What is a Screed? (And Why It Matters)

What is a Screed? (And Why It Matters)

A screed is the straight-edge board used to level wet concrete. It's the first tool used after concrete is placed, and it establishes the flatness of the entire slab. Understanding what a screed does and why it matters is essential for professional concrete work.

What is a Screed?

A screed is a straight board used to level concrete:

Physical Description

• Straight board: Typically a 2x4 or longer board
• Straight edge: Must be perfectly straight
• Length: Typically longer than the width being screeded

How It's Used

• Pulled across forms: Dragged across the top of forms
• Levels concrete: Removes excess and levels surface
• Establishes height: Sets the final height of the slab

Why Screeding Matters

Screeding is the foundation of flat, level concrete.

1. Establishes Flatness

• First step: Sets the initial flatness
• Foundation for finish: All other finishing depends on this
• Can't fix later: If screeding is wrong, finishing can't fully fix it

2. Sets Final Height

• Determines thickness: Sets the concrete thickness
• Matches forms: Concrete height matches form height
• Critical for specifications: Must match design requirements

3. Removes Excess Concrete

• Levels surface: Removes high spots
• Fills low spots: Distributes concrete evenly
• Prevents waste: Removes excess concrete

How to Screed Properly

Proper screeding technique is essential:

Step-by-Step Process

1. Place concrete: Dump concrete into forms
2. Spread roughly: Spread concrete roughly level
3. Place screed: Set screed across top of forms
4. Pull across: Pull screed across in smooth motion
5. Remove excess: Excess concrete falls ahead of screed
6. Repeat as needed: Multiple passes may be needed

Important Techniques

• Keep screed on forms: Don't let it dip into concrete
• Smooth motion: Pull smoothly, not jerky
• Overlap passes: Ensure complete coverage
• Watch for low spots: Fill and screed again if needed

Types of Screeds

Hand Screed: Manual board pulled by hand (small projects)

Power Screed: Vibrating screed (large projects, better consolidation)

The Bottom Line

A screed is the straight-edge board used to level wet concrete. It establishes the flatness of the slab—this first step sets the foundation for all subsequent finishing. Without proper screeding, you can't achieve flat, level concrete. Screeding must be done carefully and correctly, as mistakes here affect the entire project. It's the critical first step that makes professional concrete work possible.

Need professional concrete placement? Contact Local Concrete Contractor. We use proper screeding techniques to establish flat, level slabs from the start.