After reading the article, we will learn how to make a metal floor screed on your own. This process cannot be left aside during the repair or construction of the premises. This process is very dusty, dirty and causes a lot of problems. After screeding, it is necessary to give time to “mature”, and after abundantly wet the surface for several days.
In order for the process to pass quickly and in an organized manner, and the result at the end is pleasing to the eye, it is recommended to follow a few simple rules and tips.
Preparation for work
Before starting a metal screed, it is necessary to distribute the stages of work:
- the first thing is to prepare the foundation;
- then set the beacons;
- stir the solution;
- tighten the floor.
Each step must be performed clearly. If you break or badly set or knead the solution, nothing will work and you will have to start work again. Consider three types of base:
- priming;
- concrete surface;
- old floor screed.
At the base, wood should be excluded categorically, since most experienced builders believe that this material should be used to equip floors without screed, while using completely different “leveling agents”: OSB sheets or plywood. Metal screed is perfect for such work. Another reason is that the timber will increase in volume. And in the end, “tear” the screed.
Metal mesh for screed reinforcement
In this method, steel wire mesh or reinforcement is used. The fittings are laid in loaded places (for example, in a garage). It is worth noting that the nets are made of wire VR-1. Their diameter starts from two and a half and ends with six millimeters. Metal screeds are installed on a hill of cement mortar.
Using gypsum mortar is highly undesirable. The simplest but proven method is to use a special fixture for the reinforcement. They are made of plastic, there are many different sizes for every taste. In construction stores they can be found under any type of reinforcing mesh. You can install on:
- supports made of pieces of broken brick;
- small and medium fragments of concrete and other improvised materials.
You can also set the grid at the same distance from the base. But this method is very complicated. After distribution, some pillars may fly out, so this must be carefully monitored. A metal screed will serve as a good foundation. Durability and practicality have been proven for centuries.
Summary
Having made the floor screed correctly once, you can forget about its repair forever. Because the base is strong and can withstand any load with the right job. There are numerous methods for screeding, but metal will last longer than any other kind.