is applied evenly across the floor.
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Levelling: A straight edge, laser, or screed bar is used to achieve a flat finish.
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Curing: The screed must be left to dry and cure properly before the final floor is installed.
How Long Does Screed Take to Dry?
Drying times vary depending on the type of screed:
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Traditional sand and cement: around 1mm per day (a 50mm layer may take 6–8 weeks).
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Liquid screed: often walkable within 24–48 hours and dries much faster.
Always check manufacturer guidelines before laying flooring to avoid damage.
Common Applications of Screed
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Domestic flooring: Homes, extensions, and loft conversions.
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Commercial projects: Offices, retail units, and hospitality spaces.
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Industrial settings: Warehouses and factories requiring hard-wearing finishes.
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Underfloor heating systems: Ensuring efficient heat transfer and protection of pipes.
Screed may not be the star of construction, but it’s the hidden layer that makes all the difference to your flooring.
From creating a flawless finish to ensuring long-term durability, screed is an essential element in modern building.
Whether you’re renovating your home or managing a large-scale project, choosing the right type of screed, and ensuring it’s applied correctly will guarantee the best results.