Bonded screed is attached directly to a prepared base. Unbonded screed is separated by a membrane, while floating screed is laid over insulation or acoustic layers, so each construction has different thickness and reinforcement requirements.
Floor Screed Mixes for Level Bases and Final Coverings
Floor screed forms a level, durable base over a prepared slab or insulation before the final floor covering. MacBlair stocks products for cementitious screed work, with the correct choice depending on whether the construction is bonded, unbonded or floating. Thickness, reinforcement and drying requirements must follow the project specification.
Prepare the base and perimeter details before mixing. Bonded screeds need a sound, keyed substrate and compatible bonding method; floating systems rely on the insulation, membrane and edge details below. Bring together the required floor and building materials before placement begins.
Cure fresh screed against rapid moisture loss and do not judge readiness by surface colour alone. Floor insulation products and timber and sheet materials require compatible floor build-ups, movement provision and load support.
Screed FAQ's
Thickness depends on screed type, substrate, loads and whether it is bonded, unbonded or floating. Use the product data and project specification, because a general minimum cannot be applied safely to every floor.
Drying is affected by thickness, formulation, temperature, humidity and ventilation. Test moisture using the method required by the floor-covering manufacturer rather than relying only on elapsed days.
Yes, when the full system is designed for it and pipes or cables have the required cover. Follow the heating supplier’s commissioning programme and do not switch the system on early to force drying.
Some floating, heated or highly loaded screeds require fibres, mesh or another reinforcement system. The need and position should come from the screed specification, not an assumption based only on room size.