Is dry floor screed suitable for living quarters
Dry screed is a quick and convenient way to level the floor without dirt and dust. The method consists in the fact that the draft layer is not poured with concrete, but is covered with a finely divided dry mixture. On top of the backfill, lay the flooring from plywood or gypsum fiber boards, after which they begin the final laying of the flooring.
disadvantages
The method has two main disadvantages. Over time, the floor may subside. Under the weight of the furniture, the granules may shift and deflections will become visible on the surface. A dry screed is susceptible to moisture, if water gets inside it is very difficult to dry it, it is almost impossible. There is a risk of mold.
Pros of the method
The advantages of its low-cost in time and finances are the method of “pouring”, moreover, such a floor has good heat and sound insulation.
With the pros and cons, divided in half, a dry screed is often used for decoration in residential premises. The method has proven itself among the masters. If the entire process is carried out, observing the technological process. A floor made in this way will serve for a long time and will not require frequent alterations.
The secret of success
In order for the floor to serve for a long time and not provide inconvenience, you need to consider several important points:
- The thickness of the backfill should be at least 4 cm;
- The diameter of the granules should be from 0.5 to 1 cm. The smaller the size of the granules, the better. It is proved in practice: small granules are more closely adjacent to each other. When the pressure exerted on them from above, they will not move. This will get rid of possible deflections of the floor and not hear the creak when walking. It can also occur as a result of the movement of granules;
- Around the perimeter of the wall must be laid waterproofing tape. From below, the floor can be protected from moisture by a vapor barrier film, and from above, use special waterproofing impregnation;
- The right choice of fraction. In the building materials market, ready-made mixes for dry screed are sold. However, the quality of the granules in the bag does not always justify what is written on the label, especially if their diameter varies up to several millimeters. It is important to inspect the goods before purchase. If the granules in the package are not whole and most of them are large in diameter, it is better to refuse them;
- During repairs, drafts should be avoided. Fine-grained granules are lightweight, and with the slightest blow of the wind can move;
- Before proceeding with backfilling of the floor, the room and surface prepared for repair should be well dried;
- Laying the damper tape will protect the future floor from swelling with temperature changes;
- If the height of the dry screed is 8 cm or more, it is recommended to lay a layer of boards every 4 cm. This will strengthen the structure and protect the floor from subsidence.
Observing these rules, the floor will turn out to be good and will last for more than a dozen years. Dry screed - ideal for repairs in the apartment, especially if the future floor will be warm.
