HomeScreed Jargon Buster

September 2014

Screeding terminology can be more confusing than the screeding process itself. Cut through the jargon with our Screeding jargon buster.

Understanding floor screeding and processes associated is almost impossible without knowing specific terms. Below are the most common screeding terms you’ll come across when reading about screeding.

Admixture
Admixture defines certain materials usually added during the mixing process to enhance the properties of screeds.

Datum level
The total height of the floor is typically measured against a fixed reference point or level, known as datum level.

Curing
Having the role to mitigate the risk of cracking due to sudden shrinkage, curing defines a very simple process, in which freshly laid screeds are covered with special coating, such as polythene sheets, to reduce moisture evaporation and keep screed temperature within the “right” range.

Curing time
Curing time defines the time between pouring the screed mixture and the time when the screed is completely “set”. During all this time, polythene sheets must be kept on the entire screeded area. Depending on mixture proportions and weather conditions, curing times can take up to 7 days.

Drying time
In screeding, drying time represents the time required for water to evaporate so that the screed will no longer be adversely affected by ambient conditions. While traditional screed may take up to 110 days to dry, modified screeds can take on final floor coverings after 3 days.

Final strength
Final strength defines the maximum strength a screeded surface must reach in order to support a new floor and traffic associated. Most screeds reach the final strength after 28 days.

General site traffic
Referring to daily activities that must take place in newly screeded areas, general site traffic can commence between 5 and 7 days after the screed has been installed. Extra care should be taken to avoid the direct contact with newly screeded surfaces, especially when using heavy equipment.

Screed protection
Including certain techniques, such as the installation of screed protectors, screed protection is meant to preserve screeded areas from excessive wear due to rough use. According to the British Standards, all screeded areas should be protected from direct traffic until the final floor is applied.

Light-foot traffic and walk-on time
Light-foot traffic implies special care when moving around screeded areas. Walk-on time defines the time frame, generally ranging between 24 and 48 hours, after which light-foot traffic can proceed.

Are you looking for additional screeding terminology? If so, we invite you to browse ScreedScientist’s comprehensive collection of screeding terms or contact the professional screeders working at HomeScreed.