Guide » Milling screed - That's how it's done!

Milling screed - That's how it's done!

1. When is screed milling used?

In many cases, screed milling offers a precise and efficient way to process screed and thus prepare it for the respective activity. This is used in various situations, such as:

• Subsequent installation of underfloor heating
• repair work
• Milling expansion joints
• Preparation for floor coverings
• Removal of old layers of screed

1.1 Milling the screed for the subsequent installation of underfloor heating

Milling the screed is an effective method for subsequently integrating underfloor heating into the screed. Milling creates precise grooves into which the heating pipes can be laid. This ensures even heat distribution and improves the efficiency of the heater.

1.2 Screed milling for repair work

In the event of damage to the screed, such as cracks or unevenness, milling can be used to remove the screed and apply a new layer.

1.3 Expansion joints in the screed

Expansion joints are important to compensate for tension in the screed and to avoid cracks. They are placed in the screed to give the material room to move. These joints can be created precisely and evenly by screed milling.

1.4 Preparation for floor coverings

If the screed is uneven or residues of adhesive or paint need to be removed, milling can be used to smooth the screed and prepare it for new flooring.

1.5 Removal of old layers of screed

In some cases, such as when renovating old buildings, it may be necessary to remove old layers of screed. Milling can be used here to remove the old screed. A sledgehammer can also be used here in conjunction with a chisel and hammer to remove screed. For more helpful tips on removing screed, use our guide "Removing screed".

2. Screed milling - prerequisites

Before you start milling, a few prerequisites should be met:

• The screed must be dry and free of cracks.
• The room temperature should be at least 15 degrees Celsius.
• The heating pipes should be checked for compatibility with the screed.

3. Screed milling machines and tools

If you decide to do the screed milling yourself, you can rent a screed milling machine from a large hardware store in your region. Make sure that the tiller is suitable for the intended use and is in good condition. Thorough instruction in the operation of the machine is also recommended. Diamond joint cutters or, for small grooves, diamond cutting discs with diamond segments can be used as tools to cut grooves into the screed.

4. How much does screed milling cost?

The cost of screed milling can vary depending on the scope of the project and the method chosen. If you commission a specialist company, the prices can be between 15 and 30 euros per square meter. If you decide to rent a screed milling machine, the rental costs for the machine will also be incurred.

5. Mill underfloor heating in screed

Milling the screed is an effective method for subsequently integrating underfloor heating into the screed. Milling creates precise grooves into which the heating pipes can be laid. This ensures even heat distribution and improves the efficiency of the heater. Here is a brief summary of the most important steps for retrofitting underfloor heating into a screed floor:

1. Mark the desired positions for the heating pipes.
2. Mill precise grooves in the screed with a screed cutter.
3. Then lay the heating pipes in the grooves.
4. Connect the heating pipes and check the heating system.
5. Fill the grooves with a suitable filling material.
6. Do finishing work like laying flooring

6. Milling underfloor heating in screed - advantages and disadvantages

Advantages:

• Quick and precise installation of underfloor heating.
• Even heat distribution in the room.
• Energy efficiency through optimal laying of the heating pipes.

Disadvantages:

• Dust development during milling.
• Possibly higher costs compared to traditional heating systems.

More guides for screed processing

• cutting screed
• Grinding the screed with the angle grinder
• Remove screed
• screed calculator
• Rent a screed grinding machine

7. Conclusion - Milling screed is not difficult

Weigh the pros and cons to make the best decision for your project. If you are unsure, it may be advisable to seek professional help to ensure the best possible result. Screed milling is an important process used for various applications in construction. The method is particularly suitable for the subsequent installation of underfloor heating. Whether you decide to rent a screed milling machine or hire a specialist company depends on your individual requirements and skills.

8. Frequently asked questions when milling screed - helpful short tips

8.1 How deep should you mill the screed?

The depth of the grooves depends on the type of underfloor heating and heating pipes. In general, the depth should be sufficient to safely lay the heating pipes in the screed and at the same time ensure good heat distribution.

8.2 Can you also mill screed yourself?

Yes, it is possible to do screed milling yourself if you have the necessary manual skills and the right equipment. However, it is advisable to find out about the correct procedure and possible risks in advance.

8.3 How long does screed milling take?

The duration of the screed milling depends on the size of the project and the technique used. For smaller projects, it can take as little as a few hours, while larger areas can take several days.

8.4 What alternatives are there to milling screed?

An alternative to milling the screed is to chisel or knock off the screed. However, this can be more time-consuming and physically demanding. Another option is to lay the underfloor heating on top of the existing screed and then apply a thin layer of screed on top.

8.5 Can milling the screed damage the floor?

If the screed milling is carried out professionally, the risk of damage is low. Nevertheless, it is important to check the screed for cracks or other damage in advance in order to identify and eliminate possible problems at an early stage.