BS 8204-3-2004-Screeds, Bases and Insitu Floorings

BRITISH STANDARD BS 8204-3:2004
Screeds, bases and

in situ floorings —
Part 3: Polymer modified cementitious
levelling screeds and wearing screeds —
Code of practice
ICS 91.060.30
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BS 8204-3:2004
Committees responsible for this

British Standard
The preparation of this British Standard was entrusted by Technical
Committee B/507, Paving units, kerbs, screeds and in situ floorings, to
Subcommittee B/507/6, Screeds and in situ floorings, upon which the following
bodies were represented:
Association of Concrete Industrial Flooring Contractors

Association of Lightweight Aggregate Manufacturers
British Cement Association
Concrete Society
Contract Flooring Association
Federation of Plastering and Drywall Contractors
Federation of Resin Flooring Formulators and Applicators
Mastic Asphalt Council
Mortar Producers Association Limited
National Federation of Terrazzo-Marble and Mosaic Specialists
National Specialist Contractors Council
Quarry Products Association
Society of Chemical Industry
Co-opted members
This British Standard was

published under the authority
of the Standards Policy and
Strategy Committee on
20 September 2004
© BSI 20 September 2004
First published August 1993

Second edition September 2004
Amendments issued since publication
Amd. No. Date Comments

The following BSI references
relate to the work on this
British Standard:
Committee reference B/507/6
Draft for comment
04/30055996 DC
ISBN 0 580 44351 5

BS 8204-3:2004
Contents
Page
Committees responsible Inside front cover
Foreword ii
1 Scope 1
2 Normative references 1
3 Terms and definitions 2
4 Exchange of information and time schedule 3
5 Materials 5
6 Design 7
7 Preparation of concrete bases and fine concrete screeds 17
8 Work on site 18
9 Health and safety precautions 22
10 Inspection and testing of the screed 22
11 Maintenance 24
Bibliography 25
Figure 1 — Typical skirting detail 16
Table 1 — Classes of wearing screeds and levelling screeds 8
Table 2 — Typical mix proportions for polymer modified cementitious
wearing and levelling screeds 10
Table 3 — Classification of abrasion resistance and limiting depths of wear
for the abrasion test 11
Table 4 — Examples of bonding agents for use on concrete bases 13
Table 5 — Classification of surface regularity for wearing surfaces and
levelling screeds 14
Table 6 — Surface regularity of bases and fine concrete screeds to receive
polymer modified cementitious screeds 18
© BSI 20 September 2004 i

BS 8204-3:2004
Foreword
This part of BS 8204 has been prepared by Subcommittee B/507/6. It supersedes

BS 8204-3:1993, which is withdrawn.
The main changes from the 1993 version are:
a) the inclusion of levelling screeds to receive flooring;
b) the specifications for materials have been updated to include the European
Standard specifications for cement, aggregates and concrete;
c) the introduction of classes of abrasion resistance for wearing screeds;
d) the length of the straightedge, used in the determination of surface
regularity, has been changed from 3 m to 2 m. This brings BS 8204 in line
with BS 5385;
e) guidance on formulated products has been added in accordance
with BS EN 13813.
Concrete wearing surfaces give satisfactory service under many industrial
conditions but become less effective where there are specific requirements for
hygiene, cleanliness, and resistance to high impact or abrasion. The main
properties of polymer modified cementitious screeds can be summarized as
follows:
a) enhanced adhesion to the concrete base;
b) much thinner applications than are possible with unmodified systems;
c) toughness, durability, resilience and resistance to impact, abrasion and
dusting;
d) resistance to cracking;
e) low permeability and reduced absorption of liquids and greases.
The term “sand” is used throughout this document as this is the common
terminology in the UK screeding industry although recent European Standards
use the term “fine aggregate”.
The other parts of BS 8204 are as follows:
— Part 1:2003, Concrete bases and cement sand levelling screeds to receive
floorings — Code of practice;
— Part 2:2003, Concrete wearing surfaces — Code of practice;
— Part 4:2004, Code of practice for terrazzo wearing surfaces;
— Part 5:2004, Mastic asphalt underlays and wearing surfaces — Code of
practice;
— Part 6:2001, Synthetic resin floorings — Code of practice;
— Part 7:2003, Pumpable self-smoothing screeds — Code of practice.
As a code of practice, this British Standard takes the form of guidance and
recommendations. It should not be quoted as if it were a specification and
particular care should be taken to ensure that claims of compliance are not
misleading.
This publication does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users are responsible for its correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.
Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, pages i and ii,
pages 1 to 25 and a back cover.
The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the
document was last issued.
ii © BSI 20 September 2004

BS 8204-3:2004
1 Scope
This part of BS 8204 gives recommendations for the design and installation of trowel finished polymer
modified cementitious levelling screeds and wearing screeds, where the proportion of polymer solids based
on the mass of dry cement is at least 4 %, as bonded screeds applied to direct finished concrete slabs, fine
concrete screeds and to existing concrete floors within buildings.
This British Standard does not apply to unbonded screeds, floating screeds, pumpable self-smoothing
screeds, or those laid monolithically, neither does it apply to two-component aqueous thermosetting
polymer dispersions.
2 Normative references
The following referenced documents are indispensable for the application of this document. For dated
references, only the edition cited applies. For undated references, the latest edition of the referenced
document (including any amendments) applies.
BS 915-2:1972, Specification for high alumina cement — Part 2: Metric units.
BS 1369-1:1987, Steel lathing for internal plastering and external rendering — Part 1: Specification for
expanded metal and ribbed lathing.
BS 4027:1996, Specification for sulfate-resisting Portland cement.
BS 6100-6.1:1984, Glossary of building and civil engineering terms — Part 6: Concrete and plaster —
Section 6.1: Binders.
Section 6.2: Concrete.
Section 6.3: Aggregates.
Section 6.4: Admixtures.
BS 7976-2, Pendulum testers — Part 2: Method of operation.
BS 8204-1:2003, Screeds, bases and in situ floorings — Part 1: Concrete bases and cement sand levelling
screeds to receive in situ floorings — Code of practice.
BS 8500-2:2002, Concrete — Complementary British Standard to BS EN 206-1 — Part 2: Specification for
constituent materials and concrete.
BS EN 197-1:2000, Cement — Part 1: Composition, specifications and conformity criteria for common
cements.
BS EN 934-2, Admixtures for concrete, mortar and grout — Part 2: Concrete admixtures — Definitions,
requirements, conformity, marking and labelling.
BS EN 1008, Mixing water for concrete — Specification for sampling, testing and assessing the suitability
of water, including water recovered from processes in the concrete industry, as mixing water for concrete.
BS EN 12504-2, Testing concrete in structures — Part 2: Non-destructive testing — Determination of
rebound number.
BS EN 12620:2002, Aggregates for concrete.
BS EN 12878, Pigments for the colouring of building materials based on cement and/or lime —
Specifications and methods of test.
BS EN 13043:2002, Aggregates for bituminous mixtures and surface treatments for roads, airfields and
other trafficked areas.
BS EN 13139:2002, Aggregates for mortar.
BS EN 13318:2000, Screed material and floor screeds — Definitions.
BS EN 13813:2002, Screed material and floor screeds — Screed material — Properties and requirements.
BS EN 13892-4:2002, Methods of test for screed materials — Part 4: Determination of wear
resistance-BCA.
© BSI 20 September 2004 1

BS 8204-3:2004
BS EN 13892-8:2002, Methods of test for screed materials — Part 8: Determination of bond strength.
THE CONCRETE SOCIETY. Technical Report 34 (TR 34), Concrete industrial ground floors: A guide to
their design and construction. 3rd edition. Camberley: The Concrete Society, 20031).
3 Terms and definitions

For the purposes of this part of BS 8204, the terms and definitions given in BS EN 13318:2000,
BS 6100-6.1:1984, BS 6100-6.2:1986, BS 6100-6.3:1984 and BS 6100-6.4:1986 and the following apply.
3.1
base
building element that provides the support for a screed and floor finishes
3.2
flooring
uppermost fixed layer of a floor that is designed to provide a wearing surface
3.3
direct finished base slab
concrete flooring element that is suitably finished to provide a wearing surface or to receive directly the
flooring to be applied without the need for a levelling screed
3.4
screed material
mixture comprising cement, aggregates, water and, in some cases, admixtures and/or additives
3.5
screed
layer of material laid in situ, directly onto a base, bonded or unbonded, or onto an intermediate layer or
insulation layer, for one or more of the following purposes:
— to obtain a defined level;
— to carry the final flooring;
— to provide a wearing surface.
NOTE In this document the term “screed” includes both levelling screeds and wearing screeds unless otherwise stated.
3.6
levelling screed
screed suitably finished to obtain a defined level and to receive the final flooring
3.7
wearing screed
screed that serves as a flooring
NOTE This was formerly known as high strength concrete topping or granolithic topping.
3.8
bonded screed
screed that is bonded to the base
3.9
unbonded screed
screed laid either onto a separating layer or onto a base not prepared to ensure bonding
3.10
floating screed
screed laid on an acoustic and/or thermal insulating layer and completely separated from other building
elements, such as walls and pipes
1) Available from Concrete Information Ltd., Riverside House, Station Approach, Camberley, Surrey, GU17 9AB.
2 © BSI 20 September 2004

