Screed is a great solution to a number of flooring issues, creating an even surface. But how much does it cost? Here’s all you need to know.

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The average cost of floor screeding currently stands at around £33 per m² (including both materials and labour).

However, your total cost can vary based on a number of different factors, such as the type of screed and its thickness. Read on for more.

How much to screed a floor in 2026?

To help determine the cost of a screed floor let’s look at the average prices people pay. 

• For traditional screed, the usual total will fall within the range £18 - £20 per m²

• Average labour costs are around £12 - £16 per m²

• This gives us an overall average screed floor cost of £33 per m²

Start your search for a checked screed supplier covering your local area today.

Screed floor cost by type

While many new types of screed are always being created, there are three that are commonly used in residential settings. Below is a brief summary of these three types and their prices.

Sand and cement screed cost

Traditionally used, sand and cement screed is not runny but is semi-dry, making it easy to work with. 

It’s also commonly used with underfloor heating.

Costs for traditional sand and cement screed typically range from £18 - £20 per m².

Liquid screed cost

Becoming more and more popular, liquid screed (also known as flowing screed) is self-levelling, making creating an even, level surface much easier. 

It is also great for use with underfloor heating and can be more than 10 times quicker to lay than the traditional type of screed.

Liquid screed costs per m² tend to range from £19 - £24 per m².

Fast drying screed cost

Screed can take a while to dry, making it difficult for busy families to access their homes during this time. 

Fast drying screed vastly reduces this time and can dry in as little as 12 hours.

Fast drying screed costs range from around £18 - £22 per m² per m².

Find screeding companies near me

If you’re having new flooring laid, you might first need to screed your floor to level out the surface. That’s where a screeding contractor comes in! Here, we’ll look at everything to do with hiring screeding companies near you – from what they do to how much they tend to charge.

Learn more

Cost of screed per m² 

It is very common to be quoted a price for floor screed based on how many square metres your room is. 

Traditional screed tends to cost the least, while liquid screed costs the most – and fast drying screed sits somewhere in the middle.

• The average floor screed cost per m² is £19 (without labour)

• Once you factor in labour too, this works out at around £33 per m²

Just bear in mind that your overall cost will vary based on several different factors.

Factors affecting screed costs 

In order to correctly budget for your new floor screed project, you will need to consider a variety of factors.

Type of screed

Each type of screed will be priced differently. Usually, liquid screed will be more expensive than its traditional or fast drying counterparts.

Thickness of screed

Depending on the type of screed, its intended use and other factors, you may need a thicker or thinner layer. This will affect the total cost. The thicker the screed you require, the greater the price will be.

Size of area to be covered

Larger areas will need more screed and mean increased labour times, adding to the floor screed cost.

Location

Where you live in the country will impact the price you will pay for floor screed. Places like London have greater living costs and will mean higher labour costs.

Connect with checked  screed contractors covering your local area for your next project.

Hidden costs to consider

It’s important to make sure that you’ve factored in every possible cost, so you’re not hit with any nasty surprises. Here are a couple of hidden costs to consider.

Furniture

You’ll need to move all furniture out of the room where you’re laying screed. If you’re unable to do this by yourself, you will need to pay an additional fee for a tradesperson to help with this.

Drying time

Certain types of screed have longer drying times which can affect the amount you will pay.

Always ask your tradesperson to outline exactly what their quote includes, so you can be sure you’ve accounted for everything.

How to plan for screed flooring

Screed flooring creates a flat surface for new carpet, tile, wood or vinyl. Discover how to plan for screed flooring with our helpful guide.

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Cost of hiring a tradesperson for floor screeding vs DIY

If you’re looking at ways to reduce your screed floor costs, you might be considering screeding the floor yourself.

After all, this would mean you don’t have to pay any labour costs for the work.

It is possible to screed a floor yourself, but it is no easy feat. 

Make sure you consider the below points before deciding whether to tackle screeding yourself, or whether to hire a professional:

• It is extremely difficult to mix cement and sand properly, smoothly and evenly

• It takes a lot of experience to create a flat, level surface

• If not done well leaves you with a bumpy, uneven floor that is a tripping hazard and means wobbly tables or chairs

• Once the screed is laid, it can also be tricky to remove and redo

• Mistakes could cost you more in the long run

• You will probably need to remove and reinstall your skirting boards which can be difficult to do without damaging them

• A tradesperson can explain the different types of screed and help you choose the best type for your needs

Due to this, it’s a good idea to hire a checked company with customer reviews.

