Clockwork Screed: First Choice Liquid Screed Company in Cheshire
Clockwork Screed is a liquid screed company based in Cheshire, supplying and installing liquid screed flooring for projects across Warrington, Knutsford, Alderley Edge, Northwich, Crewe, Macclesfield and Chester.
We specialise in high-performance cementitious liquid floor screeds that can be used with or without underfloor heating.
We provide a mobile liquid screed service to ensure a fast, efficient installation process, minimising disruption to your project’s timeline.
Get a free quote and see the difference!
What Are The Different Types of Screed Flooring?
Traditional sand and cement screed
Traditional sand and cement screed is a time-tested solution that has been around for many years, and consists of a mix of sand, cement, and water. Once mixed, it is applied manually and requires skilled labour to ensure an even surface across a floor covering.
It provides a robust and durable flooring option, however due to the manual nature of installation the process can lead to inconsistencies in level and finish if not done by experienced professionals.
Anhydrite screed
Anhydrite screed is a gypsum-based liquid screed that is pumped onto the floor area, offering a faster and more efficient installation process than traditional sand and cement screed.
It is a good choice for underfloor heating systems due to its thermal conductivity. However the gypsum content can be susceptible to moisture meaning it isn’t suitable for applications in bathrooms or wetrooms.
Cement based screed (cementitious screed)
Cement based liquid screed is a self-levelling screed that combines the benefits of traditional screed with the ease of application of liquid screeds. It offers excellent durability and is suitable for both residential and commercial applications.
It is compatible with underfloor heating, providing good thermal conductivity and faster heat response times. Its formula means it benefits from reduced drying times compared to traditional sand and cement screed, allowing for quicker access to the floor for subsequent trades.
The self-levelling property ensures a high-quality, smooth, and level finish with minimal effort from the installer. It offers a high strength and resistance to cracking, providing a durable and long-lasting flooring solution.
Benefits of Floor Screed
Floor screed offers several benefits that make it a valuable addition to most flooring projects. Here's a breakdown of the key advantages:
- Creates a Level Surface: The primary function of screed is to provide a perfectly flat and even base for your final floor covering. This ensures a smooth, professional finish and avoids unevenness that can be visually unappealing and potentially cause problems with certain flooring materials.
- Improves Floor Stability: Screed acts as a stable foundation for your floor, distributing weight evenly and preventing movement or cracking of the final flooring material. This is especially important for heavier options like tiles or natural stone.
- Compatible with Underfloor Heating: Floor screed works exceptionally well with underfloor heating systems. It efficiently transfers heat from the underfloor pipes throughout the floor surface, creating a comfortable and radiant warmth. Liquid screed, in particular, excels at eliminating air pockets that can trap heat and reduce efficiency.
- Prepares for Various Floor Coverings: Screed provides a suitable base for a wide range of flooring materials, including tiles, carpet, laminate, vinyl, and even some engineered wood flooring. This versatility makes it a one-stop solution for preparing your subfloor for most finishing options.
- Moisture Protection: Some types of screed, particularly those with a waterproofing compound, can offer an additional layer of moisture protection for your subfloor. This can be beneficial in areas with potential moisture issues or for basements below grade.
- Improved Sound Insulation: A well-laid screed can contribute to improved sound insulation within your home. The additional mass of the screed helps to dampen sound transmission, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment.
Overall, liquid floor screed plays a crucial role in achieving a high-quality, level, and durable floor that can accommodate various finishes and enhance your overall comfort and enjoyment of your space.
How To Choose The Right Liquid Screed Company For Your Project
You’ll no doubt be searching high and low through the search engines for the correct liquid screed company that will meet the needs of your project requirements. We’re here to give you a few pointers in helping you out with this.
Experience and Qualifications:
- Years in Operation: Opt for a company with a proven track record and extensive experience in liquid floor screed installations (we have over 30 years!).
- Insurance and Licences: Ensure the company has valid liability insurance and any necessary licences required for operating in your area. This protects you in case of unforeseen incidents.
- Manufacturer Certifications: Look for companies that hold certifications from reputable liquid screed material manufacturers as this demonstrates their knowledge of specific screed products and proper screed installation techniques.
Services Offered:
- Project Scope: Choose a company with the expertise to handle your project's specific screeding needs. Do they offer screed for various floor thicknesses, underfloor heating applications, or fast-drying solutions?
- Additional Services: Some companies may offer additional services like floor levelling surveys, moisture testing, or even subfloor preparation. This can be a plus if you require a more comprehensive solution.
Reputation and Customer Service:
- Online Reviews and Recommendations: Read online reviews on platforms like Google My Business or their websites. See what past customers say about the company's quality of work, communication, and reliability.
- Ask for References: Don't hesitate to ask the company for references from previous clients. Speaking directly with past customers can provide valuable insights into their experience.
- Customer Service Interaction: Pay attention to the company's communication during the initial inquiry stage. Are they responsive, professional, and clear in explaining their services? This is indicative of how they'll handle your project.
Pricing and Value:
- Don't Just Choose the Cheapest: While cost is important, prioritise quality and experience over the cheapest option. A lower priced quote might indicate the use of less qualified labour or inferior materials.
- Breakdown of Costs: Ensure the quote clearly outlines all costs involved, including materials, labour, waste disposal, and any potential additional services.
Additional Considerations:
- Project Timeline: Discuss the expected timeline for your project with the company and ensure it aligns with your overall project schedule.
- Warranty Options: Find out what kind of warranty the company offers on their work. A good warranty demonstrates confidence in the quality of their service.
By carefully considering these factors, you can choose a reliable and qualified liquid floor screed company that delivers a smooth, level, and lasting foundation for your project.
Why Choose Clockwork Screed For Your Next Project
We have outlined how to choose the correct liquid screed company for your needs, and we can confidently say that we tick all of the above boxes.
We are committed to operating as sustainably as possible and have invested in innovative new technologies to optimise our performance, reduce wastage and minimise our environmental impact. We are particularly proud of the part we are playing in the adoption of renewable heat technologies, such as heat pumps, with the underfloor heating solutions we are helping to install.
With over thirty years of experience in the construction industry, we understand the importance of timing. As our name suggests, we pride ourselves in running like clockwork; being on time, every time, to ensure your project progresses as smoothly as possible.
You can call us, or simply fill out our enquiry form for a no obligation free quote for our liquid screed services.