Empirical offer testing, inspection, and sampling of floor screeds both, as a quality control check and also as part of a failure investigation to inform clients on the viability of the screed.

At Empirical, we offer a number of methods in which to assess and investigate screed such as in-situ test methods, NDT methods, limited investigative techniques and sampling of screeds for subsequent inspection and analysis. Below are examples of assessment and investigation methodologies available.

• Visual Inspection & In-situ measurements: This incorporates the undertaking of a detailed visual examination to the screed surface in order to map visible defects including cracking and curling. Understanding the crack patterns and depths in screed can be essential to understand the potential cause of defects. Moreover, the undertaking of in-situ level surveys and measurements are imperative to identify the level tolerances of the screed.

• Drop Hammer / Crushing Resistance: Screed testing in accordance with the BRE Test method described in BS8204-1:2003 & A1:2009. The BRE drop hammer test is conducted to identify if the screed is strong enough to withstand the traffic in service, without breaking down. This test can be effectively used to assess the requirement for remedial measures in cases where the mix proportions, mixing or compaction are suspected to be inadequate. Further, by assessing the soundness, the BRE screed test enables the in-situ crushing resistance (ISCR) of the screed to be ascertained.

• Bond Tests: Depending on the type of screed, the bond may be crucial to the serviceability to enable it to perform as intended during its lifespan. A hammer tap survey can be conducted over the screed surface to identify areas of de-bonding. Furthermore, where the bond strength is required, in-situ or laboratory specimens can be tested in accordance with methods given in BS EN 13892-8.

• Sampling: The sampling of screeds can enable several laboratory tests to be undertaken such as measurement of thickness, visual assessment of compaction, moisture content and mix proportion analysis.