UK based floor screeding contractors
Usage of Liquid Screed in the UK
Physical Composition of Liquid Screed
Liquid screed consists of a mixture of fine aggregates, cement or anhydrite (calcium sulphate binder) and water-reducing additives.
The key features of liquid screed composition include:
- High fluidity, allowing it to flow easily and self-level.
- Reduced shrinkage compared to traditional screeds.
- Higher thermal conductivity, making it ideal for underfloor heating.
- Minimal cracking due to controlled drying rates.
Typical Usage Environments
Liquid screed is widely used in both residential and commercial projects across the UK. Common applications include:
- Underfloor Heating Systems: Liquid screed efficiently encases heating pipes, ensuring even heat distribution.
- Large Commercial Projects: Ideal for warehouses, offices, and shopping centres due to its quick installation and drying time.
- Residential Homes: Used to achieve a smooth and level base for floor finishes such as tiles, wood, or carpets.
- Renovation Projects: Can be poured over existing floors to create a uniform surface.
Types of Liquid Screed
There are different types of liquid screed, each suited to specific requirements:
- Anhydrite (Calcium Sulphate) Screed: Made from calcium sulphate instead of cement, it has a slower drying time but provides superior flexibility and minimal shrinkage.
- Cement-Based Liquid Screed: Uses a cement binder, allowing for faster drying and compatibility with various adhesives and flooring types.
- Fast-Drying Liquid Screed: Specially formulated for projects requiring quick turnaround times.
Comparison Table: Cement-Based vs. Anhydrite Liquid Screed
| Feature | Cement-Based Liquid Screed | Anhydrite (Calcium Sulphate) Liquid Screed |
|---|---|---|
| Binder Material | Cement | Calcium Sulphate (Anhydrite) |
| Drying Time | Faster (typically 1mm per day) | Slower (0.5mm per day) |
| Crack Resistance | Moderate | High (Minimal shrinkage) |
| Flowability | Good | Excellent (Superior self-levelling properties) |
| Underfloor Heating Compatibility | Good | Excellent (Better thermal conductivity) |
| Moisture Sensitivity | Lower sensitivity to moisture | More sensitive to moisture; requires careful sealing |
| Final Floor Covering | Compatible with most adhesives | Requires special primers before applying adhesives |
What is Anhydrite Screed?
Anhydrite screed is a type of liquid screed that uses calcium sulphate as a binder instead of cement. It is known for its excellent flow properties and reduced risk of cracking.
Advantages of Anhydrite Screed:
- Self-levelling, reducing manual labour.
- Lower shrinkage and reduced risk of cracking.
- Ideal for large-scale applications due to its fast installation process.
- Higher thermal conductivity, making it more efficient for underfloor heating systems.
“Liquid screed is widely used in both residential and commercial projects across the UK”
Why Use Liquid Screed?
Liquid screeds are often the preferred choice in the UK due to several benefits:
- Faster installation compared to traditional screeds.
- Higher precision in achieving a level floor surface.
- Minimised shrinkage, reducing the risk of cracking.
- Better thermal conductivity, enhancing the performance of underfloor heating systems.
Conclusion
Liquid screeds has revolutionised the UK construction industry, offering superior performance, quick installation, and better compatibility with modern flooring solutions. Whether using cement-based or anhydrite screed, choosing the right type ensures optimal results for different projects.
Residential & Commercial
floor screeding
Liquid screed services in the Midlands
Residential floor screeding
Liquid screed for new build homes
Liquid screed for home extensions
Liquid screed for Underfloor heating
We provide the complete underfloor heating package.
We supply and install EVERYTHING required for underfloor heating installation. From DPM, Radon barrier, insulation and floor screed materials through to the gas boiler itself.
Commercial floor screeding
Warehouse flooring
It will enhance the structural integrity, prevent cracks, and ensure a smooth base for final floor finishes like epoxy coatings or polished concrete.
Floor preperation
We use dust-free, vacuum-assisted diamond grinding equipment to grind concrete surfaces, effectively removing imperfections and providing a smooth base for new coatings