Sans10109 2

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ISBN 978-0-626-26990-6
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD
Concrete floors
Part 2: Finishes to concrete floors
Published by SABS Standards Division

1 Dr Lategan Road Groenkloof Private Bag X191 Pretoria 0001
Tel: +27 12 428 7911 Fax: +27 12 344 1568
www.sabs.co.za
© SABS
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© SABS. This standard may reside on a LAN, WAN, intranet, internet or ECM server and is exclusively available to Necsa in accordance with copyright exploitation
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
Table of changes
Change No. Date Scope
Amdt 1 2013 Amended to update referenced standards.
Acknowledgement
The SABS Standards Division wishes to acknowledge the valuable assistance derived from
publications of the British Standards Institution.
Foreword
This South African standard was approved by National Committee SABS SC 59A, Construction
standards – Cement, lime and concrete, in accordance with procedures of the SABS Standards
Division, in compliance with annex 3 of the WTO/TBT agreement.
This document was published in February 2013.
This document supersedes SANS 10109-2:2004 (edition 3).
A vertical line in the margin shows where the text has been technically modified by amendment
No. 1.
SANS 10109 consists of the following parts, under the general title Concrete floors:
Part 1: Bases to concrete floors.
Part 2: Finishes to concrete floors.
Annexes A and B are for information only.
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
Contents
Page
Acknowledgement
Foreword
1 Scope ..................................................................................................................................... 3
2 Normative references .............................................................................................................. 3
3 Definitions ............................................................................................................................... 5
4 Basic considerations ............................................................................................................... 7
5 Floor finishes (general) .......................................................................................................... 9
6 Cement-based finishes ........................................................................................................... 12
6.1 Wear resistance ............................................................................................................. 12

6.2 Coloured finishes ........................................................................................................... 14
6.3 Surface treatments ......................................................................................................... 14
6.4 Cracking of direct-finished toppings and screeds .......................................................... 14
6.5 Finishing processes ....................................................................................................... 15
6.6 Curing ............................................................................................................................. 17
6.7 Protection against the weather ...................................................................................... 18
6.8 Prevention of plastic-shrinkage cracking ....................................................................... 18
6.9 Direct-finishing one-course construction of a base ........................................................ 19
6.10 Toppings ........................................................................................................................ 20
6.11 Screeds .......................................................................................................................... 25
6.12 Terrazzo finishes ............................................................................................................ 30
6.13 Tolerances in level and surface flatness of finishes ...................................................... 33
6.14 Inspection and testing of toppings and screeds ............................................................. 34
7 Bitumen emulsion-cement finishes ........................................................................................ 36
8 Finishes laid in the form of units: burnt clay bricks and tiles, natural stone tiles, precast
concrete, precast and terrazzo natural stone slabs and concrete paving blocks ................... 37
8.1 General .......................................................................................................................... 37

8.2 Materials ......................................................................................................................... 37
8.3 Thickness ....................................................................................................................... 39
8.4 Relationship between base and finish ........................................................................... 39
8.5 Laying of units ................................................................................................................ 39
8.6 Skirtings.......................................................................................................................... 50
8.7 Maintenance ................................................................................................................... 50
9 Mosaic tile finishes .................................................................................................................. 52
Annex A (informative) A chart for estimating the loss of surface moisture from
concrete in various weather conditions .............................................. 53
Annex B (informative) Recommended method for the assessment of levels and

surface flatness .................................................................................. 54
Bibliography .............................................................................................................................. 55
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SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
Concrete floors
Part 2:
Finishes to concrete floors
1 Scope
This part of SANS 10109 comprises general principles for commonly used floor finishes.
NOTE Bases of floors are covered in SANS 10109-1.
2 Normative references
The following standards contain provisions which, through reference in this text, constitute
provisions of this part of SANS 10109. All standards are subject to revision and, since any reference
to a standard is deemed to be a reference to the latest edition of that standard, parties to
agreements based on this part of SANS 10109 are encouraged to take steps to ensure the use of
the most recent editions of the standards indicated below. Information on currently valid national
and international standards can be obtained from the SABS Standards Division.
ASTM C 309, Standard specification for liquid membrane-forming compounds for curing concrete.
BS 903-A26, Physical testing of rubber – Part A26: Method for determination of hardness (hardness
between 10 IRHD and 100 IRHD). Amdt 1
EN 12878, Pigments for the colouring of building materials based on cement and/or lime –
Specifications and methods of test.
ISO 48, Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic – Determination of hardness (hardness between

10 IRHD and 100 IRHD. Amdt 1
SANS 110, Sealing compounds for the building industry, two-component, polysulphide base.
SANS 227, Burnt clay masonry units.
SANS 285, Calcium silicate masonry units.
SANS 309, Anionic bitumen road emulsions.
SANS 523, Limes for use in buildings.
SANS 541, Precast concrete paving slabs.
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Edition 3.1
SANS 548, Cationic bitumen road emulsions.
SANS 1024, Welded steel fabric for reinforcement of concrete.
SANS 1058, Concrete paving blocks.
SANS 1077, Sealing compounds for the building and construction industry, two-component,
polyurethane-base.
SANS 1083, Aggregates from natural sources – Aggregates for concrete.
SANS 1260, Invert bitumen emulsion.
SANS 1305, Sealing compounds for the building industry, one-component, silicone-rubber-base.
SANS 1449, Ceramic wall and floor tiles.
SANS 1491-1, Portland cement extenders – Part 1: Ground granulated blastfurnace slag. Amdt 1
SANS 1491-2, Portland cement extenders – Part 2: Fly ash. Amdt 1
SANS 1491-3, Portland cement extenders – Part 3: Condensed silica fume. Amdt 1
SANS 5861-3, Concrete tests – Making and curing of test specimens.
SANS 5863, Concrete tests – Compressive strength of hardened concrete.
SANS 10100-2 (SABS 0100-2), The structural use of concrete – Part 2: Materials and execution of
work.
SANS 10109-1, Concrete floors – Part 1: Bases to concrete floors.
SANS 50197-1/EN 197-1, Cement – Part 1: Composition, specifications and conformity criteria for
common cements.
SANS 50450-1/EN 450-1, Fly ash for concrete – Part 1: Definition, specifications and conformity
criteria. Amdt 1
SANS 50450-2/EN 450-2, Fly ash for concrete – Part 2: Conformity evaluation. Amdt 1
SANS 53263-1/EN 13263-1, Silica fume for concrete – Part 1: Definitions, requirements and
conformity criteria. Amdt 1
SANS 53263-2/EN 13263-2, Silica fume for concrete – Part 2: Conformity evaluation. Amdt 1
SANS 55167-1/EN 15167-1, Ground granulated blast furnace slag for use in concrete, mortar and
grout – Part 1: Definitions, specifications and conformity criteria. Amdt 1
SANS 55167-2/EN 15167-2, Ground granulated blast furnace slag for use in concrete, mortar and
grout – Part 2: Conformity evaluation. Amdt 1
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
3 Definitions
For the purposes of this part of SANS 10109, the following definitions apply (see also figures 1
and 2):
3.1
acceptable
acceptable to the authority administering this part of SANS 10109, or to the parties concluding the
purchase contract, as relevant
3.2
adhesive
substance capable of holding materials together by surface attachment
3.3
base
concrete construction on which the floor finish is laid
NOTE A base consists of either a floor slab resting on the ground or a suspended floor slab that forms part of
a structure.
3.4
bitumen emulsion-cement finish
mixture of a bitumen emulsion, cement, and a filler, applied to a hardened floor slab
3.5
concrete surface hardener
substance that is applied to the surface of, or added to, a concrete finish to increase the resistance
to service conditions
3.6
damp-proof membrane
layer of material that is impermeable to moisture
3.7
direct-finished base slab
base slab that can be finished without the need for a screed
3.8
filler
aggregate added to a compound in order to increase its volume and resistance to wear
3.9
finish
surface of a floor that is designed to be a wearing surface
3.10
floating
operation of finishing a fresh concrete or mortar surface
3.10.1
bull-floating
operation of finishing a fresh concrete or mortar surface by using as a broom, a bull float, which is a
large flat rectangular piece of material (wood or aluminum) with a long handle (up to 5 m)
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
3.10.2
power-floating
operation of finishing a fresh concrete or mortar surface by using a motor-driven revolving disc that
smoothes, flattens and compacts the surface
3.10.3
wood-floating
operation of finishing a fresh concrete or mortar surface by using a straight piece of wood to impart
a relatively even but still open texture to an unformed fresh concrete surface
3.11
gauge
screed batten
wooden or metal strip, temporarily fixed to a base to define a level
3.12
laitance
milky scum that often forms on the surface of freshly laid concrete
3.13
one-course construction
construction in which the surface of a concrete floor slab is finished off while the concrete is still in
the plastic state
3.14
panel
area of floor construction without permanent joints
3.15
primer
treatment of the surface of a base with a fluid material before the laying of certain finishes
3.16
screed
layer of well-compacted material, commonly a mixture of cement and fine aggregates, that is
applied to a base in the appropriate thickness and that has a surface suitable for receiving a floor
finish
3.17
terrazzo finish
concrete finish in which crushed or uncrushed aggregates and pigments are used, and the surface
of which is ground to expose the aggregates and then polished
3.18
topping
layer of high strength concrete designed to provide a dense, abrasion-resistant surface on a
concrete base
3.19
trowelling
operation of smoothing and compacting the unformed surface of fresh concrete or mortar by strokes
of a trowel
3.20
underlay
material laid between a base and a finish, as a separating layer or damp-proof membrane, or both
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
Figure 1 — Layers in a concrete floor on the ground
Figure 2 — Layers in a suspended concrete floor
4 Basic considerations
4.1 General
The service conditions to which a floor will be exposed, the provision of a stable base for the floor
finish, and the choice of a suitable finish are the principal factors to be considered in the design of a
serviceable floor.
A time schedule giving approximate dates on which floors are to be laid shall be given to the floor
layer, well in advance, to enable timely provision of materials and labour. This is especially
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
important in the construction of buildings that require large supplies of floor materials. Where floor
finishes are required to comply with specific requirements (such as colour or non-slip finish),
samples of the finish shall be approved by the architect, the engineer or the client, before any laying
of such finishes is carried out.
4.2 Exchange of information

