Tackling the skills deficit in the construction sector with regard to the installation of flowing screeds is one of the FSA’s core aims.

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’re working to tackle the skills deficit in the construction sector with regard to 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 of the gypsum type or cement-based, provide the ideal surface for the installation of a top layer, whether it’s tiling, resin or any other type of floorcovering.

But if best practice is not adhered to, things can go wrong, meaning it may not be possible to satisfactorily install a final floorcovering without further remedial work.

There are several 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 FSA;
• Incorrect screed specification for the job being undertaken, depending on the type of environment in which the screed is being 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 which 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 floorcovering.
  
  Faults typically occur when floorcoverings debond 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 floorcovering, leading to floor swelling, buckling or bubbling of the floor.
  
  Time and cost pressures are constant issues on projects, particularly as they near completion – which inevitably is when screeding typically takes place – but the temptation to cut corners and attempt to shave time off project schedules must be resisted in order 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 6 June.
  
  The FSA believes training and accreditation would be invaluable, as this would help address the need for adherence to the relevant British Standard, BS 8204. Such training would ensure that individuals entering the industry would acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to expertly perform their job.
  
  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 material, 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.
  www.flowingscreedsassociation.com
  Keith McGrath is chairman, Flowing Screeds Association and director of Cemfloor by McGraths (UK & Ireland).