Sand Cement Screed: The Traditional Method Of Flooring

By Author: Andy Guy
Total Articles: 10
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Screeding is a term which is extremely important as far as the construction industry is concerned. This is a process in which a well- blended mixture of sand and water is applied to the base of a floor so that the foundation of the building becomes strong and also so that the base is capable of withstanding the final floor. Screed refers to the solution which is used for preparation of the floor of any house.

Types Available for This Purpose

In the earlier days, traditional screeds were the only option available for flooring. But nowadays, different varieties are available as a result of which you can choose the one which is best suited for the floor. Some of the different types of materials that are available, nowadays, are as follows:

• Sand Cement
• Liquid or Free Flowing
• Structural
• Fast Drying

These can either be mixed on the construction site or it is also available in the readymade form, nowadays, which is highly advantageous as it saves a lot of time which is spent in mixing the material. The readymade ones not only reduce the effort but also the time and ...
... in the process the extra cost too.

The Traditional Sand Cement Type

The sand cement screed is also known as the traditional type because the traditional way of preparing it is by mixing sand and cement in the ratio of 3 to 5 parts of sand to 1 part of cement. Some of the major features of this type are outlined below for your easy understanding:

• This type has been widely used since ages and thus is preferred by people.
• Another major feature of this type is that it has the capability of receiving any type of floor covering.
• The time taken for this one to dry up depends on various factors, such as, the prevailing weather conditions, the manufacturers and the depth.
• The ratio in which sand and cement are mixed is 3 to 5 parts of sand and 1 part of cement. This standard ratio makes it durable and strong.
• This type is considered to be perfect for places, such as, hospitals, schools, houses and several others.

Some Points to Keep in Mind

Another factor which is extremely important after laying the material is its protection and care. This is extremely essential as this will decide how it will perform in future. Some of the ways in which you can protect it is by controlling the traffic from entering the site before 24 to 48 hours of laying it are over, by using screed protectors to cover the surface and by ensuring no heavy weights are loaded on this floor. A good screed enhances the quality of the floor, but, if it is not of good quality, it will destroy the entire building. So, a lot of care should go into selecting the best type for the floor.