The engineer shall provide, in good time, all relevant information to those responsible for laying the
floor and to others whose work might be affected. The information shall include the following, as
relevant:
a) a description of the site, its situation, address and the means of access;
b) those conditions of contract that might affect the particular work;
c) the location, dimensions, treatment and surface area of the floors to be covered;
d) the age and nature of the base and any preparatory treatment required;
e) the type of finish;
f) the number of layers;
g) the thickness of the floor and of the finish;
h) the finished floor level and the maximum permissible departure from that level;
i) the degree of accuracy of surface flatness (see 6.13) of the base, screed or topping;
j) the type of damp-proofing or insulation, or both;
k) any work that is dependent upon the installation of any services that pass through the floor;
l) the treatment of skirtings;
m) the treatment of junctions with any adjacent floor or finishes (or both);
n) the type of surface finish of the base, screed or topping;
o) any special requirements related to underfloor heating;
p) the minimum time intervals between stages of work and the application of heat in the building;
q) the date for the completion of preliminary work;
r) the dates for the start and completion of the various sections of the floor; and
s) details of any compliance testing required.
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4.3 Time schedule

When the time schedule is being considered, in addition to allowing for the usual intervals between
the start and completion of work by the various trades involved, allowances shall be made for the
following:
a) curing and drying (or both) of the base/screed/topping (as relevant), before the finish is laid; and
b) the period of protection of the completed floor from damage by other trades, including any period
of restriction of access.
4.4 Construction considerations

Where practicable, floor finishes shall be laid after most of the other trades have completed
construction work in the building. Where the finish is laid before such work is completed, it shall be
adequately protected against damage. The laying of floor finishes shall be carried out by
experienced workers specializing in the laying of the particular type of finish concerned. In all
concrete or mortar mixes, only the minimum volume of water necessary to produce a concrete of
workability appropriate to the means of compaction shall be used.
4.5 Zone marking on finish

Where zones (such as traffic lanes and safety areas) are to be marked on the surface of the finish,
the use of a type of paint that complies with the requirements of SANS 731-1 is recommended. To
promote paint adhesion, the use of a membrane-forming curing compound (see 6.6) should either
be avoided, or the compound should be completely removed before painting starts.
5 Floor finishes (general)

5.1 Types of floor finishes
Commonly used floor finishes covered by this part of SANS 10109 are
a) concrete and screed finishes:
1) direct-finished base;
2) plain concrete topping;
3) screeds; and
4) terrazzo;
b) seamless organic-based finishes: bitumen emulsion-cement; and
c) finishes laid in the form of units:
1) burnt clay bricks;
2) coloured burnt clay tiles and natural stone floor tiles;
3) floor slabs of precast concrete, precast terrazzo and natural stone; and
4) mosaic floor tiles.
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Edition 3.1
5.2 Choice of floor finish
5.2.1 General
The main factor to be considered in the choice of a floor finish is its durability under applicable
service conditions. Other factors to be considered are appearance, underfoot comfort, ease of
maintenance, drying shrinkage, wetting expansion, water absorption and resistance to chemical
attack and fire.
In the case of concrete and screed finishes, one-course constructions and monolithic constructions
are recommended.
5.2.2 Durability
A recommended classification of abrasion resistance is given in table 1. The designer shall specify
which class is appropriate for his particular application. The following factors shall be taken into
account when the class is specified:
a) the effect of traffic;
b) the effect of the impact of heavy objects;
c) surface dusting; and
d) the slope of the floor.
Under severe abrasive conditions, such as when loaded vehicles with steel or rigid plastics wheels
are used on the floor, it is possible that even the best quality high-strength special aggregate floor
finish will suffer some wear.
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Table 1 — Classification of abrasion resistance — Recommendations for concrete finishes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Concrete
Service Type of Type of coarse Type of fine Finishing
Class Application grade
condition finish aggregate aggregate process
MPa
Proprietary toppings cannot be classified by strength grade
or minimum cement content, and might contain aggregates
Severe Very heavy-duty
Proprietary that do not comply with SANS 1083. Special finishing
Special abrasion engineering
toppings techniques may be used. The suitability of concrete bases in
and impact workshops, etc.
this class should be established with the manufacturer of the
proprietary topping or with the contractor.
Aggregates that
Trowelling
comply with
twice or
High- SANS 1083 for Sand that
Very high Heavy-duty more,
strength 50 concrete complies with
abrasion: industrial, followed by
concrete subject to SANS 1083
AR1 steel wheel workshops, curing (see
toppings or surface
traffic and special 6.6)
proprietary abrasion
impact commercial, etc.
toppings When relevant, the suitability of concrete bases in this class
should be established with the manufacturer of the
proprietary topping or with the contractor.
Direct-
High finished Trowelling
abrasion: concrete twice, or
steel or Medium-duty bases with early age
AR2 hard industrial and or without 40a grinding
plastics commercial dry-shake Aggregates that followed by
wheel finish, or comply with curing (see
traffic concrete SANS 1083 for Sand that 6.6)
toppings concrete complies with
subject to SANS 1083
Direct- surface
finished abrasionb Trowelling
Moderate
Light-duty concrete twice
abrasion: a
AR3 industrial and bases with 30 followed by
rubber-
commercial or without curing (see
tyred traffic
dry-shake 6.6)
finish
a
The grade might need to be higher for structural purposes.
b
See 6.1.4.
5.2.3 Resistance to chemical attack
Substances such as alkalis, acids (soft water), certain salts, animal and vegetable oils, milk, wines,
petroleum products and solutions of sugar can attack some types of floor finishes. The choice of a
finish shall therefore take into account the possible exposure to such agents.
5.2.4 Drying shrinkage
Screeds and toppings are subject to drying shrinkage and may rely on an effective bond between
the base and the finish in order to withstand the stresses set up by differential shrinkage between
the finish and the base. Even where the more elastic types of finishes are used, if the base is of low
quality concrete, the bond will be weak and cracks will develop in the finish.
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5.2.5 Appearance
The natural colour of some finishes is not necessarily the colour desired, but the appearance can be
improved by the incorporation of pigments (see 6.2).
5.2.6 Underfoot comfort
A moderately resilient finish (for example, a bitumen emulsion-cement finish) gives better underfoot
comfort and feels less cold than other types of finishes covered by this part of SANS 10109.
5.2.7 Slipperiness
Slipperiness depends largely on the surface treatment applied when the finishes are laid or on the
treatment they receive when in service.
5.2.8 Ease of maintenance
Ease of maintenance can influence the choice of the finish, and details regarding the maintenance
required for the various types of finishes are given in 6.9.6, 8.7 and 9.5.
5.2.9 Properties of finishes
Typical properties of floor finishes (when exposed to specific conditions) are given in table 2.
6 Cement-based finishes
6.1 Wear resistance
6.1.1 General
The main factors that affect the abrasion resistance of floor finishes are given in 6.1.2 to 6.3,
inclusive.
6.1.2 Concrete quality
Although the quality of concrete is usually determined by its strength, it is the quality of the mortar
between and over the coarse aggregates at the surface that shall comply with the requirements in
the design. The mix shall be designed to be cohesive and to limit the amount of free water that
might "bleed" to the surface and lower the abrasion resistance of the surface.
6.1.3 Surface finishing
Good compaction at the surface shall ensure good abrasion resistance. This can be achieved by
surface-finishing methods, such as trowelling, that increase the denseness of the surface, or by
methods that increase the cement water ratio.
Where the surface of the concrete has not been compacted by good trowelling, and a surface
laitance has been left, the abrasion resistance of the concrete surface will be improved if the weak
surface is ground off.
The finishing processes are described in 6.5.
12
Table 2 — Typical properties of floor finishes
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18
Resistance to Resistance to the action of
Warmth Acids Common Oils
Slipping Quiet- Ease of
Type of finish Inden- (to salt Sugar
Abrasion Impact (when ness cleaning Water Alkalis Sulfates Animal Milk
tation touch) (sodium solutions
clean) Weak Strong Mineral and
chloride) vegetable
Direct-finished
VG-F G-F G-F F-G P P G-F VG P VP G P G VG P P P
base or topping
Cement-sand
P P P F-G P P F-P G VP VP F VP F G P P P
screed
Terrazzo G G-F G-F P-G P P G VG VP VP F P G G P F P
Bitumen
G-F G-F F-P G F F F G F P F P G P P P P
emulsion-cement
Burnt clay unitsa G F VG F-P P P G VG VG G G-F G G VG G VG VG
Coloured burnt
VG G VG G-P P P G VG VGb VG VG VG VG VG VGb VGb VGb
clay tiles
Precast concrete
G G G G-F P P F-P VG P VP G P G VG P P P
unitsb
Slate G-P G-P G-P P P P G-F G VG VG G F VG VG VG G G
Marble G-F G G G-F P P G G P P G-F F VG VG F F-P F
Quartzite VG VG VG P P P G-P VG VG VG VG VG VG VG VG VG VG
b b b b
Mosaic tiles G G-F VG F P P G G VG VG F G-F VG VG VG VG VGb
VG = Very good
G = Good
F = Fair
SANS 10109-2:2013
P = Poor
VP = Very poor
a
Relates to standard grades. Special acid-resistant grades are available.
b
Provided that durable jointing materials are used in laying the units.
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6.1.4 Curing
Proper curing (see 6.6) immediately after laying shall ensure that concrete has good abrasion
resistance. Poor curing can have the same effect on abrasion resistance as can a substantial loss
of the strength of the concrete.
6.1.5 Choice of coarse aggregates
The properties of the coarse aggregates influence abrasion resistance only after the surface has
worn and the aggregates have been exposed. Specially selected, hard, tough aggregates are
required only for highly abrasive conditions.
6.2 Coloured finishes

A coloured finish can be achieved either by means of a pigment mixed into the finish, or by means
of the surface application of proprietary materials as a dry shake. The basic ingredients of such
premixed materials are mineral oxide pigment, white portland cement, and well-ground aggregates
of the proper colour. Site proportioning or mixing of surface-applied coloured finishes is not
recommended. The effects of colouring agents on the properties of the base concrete should be
checked.
In the case of a cement-based finish, the pigment shall be mixed with the cement before the
aggregates are added.
6.3 Surface treatments

