What is a traditional screed?

Traditional screed is a layer of mortar composed of sand, cement and water, which is applied directly to a slab or rigid support. It is an ancient technique that continues to be used in many projects. Unlike modern fluid screeds, which spread by themselves and which are automatically levelled, traditional screed requires manual intervention and know-how. It must be pulled, leveled and compacted according to the rule.

It is frequently found in industrial buildings, in underground car parks, in commercial premises or even in some homes when a solid and durable floor is needed. Implementation involves the creation of temporary formwork, meticulous manual leveling work, and gradual drying. It's not the quickest solution to install, but it's arguably one of the most reliable in the long run.

What are the advantages of a traditional screed?

1. Excellent mechanical resistance

One of the main advantages of traditional screed is its mechanical resistance. Its dense and homogeneous composition allows it to withstand very heavy loads without cracking. It is therefore perfectly suited to places where floors are subject to heavy loads, such as warehouses, factories or storage areas.

2. Good thermal and acoustic insulation

Another advantage, which is less well known, concerns its insulating properties. A traditional screed provides good thermal and acoustic insulation. It acts as an effective barrier against temperature variations and limits noise pollution caused by steps, machines or traffic. Combined with a floor heating system, it allows a homogeneous distribution of heat and contributes to reducing the energy consumption of a building. In a home, this translates into better comfort. In a business or office, traditional screed offers insulation that guarantees a more pleasant atmosphere for users.

3. Affordable cost

Finally, the question of cost often works in his favor. Compared to modern self-leveling screeds, traditional screed remains an economical solution, especially when it comes to covering large areas. It represents an excellent compromise between performance and savings. This is why it is still widely chosen by project owners and building professionals.

How does it contribute to the sustainability of buildings?

In a context where solutions that are more respectful of the environment are being sought, traditional screed is still of interest.

1. Recyclable materials

The materials that compose it can come from local sources, which reduces transport needs. Some construction sites even go further by reusing crushed rubble to integrate it into the composition of the screed. This practice makes it possible to limit the extraction of new resources and to reduce the overall carbon footprint of the project.

2. Exceptional longevity

Longevity is also a strong point. When done correctly, a traditional screed can last several decades without requiring major repairs. This is an asset when it comes to sustainability. Fewer interventions mean fewer materials used, less maintenance costs and therefore less waste produced.

3. Adaptability to heating systems

It is also highly compatible with modern heating systems. By serving as a support for a heated floor, it optimizes the distribution of heat and contributes to the improvement of the energy performance of buildings. Its ability to maintain and gradually release heat makes it a perfect material in current constructions that aim for better energy efficiency.

example : In a busy shopping center, traditional screed makes it possible to create a stable and comfortable floor. It reduces footfall noise, improves the indoor temperature when combined with underfloor heating, and its robustness allows it to easily accommodate various types of coatings such as tiles, laminate or even flexible floors.

When should you choose a traditional screed over another coating?

It is true that self-levelling screeds are very successful with their speed of implementation. However, there are situations where traditional screed is still preferable.

1. On irregular or fragile supports

When a support has irregularities or weaknesses, traditional screed remains the best solution. Thanks to its adjustable thickness and manual leveling work, it adjusts better to imperfect surfaces and makes it possible to compensate for defects.

2. When the static load is very high

In areas subject to high static loads, traditional screed is also essential. For workshops, car parks, warehouses where heavy vehicles or industrial machines circulate, its resistance to compression offers it an advantage. It absorbs mechanical shocks without difficulty while remaining reliable over time.

3. For projects on a tight budget

The economic factor also comes into play. For projects on a tight budget, its price is still lower than that of many modern alternatives, especially when it comes to covering large areas. This allows for significant savings without having to sacrifice quality or durability.

4. When speed is not a priority

Finally, drying time may be perceived as a disadvantage in some cases, but it becomes an asset when speed is not a priority criterion. The longer drying allows gradual installation and limits certain risks of cracks. For projects with a flexible schedule, this is a very suitable option.

example : for an industrial warehouse where forklifts and heavy machines circulate daily, a traditional screed with a thickness of 8 to 10 cm offers optimal resistance and guarantees the durability of the floor. Even after years of intensive use, it maintains its qualities and continues to fulfill its role.

Traditional screed remains a safe bet in the field of construction. It combines robustness, longevity and adaptability to various environments. Its role is not limited to industrial or commercial projects only, it is also integrated into residential buildings.