Do You Really Need Screeding Before Fitting Flooring?

When planning new flooring, one of the most common questions is: Do I really need screeding before installation? The simple answer is: in many cases, yes – especially if you want a long-lasting and professional finish. 

Screeding prepares the subfloor to create a smooth, level surface before installing flooring such as LVT (Luxury Vinyl Tile), vinyl sheet, laminate, engineered wood or tiles. Without this crucial preparation step, issues can occur later such as uneven floors, visible bumps, movement underfoot, gaps, or even floor failure. 

This article explains what screeding is, when you need it, when you can avoid it, and why it is important for achieving a quality flooring installation. 

 

What is Screeding? 

Screeding is the process of applying a layer of material, usually a latex or sand-and-cement mix, over a subfloor to level out uneven areas. The purpose of screeding is to correct imperfections and create a smooth, stable base that new flooring can be laid onto. 

A screed can be used over concrete, timber, old tiles or any surface that needs levelling. It makes the subfloor flat, strong and suitable for modern flooring products that require precision. 

 

Why Screeding Matters 

There are three main reasons why screeding is important: 

1. Levels the floor – Most subfloors are not perfectly smooth. Even a small uneven area can cause problems once flooring is laid. 

1. Prevents future problems – Without screed, flooring may lift, split, bounce or show dips and ridges. 

1. Required by manufacturers – Flooring brands like Karndean, Amtico, Quick-Step and many others state that a smooth subfloor is essential to maintain product warranty. 

 

Do You Always Need Screeding? 

No, not in every situation. Whether you need screeding depends on: 

• The type of subfloor 

• The condition of the surface 

• The type of flooring being installed 

• Whether the floor will be glued down or floating 

• Moisture or damp levels 

As a general rule, screeding is required in most professional flooring installations, especially over old concrete floors or where the final finish needs to be perfect. 

 

When Screeding Is Necessary 

Screeding is required in the following situations: 

• The floor is uneven or has dips and bumps 

• You are installing glue-down LVT or vinyl tiles 

• The surface is rough or damaged 

• You have removed old tiles or wood and the adhesive remains 

• You want a perfect finish with no imperfections showing through 

• The subfloor is concrete and not perfectly flat 

• You are fitting flooring in a hallway, kitchen or commercial space where durability is important 

 

When Screeding May Not Be Needed 

You may not need screeding if: 

• The subfloor is already flat and level 

• You are installing laminate or click LVT as a floating floor 

• An underlay is being used and the subfloor is smooth 

• The existing chipboard or plywood floor is level and in good condition 

• Minor imperfections can be repaired using a feather finish compound instead of a full screed 

Even in these situations, proper preparation is still important. A clean, solid and level base is always required before installing flooring. 

 

What Happens If You Skip Screeding? 

Skipping screeding may seem like a way to save time and money, but it often causes bigger problems in the long run. The risks include: 

• Uneven floor levels 

• Visible bumps and ridges 

• Gaps appearing between planks or tiles 

• Flooring that feels hollow or loose 

• Movement or bouncing 

• Click joints breaking due to stress 

• Adhesive failing on glue-down flooring 

• Voiding the flooring warranty 

Poor subfloor preparation is one of the main reasons new floors fail after installation. 

 

Types of Screed 

There are different types of screed used depending on the project: 

Latex Self-Levelling Screed 

This is the most common type used in domestic flooring. It is a smooth compound that flows over the floor to correct uneven areas. Ideal for preparing concrete for LVT, vinyl or laminate. 

Sand and Cement Screed 

This is a thicker, more traditional mix used to raise floor height or level large areas. Often used in new builds or major refurbishments. 

Fibre-Reinforced Screed 

This is used over underfloor heating systems as it helps prevent cracking due to temperature changes. 

 

Do You Need a Damp Proof Membrane (DPM)? 

Before screeding, it is essential to check moisture levels in the floor. If moisture is present, a liquid damp proof membrane must be applied first. If you screed over a damp floor without a DPM, moisture can damage the screed and cause flooring failure. 

 

Cost of Screeding 

Costs depend on the size of the area, type of screed and level of preparation needed. Most latex screeding jobs cost between £10 and £18 per square metre. Small rooms may cost £150 to £300, while larger floors can be £500 or more. 

 

Final Summary 

Do you need screeding before fitting flooring? In many cases, yes. If your subfloor is uneven, cracked or damaged, screeding is essential. If you are installing glue-down flooring such as vinyl tiles or LVT, screeding is required for a smooth and professional finish. 

Skipping screeding may save money upfront but usually leads to problems and extra costs later. A properly prepared subfloor is the foundation of a quality flooring job. 

If in doubt: if you can feel bumps, see dips or want a perfect finish, screed the floor.