Retail Unit Screed Failure & Remediation
Defect investigation for a large retail unit suffering from significant screed cracking and debonding. Consurv challenged the landlord’s proposed localised resin treatments, proving the original substrate preparation and application thickness were fundamentally flawed. This intervention ensured the complete removal and proper reinstallation of an appropriate bonded screed system.
Project Overview
Consurv was appointed to investigate significant cracking and debonding affecting the screed within a large retail unit. Previous assessments and localised remedial works had been undertaken. However, concerns remained regarding the condition of the floor and its suitability to receive the proposed floor finishes.
Our Investigation
Consurv carried out detailed inspections and testing across the affected areas. The investigation identified widespread debonding of the screed, together with considerable variations in material strength, indicating that the issue extended beyond isolated areas of failure.
Our review also raised concerns regarding the original screed installation, including the preparation of the substrate and the bonding between the screed and the underlying slab. Through subsequent technical meetings, it was understood by Consurv that the screed had been installed at a greater thickness than recommended for the selected primer/bonding agent and that an alternative system should have been used for the thickness applied.
Consurv challenged the position being put forward by the landlord’s representatives and the proposed approach of carrying out localised repairs. We maintained that resin treatment of individual cracks would not address the underlying debonding and that affected screed needed to be removed back to a sound substrate before being properly replaced.
The Outcome
Following further investigation, technical discussions and review of the proposed remedial methodology, the landlord ultimately accepted that more extensive remedial works were required.
The affected screed was to be removed back to a sound substrate and reinstalled using an appropriate bonded screed system, with the remedial proposals reviewed and accepted by Consurv before being implemented.
This provided the client with a suitable repair that addressed the underlying cause of the flooring failure rather than relying on short-term localised repairs.
