When planning a flooring project, one of the most common questions is: how long after applying screed can you lay the final floor covering? The answer depends on the type of screed used and the flooring material you plan to install. Properly timing this step ensures a durable, professional finish, avoiding issues like uneven surfaces or adhesive failure. Below, we explore the drying times for screeds and offer guidance for a flawless flooring installation.

Understanding Screed Drying Times

Screed is a critical layer applied over a concrete base to create a smooth, level surface for flooring. Drying times vary based on the screed’s composition, thickness, and environmental conditions like humidity and temperature. Traditional screeds may take days or even weeks to dry, but modern, fast-setting screeds significantly reduce waiting times, making them ideal for time-sensitive projects.

For instance, some floor screeds allow foot traffic in as little as 30 minutes to 2 hours and are ready for floor coverings shortly after. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure optimal results, as rushing the process can compromise the floor’s longevity.

A high-performance, ultra-rapid levelling screed like Kelmore LevelMore Absolute 30 can be walkable in just 30 minutes and ready for porcelain, ceramic, or natural stone tiles in 45 minutes (or resilient floor coverings in 90 minutes) perfect for same-day installations.

Factors Affecting Drying Times

While fast-setting screeds streamline the process, several factors can influence drying times:

Thickness: Thicker applications (e.g., 2mm to 30mm) may require slightly longer drying times.

Flooring Type: Tiles often require less drying time than resilient coverings like vinyl or carpet.

Environmental Conditions: High humidity or low temperatures can slow drying, so ensure proper ventilation and stable conditions.

Typical Screed Drying Times by Floor Covering

What to Buy - Our customer favourites

For a flawless flooring project, the right screed doesn’t just save you time — it ensures a lasting, professional finish. Here are two proven options our customers love:

Kelmore LevelMore Flow Self Levelling Floor Screed – The go-to for all-round versatility. Offers superb flow and a silky-smooth finish. Walkable in 2 hours, ready for tiles in 3, and vinyl in 4. Perfect for projects where you want speed without sacrificing quality.

Kelmore LevelMore Rapid 30 Fast Drying Screed – For the tightest deadlines. Walkable in just 30 minutes, ready for tiles in 45 minutes. Ideal for same-day tiling jobs or commercial projects where downtime costs money.

By selecting a high-quality screed and following best practices, you can achieve a smooth, durable surface ready for your chosen flooring in minimal time.