In the case of flooring solutions, for any project you decide to undertake, there is something known as a screed, which is a crucial consideration. Screeds are essential to structures since they are used as a base surface in various forms of construction, ranging from residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. In this blog, the primary goals include discussing the distinctions between the concrete screed and self-levelling screed, and thereby assisting you in making the right decision the next time you need it.
Concrete Screed:
Floor screed, specifically concrete screed, has remained popular for generations for the creation of level bases within the building construction industry. Indeed, it is a conventional technique where a concrete mixture made of sand, cement, and water is put on a substrate and levelled. Here are some key points to consider: Here are some key points to consider:
As for the properties, it is possible to use concrete screed as a component of thin-walled structures with low or high strength class, depending on the thickness of the layer. Specializing in levelling applicability, it can be applied in various thicknesses depending on the project specifications that a specific area demands in terms of strength.
Nonetheless, proven to be advantageous, concrete screed is also a versatile flooring material. This means that you can add or subtract from the mix depending on the appearance that you want, whether smooth, textured, shiny or matte.
This type of tile is ideal for using both indoors and outdoors, enabling it to serve various purposes. It does not matter if the working area is a residential floor, a driveway, or a commercial area. You can always use a concrete screed.
The concrete screed is most advantageous in application on the floor because it can help in levelling floors that have irregularities. It can assist in making rectifications on minor abnormalities of the substrate and level up for the subsequent coatings.
However, the reader must also know that concrete screed is often a labour-intensive product to apply and should be handled by professional contractors. The curing time might also be longer compared to self-levelling screed, making projects done with the method time-consuming.
Self-Leveling Screed:
Performing at an even higher calibre than traditional ordinary and fused concrete, self-levelling screed has become very popular recently, mainly because it is easy to apply and sets quickly. This type of screed tends to be applied to the ground, and then it just flows to establish a level floor area without much work being done. Here’s what you need to know: Here’s what you need to know:
The main shime of self-levelling screed is that the process is not difficult at all. Some common examples include spilling it on the floor and it self-aligns, making the surface as leveled as possible. This can be especially advantageous when it comes to washing and installation to reduce the time and effort that is taken.
It is important to note here that a self-levelling screed is suitable for thin applications, which could be between 2 or 3mm to 1” and below. It is predominant in construction works that necessitate a flat surface, such as before laying a floor covering, for example, tiles or carpets.
The finish is fairly non-abrasive and accommodates a variety of floorings. When it comes to other flooring materials such as tiles, hardwood, vinyl or even carpet, self leveling screed levelling can provide a great base for installation.
Self-levelling screed is mostly utilised internally since one of its constituent components, and means of hardening are not appropriate for external applications.
Choosing the Right Option for Your Project:
The following are several factors to consider when opting for either concrete screed or self-levelling screed for your project:
- Project Requirements consider the thickness needed, substrate condition, and the intended use of the surface.
- The timeline is also another essential consideration. If, for example, you have tight deadlines for completing your project, then a self-levelling screed is more suitable for you because of its quick drying time.
- Budget: Evaluate the material, labour, and time constraint costs for each alternative.
- Maybe the difference will be made by the skill level, which is to say that, in contrast to self-levelling screed, which less experienced installers will have an easier time working with, the concrete screed will demand more highly skilled labour for correct installation.
- Long-Term Durability: Depending on the project, which is going to offer the best long-term durability and performance.
Conclusion
Both have their advantages, depending on the parameters of your project. Either it will be destined to be a concrete screed in order to offer its robustness, versatility, and degree of customization, or a self-levelling screed with its rapidity in application and ease of use. Ultimately, the choice of either of them would depend on the very needs of your project in terms of line of duty, time, cost, and the expected results. Talking about your project to a building maintenance company or getting a qualified contractor on board will help you strike the right choice and have a successful flooring installation for your project.
But still, the self-levelling screed could not be the best pick for large-scale levelling or any task of closing significant irregularities of the base. The proper preparation of the substrate is the first step to meet with a great result in the self-leveling screed.