Provided that a sufficiently high grade of properly finished concrete is used, treatments to harden or
seal the surface are not normally required. However, a concrete surface hardener can be useful, for
example, in dust-sensitive areas or where occasional spillage of oils or mildly acidic solutions might
occur.
The following treatments are used:
a) special hard natural metallic or synthetic aggregates (such as products of cast iron, steel, silicon
carbide or alumina), which are applied to, or incorporated in, the top layer of the finish to increase
wear resistance and impact resistance or to improve slip resistance;
b) surface hardening solutions, such as solutions of sodium silicate, magnesium silicofluoride, or

proprietary materials generally consisting mainly of either of these compounds, which are added
to the floor surface; and
c) surface sealers (consisting of proprietary materials), which are applied to the floor surface to
reduce liquid penetration, improve wear resistance, colour the surface, or reduce dusting. Some
sealers penetrate into the surface while others form a protective skin on the surface.
Each treatment should be used in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
6.4 Cracking of direct-finished toppings and screeds
6.4.1 General
The cracking of concrete toppings and screeds is caused mainly by restrained drying shrinkage and
differential drying through their thicknesses (curling).
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When floor finishes are laid in very hot weather, the subsequent contractions on cooling will
increase the risk of cracking. The risk can be reduced by laying the finishes under an overhead
covering, although care shall be taken to avoid any wind tunnel effect that can result in rapid drying
out.
6.4.2 Bonded toppings and screeds
Where bonded toppings and screeds are not adequately bonded to the base, curling, which might
subsequently cause the topping or screed to crack under load, can occur. Joints in the base should
be carried through a bonded topping or screed, otherwise cracks can form at the positions of these
joints. Depending on the panel size of the base, additional intermediate joints might be required to
control cracking.
6.4.3 Other factors
6.4.3.1 Water content
Increasing the water content of a mix will increase the drying shrinkage of concrete bases, toppings
and screeds, thereby increasing the risk of cracking. The quantity of water used should be kept to
the minimum necessary to ensure thorough compaction. Some admixtures will allow for reduced
water content, but can affect other properties.
6.4.3.2 Reinforcement
Reinforcement is seldom used in toppings and screeds, but if it is used (in small diameters), it can
limit the width of cracks and so provide some advantage. Reinforcement does not prevent curling of
toppings and screeds but where it passes through joints, it will prevent steps.
6.4.3.3 Curing
The recommendations given in 6.6 shall be followed.
6.4.3.4 Drying
To reduce the risk of curling, bases and screeds should be allowed to dry out as slowly as is
practicable after curing.
6.4.3.5 Aggregates
The use of some aggregates results in higher than average concrete shrinkage properties and can
cause a greater risk of cracking.
6.5 Finishing processes
6.5.1 Delayed steel-trowelled finish
6.5.1.1 General
The resistance to wear of a steel-trowelled concrete finish is significantly influenced by the method
of trowelling and the care with which trowelling is carried out. Under no circumstances shall cement
or a dry cement-sand mixture be sprinkled direct onto the surface of a finish in order to absorb
bleed water or laitance, since defects such as surface scaling can occur later. Surface water shall
not be trowelled back into the finish and, similarly, water shall not be applied between trowelling
operations, since this might cause surface weakness. Trowelling of finishes shall be in accordance
with one of the methods given in 6.5.1.2 and 6.5.1.3.
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6.5.1.2 Finishes that require high resistance to wear
The finish shall be steel-trowelled, using the delayed steel-trowelling method.
In this method, the finish is floated after it has been spread, compacted and screeded to level.
Floating may take the form of bull-floating, wood-floating or power-floating.
The purpose of bull-floating, wood-floating or power-floating is to eliminate ridges and fill voids
resulting from straight-edging. Floating shall be completed before any excess moisture or bleed
water is present on the surface.
Before further steps are taken, the finish shall be left undisturbed (the delay period) until bleeding
has ceased, the surface has stiffened to the extent that a footprint will barely show, and surface
water has either evaporated or been removed together with laitance.
An alternative to the delay period is to use vacuum de-watering. This process quickly prepares the
surface for floating and trowelling. In addition, strength and wear resistance are improved, and
drying shrinkage is reduced, but the accuracy of the levels might be affected.
Immediately after the delay period, or immediately after vacuum de-watering, the finish shall be
floated again. The purpose of floating is to
a) depress large aggregates below the surface,
b) remove slight imperfections, lumps and voids,
c) produce a level or plane surface, and
d) compact the finish and consolidate mortar at the surface in preparation for other finishing
operations.
Floating and trowelling may be carried out by hand or mechanically. When floating is done
mechanically, either a disc-type float or a trowelling machine with float shoes attached shall be
used.
Trowelling shall be done immediately after floating. The purpose of trowelling is to produce a
smooth, hard surface. For the first trowelling, the trowel blades shall be kept as flat against the
surface as is practicable. As the surface stiffens, each successive trowelling shall be made with
smaller trowels tilted progressively more to increase the compaction of fines at the surface, giving
greater density and more wear resistance.
The resistance to abrasion increases with the number of trowelling operations and the care with
which they are carried out. The operations shall be timed to prevent an excess of laitance being
produced at the surface. For the highest abrasion resistance, final trowelling shall be made when
considerable pressure is required to make any impression on the surface. However, excessive
trowelling at this stage shall be avoided, to prevent a polished or slippery surface.
6.5.1.3 Severe finishing processes
The finish (after it has been spread, compacted, screeded to level, and floated) shall be left
undisturbed until bleeding has ceased and the finish has stiffened to the extent that a footprint will
barely show. Surface water and laitance shall then be removed from the surface and the surface
floated and steel-trowelled at intervals until the desired texture is achieved.
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The texture of concrete finishes can vary from a fine matt surface to a glossy surface, depending on
the number of trowellings applied. A coarse non-slip texture can be produced by brushing a freshly
floated surface with a broom, but the resulting ridges might become subject to abrasion.
Trowelling too soon and overtrowelling shall both be avoided, since they bring to the surface a thin
layer rich in cement, which tends to craze and release dust particles.
6.5.2 Early age grinding of direct-finished bases
Surface finishing by early age grinding shall be performed by means of machines specially
designed for this purpose but not sooner than 24 h after the base has been fully compacted and
levelled, or the surface has been further smoothed and levelled by bull-floating, wood-floating or
power-floating.
Grinding shall be sufficient to remove only the relatively soft surface of the concrete and to expose
occasional particles of coarse aggregates. The finished surface shall have a uniform gritty texture.
Curing shall be started after the initial wood-floating, bull-floating or power floating, using the
methods described in 6.6(c) or 6.6(d) and shall not be interrupted unnecessarily during grinding.
After the grinding process, curing shall be completed by using one of the methods described in 6.6,
but preferably the method described in 6.6(a).
6.6 Curing
Concrete shall be effectively cured if maximum surface strength, maximum resistance to surface
abrasion and low impermeability of the concrete are to be attained and the development of drying
shrinkage cracks is to be avoided or minimized.
Curing shall start as soon after final finishing as is practicable, and shall be by one of the following
methods:
a) uniform application of a liquid membrane-forming curing compound at an approved rate for

complete coverage, always taking into consideration the manufacturer's instructions. Curing
compounds shall comply with the requirements of ASTM C 309 and shall be of type 1-D or type 2
(This method might not be suitable where other finishes are to be applied.);
b) ponding;
c) covering with thick hessian or similar clean moisture-retaining and non-staining material that is
kept wet; or
d) covering with polyethylene or similar vapour-proof material in large sheets, sealed at the edges
of the finish and at the side laps of the sheeting.
To prevent surface damage to trowelled and other finishes, it might be necessary to suspend the
coverings described in (c) and (d) clear of the surface until such time as they can be placed direct
onto the surface. Care shall be taken to prevent wind tunnelling under coverings.
Curing shall continue for at least 7 d. In cold weather, this period shall be extended. Cold weather
may be deemed to be conditions in which the "average" ambient temperature falls below 10 °C,
where "average" is defined as the arithmetic mean of the maximum and minimum ambient
temperatures recorded on site within a period of 24 h. During cold weather, the curing period shall
be extended by 0,5 d for each day in which the average ambient temperature falls to between 5 °C
and 10 °C, and by 1 d for each day in which the average ambient temperature falls below 5 °C.
Failure to carry out systematic curing causes many failures in base finishes.
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6.7 Protection against the weather
6.7.1 Cold weather
Concreting in cold weather shall be carried out in accordance with SANS 10100-2. If mixing and
laying are carried out during cold weather, measures shall be taken to ensure that stored
aggregates and cement are maintained at temperatures above freezing, and that the surface
temperature of the laid concrete (not the air temperature) is maintained at above 5 °C both during
laying and for 4 d to 5 d after laying. In this way, the concrete will normally have achieved sufficient
strength to resist later damage by frost.
Freshly placed and freshly finished bases, toppings and screeds exposed to the weather shall be
covered with tarpaulins or plastics sheeting carefully lapped and so supported clear of the surface
on a temporary framework that the wind cannot blow underneath them.
6.7.2 Hot or drying weather
Concreting in hot weather shall be carried out in accordance with SANS 10100-2. In hot or drying
weather, care shall be taken that concrete mixes or screed mixes do not stiffen or dry out to an
extent that prevents thorough compaction and finishing. After compaction and finishing, the surface
shall not be allowed to dry out quickly. This can be achieved by protecting the surface with plastics
sheeting or other suitable means. In addition, where the finish is laid in the open, its surface should
be protected from the effects of the sun and wind to reduce the risk of cracking.
6.7.3 Wet weather
If no protection is provided by the structure, the freshly placed finish shall be covered to prevent rain
damage to the surface.
6.8 Prevention of plastic-shrinkage cracking