BS 8204-3:2004
3.11
fine concrete screed
screed consisting of concrete in which the maximum aggregate size is 10 mm
3.12
cement sand screed
screed consisting of screed material containing sand up to a 4 mm maximum aggregate size
3.13
smoothing compound
material applied to a base or screed to provide a smooth, even surface suitable for the installation of a floor
covering
3.14
departure from datum
deviation in height of the surface of a flooring layer from a fixed datum plane
3.15
surface regularity
deviation in height of the surface of a flooring layer over short distances in a local area
NOTE Surface regularity is also known as flatness.
3.16
polymer modified cementitious screed material
mixture of cement, aggregates and water, modified with a polymer dispersion or re-dispersible powder
polymer, where the proportion of polymer solids based on the mass of dry cement is at least 4 %
3.17
bonding agent
liquid product applied to seal and consolidate the surface of a base and aid the adhesion of the screed
3.18
pot life
period of time after mixing during which a bonding agent can be worked
3.19
open time
period of time after a bonding agent has been applied to a concrete surface during which it will provide full
adhesion for a screed applied over it
4 Exchange of information and time schedule

4.1 General
It is essential that consultations and exchange of information between all parties concerned with the
building operations are arranged at an early date. This will enable each party to have full knowledge of the
particulars of the work so that they can cooperate in producing the conditions required to complete a
satisfactory job.
4.2 Selection of screed to be applied
It is essential that in the design stage there is full consultation with the manufacturer or supplier of the
polymer modified system to ensure that the system selected is suitable for the application and service
conditions. Consideration should therefore be given to whichever of the following are applicable:
a) the intended use of the floor, including the type, extent and frequency of trafficking, impact forces,
static loading etc.;
b) whether in use the area will be dry or damp;
c) type of flooring to be applied, if any;
d) thickness of screed required, and any thickness variation to provide a fall;
e) time available for the application, curing and drying of the screed;
f) category of screed and in situ crushing resistance required;

BS 8204-3:2004
g) class of abrasion resistance required (wearing screeds only);

h) any requirement for slip resistance (wearing screeds only);
i) age, specification where known and nature of the base, including information about any previous use
which might impair adhesion;
j) the existence, or otherwise of a damp-proof membrane;
k) surface preparation necessary;
l) chemical resistance required: chemical constituents, concentration, temperature and frequency of
likely spillage, presence of water and procedures for emergency wash-down, details of regular cleaning
procedures, also falls, drainage and sumps to be provided.
4.3 Information to be provided to the screeding contractor
It is essential that all relevant information be provided in good time to the screeding contractor and to
others whose work could be affected, including whichever of the following are applicable:
a) description, situation and address of site and means of access to the site and works;
b) those conditions of contract that might practically affect this particular work;
c) degree of weather protection afforded by the structure;
d) location and area of the polymer modified screed to be installed;
e) age and nature of the base, including information on any previous use of the floor which could impair
adhesion;
f) survey of the base including surface regularity and departure from datum;
g) nature and extent of necessary repairs and other preliminary work;
h) minimum time intervals between stages of work and the application of heat in the building;
i) date for completion of preliminary work;
j) dates for start and completion of various sections of the floor;
k) type and design thickness of screed to be laid;
l) number of layers;
m) type of damp-proofing;
n) finished floor level, falls and maximum permissible departure from datum in each location;
o) class of surface regularity of the polymer modified wearing screed;
p) details of curing requirements;
q) any work consequent upon services passing through the floor;
r) treatment of joints;
s) treatment of skirtings and kerbs;
t) treatment of channels;
u) treatment of junctions with adjacent floorings and doorway thresholds;
v) any special requirements relating to underfloor heating;
w) details of any compliance testing required;
x) any potential restrictions on working hours;
y) any limitations on installation due to production or other activities;
z) any other requirements for materials, design or work on site.
4.4 Information to be provided by the screeding contractor
It is essential that the screeding contractor provides in good time to those responsible for the building,
details of the conditions needed for the installation of the polymer modified screed, including which of the
following are applicable:
a) the extent of areas to be provided for the storage of raw materials and whether these are to be
weatherproof or temperature controlled;
b) the extent of areas needed for the siting of mixers etc. and for access by delivery trucks;
c) ambient conditions required in the area where the polymer modified screed is to be installed;
d) power and lighting requirements in the area to be screeded;

BS 8204-3:2004
e) power, lighting, water supply and other service requirements in the screed mixing area;
f) protective screening to isolate the work from adjacent facilities;
g) minimum time intervals after the polymer modified screed is installed before allowing foot traffic,
vehicular traffic and water or chemical exposure respectively;
h) protection necessary for the polymer modified screed between installation and handover.
4.5 Time schedule
In considering the time schedule, in addition to the usual intervals between commencement and completion
of work by the various trades involved, allowances should be made for the following:
a) completion of the building envelope to allow construction of a floor or wearing screed protected from
rain, wind and sun;
b) delays due to frost and cold weather;
c) laying underfloor services: these should preferably be completed before the base is formed as there is
a risk of subsequent cracking if services are embodied in the polymer modified screed;
d) curing, drying and strength gain of the base concrete and/or fine concrete screed before the polymer
modified screed is laid;
e) surface preparation of the base;
f) curing of the polymer modified screed;
g) period of protection of the polymer modified screed from damage by other trades, including restriction
of access.
5 Materials
5.1 Polymers
5.1.1 Polymers for screeds
The polymer should have proven suitability for modifying cementitious systems.
The polymers are initially manufactured in the form of aqueous dispersions. Some of the dispersions, after
suitable compounding, can be spray dried to form re-dispersible powders.
The polymers are usually supplied to site as aqueous dispersions except in the case of one-pack systems,
where re-dispersible powder polymers are used. In this latter case the polymer powder should form an
aqueous dispersion during the production of the bonding agent mix or wet screed mix.
The polymer dispersion should be a stable aqueous dispersion of alkali resistant polymer particles. The
polymer dispersion selected should be suitable for use at the ambient temperatures prevailing at the time
of application. Under these conditions the dispersion should be capable of drying to form a coherent film.
If the polymer modified cementitious screed is to be applied onto a base with high relative humidity or is
to be covered with an impermeable coating then a polymer with an appropriate moisture tolerance should
be selected.
Confirmation that the polymer content meets the minimum requirement can be obtained from the
proportion by weight of polymer solids in the dispersion which should be indicated in the product data sheet
and/or the labels of the containers.
Various types and grades of polymers are available and these provide a range of performance
characteristics in the polymer modified screed system. Examples of suitable polymer types include: styrene
butadiene (SBR), acrylates, styrene acrylates, vinyl acetate/ethylene2) and vinyl acetate/versatate2).
5.1.2 Bonding agents
Any of the polymers listed in 5.1.1 may be used in a bonding agent system. Generally the polymer
dispersion is blended with cement powder to form a smooth paste of brushing consistency. Sand may be
added to the cement in order to ease dispersion and provide texture to the bonding layer. Water may also
be added to increase the open time.
Other suitable bonding agents are epoxide dispersions and solvent-free epoxides.
2) Generally used in the form of re-dispersible powders.

BS 8204-3:2004
For information on the use of bonding agents see 6.5.

