The performance of an underfloor heating system is affected by how it’s installed and the materials used. Screed underfloor heating systems are widely considered to be the most effective option due to their superior energy efficiency and optimised heat output.
What is a screed underfloor heating system?
A screed underfloor heating system is one that has screed applied on top to produce a smooth, level floor surface, over which a final floor covering can be laid.
Screed underfloor heating systems are ideal for new builds and extensions because they offer cost-effective, high levels of performance and efficiency. They are also compatible with renewable heat sources such as heat pumps.
Types of screed for underfloor heating systems
There are two main types of screed for underfloor heating systems:
- Liquid screed
Liquid screed is self-levelling and self-compacting, so ideal for covering UFH pipework quickly and without voids. Types of liquid screed include:
- Anhydrite (Calcium Sulphate) – gypsum based. Not suitable for constantly wet areas such as bathrooms
- Cementitious liquid screed – as supplied by Clockwork Underfloor Heating, cementitious liquid screed offers both the strength of traditional sand and cement screed and the flowing, liquid properties of anhydrite screeds, with better performance in high moisture areas
- Traditional sand and cement screed
A mix of sharp sand, cement and water, applied as a semi-dry mortar. It is strong and therefore suitable for high traffic areas, but it takes much longer to install and dry which can increase project costs. Traditional screed also doesn’t encapsulate pipework, leaving it prone to air bubbles which impact the efficiency of the UFH system.
Screed for wet underfloor heating systems
Underfloor heating systems are either wet or dry. Wet systems are connected to a boiler, or renewable alternatives such as a heat pump, from which hot water is circulated through a network of pipes. Dry UFH systems are made of heating cables, ribbons and films powered by electricity.
While liquid screed can be used for dry UFH systems, it is most advantageous for wet underfloor heating systems. Not only does liquid screed self-compact, preventing air pockets from which heat could escape, it also acts as an efficient thermal mass offering superior thermal conductivity for rapid and evenly distributed heat transfer into the room.
Do I need insulation for screed underfloor heating systems?
Yes, insulation is critical for the performance of screed underfloor heating systems.
At Clockwork UFH we work to a four stage process:
- Planning and design
- Laying poured insulation
- Installing the UFH system
- Pouring liquid screed to produce a smooth floor surface
Without adequate insulation, heat can escape down into the subfloor, reducing the efficiency of the underfloor heating system in the room where the heat is needed. Our poured insulation and liquid screed are supplied through our sister company, Clockwork Screed, so we can manage the entire the project and provide customers with a single point of contact.
Screed and underfloor heating systems professional advice
Do you need screed and underfloor heating systems professional advice? As two companies under the Clockwork brand, Clockwork UFH and Clockwork Screed can provide all the expert guidance and quality of service you need for your project.
Get in touch to find out more.
Plan, Insulate, Heat and Screed
Our 4 Step Process
1
Planning & design
2
Lay insulation
3
Install underfloor heating
4
Pour liquid floor screed
PROJECT FOCUS
High end Residential, Manchester
We planned and installed an underfloor heating system into a contemporary home in Manchester. Not only that, we finished the installation with a smooth, even and high quality liquid floor screed.
Our team worked with the end user’s architect, ensuring the home benefitted with a visually striking but also inherently comfortable and environmentally conscious heating solution.
The client now enjoys an enhanced living experience, reduced energy bills, and an aesthetically uncompromised living space that flows through the whole house.
See What Our
Customers Say
“From our initial consultations to the flawless installation, Clockwork’s team demonstrated not just technical prowess, but a nuanced understanding of architectural essentials.
Their underfloor heating system effortlessly merged into our designs, preserving every ounce of spatial aesthetics while embedding an unperceivable, yet palpably comforting warmth throughout the residence.
In Clockwork, I found more than a solution provider; I discovered collaborators who understand, respect, and enhance the architectural journey. Their integrative approach, precision, and unyielding commitment to quality have made them my go-to partners for all underfloor heating needs.”
D. Smith
Architect, Cheshire
Why work with us
For your Underfloor Heating Project?
Expertise in underfloor heating: Specialists in underfloor heating installation for residential and commercial needs.
Unique advantages: Providing distinct benefits over traditional heating methods to both homeowners and businesses.
One-stop solution: Offering a comprehensive four-step process (Plan, Insulate, Heat, & Screed) for a streamlined underfloor heating solution.
Collaborative approach: In partnership with our sister company, Clockwork Screed, ensuring a unified solution for insulation, underfloor heating, and screeding.
Simplified project management: Eliminating the complexity of dealing with multiple suppliers, facilitating a smoother and hassle-free project execution for architects, contractors, and homeowners.
