WHAT SCREED IS RIGHT FOR YOU AND YOUR UNDERFLOOR HEATING?

When it comes to creating a comfortable and energy-efficient living space, underfloor heating is an increasingly popular choice. It provides uniform warmth, reduces energy consumption, and eliminates the need for radiators, making your interior both cosy and aesthetically pleasing. However, the success of your underfloor heating system largely depends on the type of screed you choose. At Clockwork, we are specialists in insulation, underfloor heating and liquid screeding, and we understand the importance of selecting the right screed for your project. Here, we'll examine the various screed options and assist you in making an informed choice to maximise the efficiency of your underfloor heating system.

Understanding Screeds

Screeds are essentially the thin top layer of a flooring system that provides a level and smooth surface for your final floor covering, whether it's tiles, hardwood, or any other material. They also play a crucial role in the performance of underfloor heating systems by efficiently conducting and distributing heat. There are three types of screeds commonly used in underfloor heating installations: traditional sand and cement screed, anhydrite screeds and cement-based liquid screeds.

1. Traditional Sand and Cement Screed

This type of screed is a tried-and-true option that has been used for many years. It consists of a mixture of sand, cement, and water and is applied as a semi-dry mortar. Traditional screed is known for its strength and durability, making it suitable for high-traffic areas. It can also accommodate various floor finishes. However, it has longer installation and drying times compared to other options, which can delay your project's completion. This type of screed will not encapsulate UFH pipework, leaving air voids which can reduce the efficiency of your underfloor heating system.

2. Anhydrite Screed

Anhydrite screed is a calcium sulphate-based screed that is well established and widely used in underfloor heating installations. It offers good thermal conductivity and, like any liquid screed, can be poured directly over underfloor heating systems. Anhydrite screed has a faster drying time compared to traditional sand and cement screed but does have some drawbacks. These types of screed creates a ‘laitance’ on the surface which would require sanding prior to any floor finish being installed. Added to this, gypsum based screeds can’t be used in any areas where contact with water is possible, so they are not recommended for kitchens or bathrooms.

3. Cement based Liquid Screed

Cement based liquid screeds is the best of both worlds. Boasting the robustness of traditional sand and cement screeds as well as the flowing, liquid properties of anhydrite screeds, these solutions are tailor made for UFH sytems.in . It consists of a blend of cement, sand, water and a specialised binder. The screed is poured directly onto the underfloor heating pipes or insulation to pre-set levels and then dappled to create a smooth surface. One of its significant advantages is its rapid drying time, which allows for quicker project completion. It also provides excellent thermal conductivity, enhancing the efficiency of your underfloor heating system.

Choosing the Right Screed for Your Underfloor Heating

The choice of screed for your underfloor heating system should be based on several factors, including your project's requirements, budget, and time constraints. At Clockwork, we take a holistic approach to underfloor heating installations by considering your unique needs and providing comprehensive solutions.

Our process begins with an assessment of your space and heating requirements. We offer a monolithic insulation solution, Aeromix. This is a high-performance, poured insulation material which will remove any unevenness in the sub-floor whilst reducing the energy lost from thermal bridging which is typically associated with conventional PIR board. This layer of insulation helps to enhance the efficiency of your underfloor heating system. Proper insulation ensures that heat is directed upwards, minimising heat loss into the subfloor.

Once the insulation is in place, we use CAD (Computer-Aided Design) systems to design the most efficient underfloor heating system for your space. This ensures even heat distribution and optimal comfort throughout your building.

Finally, we supply and install high-performance cementitious liquid floor screeds designed for use with underfloor heating. They are easy to apply, and our team can cover 1000m2 a day, which helps reduce timing and costs.

We can install up to 100m2 without joints if underfloor heating is fitted and 150m2 if not. Unlike calcium sulphate (or anhydrite) screeds, cementitious options can be used in any area of a project (including outdoor and areas that will be exposed to wet conditions) and fast-drying options allow footfall within 24 to 48 hours. We have the expertise to install it to the highest standards.

Selecting the right screed for your underfloor heating system is essential for achieving comfort and energy efficiency in your home. At Clockwork, we not only specialise in underfloor heating and screeding but also provide insulation solutions and use CAD technology to design bespoke underfloor heating systems. With our expertise and commitment to excellence, we can help you create a warm and inviting space that meets your unique needs and preferences.

To learn more about our services and how we can transform your property with underfloor heating and screeding, visit our website at https://www.clockworkscreed.co.uk/. Our team of experts is ready to assist you in making the right choices for your project, from insulation, and underfloor heating to screed!

Clockwork Screed provides Insulation and liquid screed solutions whilst our sister company Clockwork UFH are underfloor heating specialists.