7 Smart Reasons to Know: Can You Screed Over Concrete?

Whether you’re working on a home renovation in Malta or managing a commercial project, one question comes up again and again: can you screed over concrete?

The answer is a resounding yes—but with a few important conditions.

In this in-depth guide, we’ll break down exactly when and how you can screed over concrete, the benefits, potential pitfalls, and expert tips to ensure your screeded floor is level, durable, and ready for finishing. If you’re in Malta, this guide is especially for you—featuring local prices in euros and climate-specific advice.

Let’s get straight to it.

Can You Screed Over Concrete? The Quick Answer| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Yes, you absolutely can screed over concrete—and in many cases, you should.

Screeding over concrete is a common practice in both residential and commercial construction. It’s done to:

• Create a level surface

• Prepare for final floor finishes (tiles, microcement, wood, etc.)

• Cover underfloor heating pipes

• Improve insulation or moisture resistance

That said, you can’t just pour screed onto concrete and hope for the best. The success of the application depends on several factors:

• The type of screed used

• Substrate condition

• Moisture content

• Use of bonding agents or membranes

If done properly, screeding over concrete gives you a durable, flawless base for any flooring system.

✅ Need professional help? You can contact us here to request a screeding quote in Malta, including bonded and unbonded options.

Understanding the Screed-Concrete Relationship| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Before you screed over concrete, you need to understand how the two layers interact.

Concrete is the structural base—thick, strong, and load-bearing. Screed, by contrast, is the finishing layer—thin, smooth, and precise. Think of screed as the polish on a good haircut. It’s what makes your floor look and feel complete.

🔍 Screed Thickness Guidelines (Over Concrete):

• Bonded Screed: 25–50mm

• Unbonded Screed: 50–70mm

• Floating Screed (over insulation): 65–100mm

• With Underfloor Heating: At least 65mm

Choosing the right type and thickness of screed depends on the functionality of the space and the condition of the existing concrete.

Types of Screed You Can Use Over Concrete| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Yes, you can screed over concrete—but not all screeds are created equal. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options in Malta:

1. Traditional Sand and Cement Screed

• Mix Ratio: 1 part cement to 3–5 parts sharp sand

• Application: Laid manually, leveled with a screed bar

• Drying Time: 1mm per day (minimum 28 days)

Best for: Homes, small commercial spaces, bathrooms

💶 Malta Price Estimate: €20–€30 per m² depending on area and access

2. Flowing Screed (Liquid Screed)

• Made from: Anhydrite (gypsum-based)

• Application: Poured and self-leveling

• Best for: Large areas, underfloor heating

💶 Malta Price Estimate: €30–€40 per m² due to specialized installation

3. Polymer-Modified Screed

• Enhanced adhesion, flexibility, and quicker drying

• Suitable for thin overlays and areas needing fast access

💶 Malta Price Estimate: €35–€50 per m² depending on additive type

✅ Need help choosing the right type for your project? Reach out to us and we’ll assess your needs for free.

Bonded vs Unbonded Screed – Which One Works Best Over Concrete?| Can You Screed Over Concrete

One major decision you’ll face when screeding over concrete is whether to go bonded or unbonded.

Here’s what each involves:

🧱 Bonded Screed

• Screed is glued directly to the concrete using a bonding agent or slurry

• Minimum thickness: 25mm

• Best for: Thin overlays, indoor areas with no movement

Pros:

• Strong adhesion

• Reduced cracking risk when applied properly

Cons:

• Concrete must be clean, dry, and primed

• Difficult on older or damp slabs

🧱 Unbonded Screed

• Screed sits on a membrane or plastic sheet, not attached to the concrete

• Minimum thickness: 50mm

• Best for: Damp concrete, or areas where slab might move or shift

Pros:

• Less risk of bonding failure

• Good for older or damaged slabs

Cons:

• Needs more thickness (and material)

💡 In Malta, where older properties often have moisture issues, unbonded screeds are commonly used—especially in ground floors or basements.

Surface Prep: The Secret to Screeding Over Concrete Successfully| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Even if you’ve got the best screed mix in the world, bad surface preparation will ruin your floor.

Here’s how the pros prep a concrete slab before screeding over it:

✅ 1. Clean the Surface Thoroughly

Dust, oil, and debris must be removed. Any weak or flaky concrete is ground away.

✅ 2. Moisture Test the Slab

Use a moisture meter to check the concrete’s water content. Screed should only be applied if:

• Moisture is below 75% RH (for bonded)

• Or a waterproof membrane is applied (for unbonded)

✅ 3. Prime or Bond

If doing a bonded screed, a bonding agent or cement slurry is applied to help adhesion.

✅ 4. Edge Insulation (Optional)

For floating screeds, edge insulation strips are installed to allow for expansion.

✅ 5. Reinforcement (if needed)

Fibres or metal mesh can be added for reinforcement—especially in areas with heavy foot traffic or risk of cracking.

