Cement Screeding and Self-Leveling FAQs
What is Cement Screeding? +
Cement screeding is applying a thin layer of cement mixture on a concrete floor to create a smooth and level surface. This layer is typically 10mm to 80mm thick and is used to prepare the floor for the installation of final floor coverings such as tiles, vinyl, or parquet.
What is Self-Leveling? +
- Self-Leveling, using self-leveling material, is a specialized cement mix designed to flow and level itself out to create a smooth, level surface up to 1mm to 5mm in height.
- Commonly used as an underlayment to level floors before applying a top layer.
- Cannot be used as a top layer because it is not waterproof and lacks hardness.
- For the top layer, it is recommended to use epoxy paint, self-leveling epoxy flooring, vinyl flooring, or carpet overlay.
How long and what process for Cement Screed + Self Leveling to Dry and lay Vinyl Flooring? +
- 1 day material delivery
- 1-2 days bringing up material and cement screeding
- 1-2 days drying (depends on weather)
- 1 day self-leveling
- 1-2 days drying (depends on weather)
- 1-2 days vinyl overlay
How thick should a screed be? +
- We will measure the height of the floor base to the height of the main door entrance, kitchen entrance, and both toilet entrances.
- Take the highest height and deduct the top layer if you require vinyl flooring, which is 5mm thick, and deducting 2mm for self-leveling.
- For example, if the highest height is 55mm, deduct 5mm and then deduct 2mm. The screeding height will be 48mm.
Is there a height limit for screeding in BTO flats? +
- No, there is no height limit for screeding in BTO (Build-To-Order) flats.
- We can accommodate the specific requirements of your home without any restrictions on floor height.
What type of floor screed material do you use? +
- We use HDB approved 2-in-1 pre-mix floor screed material.
- This ensures high-quality, durable, and compliant flooring solutions for your HDB renovation.
Is haulage of materials included in the price? +
- Yes, our price includes the haulage of our own materials.
- This means you don't have to worry about any additional costs for transporting the materials needed for your project.
Does your service include disposal of debris? +
- Yes, our service includes the disposal of our own debris to environmentally approved dumping grounds.
- We ensure that all waste is handled responsibly and in accordance with regulations.
What areas are included in the screeding service? +
- Our screeding service includes the living room and all bedrooms.
- This ensures that the main living spaces in your home have a smooth, level surface ready for flooring installation.
Do you provide cleaning after completion? +
- Yes, we provide general cleaning after the completion of our screeding work.
- This ensures that your home is left in a tidy condition, ready for the next phase of your renovation.
How competitive are your prices? +
- Our prices are among the cheapest direct contractor prices in Singapore.
- We offer high-quality screeding services at affordable rates to ensure the best value for our clients.
How much does cement screeding cost in Singapore? +
- The cost varies based on the area to be covered, the thickness required, and the complexity of the job.
- On average, it can range from approximately $2.00 to $4.00 per sq ft.
What should be done before work starts? +
- Water and electricity need to be turned on prior to the start of work.
- This is essential for the proper mixing and application of screed materials.
Is painting touch-up included in the service? +
- No, painting touch-up is not included in our standard service.
- If touch-up painting is required, it is chargeable and can be arranged upon request.
Why Do Many Homeowners Think That Microcement is the Same as Cement Screeding or Self-Leveling? +
Many homeowners often confuse microcement with cement screeding and self-leveling due to the following reasons:
1. Similar Names and Materials
- Terminology: The term "microcement" sounds similar to "cement screeding," leading to confusion.
- Material: All three involve the use of cement-based products, which can make them seem similar at a glance.
2. Purpose and Application
- Surface Preparation: Both cement screeding and microcement are used to create smooth surfaces. Homeowners may not distinguish between the methods used to achieve this.
- Leveling: Self-leveling compounds are used to achieve flat surfaces, which is a common goal shared with microcement applications.
3. Aesthetic Results
- Smooth Finishes: Microcement, cement screeding, and self-leveling all result in smooth, even surfaces, which can lead to the misconception that they are interchangeable.
4. Overlapping Use Cases
- Flooring and Walls: Microcement is often used for decorative finishes on floors and walls, a role also sometimes played by screeded or self-leveled surfaces before final finishes are applied.
Key Differences
Material Composition
- Microcement: A very fine cement mixed with polymers and color pigments, designed for a thin, decorative coating.
- Cement Screeding: A thicker layer of standard cement mixture, applied to create a level base for other flooring materials.
- Self-Leveling Compound: A fluid cementitious mixture that flows and settles to create a flat surface.
Application Thickness
- Microcement: Applied in thin layers (2-3 mm), primarily for aesthetic finishes.
- Cement Screeding: Applied in thicker layers (typically 10-80 mm) to level uneven floors.
- Self-Leveling Compound: Applied in thin layers (usually 1-5 mm) to correct minor imperfections.
Purpose
- Microcement: Primarily for decorative finishes, providing a polished look on floors, walls, and even furniture.
- Cement Screeding: To create a strong, level base layer before installing other types of flooring.
- Self-Leveling Compound: To correct minor floor imperfections and create a perfectly flat surface.
Conclusion
While microcement, cement screeding, and self-leveling compounds share similarities in their use of cement and their role in creating smooth surfaces, they differ significantly in their composition, application thickness, and primary purposes. Understanding these distinctions can help homeowners make informed decisions about their renovation needs. If you have further questions or need advice on the best solution for your home, feel free to contact us.
Why Choose Our Services for Your HDB BTO Renovation? +
- Our team has extensive experience in cement screeding and self-leveling for HDB BTO renovations in Singapore.
- We use high-quality materials and follow strict protocols to ensure a smooth, durable, and level floor.
- Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you achieve the perfect floor for your home.
How can I get a quote for my project? +
- To get a detailed quote for your project, please contact us directly.
- We will assess your specific needs and provide a comprehensive, no-obligation quote based on your requirements.
Your patronage is important to us, and we always strive to get back to you within 48 working hours.