Why training is important in the flowing screeds sector

The Flowing Screeds Association (FSA) has now established itself as the trade association for all screed installers, aiming to represent the industry and promote flowing screeds throughout the construction sector. Membership is open to binder and system manufacturers, screed contractors, and applicators.

We work to tackle the skills deficit in the construction sector regarding the installation of flowing screeds. This is one of the FSA’s core aims, and we intend to drive up training standards across the sector by establishing a programme of training, including practical courses, with maximum participation encouraged.

If correct procedures are followed, flowing screeds, whether gypsum-based or cement-based, provide the ideal surface for the installation of a top layer, whether it is tiling, resin, or any other type of floor covering. However, if best practices are not adhered to, things can go wrong, meaning it may not be possible to satisfactorily install a final floor covering without further remedial work.

There are a number of areas where problems can occur. These include:

- Inadequate project planning, including failure to select an installer with a proven track record in the sector, preferably a member of the FSA.

- Incorrect screed specification for the job being undertaken, depending on the type of environment in which the screed is laid and the volume and type of traffic expected. For projects where significant time pressures are envisaged, it is possible to select a modified screed that offers an enhanced drying time.

- Incomplete preparation (especially removal of contaminants and drying) of the concrete substrate. The installation of a tanking membrane should be considered at this stage as well.

- An incorrect mix or incorrect amount of water in the screed mix.

- Incorrect coverage of the screed—insufficient coverage can lead to gaps and lifting of the screed, while too deep a screed will change the necessary calculation for drying times.

- Inadequate drying or curing can lead to screed failure and subsequent debonding of the final floor covering.

Faults typically occur when floor coverings de-bond from the screed. This is most often caused by failure to attend to the final point above—not letting the screed dry fully prior to the laying of the floor covering, leading to floor swelling, buckling, or bubbling. Time and cost pressures are constant issues on projects, particularly as they near completion—which is inevitably when screeding typically takes place—but the temptation to cut corners and attempt to shave time off project schedules must be resisted to avoid problems later.

These are all topics to be covered in training sessions, and we successfully held an initial training session, hosted by LKAB Minerals, in Derby on 6th June.

The FSA believes that training and accreditation are invaluable, as these would help address the need for adherence to the relevant British Standard, BS 8204. Such training ensures that individuals entering the industry acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to expertly perform their jobs.

This would not only benefit clients by ensuring reliable services but also enhance the overall perception of the flooring industry as a skilled trade. By establishing a structured training and registration process, the industry can elevate its reputation, emphasising the importance of expertise and quality craftsmanship.

The path to improvement includes the provision of training courses and the production of technical datasheets and other materials designed to raise standards and industry awareness of flowing screeds and the issues around their installation.

At the FSA, we believe that the way to promote our sector further is by offering training, driving up skill levels in the sector, and encouraging more companies to get involved and more specifiers to see the benefits that flowing screeds can offer for their projects.

All FSA members have access to training courses, technical documentation, a free listing on our website at www.flowingscreedsassociation.com, free advertising through FSA channels, networking opportunities, and use of the FSA logo on vehicles and marketing materials.