Sand and Cement Screeding for Traditional, Reliable Floor Bases
Getting the best base for your flooring means the difference between constant repairs and something that will last a lifetime. While newer screeding methods like liquid screed are gaining popularity, sand and cement screed remains the trusted standard – especially for traditional builds and complex subfloor scenarios.
ThermaScreed is supplying the industry with quality screeding, liquid and traditional, at competitive rates. In this article, we will explore the critical considerations around sand and cement screeding – from mixing and application to drying times and finishes – ensuring you’re ready to make the right choice for your project.
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What Makes Sand & Cement Screed Unique?
The most unique part of sand and cement screed is how long it has lasted as a building technique. With evidence it has been around since the Romans, sand and cement screed has truly stood the test of time, positioning itself as the reliable, traditional choice for floor bases.
At ThermaScreed, we take things a step further, offering unique benefits from our position as expert providers of screed. You will benefit from:
- Working with our unique network to get screeds ready for flooring in as little as four hours
- Using special additives to significantly reduce drying times
- Tailoring the screeding system to meet your requirements
- Working out of hours or nights to avoid disruption to high-traffic areas like schools and hospitals
Ideal Use Cases and Flooring Types
Popular for a wide variety of industries, sand and cement screeding is designed to provide a robust flooring base that works around sensitive materials through careful and judicious application.
It is excellent for high-traffic areas like:
- Hospitals
- Schools
- Offices
- Colleges
Sand and cement screeding is the most popular and proven option for your floor base screed. With an extensive history behind it, a wide range of trusted applications, and widespread usage to this day, sand and cement screed stands the test of time to deliver quality for your project.
Guidelines on Mixing, Thickness & Application
When using a traditional sand and cement screed, the right balance is essential for durability and finish. A typical mix is one part cement to three to five parts sharp sand, blended thoroughly to achieve a uniform consistency. Too much cement can cause cracking, while too little compromises strength. Water should be added sparingly – the mix needs to be workable but not sloppy, holding together when squeezed in your hand.
In terms of thickness, screeds are generally laid at a minimum of 25–40mm for bonded applications, or 50–70mm for unbonded or floating screeds. Thicker layers may be required where underfloor heating is installed, ensuring pipes are well covered.
Application should be carried out on a clean, prepared base. The screed is spread, compacted, and levelled using a straight edge, with care taken to achieve a smooth, even surface ready for final floor finishes.
Drying Times: What to Expect
Sand and cement screed typically dries at a rate of 1mm per day for the first 40mm of thickness, slowing at thicker depths.
This might seem like a long time, but the reality is that your screed will be workable and tile-able much sooner. In fact, our sand and cement screed will be ready to accept flooring in as little as four hours, and can be walked on within a day.
For high traffic areas, we would recommend sectioning off newly screeded flooring for longer to ensure it is given proper time to settle and prevent any shifting or damage from excessive use. It is best to monitor your screed at the beginning and adapt to any issues that may arise.
Should You Choose Traditional or Liquid Screed?
Traditional screed, like sand and cement screed comes with a variety of advantages for your project. It’s the tried, tested, and proven approach, and offers a reliable mix with fast drying times and high suitability for heavy foot traffic.
Liquid screed, on the other hand, is an innovative approach that evenly fills out your floor base. With rapid application, it can quickly spread through the area, neatly encasing floor elements like your underfloor heating and electrics. It also comes with a competitive drying time, making it a good choice if you need a quick turnaround.
The type you choose depends heavily on your preferences, budget, and unique use case. We would recommend speaking to an expert to make sure you get the right match for your circumstances.
Build a Quality, Reliable Floor Base with ThermaScreed
Sand and cement screed is the traditional option for your floor base. With a reputable impact on durability and long-term resilience, sand and cement screed stands the test of time as a method and a material.
If you’re looking for reliable sand and cement screed, then look no further than ThermaScreed. We offer screeding services that work to your space, requirements, and schedule, ensuring you get the perfect finish for your floor base that dries fast and is ready for flooring. To find out more, get in touch!
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