ENERGY SAVING FORUM › Forums › UNDERFLOOR HEATING SYSTEMS › Flowing or Traditional Screed › Reply To: Flowing or Traditional Screed
Hi everyone,
I think there’s one more point worth mentioning that hasn’t really been covered yet – the screed thickness and drying time.I agree with the previous replies that flowing screed generally works better with underfloor heating, but regardless of which material you choose, it’s really important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when commissioning the heating system. Turning the heating on too early or installing the final floor finish before the screed has reached the correct moisture level can cause far more problems than the choice of screed itself.If you’re planning to use a heat pump and want to keep the flow temperatures as low as possible, then flowing screed does have an advantage because it completely surrounds the pipes. On the other hand, if you choose a traditional sand and cement screed and have it installed by an experienced contractor, the difference in day-to-day use isn’t always as dramatic as some marketing materials suggest.Personally, I’d focus more on finding a reputable installer with solid experience in underfloor heating than on the “flowing vs. sand and cement” debate itself. A well-installed system will perform reliably for many years, whereas poor workmanship can undermine the benefits of either option.
