How Long Does Screed Take To Dry(Setting and Drying Times)?

It’s important to note that these are only guidelines and actual drying times can be influenced by various factors such as ambient temperature, humidity, and ventilation.

Always make sure to allow sufficient drying time before applying any final floor finishes to prevent trapping moisture, which could lead to future problems. Consulting with a screed professional will provide a more accurate estimate based on your specific circumstances.

Traditional screed (Premixed 1:4)

As a rule of thumb is sand and cement screed dries at a rate of 1mm per day for the first 40mm, and then 2 days per mm thickness beyond that. This means that a screed with a depth of 40mm should theoretically take about 40 days to dry. Any additional thickness will add significantly to the drying time (e.g., a 50mm thick screed would take approximately 60 days).

Fast – set screed (1:5)

Fast-drying screed, which often has a 1:5 ratio, is specifically designed to expedite the drying process, making it an optimal choice for projects with tight deadlines. This type of screed typically achieves walk-on hardness within 24 to 48 hours, and under ideal conditions, it can be ready for final floor coverings in as little as 5-7 days.

K-screed (1:4)

As a general rule this product can take light traffic within 24hrs and is fully cured after 7 days. There are a number of variants that Flowcrete (the manufacturer) have produced of this particular product, all of them vary . Again there are a number of factors to take into consideration, the thickness of the screed and the air around the screed affect drying considerably.,

Mapei Topcem (1:6) Including Tarmac Cem5

Generally, these types of cementitious products can set within a few hours, allowing light foot traffic, but full curing can take longer.

As per standard practices, it’s often recommended to allow at least 24 to 48 hours for the initial drying and setting process before subjecting the surface to heavier loads or full use. It might take several days for the material to achieve its full strength,

Flowing screeds – Gyvlon / Supaflo etc

Flowing screeds like Gyvlon and Supaflo are typically used in the construction of underfloor heating systems, and are made with a special mix of sand, cement and other aggregates. As the name implies, these screeds are designed to be applied as a liquid and then flow into the desired areas.

Depending on the type of product used, they may require quicker curing times than cementitious items. Generally speaking, it’s a standard practice to wait between 24 – 48 hours before applying heavy loads or putting them in full use. Additionally, it may take several days before the material reaches its full strength.

If used with underfloor heating, these systems can be force-dried after approximately 72 hours. This offers quick setting and drying times compared to allowing the screed to dry naturally.

Granolithic screeds

Granolithic screeds are made with a combination of Portland cement, silica sand, and marble or quartz chips. This specialized mix is designed to be applied as a liquid and then quickly dry into the desired shape. As it dries, granolithic screeds form an extremely strong layer that is highly durable and resistant to wear and tear.

They also have excellent thermal properties which make them ideal for use in underfloor heating systems. The setting time for this type of screed is usually between 12 to 48 hours. These systems dry at an approximate rate of 2mm per day.

Tarmac Truscreed (1:4)

This screed can receive light traffic after 48 hours and full site traffic after 5 days. With regards to drying times this screed can take roughly 5 to 7 days for every 25 mm of thickness. If the screed is notably thick or if the concrete base retains excessive moisture, the screed will take longer.

Factors Affecting Screed Drying Time

Several factors can influence how long floor screed takes to dry, including:

1. Thickness of Application: Thicker screeds take longer to dry compared to thinner applications due to the increased mass of material.
2. Type of Screed: Various types of screeds such as traditional sand and cement screeds, fast-drying screeds, or proprietary mixes can have different drying characteristics.
3. Environmental Conditions: Temperature, air humidity, and airflow are crucial. Warmer, drier conditions generally expedite drying, while cold or humid environments can slow the process.
4. Moisture Content of the Substrate: The moisture content of the base on which the screed is applied affects drying time. Excessive moisture in the substrate can prolong the drying process.
5. Admixtures and Additives: Some screeds contain additives or admixtures that can affect the drying time, accelerating or slowing it down based on their properties.
6. Curing Time: Refers to the time given for the screed to cure before the drying process begins can also impact overall drying time.
7. Ventilation and Air Circulation: Good airflow aids in moisture evaporation and speeds up the drying process. Removing moisture from the air by opening windows and doors or installing dehumidifiers can have a dramatic effect when time is of the essence.
8. Surface Finish: Certain floor finishes or coverings may be more sensitive to moisture and may require specific moisture content levels in the screed before application.

Understanding these factors and their influence can help estimate and manage the drying time of screeds for different applications, following manufacturer guidelines and considering these elements when planning and executing screeding projects is crucial.

The Optimum Drying Conditions For Screed

To achieve an optimal drying time for screed, it is important to understand the ideal conditions for moisture evaporation. These conditions include temperature, humidity, and air circulation.

Temperature plays a key role in the drying process of screed. As a general rule, higher temperatures help to speed up the evaporation of moisture from the screed. However, extreme heat can cause cracking or shrinkage in the screed, so it’s important to maintain a moderate temperature range of around 18-20°C (64-68°F).

Humidity also plays a significant role in drying time. The lower the humidity level, the faster moisture can evaporate from the screed. However, excessively dry air can lead to cracking and shrinkage as well.

