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Sand & Cement vs Liquid Screed. Which Is Better And Why.

Sand and Cement Screed vs. Liquid Floor Screed: Which is Better and Why?

When it comes to selecting the right type of floor screed for your project, whether it’s a residential or commercial build, you’ll often find yourself choosing between Sand and Cement Screed (also known as Anhydrite Screed) and Liquid Floor Screed (also known as Gypsum Screed or Flow Screed). Each has its own unique properties, advantages, and disadvantages, which can make the choice a bit daunting. Here, we break down the differences to help you decide the best option for your project.

What Is the Difference?

The main difference between these two screeds lies in their composition and application methods:

  • Sand and Cement Screed: Made by mixing sand with dry calcium sulfate, it has a more consistent, semi-dry texture. It requires skilled labor to apply due to its thicker consistency and is laid manually.

  • Liquid Floor Screed: A mixture of calcium sulfate with water, it has a liquid format that makes it easy to pour and spread. It's often delivered to the site ready-mixed, speeding up the installation process.

Sand and Cement Screed: The Traditional Choice

Which Screed is correct for my job.

Pros:

  • Versatility: Sand and cement screeds can be used for fully bonded, partially bonded, and unbonded screeds, offering flexibility in various applications.

  • Suitability for Underfloor Heating: This screed can be laid into falls, making it an excellent choice for underfloor heating systems. It has good thermal conductivity, allowing heat to disperse evenly.

  • Durability: When laid correctly, this traditional screed forms a tough, solid surface that can withstand high traffic, making it ideal for both residential and commercial spaces.

  • Fast Drying: It generally dries faster than liquid screed, though suitable retardants can be added for projects that require longer working times.

Cons:

  • Labor Intensive: Sand and cement screed is a more manual, labor-intensive process requiring highly skilled workers, which can increase costs.

  • Risk of Cracking: If not mixed or applied correctly, this screed is susceptible to cracks, which may compromise the floor’s finish and integrity.

  • Heavier: Due to its density, it adds more weight to the building's structure, which may not be ideal for certain projects.

Liquid Floor Screed: The Modern Alternative

Pros:

  • Ease of Application: Liquid screed is delivered pre-mixed, and its fluid consistency allows for quick and easy application. This not only speeds up the installation process but also reduces the need for labor.

  • Smoother Finish: Its self-leveling nature results in a smooth, level surface, ideal for any type of building and perfect for laying tiles, carpets, or other floor finishes.

  • Better Heat Transfer: It has excellent thermal conductivity, which is superior to traditional sand and cement screeds. This makes it an ideal choice for underfloor heating systems, as it transfers heat more efficiently.

  • Low Risk of Shrinking or Cracking: The liquid nature of this screed reduces the risk of shrinkage and cracking during the drying process, ensuring a long-lasting finish.

Cons:

  • Cost: Liquid floor screed can be more expensive than sand and cement screeds, both in terms of material and installation costs.

  • Drying Time: While liquid screed dries quickly on the surface, it requires more time to reach its full strength, especially in areas with high moisture.

  • Special Requirements: It may require specific preparation, such as sealing joints and ensuring a moisture-free substrate before application.

Which Is Better for Your Project?

  • For Underfloor Heating: Liquid screed is generally the better choice due to its superior heat transfer properties and self-leveling capabilities.

  • For Budget-Conscious Projects: Sand and cement screed might be more suitable, particularly for those looking for a cost-effective solution.

  • For Speed: Liquid screed offers faster installation and a smoother finish, reducing labor time.

  • For Durability: Sand and cement screed is traditionally preferred for heavy-use areas due to its solid and durable surface.

Ultimately, the best screed for your project depends on factors like the type of building, budget, heating system, and desired finish. If you need more tailored advice or help deciding which screed is right for you, feel free to contact us for expert guidance.

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