Cement–Sand Floor Screed Method Statement and ITP

More than a static template

Unlike a downloadable Word or PDF template, this method statement is an AI-assisted editable starting point connected directly to a matching Inspection and Test Plan. Every section is structured, project-adaptable, and ready to export.

AI-assisted drafting — Customize every section with AI for your specific project scope.
Linked ITP — A matching inspection and test plan is generated alongside the method statement.
Multiple export formats — Download as a formatted PDF or editable Excel spreadsheet.
Editable starting point, not a final document — Review, verify, and adjust all content against your project requirements before use.

Static template vs. Quollnet workflow

Feature	Static template	Quollnet
Project-specific content	Manual fill-in required	AI-assisted customization
Linked ITP	Separate document, no link	Matching ITP included
Export formats	Usually PDF only	PDF and Excel
Structured sections	Free-form layout	13 standardized sections
Saved to your account	Local file only	Cloud-saved, reusable
Content accuracy	You verify everything	AI-assisted, you still verify
Cost	Often free but time-intensive	Free to customize and download

What you can customize

When you save this method statement to your account, every section becomes editable. The following 13 sections are included:

Scope — Defines the activity and its boundaries.
References — Standards, specifications, and drawings.
Responsibilities — Roles and accountabilities.
Resources — Labour, plant, and equipment summary.
Materials — Materials and compliance requirements.
Equipment — Tools and equipment details.
Prerequisites — Hold points and pre-conditions.
Method sequence — Step-by-step construction sequence.
Safety controls — HSE risk controls and PPE.
Environmental controls — Environmental mitigation measures.
QA/QC — Quality inspection and test requirements.
ITP — Inspection and Test Plan table (has its own page).
Attachments — Referenced drawings and documentation.

Why this method statement is used

This method statement is used to define and communicate the approved procedure for carrying out method statement: cement–sand floor screed works on site. It ensures the work is planned in advance, the correct resources and controls are in place, and all personnel understand responsibilities, sequence, quality requirements, and safety controls before work begins. It aligns site execution with the documented scope and acceptance expectations.

Who uses this method statement

This method statement is used by contractors, site supervisors, project engineers, QA/QC engineers, HSE officers, consultants, and client representatives. It serves as a shared reference for planning, execution, supervision, inspection, and approval of the activity on site.

When it is prepared and submitted

The method statement is prepared before the work activity starts and submitted as part of the pre-construction documentation package for review and approval.

Who reviews or approves it

The method statement is usually submitted to the client representative, consultant, resident engineer, or project management consultant for review and approval before the work commences.

Important approval note

This method statement is an AI-assisted editable starting point, not a pre-approved document. Before use on any project, all content must be reviewed and approved by the relevant parties (superintendent, principal contractor, or client representative) in accordance with your contract and project quality plan.

For example: if your specification requires a departure from a referenced standard, that departure must be documented and approved separately — this method statement will not capture that automatically. Always verify against your applicable drawings, specifications, and regulatory requirements.

Method statement content

Scope

Description

This method statement covers materials, workmanship, sequence, QA/QC, HSE, and ITP requirements for cement–sand floor screed works in commercial and residential areas. It includes substrate preparation; datum/benchmarks; bonding methods (bonded, unbonded, floating, heated); screed mixing, placement, compaction, finishing; thickness and level control; curing; flatness and levelness verification; moisture testing prior to floor finishes; and handover records.

Areas

All internal floor areas scheduled to receive cement–sand screed prior to floor finishes (tiles, resilient floorings, timber, carpet, resin).

Exclusions

Structural concrete slabs and toppings not designated as screed.
Calcium sulphate/anhydrite screeds (separate method required).

Objectives

Achieve specified surface regularity (SR class), thickness, strength, bond (for bonded screeds), moisture condition for floor finish compatibility, and documented compliance through ITP, inspections, tests, and records.

