UK based underfloor heating installers
Underfloor Heating Screeds in the UK
Usage Environments
Underfloor heating screeds are used in various settings, including:
- Residential Homes: Enhancing comfort and energy efficiency in living spaces.
- Commercial Buildings: Offices, hotels, and retail spaces where underfloor heating is preferred over radiators.
- New Build Developments: Increasing energy efficiency and property value.
- Renovations & Retrofits: Upgrading older properties with modern heating solutions.
- Bathrooms & Kitchens: Ideal for tiled floors where warmth underfoot is desirable.
Types of Underfloor Heating Screeds
1. Liquid Screeds
Liquid screeds, also known as flowing screeds, are self-levelling compounds that provide excellent thermal conductivity and a smooth finish.
- Faster installation: Can be poured and levelled quickly.
- Minimal shrinkage: Reduces cracking and movement.
- Better heat conductivity: More efficient at transferring heat from underfloor pipes.
- Thinner application: Requires less depth compared to traditional screeds.
- Quick drying: Often walkable within 24-48 hours.
2. Traditional Sand & Cement Screeds
Traditional screeds are mixed on-site using cement, sand, and water. They are manually applied and compacted to provide a strong, stable surface.
- Cost-effective: Generally cheaper than liquid screeds.
- Suitable for thicker applications: Works well for projects requiring deeper coverage.
- Greater structural integrity: Provides a more robust surface for heavy-duty flooring.
- More labour-intensive: Requires skilled professionals for installation.
- Longer drying times: Can take up to 28 days to fully cure.
Comparison Table: Liquid Screed vs. Traditional Screed for Underfloor Heating
| Feature | Liquid Screed | Traditional Sand & Cement Screed |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Conductivity | Excellent – Transfers heat efficiently | Lower – Can slow heat response time |
| Installation Speed | Fast – Poured and self-levelling | Slower – Hand-applied and levelled |
| Drying Time | Faster – Walkable in 24-48 hours | Longer – Can take up to 28 days |
| Thickness Required | Thinner application possible | Requires more depth |
| Crack Resistance | Minimal shrinkage and cracking | More prone to shrinkage |
| Labour Requirements | Lower – Less manual labour needed | Higher – Requires skilled application |
| Best Use Cases | Large areas, modern homes, commercial projects | Smaller areas, budget-conscious projects |
Application Process
Regardless of the screed type, the process of installation follows these key steps:
- Substrate Preparation: The base layer must be clean, stable, and primed if necessary.
- Underfloor Heating Installation: Pipes or electric heating mats are laid out and secured.
- Screed Application: Either liquid screed is poured, or traditional screed is manually applied.
- Levelling: Ensuring a uniform surface with adequate coverage over heating pipes.
- Curing & Drying: Time depends on the screed type and environmental conditions.
- Final Floor Covering: Tiles, wood, carpet, or other finishes are installed once the screed is fully dry.
“Screeds are used to encapsulate heating pipes or electric heating elements, providing a smooth and durable surface for final floor coverings”
Conclusion
Both liquid and traditional screeds play a vital role in underfloor heating installations in the UK. While liquid screeds offer superior thermal conductivity and faster drying times, traditional screeds remain a cost-effective and durable option for some projects. Choosing the right screed depends on factors such as budget, project scale, and the desired drying time.
Residential & Commercial
floor screeding
Underfloor heating screed services in the Midlands
Residential floor screeding
Underfloor heating screed for new build homes
Underfloor heating screed for home extensions
Underfloor heating 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