The construction industry is booming rapidly. As the way of building is changing, individuals’ dependency is also enhancing. This persistent development in the construction industry builds people’s curiosity towards the manufacturing of new construction materials. The one material that these days impresses people with its excellence is concrete screed mix. It has become the top choice for flooring surfaces, applied over the concrete slab. If you are working on a building project, having the right amount and kind of materials is important to avoid any problems that can cause delays in completing the work. Then, choose high-quality materials.
This post will explore the numerous advantages of concrete screed mix in construction and why it is a preferred choice for builders and contractors. So, be on it!
What is Concrete Screed Mix?
A concrete screed mix is a blend of cement, sand, and water, utilised to build a smooth, level surface on floors before applying the final finish. It frequently includes additives such as fibres or plasticisers to increase strength and workability. The mixture is poured over the base floor, then spread and levelled using a screed tool. This creates a durable and even layer, ideal for tiles, carpets, or other flooring materials. Properly mixed and applied screed ensures a strong foundation and extends the lifespan of the floor covering.
Concrete Screed Specifications
- Behave as a substrate that is vital for installing the specified flooring
- Will show durability under numerous service conditions
- It will be laid on schedule
The service situations specified may be outside or inside for either commercial, civil, or industrial flooring purposes etc. The technique of eliminating extra wet concrete from a slab’s top surface in order to smooth and grade it properly is called as screeding.
Features of the Concrete Screed Mix
Check the following features of the concrete screed mix:
- Sufficient Thickness: The thickness of the screed relies on the kind of screed planned to be placed, the thickness of the floor and its type, and the intensity of traffic that is assumed to fall over the floor.
- Mechanical Resistance: A particular level of mechanical resistance must be achieved by the screed choice to support both the ultimate load and the load from the kind of floor. In general, it is advised that the screed used for residential flooring have a minimum strength of 20MPa.
- Compactness: The entire surface and thickness of the concrete screed need to be compact and homogeneous. If the screed shows layers or areas that have poor consistency, it is an indication of poor mechanical properties. This defect will lead to the breakage or the detachment of the flooring.
- Dry: The level of residual humidity must be checked on the screed surface. This value needs to be consistent over the whole thickness of the screed and meet the maximum level required for that kind of floor covering. This is especially carried out during the installation of flooring that is sensitive to humidity.
- Smoothness: The suitability of the grade of finish of the surface and the level of roughness mainly depends on the type of flooring that is chosen to be installed. It is advisable to use a skimming product prepared especially for this purpose for the reflective finishing.
What are the Advantages of the Concrete Screed Mix?
Concrete screed mix is a popular option for flooring and building projects since it has several benefits:
Durability and Strength
Concrete screed mix is famous for its high levels of strength and durability. When properly mixed and applied, it forms a solid, stable base that can withstand heavy loads and resist wear and tear over time. This makes it the perfect choice for residential, industrial and commercial flooring applications.
Quick Drying and Setting
Modern concrete screed mixes often come with the adulteration of additives that speed up the drying and setting process. This can significantly overcome the overall project timeline, permitting other construction activities to proceed more quickly.
Versatility
These screed materials can be utilised in a wide range of settings, from internal floors to external surfaces. These are adapted to different thicknesses and strengths, depending on the particular requirements of the building projects. Also, it is used with several types of reinforcement if needed.
Improved Thermal Efficiency
Screed has several kinds like anhydrite screeds, which offer better thermal conductivity than conventional concrete materials. This makes them ideal for use with underfloor heating systems, increasing the energy efficiency of construction projects.
Smooth and Level Surface
A well-prepared concrete screed confers a smooth and level surface. This plays an indispensable role in the subsequent application of floor coverings such as carpets, tiles, or vinyl. This smoothness makes sure better adhesion and a more aesthetically pleasing finish.
Eco-Friendly Options
Numerous screed kinds are made from recycled materials or low-energy production methods, contributing to sustainable building practices. These environmentally friendly screed properties promote sustainable building choices.
Cost-Effectiveness
Concrete screed is no less than a boon for people who are seeking cost-effective building materials. It is reasonable as compared to other kinds of flooring bases. Its long lifespan and low maintenance requirements further stimulate its economic merits over time.
Moisture Resistance
When concrete screed is properly mixed and cured, it becomes highly resistant to moisture and aids in preventing dampness and mould growth. This is particularly significant in areas like bathrooms, kitchens, basements etc.
Customizability
Additives can be incorporated into the screed mix to improve specific properties such as flexibility, shrinkage control, or rapid drying. This makes it possible to tailor the mix to suit particular project needs.
Sound Insulation
Concrete screed can also contribute to sound insulation, reducing noise transmission between floors. This is particularly beneficial in multi-story buildings or residential apartments.
Read this article: Why Find A Concrete Pump With Boom
The Bottom Line
The latest innovations in the construction industry give birth to several new materials. One of them is the Concrete screed mix. This material has become the top choice for builders and contractors in no time. Thus, if you are also planning to build a new house or a building and looking for reasonable construction material for your floor surface, always go with the screed mix. Overall, screed mix material is an efficient, reliable, and sustainable material for modern construction projects. Hope all the above-mentioned benefits will be helpful for you.
