Peculiarities of floor screed dismantling

Hey everyone, and welcome back to my channel! Today, we’re diving into the world of floor screed dismantling. Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Floor screed dismantling? Isn’t that a bit niche?” And you’re right, it’s not exactly the most glamorous topic. But trust me, it’s an important one.

Whether you’re renovating your home or tackling a commercial project, chances are you’ll encounter floor screed at some point. And if you need to remove it, doing it properly can save you a lot of time, effort, and headaches.

In this video, I’m going to walk you through the entire process of floor screed dismantling, from start to finish. We’ll cover everything from the tools you’ll need to the different techniques you can use, depending on the type of screed you’re dealing with.

So, whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or a complete novice, this video has something for you. So grab your tools, put on your safety gear, and let’s get started!

The first step is to determine the type of screed you’re dealing with. Is it a cement-based screed or an anhydrite screed? This will affect the tools and methods you use for removal.

A screed is a layer of material that is applied to a floor to create a level and smooth surface. It can be made from various materials, including cement, sand, and anhydrite. Screeds are typically used to prepare a floor for the installation of flooring, such as tiles, carpet, or wood.

In some cases, it may be possible to repair or resurface the existing screed rather than removing it completely. This can be a more cost-effective option, especially if the screed is in good condition and only minor repairs are needed. However, if the screed is severely damaged or uneven, it will likely need to be removed and replaced.

The cost of removing a screed will vary depending on the size of the area, the type of screed, and the method used for removal. Hand removal is the most labor-intensive and time-consuming option, but it is also the least expensive. Mechanical removal using tools such as a jackhammer or floor grinder is faster and more efficient, but it is also more expensive.

There are two main types of screed:

• Cement-based screed: This is the most common type of screed. It is made from a mixture of cement, sand, and water. Cement-based screeds are strong and durable, but they can be difficult to remove.
• Anhydrite screed: This type of screed is made from a mixture of anhydrite, a type of calcium sulfate, and water. Anhydrite screeds are lighter and easier to remove than cement-based screeds, but they are also more susceptible to moisture damage.

Removing a screed can be a challenging task, but it is important to do it properly to ensure that the new floor is installed correctly. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and effectively remove a screed and prepare your floor for new flooring.

• Improved floor level: Removing old screed can help level out uneven floors, creating a more aesthetically pleasing and functional surface.
• Preparation for new flooring: Removing old screed is often necessary before installing new flooring, such as tile, wood, or laminate.
• Exposure of hidden issues: Removing the screed can reveal any underlying problems with the subfloor, such as cracks, moisture damage, or unevenness.
• Improved insulation: In some cases, removing old screed can allow for the installation of new insulation, improving the energy efficiency of the building.

• Time-consuming and laborious: Removing screed can be a time-consuming and physically demanding task, especially for large areas.
• Dust and debris: The process of removing screed can generate a significant amount of dust and debris, which can be messy and require proper cleanup.
• Potential damage to the subfloor: If not done carefully, removing screed can damage the underlying subfloor, requiring additional repairs.
• Noise: Removing screed can be a noisy process, especially if using power tools.

• Safety gear: Safety glasses, gloves, ear protection, and a dust mask are essential for protecting yourself from dust and debris.
• Hand tools: A hammer, chisel, and crowbar can be used for removing small areas of screed.
• Power tools: An electric jackhammer or rotary hammer can significantly speed up the removal process for larger areas.
• Cleaning equipment: A vacuum cleaner and broom will be needed to clean up the dust and debris after removing the screed.

1. Prepare the work area: Clear the area of any furniture or belongings and cover surrounding surfaces with drop cloths to protect them from dust.
2. Break up the screed: Use a hammer and chisel or a power tool to break up the screed into smaller pieces. Start at the edges and work your way inwards.
3. Remove the pieces: Use a shovel or crowbar to remove the broken pieces of screed. Dispose of the screed properly.
4. Clean up: Vacuum and sweep the area to remove any remaining dust and debris.

The best tools for removing screed will depend on the size of the area, the thickness of the screed, and your budget.

• For small areas: A hammer and chisel or a small electric jackhammer may be sufficient.
• For larger areas: A larger electric jackhammer or a rotary hammer will be more efficient.
• For very thick screed: A heavy-duty jackhammer may be necessary.

• Always wear safety gear when removing screed.
• Be aware of the potential for hidden electrical wires or plumbing pipes beneath the screed.
• Use caution when using power tools, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• If you encounter any asbestos-containing materials, stop work immediately and contact a professional asbestos removal company.

• Hand tools: Use a hammer and chisel to break up the screed into small pieces. Start at the edges and work your way inwards.
• Power tools: Use an electric jackhammer or rotary hammer to break up the screed. Start at the edges and work your way inwards, using a chisel to break up any stubborn areas.
• Wet method: In some cases, it may be helpful to wet the screed before removing it. This can help to reduce dust and make the process easier.

If not done carefully, removing screed can damage the underlying subfloor. This can be a costly problem to repair.

Removing screed can generate a significant amount of dust and noise. This can be a nuisance to you and your neighbors.

If the screed contains asbestos or other hazardous materials, you could be exposed to these materials during the removal process. This can be a serious health hazard.

Removing old screed can be a challenging task, but it is often necessary to prepare the floor for new flooring or to address underlying issues. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can safely and effectively remove screed from your home.