Are you considering installing underfloor heating in your home or business? If so, you may be wondering how long you’ll have to wait before you can start using your underfloor heating system after the screed has been laid. The answer depends on a few factors, but in general, you should wait at least seven days before turning on your underfloor heating.
Here’s why:
Firstly, let’s define what a screed is. Screed is a thin layer of cement and sand mixture that is applied to a concrete subfloor to create a smooth, level surface for the final flooring material to be installed on. This layer is typically between 50 mm to 75 mm in thickness.
Now, when it comes to underfloor heating, it’s important to understand that the screed needs time to dry and cure properly. During this process, the screed will release moisture, as if underfloor heating is turned on too soon, the moisture can cause damage to the heating system.
For this reason, you should wait at least seven days before turning on your underfloor heating. This allows the screed to dry and cure fully, and for any moisture to evaporate. However, it’s important to note that the drying time can vary depending on a few factors:
The thickness of the screed layer – Thicker layers of the screed will take longer to dry and cure than thinner layers.
The temperature and humidity levels in the room – Higher temperatures and humidity levels can help speed up the drying process, while lower temperatures and humidity levels can slow it down.
The type of screed used – Different types of screed have different drying times.
In general, it’s a good idea to follow the screed manufacturer’s recommendations for drying time, which can range from seven to 28 days.
Once the screed has fully dried and cured, you can turn on your underfloor heating system. However, it’s important to start the heating gradually, increasing the temperature by no more than 5 °C per day until you reach your desired temperature. This helps to prevent any damage to the screed and underfloor heating system.
In conclusion, waiting at least seven days before turning on your underfloor heating system after screeding is essential to ensure that the screed has fully dried and cured, and to prevent any damage to the underfloor heating system. Following the underfloor heating specialist‘s recommendations for drying time is also significant.
If you’re planning on installing underfloor heating in your home or business, or if you need any advice on underfloor heating, get in touch with Renewable Underfloor Heating London. Our underfloor heating specialists help you choose the right underfloor heating system for your needs and provide the best underfloor heating services. Contact us today to get started!