References

Document Type	Reference / Number	Revision	Notes
Standard	BS 8204-1	Latest [Verify per project specifications]
Standard	BS EN 13813	Latest [Verify per project specifications]
Standard	BS 8203 / ASTM F2170 / ASTM F1869	Latest [Verify per project specifications]
Standard	BS EN 197-1 / ASTM C150	Latest [Verify per project specifications]
Standard	BS EN 13139 / ASTM C33	Latest [Verify per project specifications]
Standard	BS EN 1008	Latest [Verify per project specifications]
Standard	BS EN 13892-2/-8 etc.	Latest [Verify per project specifications]
Standard (Guidance)	ACI 302.1R	Latest [Verify per project specifications]	Used as guidance where aligned with BS 8204.
TDS	As supplied	Current	[Verify per project specifications]

Responsibilities

Role	Responsibility	Name / Party
Project Manager	PM	Contractor
Site Engineer	SE	Contractor
QA/QC Engineer	QA/QC	Contractor
HSE Officer	HSE	Contractor
Land Surveyor	Survey	Contractor
General Foreman	Foreman	Contractor
MEP Coordinator	MEP Coord.	Contractor
Laboratory	Lab	Independent
Engineer/Consultant	Employer's Rep	Employer

Resources

Resource Type	Description	Quantity	Remarks
Manpower	Screed gang (mixing, pumping, leveling, finishing)	6 persons
Manpower	Setting out and QA levels	1 person

Materials

Material	Specification / Grade	Quantity
Cement	CEM I 42.5N min [Verify]	[As per BOQ]
Sand	Zone 2–3 [Verify]	[As per BOQ]
Water	Clean	As required
SBR/Epoxy	Per TDS [Verify]	[As required]
PE membrane	1200 gauge [Verify]	[As per drawings]
Edge strip	Compressible, 50–100 mm high [Verify]	[As required]
Profiles	Height= screed depth	[As per drawings]
PP fibers	6–12 mm length [Verify]	[As specified]
Curing	Non-staining	As required

Equipment

Equipment	Capacity / Type	Quantity
Mixer	≥200 L [Verify]	1–2
Pump		1
Laser		1
Hand tools		As required
		As required
		Sets as required
		1

Prerequisites

Approvals & Coordination

Approved method statement, ITP, mix design, and material submittals.
Confirm screed type per area: bonded, unbonded, floating, heated (UFH).
Drawings marked with movement joints, bay layout, and finished floor levels (FFL).

Substrate Readiness

Structural slab cured and load-bearing; surface free of laitance, curing compounds, oil, dust, paint, and weak layers.
Existing cracks assessed; structural cracks treated per Engineer’s instruction.
MEP embedded services fixed and inspected; floor penetrations sealed.
For bonded screed: surface prepared to obtain a mechanical profile (CSP 3–5) by shot blasting/scabbling; vacuum cleaned.

Environmental & Site Conditions

Ambient/substrate temperature 10–30°C; avoid draughts and direct heat. [Verify per project specifications]
Adequate lighting and ventilation without causing rapid drying.
Weatherproof building envelope or temporary protection in place.

Moisture & DPM

Assess base slab moisture. If moisture risk exists, install specified DPM or epoxy moisture barrier compatible with finishes. [Verify]

Benchmarks & Survey

Establish primary datum (±0.000) and transfer to each room. Create benchmark marks on walls/columns at ≤10 m spacing.
Determine screed thickness from FFL minus finish build-up; confirm minimums by type:
Bonded: 25–40 mm typical minimum [Verify].
Unbonded (on slip membrane): 50–70 mm typical minimum [Verify].
Floating over insulation: 65 mm domestic, 75 mm commercial; with UFH: typically 65–75 mm over pipes or total depth ≥75–90 mm [Verify].

UFH (If Applicable)

Heating pipes/cables fixed, pressure-tested (e.g., 6 bar for 24 h, no loss) and maintained under pressure during screeding. [Verify]

Permits & HSE

Task-specific risk assessment, permits to work (hot work not expected; verify for cutting/grinding), COSHH/SDS for cement and primers.

Mock-Up

Construct a minimum 4–6 m² mock-up to demonstrate mixing, placing, finishing, curing, and achieve SR class; obtain approval before full works.