Plastic-shrinkage cracking is caused by a rapid loss of moisture from the concrete during the period
immediately after placing. Such cracks are generally less than a metre in length. The cracks might
be parallel to one another, from about 100 mm to about 700 mm apart, but are usually in an
irregular random pattern. Crack formation begins at the surface and descends, with the cracks
becoming narrower towards the bottom. Though usually only 25 mm to 75 mm deep, cracks can go
all the way through a base, topping or screed. They appear when the rate of drying is more rapid
than the movement of bleed water to the surface. Plastic shrinkage is caused by factors such as
moderate to high winds, low relative humidity, and high temperatures of the concrete or of the air. A
chart for estimating the loss of surface moisture from concrete in various weather conditions is
given in annex A.
Impervious vapour-proof barriers under the base might promote slab curling due to differential
shrinkage.
If the rate of water evaporation from the base exceeds 0,75 L/m2/h, precautions shall be taken to
reduce evaporation.
Some helpful measures to prevent or reduce plastic-shrinkage cracking include the following (as
relevant):
a) dampening the subgrade or subbase (as appropriate);
b) dampening the aggregates, especially if they are dry and absorptive;
c) erecting windbreaks;
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d) cooling the aggregates and the mixing water, before mixing;
e) preventing rapid drying, by means of
1) protecting the concrete with moisture-retaining coverings during any delay between placing
and finishing,
2) the judicious use of a fog spray above the surface before the final finishing and the start of
curing,
3) covering the concrete with damp burlap or with polyethylene sheeting (preferably white in
outdoor conditions) immediately after screeding and bull-floating or wood-floating or power-
floating (The burlap shall be kept moist until the concrete is ready for finishing. Only a small
area shall be uncovered at a time, just ahead of the finishers. Curing should begin as soon as
possible.), or
4) applying chemical components to reduce evaporation between the various placing and
finishing operations; and
f) postponing each step of the finishing (and inherent reworking of the surface) as long as possible
without endangering the results.
If plastic-shrinkage cracks begin to form, it should be possible to close them by tamping or beating
with a hand float or by revibration if this can be done promptly. However, the more effective
protective measures listed above shall always be undertaken first.
6.9 Direct-finishing one-course construction of a base
6.9.1 General
In this type of finish, the surface of the concrete in a base is finished by floating and steel-trowelling,
(with or without the surface application of dry-shake materials), or by early age grinding, in
accordance with the following:
a) where the characteristic compressive strength of the concrete is at least 20 MPa, by floating and
steel-trowelling; and
b) where the characteristic compressive strength of the concrete is 30 MPa or more, by floating and
steel-trowelling with or without the application of dry-shake materials or, where the characteristic
compressive strength of the concrete is at least 40 MPa, by early age grinding (see table 1).
6.9.2 Materials
Cement shall comply with SANS 50197-1, extenders shall comply with SANS 55167-1,
SANS 55167-2, SANS 50450-1, SANS 50450-2, SANS 53263-1 and SANS 53263-2, aggregates
shall comply with SANS 1083 and pigments shall comply with EN 12878. Amdt 1
NOTE The rate of strength development of concrete which has a significant proportion of a cement extender
(such as ground granulated blastfurnace slag or fly ash) will tend to be lower than a similarly proportioned mix
made with the same grade of CEM I. If this is the case, early resistance to cracking might be reduced,
particularly if the concrete is exposed to lower temperatures.
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6.9.3 Laying and finishing a base
The top of the moulds surrounding the panel(s) of a base shall be accurately set to the finished floor
level, and the concrete shall be deposited with a surcharge (up to 20 %). The concrete shall then be
thoroughly compacted during or immediately after placing (or both), using tamping, vibrating
screeds or immersion vibrators, special measures being taken to compact concrete adjacent to
forms. In all cases where vibration is used, vibration shall be terminated when the mortar of the
concrete just covers the particles of coarse aggregates. The equipment used shall be suitable for
compacting the concrete, and the manner of its use shall not cause segregation of the materials or
excessive bleeding. Rolling with a pipe is not an acceptable means of compaction.
After the concrete has been brought to the correct level and struck off, the surface shall be
smoothed by means of pipe rolling or floating (or both). Final finishing by floating and trowelling, as
described in 6.5.1.2 or 6.5.1.3, as relevant or early age grinding as described in 6.5.2 shall then be
carried out.
6.9.4 Joints
The design and sealing of joints shall be in accordance with the relevant requirements of
SANS 10109-1.
6.9.5 Curing
The finish shall be cured as described in 6.6.
6.9.6 Maintenance
The finish shall be washed with clean water and then mopped.
6.10 Toppings
6.10.1 General
Concrete toppings provide a dense finish that is resistant to abrasion. The degree of resistance
depends on the concrete grade, as shown in table 1.
If the base rests on the ground, the monolithic method shall be used whenever possible (to
eliminate bonding difficulties).
6.10.2 Materials
The materials used for toppings shall be the same as those described in 6.9.2.
6.10.3 Methods of laying toppings
6.10.3.1 Monolithic construction
To ensure a monolithic structure, the topping is applied to the base while the concrete in the base is
still in the plastic state.
6.10.3.2 Separate bonded construction
The topping, usually applied in one layer, is bonded to a hardened base.
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6.10.3.3 Separate unbonded construction
This method is used in cases where the surface of a base is such that it would be impossible to
ensure a good bond between the base and the topping. The topping is isolated from the base by an
impervious underlay covering the whole of the surface of the base. This method requires the finish
to be thicker than monolithic or bonded finishes.
NOTE Toppings laid over concrete bases that have been contaminated, for example, with oil, or that contain
waterproofing admixtures, or that have a damp-proof membrane between the finish and the base, should be
considered to be unbonded.
6.10.4 Thickness
6.10.4.1 General
The thickness of a concrete topping shall be determined in relation to the age and condition of the
base, and the position of any damp-proof membrane.
The minimum thickness of a monolithic topping at any point shall be 20 mm.
When a topping is laid on and bonded to a hardened base, the minimum thickness of the topping at
any point shall be 25 mm. Because of deviations in the level of a base, some variation in thickness
shall to be accepted and a design thickness of up to 40 mm might be required to achieve the
minimum thickness.
In some circumstances, the design thickness of a topping might have to be increased to more than
40 mm, but then there would be an increasing risk of loss of adhesion to the base, due to differential
shrinkage stresses.
Where a concrete wearing surface is required over a damp-proof membrane, an overslab of