Under laboratory conditions bonding agents should be capable of achieving a tensile bond strength of not
less than 1 N/mm2 after 3 days and not less than 2 N/mm2 after 14 days, when tested in accordance with
the adhesion test method given in BS EN 13892-8.
The open time of the bonding agent after application should be compatible with the technique used on site
to lay the flooring.
Cement or cement sand bonding coats without polymer modification are not recommended as they might
not achieve the required tensile bond strength.
5.2 Cement
Cement should conform to CEM I class 42.5N in BS EN 197-1:2000, to class 42.5N in BS 4027:1996, or to
BS 915-2:1972. Higher strength classes of cement are acceptable.
NOTE There is insufficient practical experience to include advice on other classes of cement in BS EN 197-1 or other strength
classes in BS 4027, or the use of additions, that is, pulverized fuel ash, ground granulated blast furnace slag and microsilica.
CAUTION 1 Portland cement grades that are designed to entrain air might react adversely with polymer
additions and should only be used after site trials.
CAUTION 2 Calcium aluminate cement (high alumina) should be used with care. Guidance on the correct
use of calcium aluminate cement should be sought from the manufacturers and current specialized
publications.
WARNING 1 When Portland cement is mixed with water, or even becomes damp, alkalis are released
that can be harmful to the skin and eyes. The effect depends on the length of contact, any abrasion, the
individual and the part of the body involved. Suitable protective clothing should be worn. If eyes are
affected, they should be washed out without delay and medical advice sought.
WARNING 2 Polymer modified cementitious screed material and concrete might until set cause both
irritant and allergic contact dermatitis.
— Irritant contact dermatitis is due to a combination of the wetness, alkalinity and abrasiveness of the
constituent material.
— Allergic contact dermatitis is caused mainly by the sensitivity of an individual’s skin to hexavalent
chromium salts.
5.3 Sands and aggregates
Sands and aggregates for screeds and wearing surfaces should conform to the following grading limits as
appropriate.
a) Sand should conform to BS EN 13139:2002 0/4 mm (MP) category 1.
Where the intended thickness of the screed is 20 mm or less, consideration should be given to adopting
a finer grade such as 0/3 mm (MP) category 1. However this is not a preferred grade in
BS EN 13139:2002, and if it is not available consideration should be given to using the 0/2 mm (MP)
category 1 material.
b) Sand for making good imperfections in stair risers (6.11) should conform to BS EN 13139:2002
0/2 (CP or MP) category 2.
c) 3 mm aggregate should conform to BS EN 13139:2002 aggregate size 2/4 with 100 % passing a 5.6 mm
sieve.
d) 6 mm aggregate should conform to BS EN 12620:2002 aggregate size 2/6.3 or to BS EN 13043:2002
aggregate size 2/5.6.
e) 10 mm aggregate should conform to BS EN 12620:2002 aggregate size 4/10 or to BS EN 13043:2002
aggregate size 4/8.
Aggregates for heavy duty flooring should be either:
1) aggregates conforming to BS EN 12620 with a Los Angeles coefficient of not less than LA40 and an
Aggregate Abrasion Value not exceeding AAV5; or
2) any other type provided it has established suitability with regard to strength, density, shrinkage,
durability and the abrasion resistance of the screed.

BS 8204-3:2004
NOTE The sands and aggregates specified in BS EN 12620, BS EN 13043 and BS EN 13139 are not directly equivalent to the
aggregate grades previously specified. The aggregates now specified in this clause are based on the recommendations given in
PD 6682-1 and PD 6682-3 and approximate to those recommended in the 1993 edition of this British Standard. However, there is
limited experience of the new requirements and site trials of proposed mixes should always be carried out.
Aggregates should not contain any deleterious material in sufficient quantity to affect adversely the
durability or appearance of the screed or wearing surface. For example, lignite, coal and iron pyrites can
cause “pop-outs”. Some aggregates exhibit higher than average drying shrinkage and should not be used,
as they can give rise to a greater risk of cracking (see BRE Digest 357 [1] and BS EN 1367-4).
5.4 Pigments
Pigments, if used, should conform to BS EN 12878 and should be compatible with the polymer dispersion
selected.
5.5 Admixtures
Admixtures, if used, should conform to BS EN 934-2. Other types of admixture should only be used with
the agreement of the polymer supplier. Compatibility between the admixture and polymer should be
confirmed by reference to both the admixture and polymer suppliers.
5.6 Water
Water should be clean and free from materials deleterious to screeds in their fresh and hardened states. In
general, drinking water is suitable for this use. In cases of doubt the water should conform to BS EN 1008.
5.7 Formulated products
Pre-packed proprietary materials should conform to the requirements of BS EN 13813.
They are commonly available as follows.
a) “Two-pack”, in which one pack consisting mainly of cement, graded aggregates and additives, is mixed
with a second pack containing the corresponding dose of polymer dispersion. In some cases the second
pack contains sufficient liquid to mix with the dry component, otherwise a recommended additional
quantity of water has to be added.
b) “One-pack” consisting mainly of a blend of cement, dried and graded aggregates, additives and powder
polymer, which is mixed with water on site.
In some cases part or all of the aggregate is supplied in a separate pack.
Each type of pre-packed material should be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Confirmation that the polymer content meets the minimum requirements can be obtained from the
proportion of polymer solids to cement by mass in the mixed product which should be indicated in the
product data sheet and/or the labels of one or two pack systems.
5.8 Metal lathing to skirtings
Metal lathing should conform to designation L3 as given in Table 1 of BS 1369-1:19873).
6 Design
6.1 Selection parameters
Factors influencing the selection of a polymer modified cementitious screed should include the following
parameters:
— type and amount of traffic;
— whether it is a wearing screed or a levelling screed;
— the characteristics and profile of the existing base (see 7.1).
3) BS 1369-1 will eventually be superseded by BS EN 13658 which is yet to be published.

BS 8204-3:2004
Polymer modified cementitious screeds are designed to be applied to bases of the following types:
— direct finished concrete slabs;
— fine concrete screeds;
— existing concrete floors within buildings; and
— other types of bases for which there is a history of suitable use.
Polymer modified cementitious screeds should not be applied to bases of inadequate restraint such as
cement sand screeds, smoothing compounds, magnesium oxychloride (magnesite), mastic asphalts and
timber.
In the case of levelling screeds the type of flooring to be applied subsequently should influence the selection
of polymer modified cementitious screed.
In the case of wearing screeds factors influencing the selection of a polymer modified cementitious screed
should include the following parameters:
— temperature to which the flooring will be exposed;
— nature and duration of any chemical exposure (contaminants, cleaning agents, oils, greases, etc.)
likely to be in contact with the flooring;
— wet or dry conditions;
— slip resistance requirements;
— ease of cleaning (including hygiene requirements).
6.2 Service conditions and screed thickness
For each class of duty the design thickness selected should relate to the service conditions and be
compatible with achieving the required levels. The design thickness should exceed the minimum thickness
given in Table 1 for that class, even when covering any high spots in the base.
Table 1 — Classes of wearing screeds and levelling screeds

Class of service Thickness range Wearing screeds Levelling screeds
conditions mm
Light duty 6 – 15 Light industrial and commercial Domestic, light industrial and
use, e.g. trafficking by soft commercial use, e.g. below
wheeled trolley ceramic tiling, resilient
flooring, synthetic resin coating
or carpet
Medium duty 10 – 40 Medium industrial and Medium industrial and
commercial use, e.g. traffic with commercial use, e.g. below
solid rubber or pneumatic tyres ceramic tiling, polymer
modified wearing screeds or
synthetic resin flooring
Heavy duty 20 – 40 Heavy industrial use, Heavy industrial use,
e.g. industrial workshops, e.g. below polymer modified
intensively used warehouses, and wearing screeds, synthetic
areas trafficked by hard wheeled resin flooring or tough,
vehicles abrasion resistant tiling
Very heavy duty 20 – 40 Very heavy industrial use Very heavy industrial use,
involving severe abrasion and e.g. below polymer modified
impact from steel or hard plastics wearing screeds, synthetic
wheeled traffic resin flooring or tough,
abrasion resistant tiling
The design thickness should be kept to a minimum to minimize shrinkage stresses, but a minimum
thickness of 20 mm should be retained where high impact forces might occur in order to reduce any
damaging effect of an impact on the bond line. The maximum thickness laid in a single application should
not exceed 40 mm, because with greater thicknesses there is an increased risk of loss of adhesion to the
base or failure in the base, due to increasing shrinkage stresses. If the required thickness exceeds 40 mm,
see 6.8 for guidance on the required techniques.

BS 8204-3:2004
Both levelling screeds and wearing screeds might be required to even out undulations in the substrate and,
in some cases, to provide falls for drainage. But screeds of the lowest thickness will be unable to compensate
for much irregularity in the base. Hence it is not practical to stipulate permissible deviations from the
design thickness except regarding the minimum thickness.
It is essential that the designer ensures that sufficient depth has been left for the construction of the screed
at the intended thickness between any high spots of the base and the lowest level of features above the floor.
6.3 Mix proportions for wearing screeds and levelling screeds
Recommended mix proportions for different classes and thicknesses are given in Table 2.
Other mix proportions may be used by agreement where evidence of satisfactory performance can be
shown. For blends of sands and aggregates, the ratio should be nearly equal but with a slightly higher sand
content to give a good balance between the workability of the mix, minimum air voids, minimum drying
shrinkage and good abrasion resistance. Mixes with excessive amounts of sand will have a higher drying
shrinkage. Depending on the gradings, the proportion of sand to aggregate can be slightly adjusted outside
the range shown in Table 2 to obtain the densest cohesive mix possible.
The minimum quantity of water should be used that is compatible with good compaction. The total water
in the mix in kilograms from all sources (i.e. from the aggregates, polymer dispersion and added water)
divided by the cement weight in kilograms, should not exceed 0.40 for wearing screeds and 0.50 for levelling
screeds.
For wearing screeds, the proportion of polymer solids should generally be within the range 7 % to 15 % by
mass of the dry weight of the cement. For levelling screeds the proportion of polymer solids should
generally be within the range 5 % to 12 %. Lower levels of polymer addition within these ranges might not
allow satisfactory performance at the lower thicknesses specified in Table 1.
Generally the thinner screeds will require the higher levels of polymer addition quoted, in order for the
impact resistance and durability to be satisfactory.
As the proportion of polymer solids increases, the water to cement ratio required for adequate workability
(consistence) decreases and the relevant mechanical properties of the hardened screed (tensile strength,
flexural strength, abrasion resistance, impact resistance) improve. Furthermore the impermeability of the
screed to liquids improves and hence the rate of attack by aggressive chemicals is reduced.
However, as the proportion of polymer solids is increased towards the upper limit of 15 % it might be
difficult to keep within the water to cement ratio limits given in this subclause, particularly if any of the
aggregates have a high moisture content. Using spray-dried polymer powders might offset this problem but
they are generally considered to be uneconomical at high addition levels.
Other possible disadvantages of increasing the polymer content towards the 15 % limit are increasing
stickiness of the mix, leading to application problems, and delayed hardening of the mix.
Further information regarding polymer modification of cementitious mixes is given in The Concrete
Society’s Technical Report 18 [2].
The use of calcium aluminate cement should be considered where the floor will be exposed to certain mild
acids e.g. pH 4 to 5, and where the polymer level chosen is close to the minimum levels recommended in
this British Standard. The manufacturer of the calcium aluminate cement can provide advice on its
resistance to various acids and other chemicals.