Method Sequence

Step	Activity	Description	Responsibility	Inspection / Hold Point
1	Material receipt and storage	Receive cement, sand, primers; verify certificates. Store cement off-ground, sand on clean pad, protect from contamination.	Foreman/QA	Delivery inspection
2	Pre-start survey & services verification	Check area dimensions, FFL, set out bay/joint layout; confirm MEP clearances and UFH readiness.	SE/MEP Coord.	IR: Pre-pour clearance (HP1)
3	Substrate preparation	Shot blast or scarify to CSP 3–5; grind high spots; vacuum to dust-free surface; treat cracks and fill holes with polymer-modified repair mortar; honour structural joints.	Foreman/QA	Surface profile check
4	Install membranes/insulation/edge strips (as applicable)	Unbonded: lay PE slip membrane with 150 mm laps, taped. Floating: install insulation boards flat and tight; install perimeter edge strip continuously at walls/columns; protect penetrations.	SE/Foreman	IR: Membrane/insulation (HP2)
5	Set benchmarks, pins, and screed rails	Transfer datum; set level pins/rails with laser at 1.5–2.5 m grid or as bay size requires; verify thickness vs design; allow for falls where specified.	Survey/SE	Level check
6	Prepare bonding coat (bonded screed only)	Apply SBR-cement slurry (e.g., 1:1 SBR:water; cement to form brushable slurry) or epoxy primer per TDS. Work wet-on-wet: place screed while bonding coat is still tacky/wet.	SE/QA	IR: Bonding method (HP3)
7	Mixing screed	Semi-dry mix in forced-action mixer. Typical ratio: cement:sand = 1:3.5–1:4.5 by weight; W/C ~0.40–0.50 to achieve earth-moist consistency; fibers if specified. Mix 2–4 minutes to uniform color.	Pump Op/Foreman	Batch control
8	Transport and placement	Deliver promptly to workface; spread between rails; compact by tamping/rodding; work from far end to exit; maintain UFH under pressure.	Crew	Workface supervision
9	Striking off and levelling	Use straightedge to strike to rails/pins; close surface with wood float; form day joints at planned locations; install joint profiles where detailed.	Crew/SE	Flatness checks
10	Finishing	After initial set, steel trowel to closed finish if required; avoid over-trowelling that traps water. Provide surface key where bonded toppings specified.	Crew	Visual
11	Curing and protection	Immediately cover with polythene sheeting overlapped/taped for 7 days minimum or apply approved curing compound compatible with adhesives. Prevent draughts and rapid drying; restrict foot traffic for 24–48 h; heavy loads after ≥7 days [Verify].	Foreman/QA	Daily curing check
12	Saw cuts / movement joints (if specified)	Introduce saw cuts at planned locations once sufficient strength achieved (typically 12–24 h). Depth ~1/3 screed thickness; maintain joint alignment through finishes.	SE/Foreman	Joint layout verification
13	Initial QA measurements	Check thickness using depth probes at not less than 1 point/20 m²; flatness with 2 m straightedge; levels vs datum; record results.	QA/QC/Survey	IR: Post-place checks (WP)
14	Strength/bond testing (if specified)	Prepare cubes/prisms per EN 13892-2 (e.g., 40×40×160 mm) 1 set/200 m² [Verify]; pull-off adhesion tests for bonded screeds at ≥14–28 days.	QA/QC/Lab	Sample witness (WP)
15	Drying and moisture testing before finishes	Allow drying (rule of thumb 1 mm/day to 40 mm then slower; confirm by test). Conduct in-situ RH per BS 8203/ASTM F2170 or MVER per ASTM F1869 at rate ≥3 tests/room or 1/100 m² min [Verify].	QA/QC	IR: Moisture test (HP4)
16	Remedials if required	Grind high spots; fill low areas with polymer-modified repair mortar; re-test flatness/moisture as applicable; record NCR/CAR closure.	SE/QA	Re-inspection
17	Handover and protection	Install protection boards where heavy traffic continues; issue final acceptance package before flooring works.	PM/QA	Final IR (HP5)

Safety Controls

Task-Specific Hazards and Controls

Hazard: Silica dust from grinding/shot blasting and sand handling.
Likely consequence: Respiratory irritation, silicosis over chronic exposure.
Engineering/procedural control: Use on-tool extraction (M-class/H-class vacuums), wet methods where feasible, sealed waste containers; limit dry sweeping; dedicated cutting/grinding zone.
Required PPE: P3 respirator, safety glasses/goggles, gloves.
Collective preventive measure: Local exhaust ventilation and enclosure; dust suppression.
Inspection/permit/supervision: HSE inspections; equipment PAT and extraction performance checks. [Verify per project HSE plan and local regulations]
Hazard: Wet cement/alkali burns and skin/eye contact with primers/epoxies.
Likely consequence: Chemical burns, dermatitis, eye injury.
Engineering/procedural control: Provide running water/eye wash; use long-handled tools; follow COSHH/SDS; prohibit kneeling in wet screed without knee protection covers.
Required PPE: Alkali-resistant gloves, long sleeves, waterproof boots, knee pads, face shield when handling chemicals.
Collective preventive measure: Chemical storage cabinets, spill kits.
Inspection/permit/supervision: COSHH assessments; chemical handling training; SDS on site.
Hazard: Manual handling of cement bags and rails/straightedges.
Likely consequence: Musculoskeletal injury.
Engineering/procedural control: Use mechanical aids (trolleys), split loads, team lifts, bag lifters.
Required PPE: Gloves, safety boots.
Collective preventive measure: Task rotation, ergonomic training.
Inspection/permit/supervision: Supervisor checks; manual handling training records.
Hazard: Trip/fall on uneven surfaces, pins/rails, open edges/penetrations.
Likely consequence: Sprains, lacerations, falls from height (if near shafts/edges).
Engineering/procedural control: Good housekeeping; barricade edges and penetrations; mark pins/rails with high-vis tape; defined walkways.
Required PPE: Safety boots, hi-vis vest, hard hat.
Collective preventive measure: Edge protection, covers with fixings.
Inspection/permit/supervision: Daily HSE walkdowns; permit to work near edges if at height.
Hazard: Noise/vibration from prep equipment and mixers.
Likely consequence: Hearing loss, HAVS.
Engineering/procedural control: Select low-noise equipment; maintain tools; limit exposure time.
Required PPE: Hearing protection (SNR per measured levels), anti-vibration gloves.
Collective preventive measure: Noise zoning and signage.
Inspection/permit/supervision: Noise assessments; HAVS monitoring.
Hazard: Pump hose rupture or whip during pumping.
Likely consequence: Impact injury, splashes.
Engineering/procedural control: Pressure-rated hoses, whip checks, secure couplings, exclusion zones at discharge.
Required PPE: Eye/face protection, gloves, boots.
Collective preventive measure: Physical barriers and spotter.
Inspection/permit/supervision: Pre-use hose inspection; pump operator authorization.
Hazard: Working over UFH pipes/cables.
Likely consequence: Puncture/leak leading to rework and flooding.
Engineering/procedural control: Use protective walk boards; maintain pressure test; no sharp tools near pipes; marked pipe runs.
Required PPE: Standard site PPE.
Collective preventive measure: Area control and signage.
Inspection/permit/supervision: UFH pressure gauge monitored; MEP supervision.
Hazard: use of epoxy primers/solvents (if specified).
Likely consequence: Sensitization, inhalation hazard.
Engineering/procedural control: Use low-VOC products where possible; ensure ventilation without draughts over fresh screed; follow mixing ratios; no ignition sources.
Required PPE: Respirator (A2P3 filters if needed), chemical gloves, goggles.
Collective preventive measure: Ventilation fans with filters.
Inspection/permit/supervision: Hot work permit if ignition risk; gas monitoring if enclosed spaces. [Verify per project HSE plan and local regulations]

Emergency Preparedness

Eye wash and clean water available within 10 m of mixing zone; spill kits for chemical leaks; first aider on site; access/egress kept clear for emergency response.

