Guide To Floor Screed For Underfloor Heating
Underfloor heating has continued to grow in popularity in both the UK and Ireland in recent years. However, there is confusion regarding the most suitable floor screed for underfloor heating. It is important to remember that there are various types of underfloor heating available but it will usually take the form of electric heating cables or warm water pipework.
Whether the project is commercial or domestic, a new build or a renovation, cemfloor liquid floor screed is the best for underfloor heating. This guide to floor screed for underfloor heating will explain the process in greater detail, from the correct screed depth to drying times.
Applying Floor Screed For Underfloor Heating
One aspect that makes underfloor heating unique for screeding is that there will be a layer of insulation under the heating system which means the screed will be ‘floating’ when it is laid.
Both the liquid screed and the underfloor heating need to be considered together from the design stage to ensure the installation is successful. There are several factors to take into account when laying liquid floor screed for underfloor heating, including:
– The area that is going to be screeded needs to be even and flat, otherwise the insulation will not be level.
– The heat output of the heating system is taken into consideration, along with the size of the floor area.
– Movement or placement joints are accounted for when laying the screed to protect against cracking.
– Before laying the screed, use tripod depth gauges to ensure the floor is level.
Cemfloor screeds should always be used in accordance with the ‘Code of Practice For Pumpable Self-Smoothing Screeds’. We recommend that the application of the floor screed for underfloor heating is applied by a specialist screeding contractor who has completed the necessary Cemfloor training.
Screed Depth and Underfloor Heating
The high-quality of Cemfloor liquid screed means it is perfect for underfloor heating as it can be applied in very thin sections. Pouring between 40mm and 50mm of liquid floor screed for underfloor heating is optimal. The diameter of the heating pipe is included in this depth.
The final thickness will vary dependant on specific factors. For example, like whether the pipes were installed with a clipping or track system and the type of insulation used need to be accounted for.
Liquid screed acts as a heat store with underfloor heating and will help the heat to be released in a uniform manner. It is essential that all of the heating pipes are covered by the screed and also that there is enough depth to cover any services over the floor.
The Correct Drying Times For Liquid Screed & Underfloor Heating
It is extremely important that the floor screed for underfloor heating has sufficient drying time. Otherwise, the excessive moisture within the screed may cause damage to the subsequent floor covering.
The underfloor heating can be used to reduce the drying time but should only be used after a week. After the first 7 days, the commissioning process can begin with a water temperature of 25 Degrees Celsius.
After this initial stage, the liquid floor screed will be able to withstand higher temperatures, increase the flow temperature in increments of 5°C per day until and the water temperature reaches a maximum of 50 Degrees Celsius. This heat should be maintained until the screed is fully dried. Ventilation is also important during this process, so windows and doors should be kept open where possible.
Why Choose Cemfloor Liquid Floor Screed For Underfloor Heating
Cemfloor is a high-quality screed and is excellent with underfloor heating. There are numerous benefits to choosing Cemfloor over traditional screeds. For example:
– Using Cemfloor will reduce running costs of underfloor heating due to its exceptional thermal conductivity and reduced screed depth.
– Cemfloor dries quicker than other screeds.
– Cemfloor is self-compacting which eliminates voids around underfloor heating pipes.
– There is minimal drying shrinkage (<0.05%).
– More thermal insulation can be used in the floors.
Speak To An Expert Today
Cemfloor are industry leaders in the liquid screed market and are experienced with underfloor heating in both the domestic and commercial markets. Our specialist team are happy to help if you have any questions regarding liquid floor screed for underfloor heating. Click here to Contact Us today.