Considerations for Protecting Screed
Screed is vulnerable to damage from various sources during the construction process, including foot traffic, equipment movement, and adverse weather conditions. Therefore, it is vital to consider screed protection measures to ensure that the final flooring material is installed on a stable and secure surface.
In this article, we will discuss the screed protection considerations that the construction sector should keep in mind.
(1) Identify the Risks
Before implementing any screed protection measures, it is essential to identify the risks that can cause damage to the screed. Foot traffic, equipment movement, and adverse weather conditions are common sources of damage to the screed during construction. Therefore, it is crucial to assess the level of risk associated with each of these factors and take appropriate measures to mitigate them.
Foot Traffic: Foot traffic is one of the most significant risks to screed during the construction process. Workers moving around the construction site can damage the screed surface and cause it to crack or become uneven. Therefore, it is essential to limit the movement of workers on the screed surface as much as possible.
Equipment Movement: Heavy equipment, such as cranes and bulldozers, can cause significant damage to the screed surface if they are operated over it. Therefore, it is important to keep heavy equipment away from the screed area and use alternative paths for equipment movement.
Adverse Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions, such as rain or extreme temperatures, can also damage the screed surface. Moisture can cause the screed to become soft, while extreme temperatures can cause it to expand or contract. Therefore, it is important to protect the screed surface from adverse weather conditions by covering it or applying appropriate insulation.
(2) Implement Protective Measures
Once the risks to the screed surface have been identified, it is important to implement appropriate protective measures to mitigate them. The following are some of the common protective measures used in the construction sector:
Temporary Flooring: Temporary flooring is an effective way to protect the screed surface from damage due to foot traffic. Temporary flooring materials, such as plywood sheets, are placed over the screed surface to provide a stable and level surface for workers to move around. The temporary flooring can be removed once the construction work is completed, leaving the screed surface undamaged.
Tarpaulin Covering: Tarpaulin covering is another way to protect the screed surface from adverse weather conditions. Tarpaulin sheets are placed over the screed surface to prevent moisture from entering and to provide insulation from extreme temperatures. Tarpaulin covering can be secured with weights or adhesive tape to ensure that it stays in place.
Curing Compound: Curing compound is a liquid applied to the screed surface to prevent moisture from evaporating too quickly during the drying process. This ensures that the screed surface remains stable and does not crack or become uneven. Curing compounds are available in different formulations, such as water-based or solvent-based, and should be selected based on the specific requirements of the construction project.
(3) Monitor and Maintain the Screed Surface
Monitoring and maintaining the screed surface is essential to ensure that it remains protected throughout the construction process. Regular inspections should be carried out to identify any signs of damage or wear on the screed surface. If any damage is detected, appropriate measures should be taken to repair it as soon as possible. Failure to repair damaged screed can lead to further damage and compromise the stability of the final flooring material.