minimum thickness 100 mm shall be used in order to minimize the risk of curling. The grade of
concrete for a direct-finished overslab shall be in accordance with table 1.
For additional abrasion resistance, the upper 25 mm ± 5 mm of the overslab shall be of high
strength concrete (class AR1 in table 1), applied monolithically.
A similar overslab shall be used where a base has become contaminated (for example, with oil) and
bonding is not possible.
The concrete used for an overslab intended to support a high-strength concrete topping shall be of
at least grade 35.
6.10.4.5 Falls
Where toppings are to be laid to falls, they shall be so formed in the base that the topping or
overslab (see 6.10.4.4) is of uniform thickness.
6.10.4.6 Thickness of stair toppings
The recommendations given in 6.10.4.3 shall be followed.
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6.10.5 Panel sizes
Monolithic finishes shall be laid in panels of the same size as those of the base. For separate
bonded finishes, the area of a panel shall not exceed 9,0 m2. Where a concrete overslab is used to
provide a concrete wearing surface over a damp-proof membrane (i.e. separate unbonded
construction), the joint spacing shall not exceed the lesser of 30 times the slab thickness, and
4,5 m. The general pattern of the panels will depend on such aspects as the shape of the floor area
and the position of columns. Wherever possible, panels shall be square, or the length of a panel
shall be limited to 1,25 times its width, to reduce the tendency to crack.
6.10.6 Joints
6.10.6.1 Bases on the ground
For monolithic, separate bonded construction, and separate unbonded construction, full-depth
isolation joints shall be formed in the finish against walls, columns and other fixed objects. Such
joints shall have the same width as the joints in the base, but not less than 20 mm.
In monolithic and separate-bonded construction, joints shall coincide with those in the base, shall be
of the same type and width as those in the base, and shall extend through the full depth of the
topping. Intermediate joints dividing the topping into panels of the specified size shall be either sawn
contraction joints that extend halfway through the thickness of the topping or butt construction joints.
In the case of separate unbonded construction (see 6.10.4.4), either sawn contraction joints that
extend to a depth of one-quarter of the overslab thickness, or keyed construction joints shall be
provided. Such joints shall be offset at least 300 mm from those in the base.
The top edges of construction joints shall be arris-rounded with a radius of 3 mm to 5 mm.
Sawn contraction joints should be made as soon as the concrete can be sawn without excessive
ravelling or spalling and before shrinkage cracking occurs.
NOTE Green sawing using special equipment enables the sawing of construction joints immediately after floor
finishing operations. Sawing should be completed within 2 h after final finishing of a floor panel(s). A sawing
depth of D/8 to D/12, where D is the slab thickness, is reported to be adequate to control the cracking of slabs
of thicknesses not exceeding 250 mm. The recommended maximum size of the aggregates is 26,5 mm.
6.10.6.2 Suspended floors
In the case of separate bonded constructions and separate unbonded constructions, joints shall be
formed between adjacent bays (coincident with movement joints in the floor), against walls, columns
and other fixed objects, and along the centre of any main supporting beams that occur below the
topping. Details of joints are identical with those for toppings on bases on the ground (see 6.10.6.1),
except that movement joints in the base shall be extended into separate unbonded toppings.
6.10.7 Mixes
A topping shall have a characteristic 28 d strength appropriate to the desired abrasion resistance
(see table 1), but of at least 20 MPa where abrasion resistance is not a consideration. The coarse
aggregates used shall be of nominal size 6,7 mm for monolithic toppings of nominal thickness
25 mm, and of nominal size not exceeding 13 mm for separate bonded toppings of nominal
thickness 30 mm. If, however, the nominal thickness of the topping exceeds 40 mm, the nominal
size of the coarse aggregates shall be increased to one-quarter of the thickness of the topping,
subject to a maximum of 19,0 mm.
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6.10.8 Laying of toppings
The topping shall be laid at one of two stages:
a) before the concrete of the base starts to bleed (immediate laying); or
b) within an hour or two after bleeding of the base has ceased and the bleed water has either
evaporated or been completely removed by mopping up (delayed laying).
Immediate laying requires careful timing, but no preparation of the base is required.
The timing for delayed laying is not crucial, but the surface of the base requires some preparation.
Brooms with fibre bristles or wire brushes shall be used to remove any bleed water or laitance (or
both) from the surface as soon as bleeding has ceased.
After the concrete in a panel has been laid and the surface has been prepared (as described
above), screed battens shall be attached to the forms surrounding the panel. The mix for the floor
finish shall then be spread onto the base, to a height slightly above the level of the screed battens,
thoroughly compacted, screeded to the finished floor level with a screeding board, and bull-floated
or lightly wood-floated or power-floated. Surface trowelling, as described in 6.5.1.2 or 6.5.1.3 as
relevant, shall then be carried out.
6.10.8.2.1 Preparation of base
In the case of bases or precast units where a high degree of bond is required, the laitance on the
base shall be entirely removed by suitable mechanized equipment, in order to expose the coarse
aggregates cleanly. All loose debris and dirt shall be removed, preferably by the use of vacuum
equipment.
Where the base is a concrete layer over precast concrete units, it shall be prepared as above,
except that if the layer is thin (less than 100 mm) and roughening by heavy mechanical scabbling
would likely damage the layer or the precast layer underneath, consideration shall be given to the
use of shot-blasting or grit-blasting equipment as an alternative.
These operations shall be delayed until shortly before the screed is laid, in order to prevent any
contamination by, or accumulation of, dirt.
6.10.8.2.2 Bonding treatment
The day before laying of the topping shall start, the base shall be tested for absorptive power by
pouring a cupful of water onto the surface.
If, during the next few minutes, it is clear that water is being absorbed, the suction of the concrete
shall be regarded as being high. In that case, the area on which the topping is to be laid shall be
wetted and kept wet for at least 6 h. Before the surface is grouted, all free water shall be removed
and the surface shall be allowed to become visibly dry so that the base achieves a saturated
surface-dry condition.
If the test water is not visibly absorbed by the concrete during the first few minutes after application,
the suction of the concrete shall be regarded as being low and the grout shall be applied to the dry
concrete.
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The grout shall consist of a fluid mixture of cement (CEM I or CEM IIA) and water (approximately
0,5 L of water per kilogram of cement or 1,5 L of loose cement per litre of water), should be well
mixed, stirred continuously, and used within half an hour of preparation.
The grout shall be slushed over the area where it is needed, and then be worked thoroughly into the
surface of the concrete by scrubbing with brushes. The brushes shall have bristles of length
approximately 60 mm to 100 mm that are flexible enough to reach down into all the irregularities of
the surface of the concrete. Finally, the grout shall be brushed out to leave only a thin coating on
the concrete and no pools of grout in the depressions.
The topping shall be laid on the grouted surface while the grout is still visibly wet (within 10 min to
20 min of application of the grout) because dried grout will inhibit bonding. Grouting shall be done
over small areas at a time, just before the topping is laid. The grout shall be made up in small
quantities and only as needed. Proprietary bonding agents may be used as an alternative to cement
grout. If bonding agents are used, the recommendations given above for preparing the base shall
still be followed. Bonding treatments depend on the bonding agent involved; if the agent is to be
mixed with water, the procedures described above shall be followed. Other materials such as epoxy
resins shall be applied strictly in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.
NOTE Stiff carpet brushes are suitable, as are some garden brooms, provided that the base is sufficiently
even and is lightly textured. Dense brooms with stiff bristles are not suitable. Hair brooms are too soft to be
effective.
6.10.8.2.3 Finishing
After screed battens surrounding the panels on which the finish is to be applied have been attached
to the prepared base and the bonding agent has been applied as described above, the topping shall
be spread, compacted, screeded and bull-floated. Surface trowelling, as described in 6.5.1.2 or
6.5.1.3, as relevant, shall then be carried out.
The base shall be clean and smooth. Before the overslab is laid, the reasons for any cracking or
hollowness of an existing base shall be diagnosed and appropriate remedial treatment shall be
carried out, as necessary.
The underlay shall be laid over the cleaned base and side forms attached to the base. The mix for
the overslab shall be spread, compacted, screeded and wood-floated or bull-floated. Surface
trowelling, as described in 6.5.1.2 or 6.5.1.3, as relevant, shall then be carried out.
If the finish is to be in two layers, the top layer shall be constructed monolithically with the bottom
layer.
6.10.9 Stair treads
The treads of stairs and steps that are not provided with non-slip insets shall be grooved (for a width
of at least 75 mm near the front edge) over the full length of the treads to within 75 mm to 100 mm
of their ends.
6.10.10 Pipes and conduits
Pipes and conduits shall not be buried in a topping. If allowed by the structural design
considerations, services shall be laid in the base; alternatively, they shall be isolated in ducts
brought to the floor surface.
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6.10.11 Curing
The finish shall be cured as described in 6.6. If the topping incorporates metallic aggregates, curing
shall only be undertaken as described in 6.6(c).
6.10.12 Maintenance
The finish shall be washed with clean water and then mopped. Coloured finishes may be polished
with a non-slip type of polish.
6.11 Screeds
6.11.1 General
A screed consists of a cement-sand mortar applied in one layer to a base, usually after the base
has hardened. Cement-sand screeds are essentially light-duty flooring elements and are suitable as
wearing surfaces of floors of utility rooms in domestic premises (for example, storerooms, garages,
etc.), or for floors additionally covered with carpets, plastics tiles or linoleum, etc., and subjected to
relatively light traffic. Cement-sand screeds are not suitable as wearing surfaces in industrial heavy-
traffic premises.
6.11.2 Materials
The recommendations given in 6.9.2 shall be followed. Cognizance shall also be taken of the
following:
a) the quality of the sand (its concrete-making properties) has a large influence on the quality of the
resulting screed;
b) the sand shall be a coarse sand complying with the requirements of SANS 1083 (In order to
facilitate finishing of the screed, the sand shall be sieved through a 4,75 mm sieve.);
c) where possible, the properties of the sand shall be determined in a laboratory. In a mix of
3,5 parts of dry sand and 1 part of cement by mass, the sand shall produce a plastic, easily
workable cohesive mortar of plastering consistence (i.e. a slump of about 40 mm), with a water
content not exceeding 320 L/m3 (The higher the water requirements, the lower the strength of the
hardened screed and the greater the drying shrinkage and tendency to crack.);
d) to produce a mix that is easy to finish to a smooth surface, it might be necessary to blend coarse
and fine sand; and
e) sieving shall be done on horizontal sieves that are shaken, or on cylindrical sieves that are
rotated. The practice of using a shovel to toss the sand onto a sloping sieve is not
recommended.
6.11.3 Methods of laying screeds
To ensure a monolithic structure, the screed is applied to the base concrete while still in the plastic
state. If the base rests on the ground, the monolithic method shall be used whenever possible (to
eliminate bonding difficulties).
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Adhesion of the screed to a hardened base is achieved by first applying a bonding layer (see 6.4.2
and 6.10.8.2).
This method is used in cases where the surface of a base is such that it would be impossible to
ensure a good bond between the base and the finish. The finish is isolated from the base by an
impervious underlay covering the entire surface of the base. This method requires the finish to be
thicker than for monolithic or bonded finishes. (See also 6.10.8.3.)
NOTE Screeds laid over concrete bases that have been contaminated, for example, with oil, or that contain
waterproofing admixtures, or that have a damp-proof membrane between the finish and the base, should be
6.11.4 Thickness
Monolithic screeds shall be applied if the base is prepared in accordance with procedures similar to
those described in SANS 10109-1. The thickness of the screed shall be approximately 25 mm.
When the screed is laid on and bonded to a hardened base designed and constructed as described
in SANS 10109-1, the minimum thickness of the screed at any point shall be 25 mm.
NOTE Because of the deviation in level of a base, some variation in screed thickness should be accepted
and, to achieve this minimum thickness, a thickness of up to 40 mm might normally be required.
In some circumstances, the design thickness of a screed might have to be increased to more than
40 mm but then there will be an increasing risk of loss of adhesion to the base, due to differential
shrinkage stress.
If the degree of preparation described in 6.10.8.2.1 cannot be achieved, the screed shall be
When the screed is laid on a damp-proof membrane or separating layer, the thickness of the screed
at any point shall be at least 50 mm.
6.11.4.4 Thickness of stair screeds
The minimum thickness of a bonded screed shall be 20 mm on stair treads, and between 12 mm
and 15 mm on stair risers.
6.11.5 Panel sizes
Screeds shall be laid in one operation, in areas as large as possible (consistent with achieving
acceptable surface regularity and the levels required), to minimize the number of joints. Although
screeds laid in large areas might crack at random intervals as they dry and shrink, these cracks are
more acceptable than the curling that might occur at vertical butt joints if screeds are laid in small
panels. However, if the screed is to be laid in panels, the area of a panel shall not exceed 9 m2 for
monolithic and bonded screeds, and 4 m2 for unbonded screeds.
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6.11.6 Joints
Isolation joints shall be formed against walls, columns and other fixed objects, and vertical butt
construction joints in a base shall be continued through monolithic and bonded screeds, so that the
joints in the screed coincide exactly with those in the base. In the case of unbonded screeds, only
isolation or expansion joints in the base shall be continued through the screed so that the isolation
or expansion joints in the screed coincide exactly with those in the base.
In bases that do not incorporate isolation or expansion joints, joints in the screed shall be formed
with screed battens or, if the screeds on both sides are laid at the same time, joints shall be formed
by cutting vertically through the partially stiffened screed mix with the edge of a trowel before the
screed sets. In bases that incorporate isolation or expansion joints, such joints shall be continued
full-width through the screed, and shall be formed with screed battens. If a screed is not intended to
receive a finish, the edges of the screed at a joint shall be rounded to a radius of 3 mm.
Unbonded screeds are likely to curl due to differential movement. This curling might cause steps at
joints but these steps can be prevented if an appropriate amount of mesh reinforcement is
incorporated in the screed (see 6.4.3.2).
6.11.7 Mixes
6.11.7.1 Mix proportions
The mix proportions of the screed shall be as follows:
sand (measured in the moist, loose state): 130 L
cement: 50 kg (one sack)
water: sufficient to achieve a plastic, workable consistence
The mix proportions for smaller batches are given in table 3.
The size of a batch shall be such that the entire batch can be used up within 45 min of mixing.
Apart from wheelbarrows, containers such as buckets, boxes or drums of known volume may be
used for batching. Batching containers shall always be filled flush to the brim.
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Table 3 — Mix proportions for small batches of screed

