A key element of underfloor heating is floor screed for underfloor heating screed, which allows the system to spread heat evenly across the flooring. However, if the screed isn’t mixed or applied correctly it can lead to issues such as cracks and poor heat distribution.

In this article, we look at what makes a good floor screed for underfloor heating and how to avoid common mistakes that can lead to problems during installation.

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Traditional dry screeds are typically used in smaller areas and are made up of cement and sand in a 1:3-5 ratio, along with water and fibre additives to prevent cracking. Enhanced, fast-drying screeds that have been added with additives to speed up drying time can also be used for underfloor heating, and are the preferred option for most installers.

Liquid screeds, on the other hand, are poured and designed to self-level, so are better suited to larger projects. They are typically delivered in a mixing lorry and pumped onto the area in a controlled way using a pumping pipe, and can be ready for laying in as little as seven days – although you need to calculate this more accurately based on your specific mix and depth of screed.

A crucial aspect of any screed, but particularly those for underfloor heating, is ensuring there is adequate space for movement around the pipes. This is accounted for by including movement joints throughout the room and by placing cellular foam at perimeters or where service or column penetrations will pass through the screed.