Making screeds

Making Screeds for Strong, Level Floors

A well made screed is the foundation of a durable floor. It creates a smooth, level surface, protects underfloor services, and helps your chosen finish perform as it should. Whether you are renovating a single room or preparing a larger site, we deliver screeds that are flat, stable, and ready for the next stage of your project.

We work with homeowners, landlords, and commercial clients to produce screeds that match the space, the load requirements, and the final floor type. From careful preparation through to accurate levels and controlled drying, our focus is long term performance, not quick fixes.

What Our Screed Service Includes

Every job starts with a site assessment to confirm the condition of the base, moisture risks, and required build up. We then specify the right screed system and thickness to meet your needs, including compatibility with tiles, vinyl, laminate, timber, or carpet. If your project also includes floor covering services, we make sure the screed is suitable for adhesives, underlays, and the finish you plan to install.

• Subfloor checks and preparation including cleaning, crack repairs, and removal of loose material
• Damp control where needed, with membranes and moisture management to protect the final finish
• Edge insulation and movement joints to reduce cracking and allow expansion
• Accurate levelling using laser levels and clear datum points
• Finishing and curing guidance with realistic drying times and next step advice

We can install bonded, unbonded, or floating screeds depending on the substrate and performance requirements. Where underfloor heating is present, we apply the correct insulation and separation layers and follow best practice to reduce the risk of shrinkage and thermal cracking.

Screed Types We Install

Traditional sand and cement screeds

Sand and cement screeds are a trusted option for many residential and commercial spaces. They are ideal where robust build up is required and can be laid to falls in wet areas when properly planned. We control mix ratios and compaction to achieve strength and a consistent surface.

Self levelling and smoothing screeds

Self levelling screeds are designed to achieve a very flat finish and are often chosen before vinyl, LVT, or other thin floor finishes. They help reduce installation issues like lipping, rocking, or visible imperfections. If your project includes floor leveling services, we coordinate the smoothing layer and preparation so the final floor sits correctly.

Fast drying screed options

When timelines are tight, fast drying systems can reduce waiting time before floor installation. We will confirm expected curing and drying performance based on thickness, site temperature, and ventilation, so you can schedule follow on trades with confidence.

Our Process, From First Visit to Finished Surface

1. Survey and specification to confirm levels, substrate condition, moisture, and intended floor finish
2. Preparation including primers, membranes, insulation, and joint planning
3. Setting levels with clear reference points to achieve consistent thickness and flatness
4. Mixing and placement using the appropriate method for the screed type and site access
5. Finishing to the required tolerance, with attention to edges, thresholds, and service penetrations
6. Curing and aftercare including protection from early drying, drafts, and heavy traffic

We also advise on moisture testing and readiness for the next stage. This is especially important before installing sensitive finishes like timber or vinyl, where moisture can cause failure if rushed.

Where Screeds Are Most Commonly Used

• Kitchens, hallways, and living areas requiring a level base for new flooring
• Bathrooms and utility rooms where falls and water resistance planning are important
• Commercial units needing a hard wearing, uniform substrate for heavy use
• Extensions and refurbishments where old substrates are uneven or mixed
• Underfloor heating projects that need efficient heat transfer and stable coverage

Clients often pair screeding with floor covering work, as a properly prepared base reduces callbacks and improves the look and lifespan of the finished floor.

Why Quality Screeding Matters

Poor screeding can lead to cracked tiles, creaking floors, gaps at skirting lines, and uneven wear. By using the correct build up, reinforcement where needed, and controlled curing, we help prevent common issues such as curling, debonding, and surface dusting. Our team prioritises clean workmanship, accurate levels, and clear communication, so you know what to expect at each stage.

If you are planning a new floor and want a base you can rely on, contact us to arrange a site visit and a detailed quote that matches your timeline and finish requirements.