This careful preparation ensures your screed performs well for years—without cracks, curling, or delamination.

Why Screed Over Concrete? The Big Benefits| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Still wondering why screed over concrete at all? If your slab is already strong, why not tile directly?

Here are 5 strong reasons why screeding over concrete is a smart choice:

✅ 1. Perfectly Levels Uneven Surfaces

Concrete slabs often settle or slope. Screed smooths out imperfections for flawless flooring.

✅ 2. Prepares for Final Finish

Thin, delicate finishes like microcement or vinyl need ultra-smooth surfaces. Screed provides that perfect layer.

✅ 3. Supports Underfloor Heating

Screed locks in UFH pipes and helps distribute heat evenly.

✅ 4. Reduces Moisture Problems

Using the right screed mix and membranes can minimize water penetration—ideal for humid Maltese interiors.

✅ 5. Cost-Effective Solution

Rather than demolishing and recasting an uneven slab, you can simply screed over it.

💶 Cost Benefit: Recasting a concrete slab can cost €90–€130 per m². Screeding over it? Just €20–€40 per m². That’s massive savings!

Screeding in Turnkey Construction Projects| Can You Screed Over Concrete

In turnkey construction, screeding over concrete is usually included as a standard finishing step. It ensures:

• Uniform floor levels across rooms

• Smooth base for final finishes

• Faster project delivery

🔗 Learn more about how screed fits into turnkey construction workflows and why it’s indispensable.

If you’re investing in a turnkey renovation or build in Malta, ensure that screeding is factored in—especially if you plan on high-end finishes like resin or microcement.

Need Screed Over Concrete? Check Out Our Service| Can You Screed Over Concrete

If you’re planning to upgrade your floors or tackle a renovation in Malta and you’re asking can you screed over concrete, the answer is yes—with the right expertise.

✅ We offer full-service screeding solutions across Malta, including:

• Bonded and unbonded systems

• Traditional and liquid screeds

• Fast-drying options

• Microcement-ready surfaces

👉 Check out our screed services here

📞 Contact Us for Screeding Over Concrete in Malta| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Still not sure what type of screed is best for your concrete slab? Don’t worry—we’ll help you figure it out.

Whether it’s your home, commercial property, or part of a turnkey construction package, we’ll ensure your screed is flawless.

👉 Contact us now for a no-obligation site visit or custom quote.

How Screeding Over Concrete Actually Works (Step-by-Step)| Can You Screed Over Concrete

So we’ve answered the main question: can you screed over concrete? Yes, you can—and should in many cases. But how does the process actually work?

Below is a simplified step-by-step overview of how professional screeding over concrete is done, particularly adapted for the Maltese climate and building conditions.

🛠 Step 1: Site Inspection and Planning

Before anything is poured or mixed, a proper site inspection is carried out. This includes:

• Measuring floor levels

• Checking concrete substrate condition

• Testing for moisture (especially in older or damp areas)

• Deciding between bonded, unbonded, or floating screed

In Malta, where older stone buildings often have moisture challenges, the unbonded method with a damp-proof membrane is quite common.

🛠 Step 2: Surface Preparation

This step is absolutely critical. A poorly prepared surface leads to cracks, hollows, or even total failure of the screed.

Here’s what happens:

• Cleaning the concrete base thoroughly

• Removing dust, oil, and debris

• Repairing surface defects

• Grinding or priming the slab if needed

• Installing a bonding agent (if going bonded)

• Or laying a polyethylene membrane (if going unbonded)

🛠 Step 3: Mixing the Screed

Depending on the type of screed (traditional, liquid, or polymer-modified), mixing is done using:

• A forced-action mixer for sand-and-cement mixes

• Ready-mix trucks or pumps for flowing screeds

For traditional screed, a 1:3–1:5 mix of cement to sharp sand is typical. Water is added gradually until a semi-dry consistency is achieved.

Flowing screeds arrive premixed and are poured using hoses for quick installation.

🛠 Step 4: Application and Levelling

The screed is then laid across the prepared area, using laser levels, screed rails, or battens to ensure accuracy.

• Traditional screed is hand-troweled and leveled using straightedges

• Flowing screed self-levels but still requires guidance around edges

➕ Optional Reinforcements:

• Fibres or mesh can be added to strengthen the screed

• Edge strips are installed for expansion, especially in large rooms or when using underfloor heating

🛠 Step 5: Finishing and Curing

Once leveled, the surface is:

• Troweled smooth

• Protected from foot traffic and rapid drying

• Left to cure naturally, often under plastic sheeting or in a controlled environment

Proper curing is essential to avoid:

• Cracking

• Curling

• Weak bonding with tiles or microcement

Curing Time and Drying Advice (Don’t Rush It!)| Can You Screed Over Concrete

One of the biggest mistakes we see—especially in DIY jobs—is not allowing screed to cure properly before applying tiles or floor finishes.