Problems Associated with Floor Screeds

Air circulation is another critical factor that can affect the drying time of floor screeds. Adequate ventilation ensures that moist air is replaced by dry air, facilitating faster evaporation of moisture. Without proper air circulation, moisture remains trapped within the screed, potentially leading to problems such as mould growth and weakened structural integrity over time.

Therefore, ensuring a balanced environment with optimal temperature, low humidity, and good air circulation is crucial for effective drying and longevity of floor screeds.

Cracking

Cracking is a common problem in floor screeds that arises due to various factors, including rapid drying, inadequate mixing, and improper application techniques. When the screed dries too quickly, it can lead to the formation of cracks due to the uneven contraction of the material. If the mix is not correctly proportioned or poorly mixed, it can result in weak spots that are prone to cracking under pressure.

Furthermore, applying screed too thinly or thickly can also contribute to cracking as it affects the way the material settles and dries. To mitigate these issues, it’s essential to follow best practices for screed mixing, laying, and curing screed carefully to ensure a durable and crack-free finish.

Curling

Curling is another common issue encountered with floor screeds, primarily caused by the differential drying rates across the screed’s surface. This discrepancy in drying can occur due to variations in environmental conditions, such as humidity and temperature, or because of inconsistent screed thickness.

The edges or corners of the screed may begin to lift or curl upwards, leading to an uneven surface that can compromise the integrity of the flooring structure. To prevent curling, it’s crucial to maintain consistent screed thickness and ensure a controlled environment that minimizes rapid changes in moisture levels and temperatures during the curing process.

Additionally, employing reinforcement methods and using quality materials can help reduce the likelihood of curling, thus achieving a level and stable floor screed.

Shrinkage

Shrinkage is another common issue that can affect the quality of a floor screed, often resulting from the rapid drying process. As the screed loses moisture, it contracts, leading to potential cracking and weakening of the overall structure. To mitigate shrinkage, it’s important to allow for a gradual drying process, maintaining optimal moisture levels throughout.

This can be achieved through controlled curing methods such as covering the screed with polythene sheets to slow evaporation rates or using a liquid curing agent that locks in moisture. Adequate preparation and choosing the right mix of materials also play critical roles in minimizing shrinkage and ensuring the longevity and durability of the flooring.

Treating a Screed Floor Before Laying Flooring

Treating a screed floor correctly before laying the final flooring is essential to ensure a smooth, durable surface. The first step in this process is to ensure that the screed is fully cured and dry, adhering to the manufacturer’s recommended drying times, which can vary depending on thickness and environmental conditions.

A moisture test should be conducted to confirm that the screed has reached an acceptable level of dryness. Excessive moisture in the screed can lead to issues such as mould growth or flooring adhesion problems later.

Once the screed has dried thoroughly, it should be checked for any signs of cracking or unevenness. Minor imperfections can be corrected using a suitable floor levelling compound, ensuring a perfectly flat surface for the final flooring.

For enhanced adhesion of certain types of flooring, such as tiles or wood, applying a primer specifically designed for use with screed floors can provide an optimal base. Before laying the final flooring material, it’s important to consider any additional treatments that may be required based on the type of flooring being used.

For example, underfloor heating systems require careful integration with the screed to avoid damaging the system and ensuring efficient heat distribution additionally, if opting for moisture-sensitive flooring materials like wood, an appropriate moisture barrier might need to be incorporated.

By taking these preparatory steps seriously and addressing each aspect meticulously, you not only protect your investment but also lay down a foundation that stands the test of time. Properly treated screed floors offer superior support and stability for any top-layer flooring, making them an indispensable part of high-quality construction and renovation projects.

6 Reasons You Should Speed up the Screed Drying Process

The longer it takes for the screed to dry completely, the longer you must wait before installing your final flooring. This can delay your project timeline and result in additional costs. To avoid these issues, here are six reasons why you should speed up the screed drying process:

1. Avoid damage to heating systems: When installing underfloor heating systems, it is important to ensure that the screed has dried completely before turning it on. If the screed is not fully dry, it can lead to cracking and damage to the heating pipes or wires.

2. Prevent mould growth: A longer drying time means moisture can remain trapped in the screed, creating a prime environment for mould growth. This not only affects the quality of your flooring but also poses health risks for anyone living or working in the building.

3. Minimize project delays: As mentioned earlier, a longer drying time can delay your project timeline and result in additional costs. By speeding up the drying process, you can stay on track with your construction schedule and avoid unnecessary delays.

4. Ensure better adhesion: Properly dried screed provides a solid and stable base for your flooring installation. This ensures better adhesion and prevents any movement or shifting of the floor later.

5. Avoid surface damage: If the screed is not fully dry, it can shrink and crack, resulting in an uneven surface for your flooring. This can be unsightly and cause problems with walking or placing furniture on the floor.

6. Save energy costs: By using a rapid drying screed, you can turn on your heating system sooner, saving you money on energy costs. Traditional sand cement screeds require longer drying times before turning on the heating, which can result in higher energy bills during that period.