Open plan living has become one of the most popular design choices for modern homes. The seamless flow between kitchen, dining, and living spaces creates a light, spacious environment — but it also comes with practical challenges. One of the most important aspects of any open plan project is the flooring, and that’s where screeding plays a crucial role.
Why Screeding Matters in Open Plan Living Spaces
In a large, continuous area, even minor imperfections in the subfloor can become very noticeable. Uneven surfaces can cause:
Visible dips or high spots in your flooring
Tiles or boards not sitting flush
Increased risk of cracking or premature wear
Screeding ensures that the floor is level, durable, and long-lasting. It also helps with acoustic performance and can be combined with underfloor heating systems for added comfort.
Types of Screed to Consider
Traditional sand and cement screed – cost-effective and reliable, ideal for most domestic projects.
Liquid/flowing screed (anhydrite or cement-based) – self-levelling, quick to install, and especially effective for large open plan areas.
Fast-drying screed – perfect if your project has a tight timeline and you need to lay floor coverings sooner.
The Benefits of Professional Screeding
While some DIY enthusiasts attempt screeding, a large open plan living area demands professional skill and equipment to achieve a flawless finish. A qualified screeder will:
- Ensure consistent levels across the full space
- Minimise waste and drying time
- Advise on the best screed for your project
- Guarantee a finish that lasts for decades
Summary
Screeding is one of the hidden but essential steps in creating a successful open plan living area. By investing in the right preparation, you’ll achieve a perfectly smooth, durable base that enhances the look, feel, and function of your home.
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Floor screeding commenced following consultation with the client and their design team. Interior Screed Group were then instructed to install to the ground floor, 1200g damp proof membrane with a 500g separating layer together with an 85mm thick C40 ultra-rapid drying fibre reinforced floor screed.
Utilising sand and cement floor screed we provided the contractor with the flexibility to to create micro falls therefore enabling us to easily marry up shop and rear entrance thresholds ensuring final floor finishes fitted perfectly.
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