Table 2 — Typical mix proportions for polymer modified cementitious wearing and levelling screeds
10
BS 8204-3:2004
Type of Class of Thickness Cement: Mix proportions by mass of dry material Range of polymer dispersion
screed service aggregate contenta
conditions ratio Cement Sand 3 mm 6 mm 10 mm
aggregate aggregate aggregate
mm litreb/25 kg (1 bag) cement
Wearing Light 6 to 15 1:3 to 1:4.5 1 3 to 4.5 0 0 0 4 to 6
screeds duty
Medium 10 to 20 1:3 to 1:4.5 1 1.5 to 2.25 1.5 to 2.25 0 0 5 to 7.5
duty 20 to 30 1:4 to 1:5 1 2.25 to 2.50 0 1.75 to 2.50
0 4 to 6.5
30 to 40 1:4 to 1:5 1 2.25 to 2.50 0 0 1.75 to 2.50 3.5 to 6
Heavy U20 1:4 to 1:5 1 2.25 to 2.50 1.75 to 2.50 very 3.5 to 6
duty hard single size
aggregate
Very Proprietary screeds which are not classified by composition and which may contain special aggregates or require special
heavy finishing techniques. The suitability of polymer modified cementitious screed for this class should be established with the
duty manufacturer or screeding contractor responsible for the supply.
Levelling Light 6 to 15 1:4 1 4 0 0 0 4 to 6
screeds duty
Medium 10 to 20 1:4 to 1:5 1 2.25 to 2.50 1.75 to 2.50 0 0 4 to 6
duty 20 to 30 1:4 to 1:5 1 2.25 to 2.50 0 1.75 to 2.50 0 3.5 to 5.5
U30 1:4 to 1:6 1 2.25 to 2.50 0 0 1.75 to 3.50 2.5 to 5
Heavy U20 1:4 to 1:5 1 2.25 to 2.50 0 1.75 to 2.50 0 3.5 to 5.5
duty
a Some polymer dispersions might permit a lower level addition while achieving satisfactory performance.
b Figures quoted are litres of polymer dispersion having 50 % polymer solids.
BS 8204-3:2004
6.4 Resistance to abrasion

A classification for abrasion resistance of floor surfaces is given in Table 3, which gives the maximum depth
of wear allowed in any test for each of the classes. The test to measure the abrasion resistance of a floor
surface is described in BS EN 13892-4:2002.
Table 3 — Classification of abrasion resistance and limiting depths of wear

for the abrasion test
Class Service conditions Maximum test wear depth
(as described in Table 1) mm
AR0.5 Very heavy duty 0.05
AR1 Heavy duty 0.1
AR2 Medium duty 0.2
AR4 Light duty 0.4
The abrasion resistance class that is most suitable for the particular service conditions should be specified,
taking into account the abrasion likely to be imposed on the floor. The class chosen should be based on the
experience of the designer and of the client. A general description of the service condition is given for each
class of floor in Table 1 but the boundaries between these classes cannot be defined precisely.
The specification of particular mix proportions does not, of itself, guarantee the abrasion resistance of a
floor.
The recommendations given for the typical examples in Table 3 are intended to provide the guidance
necessary for a durable floor surface with satisfactory abrasion resistance to be achieved in most situations.
It should be recognized, however, that variations in the wearing screed mix, finishing techniques, curing
methods, surface treatments and ambient conditions can cause significant differences in the abrasion
resistance of the finished floor surface.
The abrasion test can be used to provide evidence that the minimum requirement has been obtained to
minimize the risk of abrasive failure. It is not necessary to test all floors routinely where the guidance has
been followed. Those floors that should be tested are the ones likely to be subject to severe abrasion or
where the consequences of an abrasive failure of the floor might be serious in terms of the client’s
operations and the expense of remedial work. In these cases, the requirements for the test should be
specified in the contract before floor construction begins.
In general, correctly designed and constructed polymer modified cementitious wearing screeds will not
suffer a significant degree of abrasive wear under the service conditions anticipated. Under the most severe
abrasive conditions, e.g. where intensively trafficked by heavily loaded vehicles with steel or rigid plastics
wheels, even a high strength screed with special aggregates might suffer some wear in the surface and at
joints in the long term. This should be taken into account in planning the long term maintenance
programme for the building.
The main factors that affect abrasion resistance are as follows. These should be borne in mind when
preparing the floor specification.
a) Mix proportions. The mix should be designed to be cohesive and to limit the amount of free water which
might bleed to the surface and thereby lower the abrasion resistance of the surface of the screed. The mix
should have a minimum water content but sufficient to allow it to be easily compacted. Although the
quality of the screed is usually measured by its overall strength, it is the strength and hardness of the
surface screed material above and between the coarse aggregate that governs the abrasion resistance of
the floor. This depends on the cement to sand ratio and water to cement ratio of the surface screed
material.
b) Surface finishing. To achieve good abrasion resistance, it is essential that the surface screed material
matrix has a high density. However, repeated power trowelling cannot be used to enhance the wear
resistance as the polymer “skin” forming at the surface will be disrupted.
c) Curing. Curing immediately after final finishing of the screed is of considerable importance to ensure
that the screed has good abrasion resistance. Poor curing could have a detrimental effect on abrasion
resistance.

BS 8204-3:2004
d) Choice of sand. The quality, grading and particle shape of the sand contained in the screed material
all have a large influence. The sand type should be chosen with care, avoiding soft materials.
e) Choice of aggregate. The properties of the aggregate only influence the abrasion resistance after the
floor has worn and this might not occur with highly abrasion resistant surfaces. A specially selected hard
tough aggregate is required for severe abrasive and impact conditions.
6.5 Bonding the screed to the base
A bonding agent should be used to ensure the bond between the base and the screed will withstand the
stresses that arise when the screed sets, hardens and dries out. The bond should also withstand the
stresses that occur when the flooring is in use, from temperature and moisture changes and from
mechanical forces.
Bonding agents do not compensate for deficiencies in the base, the preparation of the base, the mix
proportions, the method of mixing and the curing of the screed.
Examples of suitable bonding agents and typical open times are given in Table 4. The bonding agent
selected should suit the site conditions and method of laying. Bonding agents should be used within the
thickness range or covering rate recommended by the manufacturer. Typically they are used at a wet film
thickness up to 1 mm.
It is essential that the bonding agent is wet or tacky when the screed is applied. If the bonding agent is
allowed to dry before the screed is applied a low bond strength will result; applying another bond coat
straight away will not improve the situation. The guidance of the manufacturer should be obtained.
Where a polymer or cement bonding agent is used it is essential that the cement is of the same chemical
type in both the bond coat and the screed.
The manufacturer’s instructions about the use of bonding agents should be followed.
6.6 Damp-proof membranes
When a damp-proof membrane is required that will also bond the screed to the concrete base, two or three
coats of a proprietary solvent-free epoxide composition designed for this purpose should be applied in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
6.7 Tolerances on level and surface regularity
6.7.1 General
Surface regularity or flatness is a measure of the deviation in height of the surface of a flooring layer over
short distances in a local area.
The thinner polymer modified cementitious wearing screeds will generally follow the profile of the
underlying substrate because of their method of application. The agreed specifications for flatness, surface
regularity and conformity to datum plane of the finished floor can then only be met if the base concrete or
levelling screed meet the same specification.
6.7.2 Departure from datum
The maximum permissible departure of the level of the wearing surface from a specified or an agreed
datum plane should be specified, taking into account the area of the floor and its use. For large areas for
normal purposes a departure of ±15 mm from datum will be found to be satisfactory. Greater accuracy to
datum could be required in small rooms, along the line of partition walls, in the vicinity of door openings
and where specialized equipment is to be installed directly on the floor. The datum plane for the majority
of floors will be horizontal but, on occasions, will be sloping. In the latter case, departure from datum should
be measured from the sloping plane.