How to screed a floor

We explain how to screed a floor, the different types of screed available, common mistakes to avoid, and when it's worth calling in a professional.

Learn more

What are screed flooring day rates?

The approximate hourly cost for screeding a floor is £30 - £40 per hour, with an average day rate of £250.

Just bear in mind that factors like location can affect your labour costs too.

It’s a good idea to enquire with various tradepeople and get at least three quotes for screed flooring, so you can compare companies and understand typical price points for the work.

Floor screeding cost calculator

Want to get a good idea of what your project could cost?

Why not try out our job estimator, which uses actual Checkatrade job pricing data to provide a good estimate of cost.

Alternatively, request a quote from local tradespeople and we'll put you in touch.

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Screed flooring cost checklist

• Screed creates a level, smooth surface to best support your new flooring and heavy furniture

• There are three common types of screed used residentially: sand and cement, liquid, and fast drying

• The size of the area, type of screed and thickness of screed all determine the total floor screed cost per m²

• It is not wise to screed a floor yourself unless you have qualified experience and training in this area

Hire a checked screeding company covering your local area. 

Floor screed checklist

It is a good idea to consider the following before getting the job booked in:

• Why do you need screed flooring?

• Where will it be located in your home?

• Are you replacing existing flooring?

• Do you know what type of screed you require?

• What is the size area that needs flooring?

• Do you have previous experience or expertise?

FAQs

What is screed?

Comprised of a mixture of cement, water and sand, the term ‘screed’ applies to a thin layer of material that sits on top of your home’s concrete floor.

Screed is applied before flooring to ensure a level and supportive surface for walking and for furniture to rest on.

Used since 1984, screed is a great solution to a number of flooring issues. Not only does it create an even surface but it can also be used to cover certain systems, such as underfloor heating, as it allows heat to spread through itself.

How much does a 20kg screed cover?

A 20kg bag of screed usually covers around 1m² at a depth of 10mm. Coverage can vary depending on the product and the condition of the floor underneath. For the best finish and the correct depth throughout, it’s worth hiring a professional flooring specialist to make sure the job is done properly.

Can I screed straight onto concrete?

Yes, you can screed straight onto concrete, but the surface must be clean, dry, and properly prepared first. Any dust, cracks, or moisture issues can affect how well the screed bonds. A qualified tradesperson will know how to prepare the concrete correctly for a smooth, long-lasting finish.

Is liquid screed as strong as concrete?

Liquid screed is strong and durable, but standard concrete is usually stronger overall and better suited to structural work. Liquid screed is designed to create a smooth, level surface for flooring. A professional can advise on the right material for your project and ensure it performs as it should.

Can I screed my own floor?

It’s possible to screed your own floor, but getting an even, level finish can be difficult without the right tools and experience. Poorly laid screed can crack or cause problems with your final flooring. Hiring a screeding professional helps ensure the correct mix, depth, and finish for a long-lasting result.

What is a screed floor box?

A screed floor box is a recessed box fitted into a screeded floor to hold electrical sockets, data points, or other services. They’re commonly used in offices and open-plan spaces. Correct installation is important to avoid damage to the screed and ensure everything sits flush with the finished floor.

What is the strongest screed mix?

Traditional sand and cement screed mixed at a stronger ratio, such as 3:1, is often considered one of the strongest screed mixes. Industrial and heavy-duty projects may also use polymer-modified or epoxy screeds for extra strength.

Why screed a floor?

It is well worth investing in screed if you are installing a new floor as it eliminates any concerns regarding damp, due to its waterproof nature.

It’s also a great way of adding insulation to save on energy bills. 

Plus, you won’t need to worry about using heavy furniture, as screed sets into a solid, strong foundation for your room. 

Depending on a range of factors, the average screed floor cost can be quite affordable. Together with its versatility and variety of benefits, this makes screed a wise choice.

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