FAQ = What screeding compound should be used ?

Q = I have a new concrete Subfloor, what sort of screeding / smoothing compound should the installer / Builder be using?

A = There are a lot of different screeding / smoothing compounds on the market. Choosing the correct one is essential for your floorcovering. I.e if your builder was to use a Latex smoothing compound this will leave you the only option to have a 'Floating Floorcovering' unless the compound is removed and the correct one used.

Here is a list of the most common compounds=

LATEX = (The + Points)Latex based compounds can be used over a wide range of subfloors along with being used over Damp floors.
LATEX = (The - Points) Latex compounds are normally of very low sheer and compression strength. This results in this type of compound only being sutible for domestic use under floating floorcoverings. Can also have a strong smell. (There is however some new Latex products on the Market with similar properties as Acrylic and Water based compounds)

ACRYLIC = (The + Points) Acrylic compounds offer very good shear and compression strength. Can be used under a surface DPM.
ACRYLIC = (The - Points) Must be primed, can be very hard to sand out imperfections.

WATER = (The + Points) Water Based compounds flow the best of all compounds. Has very good shear and compression strength.
WATER = (The - Points) Can not be used under a DPM, also very hard to sand out imperfections.

WATER/FIBRE = (The + Points) Same as standard water based but can also be used floorboards.
WATER/FIBRE = (The - Points) Can not be used under a DPM, also very hard to sand out imperfections.

Please ask your floorcoverings installer for advice.


Disclaimer - All information stated above is for guidance only. Manufactures instructions / British Standards should be followed at all times.