Table 4 — Examples of bonding agents for use on concrete bases
Type Examples of mix Application method Required moisture condition of Typical pot life Typical open time
proportions by massa base surface (see 8.8.1)b at 20 °C at 20 °C
1 Polymer 1 part dispersion Brush in a generous first coat Dry to aid absorption 2 dayse 3h
dispersioncd without 1 part water as a primer. Next day brush on
cement a second coat as a bonding
agent.
2 Polymer dispersionc 1 part dispersion Vigorously brush in Saturated but surface dry 3h 20 min
with cementfg 1 to 2 parts cementf
or
1 part dispersion
1 part water
4 parts cementf
3 Epoxide dispersion — Brush or roller Damp or dry 1.5 h 45 min
two-pack
4 Solvent-free epoxide — Brush, roller or spray Usually dry 0.5 h to 1 h 1h
two-pack standard
seth
5 Solvent-free epoxide — Brush or spray Usually dry 0.5 h to 3 h 3 h to 24 h
two-pack slow seth
a Type 1 may also be proportioned by volume.
b Consult manufacturer of bonding agent.
c 50 % polymer solids.
d Only suitable for dry service conditions.
e Dilutions of polymer dispersions are susceptible to deterioration from micro-organisms unless extra bactericide is added.
f Up to 50 % of cement may be replaced by washed sand, e.g. in accordance with BS EN 13139:2002 0/2 (MP) category 1.
g Adjust cement content to give the required consistency.
h Can also function as a damp-proof membrane (consult the manufacturer).
BS 8204-3:2004
13
BS 8204-3:2004
6.7.3 Surface regularity

The class of surface regularity required for a floor surface depends upon the use of the floor. The
straightedge method given in BS 8204-1 is generally satisfactory for the majority of floor uses and, if
considered appropriate, the designer should specify one of the classes of local surface regularity given
in Table 5.
Insistence on a higher standard than necessary will result in unnecessary higher costs and this should be
considered when selecting a surface regularity class and the frequency of conformity testing.
Table 5 — Classification of surface regularity for wearing surfaces and levelling screeds
Class Maximum permissible departure from a 2 m Application
straightedge laid in contact with the floor
mm
SR1 3 High standard,
for commercial and industrial buildings
SR2 5 Normal standard,
for commercial and industrial buildings
SR3 10 Utility standard,
for other floors where surface regularity is
less critical
The suitability of a floor in service in terms of surface regularity is governed by its radius of curvature and
changes in height over short distances. It is recognized that the straightedge method for determining floor
surface regularity does not take into account the “waviness” or rate of change of elevation of a floor over
any particular length. The straightedge method is therefore only suitable for floors finished by conventional
techniques that will produce a smoothly undulating surface rather than an irregular “washboard” effect.
Where the straightedge basis for specification is used it might be advisable for the various interested
parties in a contract to agree the sampling rate for testing the floor to check conformity, and the procedures
to adopt if conformity is not achieved, before the floor is constructed. Such agreement should include the
number of positions where the straightedge will be placed to check conformity.
Alternatively, if the flooring is to be used for some specialist applications, e.g. for warehouse floors
requiring a higher degree of level accuracy and a greater preciseness over the rate of change of surface
slope, the method of controlling flatness, its related system of testing and limits for deviation from flatness
given in The Concrete Society’s Technical Report 34, Concrete industrial ground floors: A guide to their
design and construction (TR34) should be specified.
NOTE 1 The method of specifying and checking flatness described in TR34 is related to the taking of levels along lines on a floor
at 300 mm and 3 000 mm centres, using proprietary electronic measuring devices or precise surveying levels and comparing the
differences in measured levels. TR34 gives four categories: super flat (SF), 1, 2 and 3.
The difference in height across any joints in the flooring should be less than 2 mm in the case of class SR2
and SR3 of Table 5, and category 3 of the TR34 flatness specification. Where categories SF, 1 or 2 of TR34
are specified, there should be no abrupt changes in level across joints with a maximum difference in height
allowed of 1 mm.
NOTE 2 Light grinding can remove small differences in height across joints entirely but there might be some small local change in
surface appearance.
Testing to check surface regularity and level conformity should be made within 24 h of the first area of
screed being laid to establish early that the method of laying can meet the specification requirement.
Surface regularity and level testing should not be left to be checked until all the screeding is completed.
6.8 Levelling screeds
Polymer modified cementitious levelling screeds can be laid successfully at much reduced thickness
compared to unmodified screeds, see Table 1. They also have the benefit of lower shrinkage so there is a
lower risk of cracking and measures for stress relief are generally not necessary. In addition a low
water:cement ratio and thinner applied section result in faster drying out.
Where a levelling screed needs to be applied at a thickness of greater than 40 mm, for example when
forming falls, it should be installed as two or more layers. The layers should be of approximately equal
thickness and have the same mix and water content. To ensure satisfactory adhesion, the surface of the
compacted lower layer should be lightly roughened by raking before adding the second layer.

BS 8204-3:2004
6.9 Falls
Where wearing screeds are to be laid to falls, the falls should be formed in the base concrete or with a
levelling screed so that the wearing screed can be laid to a uniform thickness.
Where wet processes are used on floors with falls, a gradient steeper than 1 in 80 is desirable to allow rapid
draining and avoid ponding. To reduce the risk of accidents, falls should not be steeper than 1 in 40 except
on ramps.
6.10 Joints
6.10.1 General
Joints by themselves will not ensure minimal cracks if other aspects of the flooring are not correct. It is
essential that the base is sound, there is a satisfactory bond, the correct materials are thoroughly mixed in
the correct proportions, and that the screed is well compacted and correctly cured.
Joints should be provided in the polymer modified cementitious screed as given in 6.10.2 to minimize the
risk of cracking and to provide a serviceable floor.
In areas where trucking occurs, the edges of wide joints should be protected with metal sections.
6.10.2 Position of joints in screeds
The following types of joints should be formed in the screed:
a) contraction joints aligned with contraction joints in the concrete base;
b) expansion joints aligned with expansion joints in the concrete base;
c) construction joints aligned to construction joints in the concrete base if the joint in the base is expected
to open and cause cracking of the screed;
d) movement joints in floorings on suspended floors over support positions, to accommodate movement;
e) isolation joints around the perimeters of the slab and around columns and fixed bases, as well as
manholes, drainage channels and outlets;
f) joints between any hot and cold areas of the floor.
6.11 Channels
Channels should be incorporated in the flooring to carry liquids such as spillages and washing water to
drains. It is an essential part of their function that they prevent leakage of liquids into the structure. By
the very nature of their purpose and design they might be subject to more stringent and diverse chemical
duty than the individual floor areas from which they receive their contents. Gullies should be treated in
similar fashion to channels.
Channel design detail can take a variety of forms and in new installations should be designed in
conjunction with a specialist contractor.
6.12 Skirtings
6.12.1 Skirtings made from polymer modified screed material
Where walls are built directly onto a concrete base so that no movement joint, construction joint or
contraction joint is needed adjacent to the wall, the flooring may be extended to form a coved skirting as
illustrated in Figure 1.
The height of the coved skirting above the flooring level should generally not exceed 150 mm.
The wall surface to receive the skirting should be prepared in accordance with Clause 7.
The wall surface to receive the skirting should be coated with a bonding agent in accordance with 6.5 just
prior to the application of the skirting.
Where walls are made of weak materials the skirting should be supported on mechanically fixed metal
lathing.
The mix used for the skirting should normally be the same mix as used for the screed. Where a mix
containing 10 mm aggregate has been used for the screed it will be necessary to use a mix with finer
aggregate for the thinner section of the skirting.

BS 8204-3:2004
Skirtings thicker than 10 mm should be applied in two or more layers. Alternative techniques for applying
multiple layers, depending on the material characteristics, are as follows:
a) apply the second and subsequent layers as soon as the preceding layer is just sufficiently firm; or
b) allow each layer to set hard and apply a bonding agent before the next layer.
6.12.2 Skirtings made from other materials
The skirting may also be formed using an epoxy resin mortar and this technique is cost-effective on thin
sections. Pre-formed skirtings are also available in a range of different materials.
6.13 Stairs
Screeds to risers and treads should be applied by bonded construction. The structural concrete should have
been formed to the profile of the stairs less the thickness of the screeds. Before commencing application of
the screed the surfaces of the treads and risers should be treated in accordance with 7.2 for new bases or
in accordance with 7.3 for old bases.
An epoxide bonding agent with a long open time should be applied to the riser shortly before fixing
formwork to the finished profile of the riser. The screed mix should be tamped into the cavity between the
riser board and the concrete face. Finally a bonding agent should be applied to the treads and the screed
mix laid to the specified thickness.
On removal of the formwork any cavities in the surfaces should be filled with a polymer modified cement
mortar, with proportions by mass for the dry components, of one part cement to one part sand. Sand should
be in accordance with 5.3. These materials should be blended together and then mixed with diluted
polymer dispersion (one part of dispersion at 50 % solids content and one part water) to the required
consistency. The mortar should be applied with a wood float.
NOTE The above operation is labour intensive and for some projects it will be more effective to use an epoxy resin mortar which has
the ability to be applied to both the risers and the treads without the need of formwork.
3
Key
1 Optional chase
2 Polymer modified cementitious screed
3 Concrete base or fine concrete levelling screed
Figure 1 — Typical skirting detail

BS 8204-3:2004
6.14 Surface appearance and colour

Shade variations over the floor are unavoidable due to variations in raw materials, surface texture,
finishing and curing. Subsequently variations in appearance might result from uneven wear.
Where coloured screeds are required, pigments should be incorporated in the mix at a proportion of up
to 5 % of the cement weight.
6.15 Slip resistance
The flooring should be finished to produce a reasonable slip resistance for the expected use. Provided that
the Pendulum Test Value (PTV) of the floor surface is not less than 40 when tested by the method described
in BS 7976-2 any of the following methods might be suitable:
a) trowelling;
b) grinding the hardened surface to a finely textured surface;
c) mechanically roughening the hardened surface, e.g. by shot-blasting;
d) trowelling in, or incorporating in the mix, slip resistant granules which should remain exposed at the
floor surface;
e) providing slip resistant inserts in the surface, e.g. for stair treads or ramps.
Slip resistance is only retained if the floor is cleaned correctly by regular washing and cleaning with
suitable cleaning products and techniques. Generally, the more slip resistant the floor when wet, the more
difficult it is to clean. Existing floor surfaces that have become slippery despite cleaning may be roughened
by mechanical treatment, e.g. shot-blasting the surface. Alternatively, a synthetic resin coating containing
hard angular granules of natural or synthetic material may be applied to a cleaned and textured floor
surface to increase slip resistance.
7 Preparation of concrete bases and fine concrete screeds

7.1 General
The surface strength of the base concrete or fine concrete screed should be sufficient to restrain the
shrinkage stresses which occur during the setting, hardening and drying of the wearing or levelling screed.
Where the installer, designer and/or client wish to verify the quality of the base concrete or fine concrete
screed, the surface strength should be tested after preparation, when the surface laitance has been
removed, by the following methods.
a) Using a rebound hammer in accordance with BS EN 12504-2. This test should only be performed at
locations that have a smooth and clean surface. For all types of polymer modified cementitious screed the
rebound hammer readings should be not less than 25. A lower reading might be acceptable if the surface
tensile strength of the base or screed exceeds 0.8 N/mm2.
b) Where the rebound hammer readings are less than 25 when tested as in a) the pull-off method in
accordance with BS EN 13892-8 should be used. The tensile strength of the base concrete surface should
exceed 0.8 N/mm2.
NOTE 1 The rebound hammer method has the benefit of allowing a rapid evaluation of wide areas with a larger number of point
tests than the pull-off method and does not normally damage the surface.
NOTE 2 Old concrete bases giving lower values, when tested as in a) or b) might be suitable for certain types of polymer modified
cementitious screed but specialist advice and confirmation of suitability by the manufacturer of the screed material should be sought.
The main cleaning and mechanical preparation procedures should be left until a few days before starting
the laying of the flooring to avoid recontamination of the surface by ongoing building operations.
7.2 New concrete bases and fine concrete screeds
A direct finished base slab, or fine concrete screed, should be designed and constructed as described
in BS 8204-1 and laid to falls as necessary. The concrete should not contain a water-repellent admixture.
All services should be within the base concrete or screed and not allowed to penetrate into the flooring.
NOTE A cement sand screed without polymer addition is unsuitable to receive polymer modified cement flooring.
The laitance on in situ bases and any surface sealer or curing compound should be entirely removed by
suitable mechanized equipment, e.g. shot-blasting or scabbling, to expose cleanly the coarse aggregate.

BS 8204-3:2004
The surfaces of precast units should be left rough during production and should be thoroughly washed and
cleaned, e.g. by wire brushing, to remove all adhering dirt. The use of contained abrasive blasting
equipment would be more suitable than mechanical scabbling which could damage the precast units.
All loose debris and dirt should be removed, preferably by vacuum equipment. These operations should be
delayed until shortly before the flooring is laid to avoid the risk of further accumulation of dirt.
New concrete base slabs and fine concrete screeds should be at least grade RC30 of BS 8500-2:2002. Note
that higher grades of concrete could be necessary where the screed is to be laid sooner than 28 days or
where the concrete is laid and allowed to harden at low temperatures or where the flooring is greater
than 15 mm in thickness and additional restraint is required. The concrete and the application techniques
used should also achieve the surface strengths given in 7.1, before the flooring is laid.
The surface regularity of the concrete bases and fine concrete screeds, when assessed by the method given
in BS 8204-1 should be as in Table 6.
Table 6 — Surface regularity of bases and fine concrete screeds to receive polymer
modified cementitious screeds
Applied screed thickness Required screed surface regularity Required surface regularity of the
base
Less than 10 mm SR 1 SR 1
SR 2 SR 2
Less than 20 mm SR 1 SR 2
SR 2 SR 3
SR 3
Greater than 20 mm SR 1 SR 3
SR 2
SR 3
Concrete bases should be at least 14 days old before applying the flooring. A longer period could be required
in cold conditions.
7.3 Existing concrete bases
All surface contamination, e.g. oil, paint, adhesive residues, rubber tyre marks, etc., should be removed and
mechanical preparation carried out by a method such as shot-blasting, grinding or planing to achieve a
sound and stable surface with cleanly exposed coarse aggregate. All dust and debris should be removed by
vacuum cleaning.
Prior to applying the screed a close visual examination should be made to verify cleanliness, soundness of
the surface and freedom from soft deleterious materials such as lignite and iron pyrites. When the base is
dust free and reasonably dry, to ensure good adhesion, it is useful to carry out a water droplet test to check
that any water repellents, dust sealants, etc., have been removed. The procedure is as follows.
A droplet of water from a laboratory wash bottle or syringe is applied to the floor from a height of
about 10 mm. If the droplet forms a convex “blob” with a high contact angle which does not spread laterally
or soak into the concrete within a few minutes, this indicates that materials might be present which could
impede the bond of the flooring and that further floor preparation is necessary to remove contamination.
NOTE Very densely trowelled high quality concrete base surfaces can be highly impermeable to water penetration and give a similar
effect to the presence of water repellents, etc. Where difficulties in bonding the flooring are anticipated special advice on bonding
methods could be necessary.
8 Work on site
8.1 Workmanship
Care should be taken to ensure good workmanship and efficient supervision. Trained operatives should be
employed.

BS 8204-3:2004
8.2 Protection against weather

8.2.1 General
Polymer modified cementitious levelling and wearing screeds should be laid within the protection of a
weathertight structure to avoid the high risk of damage by the effects of weather extremes. If doors or
windows are still missing, the openings should be covered over.
8.2.2 Cold weather
If mixing and laying are to proceed during cold weather, measures should be taken to ensure that stored
aggregates, polymers and cement are maintained at temperatures above freezing. The surface temperature
of the laid screeds (not the air temperature) should be maintained at above 5 °C during construction and
for four to five days after laying. In this way the screeds will normally achieve sufficient strength to resist
damage by freezing.
Freshly placed and finished screeds should be covered with tarpaulins or sheeting, carefully lapped and
supported clear of the surface on a temporary framework in such a manner that the wind cannot blow
underneath. Heating may be employed in very cold weather but it should be noted that carbon dioxide gas
released from gas heaters might impair the hardness of the screed surface.
The time and amount of protection required can be reduced by employing any of the following:
a) an increased cement content;
b) high early strength cement;
c) admixtures to reduce the water to cement ratio;
d) admixtures to accelerate setting and hardening;
e) heated materials in the screed.
For further information on these points, which cannot be quantified briefly, see [3]. Unless heated
enclosures and/or heated materials can be used, it might be preferable to delay operations until warmer
weather.
8.2.3 Hot or drying weather
In hot or drying conditions, care should be taken that the screed concrete mixes do not stiffen or dry out to
an extent that prevents full compaction. After compaction and finishing, the surface should not be allowed
to dry out quickly; this can be achieved by protection by plastics sheeting or other suitable means. Freshly
placed and finished screeds should be covered with tarpaulins or sheeting, carefully lapped and supported
clear of the surface on a temporary framework in such a manner that the wind cannot blow underneath. In
addition, where screeds are laid in the open, the surface should be protected from the effects of the sun and
wind to reduce the risk of cracking.
8.2.4 Wet weather
If full protection is not provided by the structure the freshly placed screed material should be covered to
prevent damage to the surface by rain.
8.3 Storage
8.3.1 Cement
Bags of cement should be stored in a dry, weatherproof and enclosed shed or building with a dry floor. If
the floor is made of concrete, the bags should be safely stacked on a timber pallet or platform, away from
walls and not more than 1.5 m high. The stacks should be covered with polyethylene sheet or tarpaulin.
Storage should be arranged so consignments can be used in order of delivery and cement should be checked,
to ensure there are no air set lumps, before use. If the cement has deteriorated it should be discarded.
Fresh cement should be allowed to cool to below 30 °C before use.
8.3.2 Sands and aggregates
Different grades of loose aggregate and sand should be stored in well separated stockpiles on a hard clean
base which is free draining. Bagged aggregates should be stored as delivered on pallets prior to use. Loose
aggregates and sands should not be contaminated by rubbish, leaves and other materials. All stockpiles
should be protected from freezing in cold weather or frost-free storage should be arranged.

