Sand and cement screed.
Traditional bonded, unbonded and floating screed systems for commercial and domestic floors, specified against the project build-up.
Based in Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire.
Suitable applications.
Sand and cement screed remains a practical option for many British floor constructions when it is specified correctly against the project build-up.
Common applications
Commercial new builds, developer housing, refurbishments and one-off residential projects with a known floor build-up.
Where it tends to fit
Projects with a suitable substrate where traditional drying times work with the programme.
When another system may suit better
Very thin overlays, particularly tight programmes or specialist environments may call for an alternative screed system.
Bonded, unbonded and floating systems.
The same material, laid three different ways depending on the substrate, the build-up and what sits beneath the screed.
Bonded screed
Screed bonded directly to a sound substrate with a primer or slurry. Thinner depths possible where the slab is suitable.
Typically considered whenTypically considered when the substrate is sound, level enough to bond to and depth is limited.
Technical detail
Depth, mix design, curing regime and follow-on trades are confirmed against the specification and floor build-up. Final depths depend on the substrate, insulation, pipework and the finish above. Provisional figures are not universal rules and are not a substitute for project-specific advice.
Floating screeds over insulation.
Floating screeds are installed over insulation or acoustic layers and are common in modern floor build-ups. The insulation, perimeter detailing, floor loading and any underfloor heating all affect the final screed specification.
Screed over underfloor heating.
Sand and cement screed can be installed over correctly prepared and pressure-tested underfloor-heating pipework where the floor build-up, depth and programme are suitable.
Where required, underfloor-heating installation can be coordinated through a specialist partner before our screeding team completes the floor.
Reviewed as part of the installation package.
Floor preparation is delivered as part of a screeding or resin package rather than as a standalone service. The items below are reviewed against the overall installation and the project build-up.
Substrate condition
Soundness, levels, datum and any required surface preparation.
DPM or separating membrane
Where the build-up calls for a damp-proof membrane or separation layer.
Insulation
Continuity, thickness and edge detailing where insulation sits below the screed.
Pipework
Fixings, pressure test and cover where underfloor heating is included.
Access and logistics
Pump runs, delivery, parking and how the work fits with follow-on trades.
Protection
Curing, drying conditions and what arrives onto the finished floor.
How the screed is installed.
- 01Site reviewSubstrate, access, levels, datum and any required preparation.
- 02Set-outLevels and bays marked against the specification and floor build-up.
- 03MixMaterial is mixed on site or supplied ready-mixed depending on the specification, volume and access.
- 04Lay and levelScreed is laid, compacted and finished to the specified tolerance.
- 05ProtectionCuring and protection in line with the system and the follow-on trades.
Two routes for sand and cement.
Instant estimate.
For straightforward work with a known area and depth. The result is indicative and non-binding; project details are reviewed before a formal quotation is issued.
Commercial quotation.
For phased programmes, drawings, bills of quantities, floor build-ups or detailed specifications. Send the available information for review and a considered quotation.
Common questions.
What is sand and cement screed?
Sand and cement screed is a traditional cementitious mix laid as a smooth, level layer over a structural slab or insulation. It is used to bring floors to the required level and tolerance ready for the chosen finish, and is specified as bonded, unbonded or floating depending on the build-up.
What is the difference between bonded, unbonded and floating screed?
Bonded screed is laid directly onto a prepared substrate with a primer or slurry. Unbonded screed is laid over a separating membrane that decouples it from the slab. Floating screed sits over insulation or acoustic layers and is common in modern build-ups, including above underfloor heating. The right system depends on the substrate, the project build-up and what sits beneath the screed.
Can sand and cement screed be installed over underfloor heating?
Yes, where the underfloor-heating system is correctly installed, fixed and pressure-tested before the pour, and where the build-up, cover and commissioning sequence are suitable. Where required, underfloor-heating installation can be coordinated through a specialist partner ahead of the screed works.
How long does sand and cement screed take to dry?
Drying depends on depth, ambient conditions, ventilation and the finish that follows. Rules of thumb exist, but practical drying times should be discussed against the specific floor build-up and programme rather than treated as universal figures.
What preparation is needed before screeding?
Preparation typically considers the substrate condition, any required damp-proof membrane or separation layer, insulation, pipework where underfloor heating is included, access and logistics, and protection of the finished floor. These are reviewed as part of the overall installation package rather than as a standalone service.
Is sand and cement screed suitable for commercial projects?
Yes, sand and cement screed is widely used on commercial projects, including phased programmes, zoned pours and follow-on trades, where the floor build-up and programme support traditional drying.
How do I request a screeding quotation?
For straightforward traditional sand-and-cement work with a known area and depth, the instant estimate gives an indicative figure. For larger or more complex projects, send drawings, bills of quantities, floor build-ups or specifications through the commercial quotation route for review.
Tell us about the screed.
Indicative estimate for straightforward work, or send the specification, floor build-up or bill of quantities for a commercial quotation.