Is Cemfloor suitable for underfloor heating systems?
In short, the answer to whether Cemfloor is suitable for underfloor heating systems, is yes! In fact, Cemfloor is widely preferred by construction professionals for underfloor heating systems.
Cemfloor is a fast-drying liquid floor screed that is specified by main contractors, architects and local builders for underfloor heating systems time and time again, due to its strength, versatility and durability.
Clockwork Screed is a Cemfloor supplier and installer based in Manchester, covering the North West. We are regularly contracted to install Cemfloor screed to create subfloors for residential and commercial properties that have underfloor heating systems.
Thermal performance of Cemfloor with underfloor heating
Cemfloor is the preferred screed for underfloor heating due to its thermal performance. Cemfloor boasts a thermal conductivity of up to 2.9W/mK (Watts per meter-kelvin), which is more than twice the performance of traditional sand and cement screeds at 1.1 W/mK.
Why Cemfloor improves heating efficiency
There are several reasons why Cemfloor improves heating efficiency:
- Cemfloor can be laid at a thickness of just 25mm because it is exceptionally strong. This thin application allows more room for a thicker layer of insulation below
- The thermal conductivity and thin application escalate the responsiveness of the underfloor heating system, which means the heat reaches the surface more quickly
- Cemfloor self-compacts so eliminates air pockets around the pipework that allow heat to escape.
Comparing Cemfloor with other liquid screeds for UFH
Alongside its enhanced thermal conductivity, Cemfloor compares well to other liquid screeds for UFH (underfloor heating) applications.
Cemfloor dries more quicky than other liquid screeds, particularly anhydrite screeds. Cemfloor can allow light foot traffic within 24-48 hours, whereas anhydrite screeds take several weeks to dry.
The thin application and thermal conductivity of Cemfloor provide significant cost savings to users, as well as improving a building’s environmental performance.
Once Cemfloor has dried, it offers impressive shrinkage rates of under 0.05%. This reduces the risk of cracking found with other liquid screeds which impact the stability of the floor.
Cemfloor is suitable for wet areas, unlike many anhydrite screeds.
Installation best practices for Cemfloor with underfloor heating
- Ensure the floor is thoroughly prepared by removing any debris
- If insulation is being installed, this should be applied next
- A watertight membrane, at least 1000 gauge, is then laid to avoid any leakages
- All underfloor heating pipes should be secured so they don’t float
- The room temperature must be between 30°C and 5°C when Cemfloor is applied
- Begin pouring the Cemfloor screed by working backwards from the furthest point of the room to the entrance, so that you are in the doorway when the application is complete
- Ideally, close the room off for 72 hours to allow for drying, although foot traffic is usually possible within 24-48 hours.
Long-term durability of Cemfloor in heated floors
Architects and contractors rely on the long-term durability of Cemfloor in heated floors thanks to its impressive compressive strength of 100kPa (kilopascal), increased flexural strength and resistance to cracking. Cemfloor contains a 10mm aggregate that produces stronger and more durable floor slabs with less shrinkage. The higher compressive and flexural strengths facilitate a reduction in slab thickness which improves the floor’s long term environmental profile.
Clockwork Screed - Cemfloor and underfloor heating systems supplier
Clockwork Screed supplies and installs Cemfloor to North West customers. In collaboration with our sister company, Clockwork Underfloor Heating, we also install underfloor heating systems, giving customers one point of contact.
For more information, get in touch with the Clockwork Screed team on 0161 546 6945, or by completing our online contact form.
