The Differences Between Screed & Self-Levelling Compound

For flooring jobs, choosing the appropriate surface preparation technique is crucial to getting a level and durable foundation. Screed and self-levelling compound are two prominent and frequently utilised solutions. Although they are both intended to level surfaces, they have different qualities and uses. In order to assist you to choose wisely for your flooring project, we will examine the distinctions between screed and self-levelling compound.

What is Screed?

A concrete or subfloor surface is covered with a thin layer of cementitious material called screed. Its main objective is to give different flooring materials, such tiles, wood, vinyl, or carpet, a level and smooth foundation. A specially constructed self-levelling screed that comprises specialised additives for increased flowability can be manufactured instead of the conventional sand and cement mix.

Advantages

• Underfloor heating systems are compatible with specific types of screed, such as self-levelling engineered screed.
• Increased Durability: Screed creates a solid and secure foundation, increasing the longevity and durability of the finished floor.
• Large Areas: Screed works well for larger flooring projects because it can be applied effectively in larger volumes.
• Cost-Effective: A traditional sand and cement screed may level floors at a reasonable price.

Let’s talk about Self Levelling Compounds

A specialised flooring material created to produce a smooth and level surface is self-levelling compound, commonly referred to as self-levelling underlayment. It is a cement, aggregate, and additive mixture that, when poured, automatically levels itself, negating the need for time-consuming hand levelling.

Self-Levelling Compound Benefits

• Effective and Quick Application: Self-levelling compound distributes rapidly and uniformly, cutting down on labour costs and installation time.
• Outstanding for Thin Layers: Self-levelling compound can be used for small levelling changes because it can be put in thin layers.
• Perfect for Small Spaces: It is especially helpful for smaller flooring projects when the cost-effectiveness of the screed volume may not be possible.
• Better Self-Levelling Capabilities: With less physical assistance, self-levelling compound can produce a more exact level surface.
• Use with underfloor heating systems is also possible.

Differences between Screed & Self-Levelling Compounds

1. Application Method: Screed is typically applied manually and requires skilled labor to level and spread the mixture evenly. On the other hand, self-levelling compound is poured onto the surface and automatically levels itself.
2. Thickness: Screed is generally applied in thicker layers, ranging from 15mm to 75mm, depending on the type and application. Self-levelling compound is typically applied in thin layers, ranging from 2mm to 15mm.
3. Drying Time: Screed can take several days to dry and cure fully. In contrast, self-levelling compound dries relatively quickly, often within a few hours.
4. Area Coverage: Screed is more suitable for larger flooring projects, while self-levelling compound is more efficient for smaller areas or when thin levelling is required.

Depending on the particular needs of your flooring project, you may want to choose between screed and a self-levelling compound. For larger areas, screed is a reliable and economical solution; for smaller areas, self-levelling compound enables quick application and accurate levelling. When picking your choice, it’s critical to take into account elements like project size, levelling needs, and drying time.

These are some of the most popular screeds: