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Restoration & Refurbishment

1979 flat, very loose areas of original screed exposing paper slip layer

James Philip Morrison 12/10/2026 - 8.15 AM

I would be extremely grateful for any advice you could give me with the following.  I am trying to refurbish the floors of my 1979 1st floor flat. After having to break out an area of cracked original concrete screed I have exposed what I think is an old paper 'slip sheet' or debonding layer which was laid under chicken wire that must have been the base for the original screed. There are still patches where the screed is very crumbly and loose and the entire screed subfloor appears to be floated over the paper layer which is separating it from the structural concrete beneath.   How can I repair this area in preparation for a layer of SLC? I am concerned about pouring a liquid screed over the exposed paper. kind regards

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2 Answers

Creative Construction and Design (CCD )

Rating: 4.7 out of 5
Norwich
This is work that as been done by DIY methods if you require my expertise they will need more information ne photos Regards Chris
Answered24 August 2026
0

Delman Saeed

Rating: 5 out of 5
Southsea
Hi James, I wouldn’t recommend pouring self-levelling compound directly over the exposed paper slip layer or over loose and crumbling screed. From your description, it sounds like the original floor may have been constructed as an unbonded screed system, with a separating layer between the screed and structural concrete. The first step would be to assess the condition of the remaining screed. Any loose, cracked or unstable areas need to be properly investigated, as applying SLC over them could lead to further cracking or failure. Depending on the condition of the floor, the best solution may be to remove the defective screed and reinstate it using a suitable screed system before applying a compatible levelling compound. I would also recommend checking the floor construction, permissible loading and any acoustic requirements, particularly as this is a first-floor flat. Given the age of the property, any unidentified materials should be assessed before further disturbance, including an appropriate asbestos survey where necessary. A site inspection would be the best way to determine whether a local repair is possible or whether a more extensive replacement is required. Hope this helps!
Answered12 October 2026
0