If you are constructing or renovating a building, the term floor screed may be familiar. This layer functions to flatten the floor surface before ceramic tiles are installed so that the final result looks smoother, flatter, and more durable.
Screeds help create a strong and stable base so that flooring materials, such as ceramic, vinyl, or wood, can be installed with precision and neatness. Besides enhancing the appearance, the screed also strengthens the overall floor structure.
It also provides resistance to the loads and pressures that the floor receives daily. By choosing the right type of screed, the floor installation process becomes easier and gives maximum results.
To understand more about the definition, types, and functions of floor screed, see the full explanation in this article.
What Is a Floor Screed?
A floor screed is a mixture of sand and cement applied over concrete to flatten the floor surface. This thin layer functions to produce a smooth, flat, and stable surface that makes it easier to install flooring materials, such as ceramics, vinyl, granite, SPC, and floorboards.
Screed thickness generally ranges from 50 mm to 100 mm. Although not as strong as concrete, screeds still provide good durability and are able to disguise underfloor piping installations.
Compared to concrete, floor screed mixes have a smooth finish, but they dry faster. There are several screed application methods, such as conventional screed and self-leveling screed. The choice of screed method can be adjusted according to the project's needs and budget.
Types of Floor Screeds
Floor screeds have several types that can be customized according to construction needs and floor surface conditions for optimal results. Each type of screed has different characteristics and ways of application. Here is the full explanation.
1. Polymer Screed
Polymer screed is a type of screed that uses polymer resin as the main binder, making it more flexible and durable. This type is commonly used in areas with high-performance flooring requirements, such as factories, and is often chosen in renovation projects to overcome floor thicknesses that do not meet minimum standards.
Read also: 10 Aesthetics Combinations of Bathroom Floor and Wall Tiles
2. Mixed Screed
Mixed screed is a type of screed that consists of a combination of cement, sand, fillers, and certain additives to produce characteristics according to project needs. The application method is easy; just mix with water until evenly distributed. This screed is suitable for leveling and increasing floor height before tiling.
3. Anhydrite Screed
Anhydrite screed is a type of screed that uses calcium sulfate or anhydrite as a binder. This screed is known for its stability and good floor leveling capabilities. It is commonly used in commercial and domestic buildings, such as hotels or airports, but is not suitable for damp areas as it is not waterproof.
4. Epoxy Screed
An epoxy screed is a type of screed that uses epoxy resin as its main binder. It has excellent strength and chemical resistance. Therefore, this type of screed is often chosen for flooring in industrial and commercial environments, such as laboratories or chemical plants.
In addition to its functionality, epoxy screeds also provide a smooth and aesthetically pleasing floor appearance and are easy to install.
5. Concrete Screed
Concrete screed is the most common type of screed used in various construction projects. Concrete screeds consist of a mixture of cement, sand, and water in a certain ratio to produce the appropriate strength and density.
It has a high compressive strength, making it suitable for areas with heavy loads, and can be applied in a variety of buildings, from homes to commercial buildings. The drying process takes up to 28 days and is often done by professionals with the help of special machines for optimal results.
The functions of floor screeds
Floor screeds not only act as a coating, but also have several important functions in the process of floor construction and finishing, such as improving the quality, durability, and overall aesthetics of a building. The following are several functions of a floor screed.
1. Leveling the Surface
Screed serves to level the floor surface before the installation of other materials, such as ceramics, vinyl, wood, or other types of floor coverings. That way, the floor will be installed more precisely, look neat, add aesthetic value to the building, both interior and exterior, and be more comfortable and safe for activities.
Read also: 5 Building Material Types for Outdoor Flooring
2. Increase Floor Height
Floor screed also serves to increase the height of the floor before the installation of ceramics. This process is generally done using a mixture of cement and silica sand or mortar to make the process easier, and the results are flatter and stronger.
3. Increasing Floor Strength
The addition of a screed layer to the subfloor will increase the overall strength and durability of the floor, especially for areas with heavy loads or intensive activity. It also helps reduce the need for regular maintenance, provides maximum protection from long-term damage and wear, and keeps the building in top condition.
4. Heat and Sound Insulation
Some types of floor screed can act as thermal and acoustic insulation. This means that the screed can help stabilize the room temperature, avoid heat and humidity, also reduce noise from both inside and outside the room.
These capabilities make screeds an ideal choice for rooms with high sound activity, such as music studios, or residences in noisy environments, such as the edge of a highway. The use of screeds not only improves comfort but is also a long-term investment in the quality and health of the residents.
The Difference between Floor Screed and Concrete
Although both are cement-based, floor screed and concrete differ in the process and result. Concrete produces a sturdier surface, but takes longer to dry.
On the other hand, screeds dry faster, provide a smooth and aesthetic finish, also are strong enough to cover underfloor pipe installations. Screeds are also flexible for different types of floor coverings, such as ceramic, SPC, or vinyl.
That is a complete explanation of floor screed, from its definition, type, to its function in building construction. With its important role in flattening the surface and strengthening the floor structure, the use of screed is highly recommended to get a neat and durable finish.
To support an optimal construction process, make sure you use high-quality cement products, such as Semen Merah Putih. One of the best choices is Semen Merah Putih Watershield, a super premium multipurpose cement with water repellent technology that provides triple protection from external, internal, and ground water seepage.
Suitable for applications, such as plastering, skim coat, ceramic masonry, to building foundations. Semen Merah Putih is also supported by its subsidiary, Beton Merah Putih, which provides high-quality ready-mixed concrete, precast concrete, and aggregate solutions for various construction needs.
Contact us for more information about the best products and solutions for your project!
Read also: 6 Ways on How to Lay a Cement Floor for a Sturdy Result