Dimensions in litres
1 2 3 4
Sand, measured in
Cement, measured in
the moist, loose Water Approximate yield
the loose state
state
20 6 18
30 9 27
40 12 35
50 15 44
60 18 53
Sufficient to achieve a
70 22 plastic, workable 62
consistence
80 25 71
90 28 80
100 31 88
110 34 97
120 37 106
6.11.7.2 Mixing
The materials shall be thoroughly and efficiently mixed, preferably by means of forced-action
mechanical mixers, such as trough-and-pan paddle mixers and paddle mixers attached to screed
pumps. When forced-action mechanical mixers are not available, each batch shall be mixed for at
least 3 min. The amount of water added shall be the minimum necessary to give sufficient
workability for laying and thorough compaction of the screed.
If mixing is to be done by hand, dry sand and cement shall be mixed together until the mix has a
uniform colour. Only then should the water be added, the quantity added being just sufficient to
produce a mix of the desired consistence. Hand mixing shall be carried out using shovels on a
smooth concrete floor or on a steel plate.
Mixing direct on the ground shall not be permitted as this results in the mix being contaminated with
earth or organic matter (or both).
NOTE 1 Free-fall (normal) drum mixers have been found to produce inconsistent mixing of low moisture
content material and their use is not recommended for such mixes.
NOTE 2 A common problem is the use of too dry, badly mixed cement-and-sand mixes which cannot be
properly compacted, and to which a cement grout has been applied, with the result that the screed has a
dense upper crust and the underlying screed is very weak and friable. This might result in point loads causing
breakdowns in the screed.
6.11.8 Pumping mixed material
The pumping system for a screed shall deliver the material to the working area in a condition
suitable for laying.
NOTE Most efficient pumping will be achieved when well-graded sand is used, of which less than 15 %
passes through a 300 μm sieve. Mixes richer than 1 sack of cement to 130 L of sand (see 6.11.7.1) at water
contents suitable for screeds are often difficult to pump satisfactorily.
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6.11.9 Laying of screeds
6.11.9.1 Preparation of the base
The method of laying screeds (see 6.11.3) determines the procedure for preparing the base to
receive the screed. The procedures to be used in the laying of screeds are identical to those
outlined for toppings in 6.10.8.
6.11.9.2 Control of levels
Narrow strips of screed material, laid and compacted to finished level, shall be used to establish the
level of a screed. The screed shall be placed and compacted immediately after these strips have
been laid. Where the edge of a strip forms a construction joint, it shall be formed or cut to produce a
vertical joint. Alternatively, screed battens, carefully levelled and trued, should be fixed at the
correct height for the required thickness of the screed. The battens shall be removed before the
adjacent bay of screed is laid. At construction joints, all bedding screeds beneath the battens shall
be cut away to form a vertical joint.
6.11.9.3 Time limits
The time that elapses between the start of mixing a batch and when that batch is placed and
compacted shall not exceed 45 min and, during this time, the mix shall be protected from drying out.
Batches that are not placed and compacted within this time or that have stiffened to such a degree
that their workability (consistence) cannot be restored fully by turning them over a couple of times
with shovels, shall be discarded.
6.11.9.4 Consistence of the fresh mix and means of compaction
The fresh mix shall be fully compacted. The consistence of the fresh mix and the means of
compaction shall therefore be such as to ensure that full compaction is achieved. The fresh mix
shall be as soft and plastic as a cement plaster of slump 40 mm, and should be dumped on the
base (freshly grouted in the case of bonded screeds) and spread more thickly than the final required
thickness. It shall then be thoroughly compacted, and particular attention shall be paid to areas
along the edges of panels and adjacent to screed strips. Once the screed has been compacted, it
shall be taken to the correct level with a screed-board riding on the screed strips or battens (or side
forms, in the case of monolithic screeds). The surface can then be wood-floated to remove any
ridges made by the screed board.
NOTE The use of stiff semi-dry mixes levelled with light screed-boards is a common cause of weak screeds
because such mixes are not adequately compacted. Semi-dry screeds may be used satisfactorily only if they
are compacted by power-operated equipment such as vibrating screed-boards.
6.11.9.5 Finishing
At no stage during either laying or finishing shall cement, or mixtures of cement and sand, be
applied to the surface of a screed to soak up bleed water.
6.11.9.6 Ordinary non-slip finish
The surface is left as finished with wooden floats. If it is too open or too coarse, it may be given a
few passes with either perspex or aluminium floats, to close the surface.
6.11.9.7 Steel-trowelled finish
If a hard, smooth finish is required, the surface shall be steel-trowelled as described in 6.5.1.2.
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6.11.9.8 Hard non-slip finish
The surface shall be finished as described in 6.5.1.2.
6.11.10 Pipes and conduits
The laying of pipes or conduits within the thickness of a screed shall be avoided as far as is
practicable, since cracks might occur over them. To minimize the effects of cracking where it is
essential that conduits and pipes be incorporated, at least 25 mm of screed containing steel fabric
reinforcement that complies with fabric reference number 100 or 193 of SANS 1024 shall be placed
over the conduit or pipe. The reinforcement shall extend 250 mm on each side of the conduit or pipe
and should be positioned in the middle of the depth of the screed.
Ducts or conduits of width exceeding 75 mm that are incorporated in a screed shall preferably be
laid with their top surface flush with the top surface of the screed. Alternatively, where such ducts
have to be installed below the finished screed level, they shall be covered with material strong and
resilient enough to carry the imposed loads.
NOTE The significant increase in the depth of a bonded screed required to accommodate pipes and conduits
within its thickness might lead to an increased risk of loss of bond.
6.11.11 Curing
The screed shall be cured as described in 6.6.
6.11.12 Maintenance
The screed shall be washed with clean water and then mopped. Coloured finishes may be polished
with a non-slip type of polish.
6.12 Terrazzo finishes
6.12.1 General
This type of finish offers good resistance to abrasion and provides a decorative surface that is
especially suitable for public areas such as entrance halls and stairways. It shall only be laid by
specialists in this field.
6.12.2 Materials
The cement and fine aggregates shall comply with the requirements of SANS 50197-1, and
SANS 1083 (the latter with regard to fine aggregates for the mortar screed).
White portland cement may also be used.
The aggregates for the terrazzo layer shall be crushed marble or other suitable stone.
The dividing strips shall be of brass, aluminium, plastics, or other approved corrosion-resistant
material.
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6.12.3 Method of laying terrazzo finishes
The base shall be prepared by mechanical scabbling or scarification of the surface of the hardened
base until all laitance, dirt, oil and other substances that can impair the bond between the base and
the finish are dislodged, and by then removing all coarse matter from the surface. The base shall be
wetted and kept damp for a least 6 h before the finish is applied.
The finish shall be applied in two layers, the bottom layer consisting of a cement-mortar screed
spread and compacted to a defined level. The top layer, composed of cement and terrazzo
aggregates, should preferably be laid while the screed is still plastic enough to ensure a good bond
between the screed and the terrazzo layer.
The grout shall consist of a fluid mixture of cement (CEM I or CEM IIA) and water (approximately
0,5 L of water per kilogram of cement or 1,5 L of loose cement per litre of water), should be well
mixed, stirred continuously, and used within half an hour of preparation.
The grout shall be slushed over the area where it is needed, and then worked thoroughly into the
surface of the concrete by scrubbing with brushes. Finally, the grout shall be brushed out to leave
only a thin coating on the concrete and no pools of grout in depressions. (For recommendations on
the brushes, see 6.10.8.2.2.) The cement-mortar screed shall then be spread and compacted to
within at least 15 mm of the finished floor level.
Unless the strips dividing the finish into bays have been fixed previously, the strips shall then be set
in the cement-mortar screed to the required level.
While the cement-mortar screed is still plastic, the terrazzo mix shall be spread in the panels, to a
level slightly above that of the dividing strips and compacted by tamping or with a roller. Trowelling
might be necessary to produce a true surface (depending upon the rate of set of the cement and the
temperature prevailing at the time of laying) but excessive trowelling shall be avoided, especially at
the early stages. Where it is found impossible to apply the terrazzo layer before the screed has set,
a cement-sand grout shall be brushed over the hardened screed immediately before the terrazzo
layer is spread.
6.12.4 Thickness
The thickness of the cement-mortar screed (after compaction) shall be at least 25 mm for floors and
at least 10 mm for skirtings. The thickness of the terrazzo layer shall be at least 15 mm for floor
finishes, stair treads and thresholds; at least 10 mm for skirtings and stair risers; and at least 5 mm
for stair stringers and similar faces.
6.12.5 Panel sizes
Panels shall not exceed 1,0 m2 in area. The shape of the panels depends on the pattern desired,
but generally the length of a panel shall not exceed 1,25 times its width.
6.12.6 Mixes
The mix for the cement-mortar screed shall be 1 part of cement to 3 parts of sand. Generally, the
mix for the terrazzo layer shall be 1 part of cement to 2 parts of aggregate. The sizes and the
proportions of the various sizes of aggregates used depend on the thickness of the layer and the
texture desired in the finish. For a layer of thickness 15 mm, aggregates of size 3,35 mm to
4,47 mm shall be mixed with an equal or a greater quantity of 4,75 mm to 6,7 mm aggregates. The
aggregate sizes which are normally available for thicker layers are 9,5 mm, 13,2 mm, 19 mm and
26,5 mm.
Aggregates smaller than 3,35 mm shall not be used.
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Terrazzo floors which are specified as non-slip shall have abrasive aggregates incorporated in the
finish at the rate of 1,6 kg/m2 of floor area. The aggregates shall be of the required colour and type.
The volume of water used for the mixes shall be limited to the minimum necessary to produce a
workable mix.
6.12.7 Joints
Joints shall be formed over all movement joints in bases, against walls, columns, and other fixed
objects, and over the centre of any main supporting beams below suspended floors.
Joints shall coincide with those in the base, and shall extend through the full thickness of the finish.
6.12.8 Stair treads
Skirtings and floor margins are usually formed in one operation before the floor finish proper is laid.
Skirtings shall be hollow-rounded at the junction between the skirting and the floor or floor margin.
6.12.9 Curing and protection
Immediately after the finish has been laid, it shall be protected from wind, draughts and strong
sunlight and, as soon as it is hard enough to be walked upon without damage to the surface, it shall
be cured as described in 6.6 (for at least 7 d or until the surface grinding process (see 6.12.10) has
been completed).
At completion of curing, the floors shall be covered up and protected against damage until all other
work has been completed.
6.12.10 Surface grinding
Wherever practicable, surface grinding of a terrazzo finish shall be by the wet process, and shall be
carried out by mechanical means (except for small and narrow areas that are not accessible to
machines). Grinding shall be started about 4 d after the finish has been laid.
The first grinding shall be carried out with a coarse abrasive stone and a good supply of water, and
grinding shall be continued until the aggregates are fully exposed and a tolerably plane surface is
attained. The finish shall be washed clean, all voids cleaned out, and the surface grouted with a
cement slurry (tinted as required) to fill the voids.
The finish shall be kept damp and free from excessive changes of temperature for at least 3 d after
the grout has been applied. Thereafter, the final grinding shall be carried out with a fine abrasive
stone in order to produce a "fine grit" finish.
6.12.11 Maintenance
The finish shall be kept clean by periodical washing with water to which, occasionally, a liquid non-
abrasive cleaning agent has been added. When such an agent is used, the finish shall be given a
final washing with water only. Any polish applied to the finish shall be of a non-slip type.
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6.13 Tolerances in level and surface flatness of finishes
6.13.1 General
Floor tolerance compliance tests shall be performed and all defective areas identified as soon as
possible, preferably within 24 h after placement, and not later than 72 h. Surface flatness is
measured by the deviations from a parallel plane over a large area of a floor and also over small
local areas. In general, the thinner the applied finish the better the degree of flatness required.
Some variations in surface level of a base can be allowed but the permissible limits associated with
these variations will depend on many factors.
6.13.2 Surface flatness
The designer shall select the required degree of accuracy from the information given in table 4.
When making this selection, the designer shall take account of the type and thickness of the finish
to be applied and the standard of surface flatness required of the finished floor. The highest degree
of accuracy (1 in column 1 of table 4) should be used where a thin finish is applied and where
minimum irregularity is required of the finished floor. Conversely, the lowest degree (3 in column 1
of table 4) shall be selected where a thicker type of finish is to be applied and where the regularity
of the finished floor is not a significant factor. Insistence on very close tolerances will result in higher
costs and this should be borne in mind when the required standard of surface flatness is being
selected.
Table 4 — Classification of surface flatness of finishes
1 2
Maximum tolerances in flatness as
measured with a straight edge supported
Degree of accuracy at two points 3 m apart (see annex B)
mm
1 3
2 5
3 10
6.13.3 Departure from datum level
The designer shall specify the maximum permissible departure of the level of the base or finish from
datum, taking into account the area of the floor and its use. For large areas for normal purposes,
15 mm from datum levels might be satisfactory. Greater accuracy with respect to datum levels
might be required in small rooms, along the line of partition walls, in the vicinity of door openings
and where specialized equipment is to be installed direct on the floor. A thin finish (for example, an
organic-based finish) shall not be used to adjust the level of the final floor surface.
NOTE In service, the suitability of a floor surface in terms of surface flatness is governed by its radius of
curvature and changes in height over short distances. However, it is difficult to specify limits for these factors,
and also difficult and expensive to check them, and for these reasons, a simple straight-edge method is
recommended (see also annex B).
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6.14 Inspection and testing of toppings and screeds
6.14.1 Inspection
Check the base for any departure from datum level before the finishing work is started, to ensure
that the minimum thickness of finish can be applied.
Inspect the work during the process and after completion. Pay attention to the following points:
a) materials;
b) preparation of the base, where the finish is to be bonded;
c) batching and mixing;
d) proper compaction;
e) correct finishing;
f) correct curing; and
g) the making and curing of cubes (in accordance with SANS 5861-3) made from both topping and
screed mixes.
6.14.2 Testing of the completed work
After completion of the work, test the following (detailed in accordance with 4.2(s)):
a) levels and surface flatness of direct-finished concrete bases, toppings and screeds;
b) adhesion of bonded screeds and toppings to the base;
c) curling and lipping of unbonded screeds;
d) soundness of bonded and unbonded screeds; and
e) the cubes (in accordance with SANS 5863), prepared in accordance with 6.14.1(g).
6.14.3 Levels and surface flatness
When the base or finish is tested, the departure from level shall be within the limit specified by the
designer and the surface flatness shall be within the limit given in table 4 for the appropriate degree
of accuracy specified by the designer.
6.14.4 Adhesion between separate bonded toppings or screeds and a base
Examine the adhesion between the topping or screed and the base by tapping the surface with a
rod or a hammer. A hollow sound indicates lack of adhesion.
NOTE Hollowness, if any, is usually found at the edges and corners of bays and on either side of any cracks
that might have developed in the screed or topping.
Check the adhesion of a screed or topping to its base as late as possible in a construction
programme when the maximum effect of drying shrinkage has taken place. Take account of the
time required to lay any replacement sections of screeds and toppings within the construction
programme.
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NOTE However good the preparation of the base, there is no guarantee that adhesion will always be
complete. Good workmanship will reduce loss of adhesion to a minimum.
Loss of adhesion does not necessarily mean that the screed is unsatisfactory. (See also 6.14.5.)
Those areas of the screed that are considered to be unsatisfactory shall be isolated by sawing,
removing and re-laying.
Minimize the effect that any cutting-out operations might have on the adhesion of adjacent parts of
the screed.
6.14.5 Curling and lipping of toppings and screeds
Toppings and screeds shall be considered unsatisfactory if they have lifted by a visible or
measurable amount at joints and cracks, to the extent that there is a risk of fracture under imposed
loads.
NOTE Unbonded screeds will often sound hollow when tapped with a rod or hammer.
6.14.6 Screed strength
Assess the strength of the screeds once they are at least 14 d old and have dried out by using the
British Research Establishment (BRE) screed tester. Conduct no fewer than three tests in each
area of less than 20 m2 and on each 20 m2 to 25 m2 of screed laid in larger areas. Test the corridors
at intervals of 3 m to 5 m. Select test positions at random, but test vulnerable areas such as those
adjacent to panel joints, at any shrinkage cracks and in doorways. Where test indentations exceed
those given in table 5, conduct additional tests to determine the zone of non-compliance.
The test procedure is as follows:
Select a flat, smooth area of screed and remove all loose dirt and grit. Use the template supplied
with the tester to mark the test position and the positions of the feet of the depth-measuring device,
and take the zero reading. Locate the foot piece of the screed tester at the test position, in contact
with the screed. With the guide rod held vertically, deliver four successive blows of the masspiece to
the foot piece at the same position on the screed, dropping the masspiece freely from the trigger
point each time. After the fourth blow, use the depth-measuring device to measure the depth of the
final indentation in the screed.
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Table 5 — Screed-strength acceptance limits using the "BRE screed tester"
1 2 3
Maximum permissible
depth of indentation
after the masspiece has Strength
Description
been dropped four category
times
mm
Areas expected to take relatively heavy traffic or where any
disruption at a later date would be unacceptable (or both).
3 A
(Examples are hospital operating suites and corridors; rooms
requiring a microbe-free or dust-free environment.)
Public areas such as lift lobbies; circulation areas within shops;
4 B foyers; canteens and restaurants; public rooms in residential
accommodation; hospital wards.
5 C Offices; consulting rooms; domestic premises.
7 Bitumen emulsion-cement finishes