Environmental Controls

Key Environmental Aspects and Controls

Cement washout and alkaline runoff
Impact: Soil/water alkalinity increase, fish kills.
Control: Designated lined washout area >15 m from drains/watercourses; collect and dispose via licensed contractor; never discharge to storm drains.
Inspection: Daily by Foreman; records of disposal.
Dust and fine particulate from sand handling and surface prep
Impact: Air quality, nuisance to neighbors.
Control: Covered sand stockpiles; water misting when feasible; on-tool extraction with H-class vacuums; sealed waste bags.
Inspection: HSE/dust log; corrective actions recorded.
Noise from mixers/pumps and grinders
Impact: Nuisance to occupants/neighbors.
Control: Work hour restrictions, acoustic shrouds where practical, equipment maintenance, scheduling noisy works during permitted times.
Inspection: Noise monitoring as required.
Packaging and general construction waste
Impact: Landfill burden.
Control: Segregate bags, plastic, metal profiles; recycle where possible; keep waste skips covered.
Inspection: Weekly waste audits.
VOCs/odors from primers/curing compounds (if used)
Impact: Indoor air quality.
Control: Low-VOC selections; ventilate; maintain SDS; avoid over-application.
Inspection: Supervisor checks; material usage logs.
Energy and water use
Impact: Resource consumption.
Control: Shut down idle plant; use metered water; leak checks on hoses.
Inspection: Daily checklist; meter readings if applicable.

[Verify per project HSE plan and local regulations]

QA/QC

Inspection and Testing

Hold Points (HP):
HP1: Pre-start substrate/MEP readiness and FFL confirmation.
HP2: Membrane/insulation/edge strip installation (unbonded/floating).
HP3: Bonding coat application (bonded) prior to screeding.
HP4: Moisture testing prior to floor finishes.
HP5: Final acceptance/area handover.
Witness Points (WP):
Mixing and placement start-up checks; initial SR/level checks; sampling.

Testing Regime [Verify per project specifications]

Thickness: Min 1 check/20 m², not less than 3 per room.
Surface Regularity: 2 m straightedge in orthogonal directions; at least 10 readings/room or 1/20 m².
Levels: Laser level vs datum; grid ≤10 m.
Strength (if specified): EN 13892-2 compressive/flexural; 1 set/200 m² per mix/day.
Bond (bonded screed): Pull-off adhesion per EN 13892-8; min 3 tests/area or 1/100 m².
Moisture before finishes: In-situ RH per BS 8203/ASTM F2170 or MVER per ASTM F1869; minimum 3 tests/room or 1/100 m².

Acceptance Criteria [Verify per project specifications]

SR Class: SR1 ≤3 mm; SR2 ≤5 mm; SR3 ≤10 mm (max deviation under 2 m straightedge, BS 8204-1).
Level Tolerance: Typically ±5 mm over 10 m unless specified otherwise.
Thickness: Not less than design minimum by screed type; no negative tolerance below minimum; local highs/lows ≤ tolerance for SR class.
Strength Class: Not less than EN 13813 class specified (e.g., CT-C25-F4 typical for sand–cement screed).
Bond (bonded screed): Pull-off ≥1.0 N/mm² typical.
Moisture for finishes: RH ≤75% for resilient/wood (unless adhesive/TDS states otherwise); tiles may accept higher with suitable adhesive/system.

Calibration and Records

Calibrations: Laser levels, pull-off tester, RH probes – valid calibration certificates.
Records: IRs at HP/WP, batch logs, QA check sheets, test reports, NCR/CAR, as-built level survey, curing logs, MSDS/SDS, training/permit records.

Defects and Remedials

High spots: Mechanical grinding.
Low spots: Polymer-modified repair mortar; re-test SR.
Cracks: Assess cause; epoxy injection or cut-and-fill bands; reinstate joints if restrained movement identified.

Attachments

Mix design sheet with approved ratios and materials.
Mock-up approval record with SR measurements and finish notes.
Bay layout and jointing drawings referencing structural joints.
Manufacturer technical datasheets (SBR/epoxy primers, curing compounds, joint profiles, fibers) and SDS.
Calibration certificates (laser, RH probes, pull-off tester).
QA forms: Thickness log, SR check sheet, Level survey template, Curing log, Moisture test log.
HSE documents: Task risk assessment, COSHH assessments, permits, toolbox talk records.
Handover checklist and final acceptance form.

