Reinforcement is required for structural purposes or for minimizing the width of cracks, then fabric reinforcement of the appropriate grade should be specified. In floating screeds, wire netting conforming to BS EN 10223-2 and similar materials are often specified for use in floor systems. Such netting is placed over the insulation to protect it during construction. It does not contribute to the structural performance or crack resistance of the screed. The size of fabric reinforcement should be chosen with regards to its overall thickness and the need to accommodate up to three layers at overlaps in about the middle third of the screed.
Location of services
The laying of pipes or conduits within the thickness of a levelling screed should be avoided because cracking can occur over them and can lead to problems with subsequently applied floorings. If this unavoidable, the pipes and conduits should be securely anchored in position and screed material well compacted around and over them to a minimum thickness of 25 mm above the pipes.
