Our Services

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Our fully comprehensive 5 phase force drying and testing programme consists off - 

Initial Report - It is very important to try highlight potential reasons why the screed isn't drying to its full potential. All screed manufactures will supply data sheet showing expected drying times but these are based on very strict guidelines. Understanding the relationship between relative humidity and room temperature is vital when assessing why screed may not be drying as quickly as anticipated. By addressing these environmental factors, one can optimize conditions for the curing process, ultimately ensuring the quality and durability of the flooring installation.

Temporary boiler - (if required) - this not only commissions and conditions the screed but a temporary boiler is used to raise the ambient temperature within the space. This accelerates the drying process of the screed, ensuring efficient moisture removal

Please note* Portable heaters can be used as a replacement where underfloor heating is not present 

Dehumidification  - This device extracts excess moisture from the air, preventing condensation and promoting faster drying of the screed.
 

Fan Circulation: To enhance the drying process further, fans are strategically placed in the third phase. These fans facilitate air circulation, ensuring that the heated and dehumidified air reaches all areas of the screed evenly, expediting the evaporation of moisture.

Screed Moisture Testing: The final phase involves conducting a screed moisture test.  This test assesses the moisture content within the screed, helping to determine if the desired level of dryness has been achieved. It ensures the screed is ready for subsequent flooring installation, preventing potential issues like adhesive failure or mold  growth.

Using the latest technology SDL are able to provide non-invasive quantitative Carbide method equivalent readings as per the ASTM F2659 guidelines. With this information we are then able to create a moisture map which enables us to carry out further testing in targeted areas.

With the use of the most up to date kit we are able to give same day results with a much higher accuracy and zero guess work. SDL are equipped with the most advanced RH probes which comply with the British Standard guidelines BS 5325, BS 8201 and BS 8203.  

Our devices are also directly linked to a data documentation app enabling us to provide you with instant on site reports. (more information on Moisture testing page)

SDL are equipped with the latest thermal imaging technology. Underfloor heating thermal imaging involves capturing infrared images to visualize the heat distribution across the floor. This technology allows us to identify any irregularities or inefficiencies in the heating system by highlighting temperature variations. We then use this tool for diagnosing issues and optimising the performance of underfloor heating systems.

If your project involves underfloor heating, it's crucial to thermally prepare your floors before laying the final floor finish. This preparation, known as conditioning and commissioning the screed, utilizes your underfloor heating system.

This program gradually raises the screed temperature daily until it reaches a specified target. The temperature is maintained for a set period, and then the process is reversed to return to the initial temperature. This controlled approach allows the screed  to safely expand and contract, minimizing the risk of thermal shock. Consequently, it reduces the chances of floor finish issues like cracking, curling, or de-bonding.

In essence, conditioning and commissioning a screed floor involve this precise heating and cooling cycle. SDL provides specialized equipment to help you efficiently commission and condition your screed, ensuring it's ready for the final floor finish without the need of a fully commissioned boiler.

In the modern world of Anhydrite screeds it is vital laitance is removed. Unfortunately, not all screed installers are as professional as we'd like them to be and very often this is an important step that is missed. As well as causing de-lamination issues, laitance can impede the evaporation of moisture from the screed. Efficient moisture removal is critical for the proper curing and drying of the screed. When moisture is trapped beneath the laitance layer, it can prolong the drying time and potentially lead to issues such as surface defects.