New floor - what is trowelling concrete?

travel_freak

Hi,

I've been given a quote for a new floor and one builder talks of a concrete screed on top but another asked me what I was doing on top (I am going to tile) and he said rather than screed he could just to a trowel finish.

Is a trowel finish sufficient if I tile on top - sounds a bit rough and ready, just wondering if it will be smooth and level enough? Or would I be better off going for screeding?

Many thx in advance.

evilgoose

I not a builder, but I think that a trowel finish should be ok.
Afterall when a wall is plastered its finished (obviously to a higher level) with a trowel.

want2bmortgage3

It sounds like the builder knows his stuff, and knows that if you are tiling on top, then the concrete finish doesnt need to be perfect (as screed would be). So by trowelling, its an easier job for him and should cost a bit less too. It will still be fine for tiling because you can even out any imperfections with the tile adhesive. The screed would only be necessary if you were going to paint the floor, or lay a carpet/wood floor, as they require a smoother finish.

travel_freak

Hi want2bmortgage3

Many thanks for your reply - that's really helpful to know and I've now received this builder's quote which is much better than the others I've had so I think I'll probably go with him. I did mention to the other buidlers that I would be tiling on top but this was the only guy that mentioned about trowelling instead of screed.

Thanks again.

want2bmortgage3

hi travel_freak
glad i could help, it's little things like what the builder pointed out that would help me make my mind up on what tradesmen to use. he's obviously been honest and not tried to get more work out of you which would be unnecessary. I hope he does a good job! Are you tiling yourself?