Liquid Screed and Underfloor Heating: Everything You Need To Know

Underfloor heating is a usual feature in many homes and commercial buildings these days because it is energy efficient. However, to get the most out of this heating solution, the layers need to be compatible with the system. Liquid screed and underfloor heating are a great combination as it provides the best performance for underfloor heating.

Liquid screed is a layer placed under your final flooring choice to create a smooth and even surface. As it is a good heat conductor and evenly covers the pipes it offers efficient heat transfer, keeping your feet and room at a comfortable temperature for a long time.

At 2 Brothers Concrete & Pumping, we have a problem-solving attitude and the equipment needed to get liquid screed to any area, no matter how tricky it might be. We have watched liquid screed develop and gain popularity in recent years, keeping a keen eye on the benefits and utilising it where relevant. This means we are experts in the field.

In this blog, we explain why liquid screed is compatible with underfloor heating, sharing everything you need to know about it.

Why is Liquid Screed Ideal for Underfloor Heating?

There are several reasons why liquid screed and underfloor heating are a good combination.

• Thermal conductivity: liquid screed is a great thermal conductor, meaning that it efficiently absorbs heat and transfers it through to the layer above. This is because it can fully encase heating pipes which also leads to even heat distribution.
• Energy efficiency: liquid screed retains heat from the systems pipes, meaning that the floor stays warmer for longer, reducing the time and temperature the underfloor heating needs to be on.
• Faster installation: liquid screed can be pumped into place using a line or boom pump and is often self-levelling meaning it is easy and quick to install.
• Smoother finish: liquid screed provides a flatter and smoother finish which is ideal for laying flooring such as wood or tiles.  

Installation Process

As said above, liquid screed is fast to install, this is mainly because it can be pumped into place.

Depending on the project location and obstacles in the way, either a line or boom pump will be used. Both work the same and the process will be the same; the difference will be that a boom pump has a robotic arm that extends over an object and a line pump sits on the floor and goes through or around an object.

A typical installation process for liquid screed is:

• Preparation: A subfloor will be laid and the underfloor heating pipes are fitted into position - this step should be done before the liquid screed company arrives on site.
• Equipment set up - the operators of the pump will ensure the pump is set up correctly and safely.
• Pumping the screed - the operators will pump the screed into the project site. The liquid screed will flow across the surface, moulding around the pipes.
• Levelling - while the screed will self-level, operators will run over it to ensure the surface is completely level and smooth.
• Drying - the liquid screed will be left to dry. While it will take a full 21 days to completely cure, it can take foot traffic 24 to 48 hours after pouring, meaning you can get on with your work.  

Best Practices for Integrating Underfloor Heating with Liquid Screed

For the best results when combining liquid screed and underfloor heating, operators implement a few best practices.

• Correct depth - An optimal depth of around 50-70 mm of liquid screed should be poured to ensure efficient heat transfer.
• Curing process - following the curing process rules is essential to making sure the screed sets properly and without issues such as cracking. While work can start around the floor after 24 or 48 hours, it is important you don't switch the underfloor heating in too early as this can encourage uneven drying or a weak surface with cracks.
• Final flooring - liquid screed can be a sub-base to most flooring options but some will work better with underfloor heating than others, enhancing the conductivity properties of the screed.

Liquid Screed and Underfloor Heating Guidance From Experts

Liquid screed and underfloor heating are highly compatible because the screed efficiently conducts the heat from pipes to the floor surface. As the liquid screed covers the pipes the heat is distributed evenly, and the screed retains heat, meaning the system can run for less time and at a lower temperature.

Screed is often pumped into place, making the process easy and quick.

At 2 Brothers Concrete & Pumping, we provide quality liquid screed and pumping, offering an all-in-one service.

Over our years in the industry, we have worked on many projects, often working with other contractors on residential, commercial projects and housing developments.

We work with a cement-base screed which offers higher compressive strength and durability compared to latex-based screed, meaning it is suitable for high traffic and heavy load-bearing areas.

Excellent customer service is at the heart of what we do, so you can be confident that you will get a friendly and professional operator with up-to-date knowledge who will work with you to create a smooth process that fits your project time frame and site. A laugh and a smile always go a long way on sites, so be ready for a good chuckle.

Don't hesitate to get in touch with our team to chat about liquid screed and underfloor heating. Call us on 01489 552737 or complete our online contact form, and we will get in touch.