Here’s a general guide to drying times when you screed over concrete:

🧪 Tip: Before tiling or applying microcement, always test residual moisture with a digital moisture meter. Levels should be:

• <2% for tiles

• <0.5% for microcement or wood

Microcement Over Screed: The Perfect Pairing| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Many homeowners in Malta choose to apply microcement over screed to get a seamless, modern, waterproof finish.

But why does screed matter here?

Because microcement is only 2–3mm thick, it magnifies any imperfections underneath. Uneven screed = bumpy microcement.

Here’s how the two work together:

✔ Screed provides:

• Level foundation

• Absorption of minor movements

• Strong bonding surface

✔ Microcement provides:

• A decorative finish

• Waterproofing when sealed

• Sleek, seamless aesthetics

💶 Combined Cost in Malta:

• Screed: €20–€40/m²

• Microcement: €80–€120/m²

• Total: €100–€160/m² for a high-end, fully waterproof floor

👉 Curious about microcement? Ask us about combo packages when you contact our team.

Tiles Over Screed: Still a Top Choice| Can You Screed Over Concrete

If you’re not going for microcement, tile flooring over screed is still incredibly popular in Malta—especially with ceramic or porcelain.

Why screed first?

• Reduces the need for thick adhesive

• Prevents tile cracking or lipping

• Allows faster, cleaner tile installation

🎯 Screed acts as your precision foundation before the tiler takes over.

Maintenance Tips: Keeping Your Screeded Floors in Top Shape| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Once your screed is covered with tile, wood, or microcement, maintenance is straightforward. However, if you ever leave screed exposed (e.g., in garages or industrial settings), keep this in mind:

🧼 Clean with pH-neutral products

Harsh chemicals can weaken the cement matrix.

💧 Watch for Moisture

If your screed wasn’t sealed, rising damp or leaks could cause damage.

🧱 Reseal if Exposed

Use a cementitious sealer every 2–3 years if the screed is exposed to foot traffic or weather.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Screeding Over Concrete| Can You Screed Over Concrete

When people ask, can you screed over concrete, they sometimes assume it’s as easy as pouring cement and walking away.

Not quite.

Here are the most common errors we’ve seen in Malta, especially in DIY or unskilled jobs:

❌ 1. Screeding Over Wet Concrete

If the base is still curing or damp, screed won’t bond. You risk delamination.

❌ 2. Skipping a Bonding Agent

If you’re doing bonded screed without primer or bonding slurry, expect cracks and hollow sounds.

❌ 3. Incorrect Thickness

Too thin = fragile
Too thick = unnecessarily expensive or slow to dry

❌ 4. No Movement Joints

In large areas, lack of expansion joints leads to surface cracking, especially in Malta’s summer heat.

❌ 5. Rushing the Drying

Applying tiles or microcement too early traps moisture—and eventually causes failure.

The Fix? Work with trained professionals who understand Malta’s humidity, substrate challenges, and best practices.

FAQs – Can You Screed Over Concrete?| Can You Screed Over Concrete

❓ Can you screed over old concrete?

Yes—but only after it’s tested for stability, cleaned, and primed. An unbonded screed is often safer for old concrete.

❓ Is screeding expensive?

Not really. Screed is one of the most cost-effective ways to level floors. Expect €20–€40 per m² in Malta.

❓ Can I walk on the screed right away?

Light foot traffic is okay after 24–48 hours, but wait longer before laying final finishes.

❓ Do I need to screed before tiling?

If your base is uneven or you’re using thin adhesives, yes—screeding is strongly recommended.

❓ How do I know if I need bonded or unbonded?

That depends on your slab’s moisture level, age, and condition. Unbonded is safer for older, damp, or cracked concrete.

Need tailored advice? Contact us and we’ll help you decide.

Final Thoughts: So, Can You Screed Over Concrete?| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Let’s recap.

Can you screed over concrete? Yes—and it’s often the best solution for creating level, durable floors.

In Malta, with our blend of modern homes and historic buildings, screeding offers:

• Flexibility

• Precision

• Compatibility with any finish

• Moisture protection

• Lower costs than re-casting slabs

But only if it’s done right.

✅ Check Out Our Screeding Services in Malta| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Whether you’re building, renovating, or upgrading, we offer professional screed installation across Malta for:

• Residential homes

• Commercial projects

• Underfloor heating setups

• Microcement-ready surfaces

👉 Check out our screed service here and explore our full offering.

📞 Ready to Get Started? Contact Us| Can You Screed Over Concrete

Still have questions about whether you can screed over concrete in your home or project?

We’re here to help.

✅ Site inspections
✅ Moisture testing
✅ Professional installation
✅ Clean, level, long-lasting floors

👉 Contact us here to get a custom quote or book a consultation.

Let Kibitec make your floors flawless—from concrete base to final finish.