7.1 General
Bitumen emulsion-cement finishes are durable and non-dusting, mature rapidly after laying and are
usually black. They are recommended for indoor applications and not recommended for use in
locations where they will be exposed to temperatures below 1 °C.
7.2 Materials
The manufacturer of the emulsion binder to be used shall be consulted regarding the most suitable
formulation (including the constituents of the filler) for the service conditions to which the finish will
be exposed.
7.3 Thickness
The thickness of the finish shall be at least 10 mm but shall not, in general, exceed 25 mm.
7.4 Panel sizes

The finish is jointless, and the size of panels is limited only by the occurrence of expansion joints in
the base.
7.5 Preparation of the mix

The dry constituents shall be thoroughly mixed before the liquid constituents are added and then
the whole shall be mixed by hand or in a mechanical mixer until the mix is uniform in colour. Only
the quantity of material that can be laid in 1 h to 1,5 h shall be mixed at any one time.
7.6 Laying of bitumen emulsion-cement finishes

Stiff brooms shall be used to remove laitance, oil and other contaminants from the surface of the
base, which shall then be washed with a suitable floor cleaner. After the base has dried to a
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saturated surface-dry condition, it shall be coated with a diluted bituminous emulsion and allowed to
dry. An undiluted coat of bitumen emulsion shall then be applied, and while the emulsion is still wet,
the mix shall be spread, compacted and wood-floated. Power floats are often used with beneficial
results.
7.7 Traffic
Floors may be used by pedestrian traffic 24 h after the finish has been laid, and by moderately
loaded wheeled traffic after 48 h.
7.8 Maintenance
The finish requires only washing with clean water and subsequent mopping. Emulsion-type floor
paints may be applied to the surface, if so desired.
8 Finishes laid in the form of units: burnt clay bricks and tiles, natural
stone tiles, precast concrete, precast and terrazzo natural stone slabs
and concrete paving blocks
8.1 General
The durability of finishes laid in the form of units depends largely on the density of the units and on
the use of good jointing material and workmanship.
Floor finishes and recommended bedding systems are given in table 6.
8.2 Materials
8.2.1 Units
Specific units used for specific bedding systems shall comply with the following standards:
SANS 227, for burnt clay masonry units;
SANS 285, for calcium silicate masonry units;
SANS 541, for precast concrete paving slabs;
SANS 1058, for concrete paving blocks; and
SANS 1449, for ceramic wall and floor tiles.
Precast terrazzo slabs shall be of materials as described in 6.12.2. Natural stone shall be sound,
dense and free from defects that impair its durability and suitability.
8.2.2 Bedding mortar
The materials for bedding mortar shall comply with the requirements of the relevant of SANS 523,
SANS 1083 and SANS 50197-1.
NOTE See also 6.9.2.
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8.2.3 Sealants
Sealants shall comply with SANS 110, SANS 1077 or SANS 1305. Other suitable sealants may be
used if results will be the same.
Table 6 — Floor finishes and recommended bedding systems
1 2 3 4 5
Bedding systems
Floor finish Screed over
Old concrete New concrete Screed over damp-
underfloor
or screed or screed proof membrane
heating
Subclause
a
8.5.2.2 – 8.5.2.2a –
8.5.2.3 8.5.2.3 8.5.2.3 8.5.2.3
8.5.2.4a 8.5.2.4a 8.5.2.4a 8.5.2.4a
Clay tilesa
8.5.2.5 8.5.2.5 8.5.2.5 –
8.5.2.6 8.5.2.6 8.5.2.6 8.5.2.6
8.5.2.7 8.5.2.7 8.5.2.7 –
8.5.2.8 8.5.2.8 8.5.2.8 8.5.2.8