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ITP preview

The first inspection activities from the linked ITP for Method Statement: Cement–Sand Floor Screed Works:

Activity	Inspection / Test	Acceptance Criteria	Responsibility	Record
Pre-start substrate and FFL verification (HP1)	Visual, drawings review, level survey	Area released; FFL confirmed; services clear	SE/QA/Engineer	IR HP1, level log
Surface preparation quality	Cleanliness check; pull-off spot test (bonded)	Clean, sound, CSP 3–5; pull-off ≥1.0 N/mm² (bonded) [Verify]	QA/Engineer	Prep log, photos, test report
Membranes/insulation/edge strip installation (HP2)	Visual; lap/tape check; level	Continuous membrane; 150 mm laps; no punctures; insulation level; perimeter strip continuous	SE/Engineer	IR HP2

Showing 3 of 12 inspection activities. View full ITP →

Related Inspection and Test Plan

An Inspection and Test Plan (ITP) is available for Method Statement: Cement–Sand Floor Screed Works. The ITP defines the inspection activities, acceptance criteria, hold and witness points, responsible parties, and records required to verify the work described in this method statement.

View the Method Statement: Cement–Sand Floor Screed Works ITP →

Frequently asked questions

Typically SR2 (≤5 mm under a 2 m straightedge) is acceptable for many finishes. For high-spec finishes or long corridors, SR1 (≤3 mm) may be required. Verify per project specifications.

Bonded screeds typically 25–40 mm minimum; floating screeds typically 65 mm domestic and 75 mm commercial. With UFH, total depth and cover increase. Verify per project requirements.

Only after achieving SR/level tolerances and acceptable moisture (e.g., ≤75% RH for resilient/wood per BS 8203). Perform in-situ RH or MVER tests and obtain approvals.

Polypropylene microfibers (e.g., 0.9 kg/m³) can reduce plastic shrinkage cracking but do not replace structural reinforcement or movement joints. Use only if specified.

By mechanical preparation (CSP 3–5) and a compatible bonding coat (SBR-cement slurry or epoxy primer). Place the screed wet-on-wet over the bond coat unless the TDS states otherwise.

Related Method Statements

Method Statement

Method Statement for Internal Cement Plastering Works

Contract-ready method for internal cement plastering including substrate preparation, screed alignment, mortar mixing, application with thickness control, curing, QA/QC inspections, hold points, and final finish acceptance before painting works. - Work areas: internal walls and soffits. - Typical system: cement-sand plaster 12–15 mm in one or two coats [Verify per project specifications]. - Delivery: snag-free, paint-ready surface meeting flatness, plumb, thickness, and adhesion requirements. - Interfaces: masonry, cast-in-place concrete, blockwork, MEP chases, doors/windows reveals, and control joints. - Exclusions: gypsum plaster, external rendering, spray-applied gypsum, and decorative finishes unless stated otherwise. - Method integrates HSE, environmental controls, and ITP with hold/witness points. - All project-specific values to be verified against approved specifications and drawings. - All works by qualified plastering trades under competent supervision. - Project constraints, mock-up approvals, and manufacturer's data supersede typical values where approved. - Coordinate with painting system requirements for curing, pH, and moisture limits prior to handover. - Protect adjacent finishes and maintain access/egress and services. - Ensure permits, inspections, and records per ITP. - Implement risk controls for silica dust, cement burns, work at height, and electrical hazards. - Comply with standards referenced herein and project specifications. - Maintain cleanliness, waste segregation, and environmental protection throughout execution. - Ensure calibration of equipment and verification of materials. - Quality benchmarks: flatness ≤3 mm under 2 m straightedge; thickness 12 mm ±2 mm [Verify per project]; adhesion ≥0.2 MPa pull-off to concrete [Verify]; moisture ≤5% before paint [Verify]; pH ≤9–10 before paint [Verify]. - Hold points include substrate acceptance, screed guide alignment, mock-up acceptance, and final surface acceptance before painting. Method Date: 2026-06-17 Project: Submitted by: Submitted to:

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