BS 8204-3:2004
8.3.3 Polymers
Drums and plastic containers of polymer dispersions should be stored out of direct sunlight in a dry
weatherproof building where the temperature will be maintained between 5 °C and 25 °C. Polymer
dispersions should not be allowed to freeze. Polymers should be used within the stated storage life and
consignments should be used in order of delivery or date of manufacture. If the storage life stated by the
manufacturer is exceeded or if a polymer dispersion has been allowed to freeze, it should be discarded.
8.3.4 Pigments, admixtures and pre-packed materials
Pigments, admixtures and pre-packed materials should be stored in accordance with the supplier’s or
manufacturer’s recommendations.
8.4 Preparation of concrete base or fine concrete screed
The concrete base or fine concrete screed should be prepared in accordance with Clause 7, and should be
strong and at least 14 days old before the polymer modified cementitious screed is applied.
8.5 Protection of concrete base or fine concrete screed against damage
Care should be taken that during the hardening and curing of the concrete base or screed, it does not suffer
mechanical damage or become contaminated with grease, oil, gypsum plaster, etc. If such problems do arise
the base should be treated as for existing bases (see 7.3).
8.6 Batching
All materials should be accurately proportioned in accordance with 6.3 or, in the case of pre-blended
materials, the manufacturer’s recommendations. The usable life of the mixed materials depends upon the
temperature conditions in the working area and allowance should be made if the mixing area is not
adjacent to the laying area. In very warm temperatures it could be necessary to include a suitable retarding
admixture that is compatible with the polymer dispersion.
8.7 Mixing
8.7.1 Bonding agents
Bonding agent components should be thoroughly mixed, preferably using mechanical means. All materials
adhering to the sides and bottom of the container should be removed and thoroughly mixed in.
8.7.2 Polymer modified cementitious mixes
Forced action mixers of the rotating pan, paddle or trough type should be used for mixing polymer modified
cementitious screed materials. Care should be taken to ensure that any material adhering to the sides,
bottom and corners of the mixer is thoroughly blended in.
NOTE Free-fall mixers are unsuitable because they do not mix effectively materials with a low water content.
Mixing times should be sufficiently long to ensure a homogeneous mix, normally between 1 min and 2 min.
Longer mixing could entrain an excessive volume of air which would be detrimental to the performance of
the screed.
In some cases anti-foam agents might need to be added, depending on the polymer dispersion being used,
but this should be undertaken strictly in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Thorough hand mixing may be used where only a small amount of screed material is needed.
Care should be taken when adding water to adjust the final mix consistency, as only a small quantity of
water can change a mix that is too dry into one that is too wet. The water content can be judged by
squeezing a ball of wet mixed screed material in a gloved hand. There should be virtually no water squeezed
out and the ball should not crumble.
8.8 Laying polymer modified cementitious screeds
8.8.1 Bonding
The bonding agent chosen should be appropriate for the moisture condition of the base, see Table 4.
When using a mix of polymer dispersion and cement as a bonding agent, absorbent concrete bases should
be thoroughly wetted with clean water several hours before applying the bonding agent. Free water should
be removed from the surface by vacuum equipment, taking care to remove all of the water from depressions
such as those formed during mechanical preparation. The surface should be free of glistening water when
the bonding agent is applied.

BS 8204-3:2004
The application methods appropriate for the various types of bonding agent are given in Table 4. Mixes of
polymer dispersion and cement should be scrubbed vigorously into the surface of the concrete base with a
stiff-bristled broom.
The area of concrete base that can be coated with bonding agent prior to the laying of the screed will depend
on the open time of the bonding agent. Guidance on the open times of the various types is given in Table 4.
Regardless of the type of bonding agent that is used, it is essential that it is still wet or tacky when the
mixed screed material is compacted onto it.
8.8.2 Polymer modified cementitious screeds
The mixed material should be spread out between temporarily placed screeding laths, or bars of sufficient
height, to ensure the required minimum specified thickness is achieved throughout. If a level surface is
required spot levels should be placed at a maximum spacing of 2 m centres. The mixed materials should be
well compacted in order to produce the optimum strength of the finished floor. A screeding bar should be
used to spread the mixed materials and produce a level surface minimizing lips and surface irregularities.
Open areas or hollows should be filled with mixed screed material and a final smooth finish achieved by
using a float.
Steel floats are commonly used to provide a smooth level surface but floats made of other materials might
be suitable, especially where a lightly textured surface is required.
Trowels, tools and mixers should be kept clean by thoroughly washing with water as work progresses.
Dried residues will be difficult to remove.
Over-trowelling should be avoided as this can cause patchiness and blistering in the finished screed
surface. Only sufficient trowelling should be employed to close the surface to eliminate pin holes, etc. Some
polymer modified cementitious screed mixes are suitable for finishing with a power float.
Care should be taken whilst laying and finishing the floor that the requirements for surface level and
surface regularity are able to be met.
8.8.3 Curing the screed
Curing is an important part of the floor laying process and it is essential if the best performance is to be
obtained from the floor.
An early period of curing is needed for hydration of the cement and this should then be followed by a period
of drying to enable an interpenetrating network of polymer reinforcement to be formed within the screed.
Cementitious flooring mixes without polymer dispersion generally bleed slightly and this bleeding helps to
compensate for the water which is being lost by evaporation at the surface. In contrast, mixes with polymer
dispersion show little bleeding and evaporation can lead to a surface layer low in water compared with the
body of the mix. This in turn can produce drying cracks on the surface. To avoid such cracks it is necessary
to start curing early in all but the least severe drying conditions.
Normally curing to reduce water evaporation should begin within 2 h of laying the screed. In very severe
drying conditions it is possible that this period will have to be reduced. Early direct application of plastic
film will produce cosmetic defects and this fact has to be weighed against the risk of surface cracks if no
curing is used or against the inconvenience of other curing methods, such as plastic film supported just
above the screed on battens at the edges of the screed. If this last method is used the ends should be closed
to avoid forming a wind tunnel.
Curing may be carried out by one of the following methods:
a) covering with plastics film of low vapour permeability for at least one day and not more than three
days;
b) using a spray-on curing membrane.
If the screed is to receive further surface treatment the type of spray-on product used should be compatible
with that treatment or be easily removable.

BS 8204-3:2004
8.8.4 Drying out

As the screed surface dries it will shrink slightly. The risk of cracking will be greatly reduced by ensuring
that the screed dries out slowly. Accelerated drying of the screed by forced heating or ventilation should
not be used. Gentle background heating to maintain temperatures of 15 °C to 20 °C after curing is
acceptable.
Before allowing traffic it is usually necessary for the screed to remain with the temperature range 15 °C
to 20 °C for a period of three days. High pressure water cleaning or steam cleaning should be avoided for a
further seven days. At site temperatures below 10 °C these times should be substantially increased.
8.8.5 Sealer coats
Polymer modified cementitious screeds are durable and slip resistant. However, in certain situations more
hygienic, easily cleanable, chemically resistant and visually attractive finishes are required and these can
be obtained by applying a sealer to the finished surface. A compatible alkali-resistant resin sealer may be
applied by brush, squeegee or roller in one or more coats. Sealers are usually applied after the polymer
modified cementitious screed has cured to a visibly dry condition, usually three or more days after removal
of any curing membrane. The manufacturer’s recommendations should be followed.
Care should be taken to ensure that the selected sealer does not reduce the slip resistance below the
required level.
9 Health and safety precautions

Before starting any operations, the manufacturer’s Materials Safety Data Sheets should be studied for all
the flooring products to be applied, including polymers, primers, cleaning solvents and all
recommendations therein followed. An appropriate risk assessment should be made for the flooring
installers and others likely to be affected in adjacent areas.
When mixing and/or laying polymer modified cementitious screed materials and their components, the
following precautions should be taken.
a) It is advisable when handling polymers and cement and laying floors to wear overalls to prevent soiling
of clothes. Gloves and/or effective barrier creams are recommended to protect the hands.
b) Prolonged contact of the screed materials with the skin should be avoided. Any splashes should be
washed off immediately.
c) It is essential that any splashes of polymer or cement in the eye are treated immediately by washing
with large amounts of water.
d) The polymer or cement should not be swallowed. If any screed material is accidentally swallowed a
doctor should be consulted immediately.
e) Effective ventilation should be provided when mixing and laying polymer modified floors and smoking
should not be allowed.
10 Inspection and testing of the screed

10.1 Inspection
The works should be inspected during progress and after completion, special attention being paid to the
following:
a) preparation of the base (see Clause 7);
b) mix proportions and mixing (see 8.6 and 8.7);
c) priming of the base (see 8.8.1);
d) compaction (see 8.8.2);
e) curing (see 8.8.3);
f) sealing, if any (see 8.8.5);
g) levels and surface regularity (see 10.3).

