For self-builders
The Self-Builder's Guide to Liquid Screed
Written for the person actually paying the invoice. No jargon. What to spec, what to avoid, and what a good quote should include.
Self-builders don't get to make screed decisions twice. Pick the wrong system and you'll fight tile lippage, UFH lag or a plaster programme that slips six weeks.
This page distils what we tell every self-builder who calls us — the questions to ask, the specs that matter, and where installers usually get it wrong.
The three decisions that matter
Depth over the UFH pipe drives dry-time. Chemistry (cement vs anhydrite) drives what floor finishes are safe. Flatness spec drives what tile format you can use.
Get those three right on paper before anyone books a pump.
What a good quote should include
| Line item | What to look for |
|---|---|
| Product & mix | Named — e.g. Cemfloor CT-C30-F6, not just 'liquid screed' |
| Depth | mm over pipe AND total thickness |
| Flatness | SR1 or SR2 — written down |
| Drying protocol | Natural vs force-drying, expected date to tile |
| Guarantee | Workmanship + manufacturer product warranty |
Red flags in a quote
- 'Liquid screed' with no product named
- No commissioning plan for the UFH
- No mention of a moisture test before tiling
- Pump access not mentioned or costed
- No perimeter/expansion detail
Frequently asked
Building your own home?
Send the drawings and UFH spec and we'll give you an honest recommendation — even if it means a different installer.