FAQ

Got questions about self levelling cement, floor finishes or anything else we do? Check out our FAQ section and we are always available by phone or email about specific quesitons to your project.

FAQ

What is screed?

Screed is a kind of concrete that is poured over an existing concrete slab. Dried screed creates a smooth and level surface that can another type of flooring installed on top of it (tile, carpet, etc.) Another floor doesn’t have to be installed on top of it. Many people choose to have untreated screed or polished concrete for its unique and trendy appearance.

What is screed made from?

Screed is made from cement and sand. Depending on the characteristics your project requires, the aggregate the is mixed in can be customized. Fine, medium and heavy screeds are most common. Ontario Self Leveling Concrete can provide customized admixtures of screed depending on your needs.

What is screed used for?

Screed’s main purpose is to level out a concrete subfloor. When dried it creates a smooth and level surface that is great for laying a finishing floor (carpet, tile, etc.). Screed is required when in floor radiant heating is installed (it covers the and protects the heating elements).

Why is screed important?

Laying screed is important because it provides a smooth and even surface to a sub-floor that was designed for durability and not finished characteristics (being smooth and level). In general a floor should not be off by more than 5mm over 3m or a slope of 2%.

Screed Drying Time

The drying time will change depending on the thickness of your screed. Generally foot traffic can resume in 24-48 hours, and closer to 5 days normal use and a month to achieve maximum durability. Additives can be put in the mixture to speed up drying time. Ontario Self Leveling Concrete can customize you screed for the projects requirements.

When can I install a floor on screed?

The concrete will shrink as it dries so it is highly recommended that the screed is fully cured before putting a floor on top of it. Is screed suitable for residential or industrial applications? Screed is very adaptable and can be used in residential, commercial and industrial environments. If the floor is going to be subject to extreme loads then the screed can be specialized to withstand the additional weight

How is screed levelled?

Using a float
A float is a tool that manually scrapes the top layer which makes the desired level. Four level points are measured, and then the float is dragged over the surface creating a level surface.

Self Levelling
Self Levelling screed is much more viscous (flowing/watery). The screed is poured on the subfloor and then gravity does the levelling for us.

Any Climate Factors to Consider?

Screed should usually be installed in dry conditions that are above 3 degrees celsius.

Are all screeds self-levelling?

No. Traditionally a float was used to level but modern screed products are completely self-levelling which is perfect for large areas.

Is screed required for underfloor heating?

Screed is the ideal solution for in floor heating. The screed protects the heating elements and provides great insulation. For the consumer this means more ambient heat, efficiency and meaning longer lasting more economical solution.

Do all concrete floors need screed?

Without screed it is incredibly difficult to level the concrete slab enough to have a nice finished floor on top.

Can screed be pumped?

Using a special pump, screed can be pumped to the installation site. Screed has many characteristics that can be catered to the needs of the job. Speak to one of our specialists in order to find the right product for your needs. Ontario Self Leveling Concrete can supply technologically advanced screed that be pumped in residential and commercial products.

Depending on the needs of your project it be pumped and formed vertically as well.

Applications

Need Concrete Floor Leveling? contact us today

We are always happy to help find the right product for your self leveling concrete in Ottawa.

Call Us Contact Now

FAQ