BS 8204-3:2004
10.2 Testing
At the appropriate time after laying the screed, tests may be carried out for the following:
a) levels and surface regularity (see 10.3);
b) abrasion resistance (see 10.4);
c) slip resistance (see 10.5);
d) adhesion of the screed to the base (see 10.6);
e) in situ crushing resistance for levelling screeds (see 10.7).
Tests a), d) and e) are appropriate for levelling screeds: tests a), b), c) and d) are appropriate for wearing
screeds.
Tests b), c), d) and e) are normally carried out only where there are specified performance requirements
[see 4.3w)] and the quality of the screed is in doubt.
10.3 Levels and surface regularity
When a screed is tested in accordance with the methods described in BS 8204-1, the departure from datum
should be within the limit specified and the surface regularity should be within the limit given in Table 5
or Table 6, if applicable, for the appropriate class specified.
The number of measurements required to check levels and surface regularity should be agreed between the
parties concerned bearing in mind the standard required and the likely time and costs involved.
Where specification for flatness is in accordance with The Concrete Society’s Technical Report 34, Concrete
industrial ground floors: A guide to their design and construction (TR34), conformity should be in
accordance with this report.
10.4 Abrasion resistance
If necessary (see 10.2), the floor should be tested in accordance with the method described
in BS EN 13892-4.
The depth of wear determined should conform to the requirements of Table 3 for the specified class of use.
Discretion should be exercised in accepting a floor where individual test results exceed the specified limit
by no more than 10 %. Specialist advice should be sought in cases of doubt.
10.5 Slip resistance
If necessary (see 10.2), the floor should be tested in accordance with the method described in BS 7976-2.
The pendulum test value (PTV) should be not less than 40 in both the wet and dry states except for
situations where ease of cleaning is more critical than slip resistance and/or where all who use or are likely
to use the floor will wear specially provided slip resistant footwear. In these circumstances, a slip resistance
value in the wet of not less than 33 might be acceptable.
10.6 Adhesion of the screed to the base
10.6.1 General
The adhesion between the screed and the base concrete or levelling screed may be examined by tapping the
surface, e.g. with a rod, a hollow sound indicating lack of adhesion.
NOTE 1 Hollowness, if any, is usually found at the edges and corners of bays and at each side of any cracks, if any, that have
developed in the surface.
Tests to check the adhesion of a screed to its base should be made as late as possible in a construction
programme when much of the drying shrinkage has taken place. Tests carried out less than four weeks
after laying the screed could be unreliable. Account should be taken of the time required for a replacement
section of flooring, if any, to be laid within the construction programme.
NOTE 2 However good the preparation of the base, there is no guarantee that adhesion will always be complete. The best
workmanship will reduce loss of adhesion to a minimum.
Loss of adhesion does not necessarily mean that the screed is unsatisfactory. However, when it is
accompanied by visible or measurable lifting of the edges of bays or at cracks, to the extent that the screed
could deflect and break under the loads imposed in use, it should be considered unsatisfactory.

BS 8204-3:2004
Those areas of screed that are considered to be unsatisfactory should be treated by one of the following
methods:
a) injecting the hollow areas with a low-viscosity thermosetting resin to stabilize and improve the bond
between the screed and the base;
b) isolating the area by sawing, removing and re-laying the affected screed. When removing an area of
screed care should be taken to minimize any loss of adhesion of the adjacent part of the screed.
10.6.2 Quantitative test method
A quantitative method of testing the adhesion of the screed to the base is given in BS EN 13892-8. When
testing by this method is necessary, a bond strength in excess of 0.8 N/mm2 is usually satisfactory.
WARNING This method of testing should not be used routinely since it will disfigure the surface of the
flooring.
10.7 In situ crushing resistance
If necessary (see 10.2), the in situ crushing resistance of a levelling screed can be tested by the method
described in BS 8204-1:2003, Annex D. Category A of BS 8204-1:2003, Table 5, should be achieved.
11 Maintenance
The screeding contractor should advise users of the following correct procedures for regularly cleaning and
maintaining the floor.
Except where oil and grease are likely to be spilt, regular sweeping or washing of the surface with water
should be sufficient to maintain the floor surface in a clean condition. Grease stains may be removed by
means of aqueous solutions of alkaline salts such as caustic soda, sodium metasilicate, trisodium
phosphate, or by using appropriate proprietary detergent compositions.
NOTE Polymer modified screeds based on calcium aluminate cement might be attacked by strong alkaline cleaning agents.

BS 8204-3:2004
Bibliography
Standards publications
BS 8204-2:2003, Screeds, bases and in situ floorings — Part 2: Concrete wearing surfaces — Code of
practice.
BS EN 1097-2:1998, Tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates — Part 2: Methods for the
determination of resistance to fragmentation.
BS EN 1097-8:1999, Tests for mechanical and physical properties of aggregates — Part 8: Determination of
the polished stone value.
BS EN 1367-4, Tests for thermal and weathering properties of aggregates — Part 4: Determination of drying
shrinkage.
PD 6682-1, Aggregates — Part 1: Aggregates for concrete — Guidance on the use of BS EN 12620.
PD 6682-3, Aggregates — Part 3: Aggregates for mortar — Guidance on the use of BS EN 13139.
Other documents
[1] BUILDING RESEARCH ESTABLISHMENT. Shrinkage of natural aggregates in concrete.
BRE Digest No. 357, 1991.
[2] THE CONCRETE SOCIETY. Technical Report 18, Guide to the selection of admixtures for concrete.
Camberley: The Concrete Society, 2002.
[3] TATTERSALL, R., BINNS, T. Concrete on site – Winter Working. Crowthorne: British Cement
Association, 1993.

BS 8204-3:2004
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BRITISH STANDARD BS 8204-3:2004

Screeds, bases and

Committees responsible for this

Association of Concrete Industrial Flooring Contractors

This British Standard was

© BSI 20 September 2004

First published August 1993

Amendments issued since publication

Amd. No. Date Comments

ISBN 0 580 44351 5

© BSI 20 September 2004 i

This part of BS 8204 has been prepared by Subcommittee B/507/6. It supersedes

ii © BSI 20 September 2004

© BSI 20 September 2004 1

3 Terms and definitions

2 © BSI 20 September 2004

4 Exchange of information and time schedule

© BSI 20 September 2004 3

g) class of abrasion resistance required (wearing screeds only);

4 © BSI 20 September 2004

2) Generally used in the form of re-dispersible powders.

© BSI 20 September 2004 5

For information on the use of bonding agents see 6.5.

6 © BSI 20 September 2004

3) BS 1369-1 will eventually be superseded by BS EN 13658 which is yet to be published.

© BSI 20 September 2004 7

Table 1 — Classes of wearing screeds and levelling screeds

8 © BSI 20 September 2004

© BSI 20 September 2004 9

6.4 Resistance to abrasion

Table 3 — Classification of abrasion resistance and limiting depths of wear

© BSI 20 September 2004 11

12 © BSI 20 September 2004

6.7.3 Surface regularity

14 © BSI 20 September 2004

© BSI 20 September 2004 15

Figure 1 — Typical skirting detail

16 © BSI 20 September 2004

6.14 Surface appearance and colour

7 Preparation of concrete bases and fine concrete screeds

© BSI 20 September 2004 17

18 © BSI 20 September 2004

8.2 Protection against weather

© BSI 20 September 2004 19

20 © BSI 20 September 2004

© BSI 20 September 2004 21

8.8.4 Drying out

9 Health and safety precautions

10 Inspection and testing of the screed

22 © BSI 20 September 2004

© BSI 20 September 2004 23

24 © BSI 20 September 2004

© BSI 20 September 2004 25

BSI — British Standards Institution

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