a
Clay brick as for clay tiles except 8.5.2.5
a
8.5.2.2 – 8.5.2.2a –
Concrete tilesa,
a
terrazzo tiles , cast 8.5.2.3 8.5.2.3 8.5.2.3 8.5.2.3
stone tiles and 8.5.2.4a 8.5.2.4a 8.5.2.4a 8.5.2.4a
concrete paving
blocks a
8.5.2.6 8.5.2.6 8.5.2.6 8.5.2.6
Natural stone
8.5.2.3 8.5.2.3
(sandstone and 8.5.2.3 8.5.2.3
(if unbonded) (if unbonded)
limestone)
Natural stonea
(granite, marble 8.5.2.4a 8.5.2.4a 8.5.2.4a 8.5.2.4a
slate and quartzite)
NOTE 1 Some floor finishing materials are available in various densities and thicknesses and only those
suitable for the purpose should be selected to withstand heavy traffic.
NOTE 2 Chemical-resistant bedding is not recommended for heavy traffic conditions but some types may be
suitable and the manufacturer’s advice should be followed.
NOTE 3 In the case of bedding applied direct to the base, the use of cement-based adhesives (thin-bed) as
in 8.5.2.5 is not recommended on screeds over underfloor heating; these products can, however, be used on
such surfaces in conjunction with a cement-and-sand bedding over a separating layer (see 8.5.2.3). Certain
types of thin-bed adhesives, other than cement-based, may be suitable for direct bedding and the
manufacturer’s advice should be followed.
NOTE 4 Special attention is drawn to 8.5.2.3. Bedding in cement-sand mortar over a separating layer should
not be specified for use in heavy traffic conditions. In addition, it should be noted that bedding methods as in
8.5.2.5, 8.5.2.6, and 8.5.2.7 are not suitable for use in heavy traffic conditions; the bedding method in 8.5.2.8
might be suitable in certain cases.
a
The finish or bedding system recommended for heavy traffic.
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8.3 Thickness
The thickness of bricks, burnt clay tiles and precast concrete slabs shall comply with the
requirements of the relevant standards given in 8.2.1. Terrazzo slabs shall be at least 25 mm thick.
Coloured cast tiles shall be at least 19 mm thick, natural stone tiles shall be at least 12 mm thick,
and natural stone slabs shall be 20 mm to 50 mm thick, depending on the area of the slabs.
8.4 Relationship between base and finish
8.4.1 The separating layer
Failure arising from variable stresses can be avoided by isolating the bedded finish from the base
by means of a separating layer that prevents the two elements from adhering to each other and
allows each to move independently. Such a layer may consist of building paper, felt, bituminous felt,
polythene film or similar material on which the flooring units shall be bedded in mortar. Paper and
felt layers and layers of similar material have the incidental advantage of damp-resistance. Sand is
an unsatisfactory material when used as a separating layer, and is not recommended for this
purpose.
An accurately formed base that has a true and smooth surface shall be provided to receive the
separating layer.
Separating layers shall not be used where tiles are to be laid in exterior situations (see note 4 to
table 6), except for tiles laid over mastic asphalt.
8.4.2 Semi-dry mix method
A method of bedding known as the semi-dry mix method has the advantage of isolating the bedded
finish from the base. In most circumstances, no screed will be necessary.
NOTE Unless users have experience of other systems that bond the bedded finish firmly to the base and that
have proved to be reliable, it is strongly recommended that the methods given in 8.4.1 and 8.4.2 be used.
8.5 Laying of units
8.5.1 General
8.5.1.1 Workmanship
A competent workman shall do the laying of tile flooring and slab flooring.
8.5.1.2 Transport and storage
The delivery to, and the stacking of bricks, tiles and other flooring units on, a site shall be so
arranged as to minimize handling. Adequate precautions shall be taken to guard against the
possibility of damage.
Clean dry storage shall be provided on the site for all materials.
The coverings used shall be of materials that will not damage or stain the flooring units.
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8.5.1.3 Suitability of the base
8.5.1.3.1 Pre-assessment
Before floor tiling is started, the tiling contractor shall ensure that
a) the correct falls have been incorporated in the base, where so required,
b) the base is free from contamination and loose areas, and
c) the concrete base or screed is true and level (see 8.5.1.3.2) and has, after curing, been
subjected to continuous air drying for at least 4 weeks in the case of a concrete base, and for at
least 2 weeks in the case of a screed. Longer periods might be necessary in wet weather and
where the floor will be heated.
8.5.1.3.2 Tolerances on level
Floor surfaces are usually required to be level or to be laid to a given fall, and the permissible
degree of departure from this ideal should be included in the design specification. Some variations
in surface level can be allowed without detriment to the satisfactory use of the floor, and the
permissible limits associated with these variations will depend on many factors. The insistence on
very close limits might result in higher costs. Several forms of variation might have to be considered
and the following notes are for guidance in writing specifications:
a) For large areas of floor, some variations in level from the datum level given on the drawings can
be tolerated and central areas may be lower or higher than the edges without causing serious
inconvenience to the user. Permissible variations will depend on the area involved, but a
tolerance of approximately 15 mm compared to the specified datum level can be acceptable.
Greater accuracy with respect to datum levels may be required in small rooms, along the line of
partition walls, in the vicinity of door openings and where specialized machinery will be installed
direct on the floor.
b) An appropriate limit for localized variations in level for a nominally flat floor is ± 5 mm under a
3 m straight edge (see annex B). Where water is likely to be present on the floor, particular care
shall be taken to prevent low spots between drainage outlets.
c) There shall be no appreciable difference in level across joints, especially where heavy moving
loads are in service.
8.5.1.4 Setting out
When flooring units are being set out, the correct datum level for the floor shall be established. The
level of the finished work shall be controlled by a series of "spot levels". A gauge rod shall be made,
indicating the overall measurement of a given number of tiles or slabs with specified joint widths;
with this the flooring contractor shall determine the best method of setting out to avoid unsightly cut
units. Whole units shall be used as much as possible. If cutting is necessary, the cut units shall be
fixed as unobtrusively as possible. The siting of movement joints is of primary importance. As a
general rule, movement joints are detailed on working drawings but it is sometimes necessary that
their positioning in a system be left to the discretion of the contractor. In such circumstances, these
movement joints shall be laid in true symmetrical pattern and in proper relationship to columns and
foundations. (See also 8.5.3.)
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8.5.1.5 Movement joints
Where a structural movement joint has already been provided in the base, a movement joint in the
bedded finish shall be positioned immediately above it (see also 8.5.3). Other movement joints shall
be carried through the bedding and floor finish only.
Where a joint is not intended to be reinforced with a metal edge, it shall be formed with a batten
placed in position and securely held whilst the floor is laid to it. The batten shall be of a depth at
least equal to the total depth of the bedding plus the floor finish and the width shall be the width of
the joint required. Battens shall not be removed until at least 4 d after the floor has been laid.
Where a joint is designed to be reinforced with a metal edge, metal angles of suitable section shall
be firmly bedded in position, and a space equal to the required joint width shall be left between the
angles (see figure 3).
Unless the sealing of movement joints is left to a specialist, the flooring contractor shall pay careful
attention to the application instructions published by the manufacturer of the sealant.
Figure 3 — Reinforced movement joints (see 8.5.1.5 and 8.5.3.1)
8.5.2 Bedding systems
8.5.2.1 General
Lay the floor units covered by this part of SANS 10109 by using one or more of the bedding
systems described in 8.5.2.2 to 8.5.2.9 (inclusive), subject to the following:
a) the suitability of a bedding system depends largely on the type of tile, brick or slab, the
anticipated loading, the type and condition of the base and the likely chemical contamination of
the floor during its working life (As conditions can vary very widely, the recommendations given in
table 6 might have to be modified after a careful assessment of the particular conditions.);
b) whilst it is preferable to lay the bedding over a considerable area before laying the floor finish,
this might not be possible where the tiles, bricks or slabs are in the region of 230 mm × 230 mm
or larger, or are of unequal thickness, in which case individual bedding might have to be adopted;
c) the systems described in 8.5.2.2 to 8.5.2.9 refer specifically to tiles and bricks. Slabs may be
bedded
1) • as described in 8.5.2.2 and 8.5.2.3, except that the mortar shall not be richer than
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one sack of common cement (grade 32,5 or 42,5) to 130 L of concrete sand, nor leaner
than one sack of common cement to 200 L of concrete sand, or
• as described in 8.5.2.2 and 8.5.2.3, except that mortar made with grade 22,5X masonry
cement shall not be richer than one sack of cement to 115 L of concrete sand, nor leaner
than one sack of cement to 165 L of concrete sand, or
• as described in 8.5.2.2 and 8.5.2.3, except that mortar made with grade 12,5X masonry
cement shall not be richer than one sack of cement to 65 L of concrete sand, nor leaner
than one sack of cement to 100 L of concrete sand; or
2) as described in 8.5.2.4, except that joints shall be wider than 3 mm; and
d) tiles or slabs made of concrete, terrazzo or cast stone shall generally be grouted on the
underside before laying.
8.5.2.2 Bedding in cement-sand mortar bonded to the base
8.5.2.2.1 Mixture
In the case of common cement (grade 32,5 or 42,5), the cement-sand mix shall not be richer than
one sack of common cement to 100 L of concrete sand, nor leaner than one sack of common
cement to 130 L of concrete sand.
In the case of grade 22,5X masonry cement, the mix shall not be richer than one sack of cement to
80 L of concrete sand, nor leaner than one sack of cement to 115 L of concrete sand.
In the case of grade 12,5X masonry cement, the mix shall not be richer than one sack of cement to
50 L of concrete sand, nor leaner than one sack of cement to 85 L of concrete sand.
8.5.2.2.2 Thickness
The thickness of the bedding shall be not less than 15 mm and not more than 20 mm. However,
where tiles of thickness not exceeding 10 mm are used, the thickness of the bedding shall not
exceed 15 mm. The bedding mix shall be of a stiff, plastic consistence and shall contain the
appropriate quantity of water so that when it is tamped and fully compacted into place, free water
does not bleed to the surface.
8.5.2.2.3 Adhesion
To obtain good adhesion between the bedding and tiles, the bedding mix shall be lightly dusted with
dry cement sprinkled from a flour sieve and lightly trowelled level until the cement becomes damp.
Alternatively, a grout of cement/water or a cement-based adhesive shall be applied to the backs of
the tiles or slabs. Any of these applications shall be made immediately before the bedding of the
tiles or slabs. Tiles that have, where necessary, been dipped in clean water and from which the
surface water has been drained, shall then be laid on the mortar with a joint of width at least 3 mm
between tiles, and shall then be tamped level.
8.5.2.2.4 Grouting
Grouting of the joints may be carried out at any time to suit the convenience of the work but shall
preferably not be done within 12 h of the laying of the flooring units. Sufficient time shall elapse to
ensure adequate setting of the bedding, to preclude disturbance of the finish during the grouting
operation. However, it is not advisable to delay grouting unduly, since the open joints might collect
building dust and material deleterious to the finish.
The grouting mix shall consist of one sack of common cement (grade 32,5 or 42,5) to 35 L of fine
dry sand, mixed to a paste consistence with the minimum of water; too wet a mix might result in
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cracking of the joint filling on drying. The grout shall be worked well into all joints until they are
completely filled flush with the face of the flooring units. In the case of terrazzo and marble tiles or
slabs, the grouting mix shall consist of portland cement or, if so required, tinted cement.
NOTE Cements with a high extender content might be more susceptible to the effects of poor curing which
can result in the grout suffering abrasion damage under traffic.
Surplus grout shall be removed from the floor surface; on no account shall sawdust be used for this
purpose, since there is a danger that sawdust entering moist joint surfaces might break down their
strength and cause them to become porous.
If other types of grout are used, for example, epoxy, polyester, furane or polyurethane resin-based
grouts, the manufacturer's instructions shall be followed.
8.5.2.3 Bedding in cement-sand mortar over a separating layer
8.5.2.3.1 The base shall first be swept clean. The bedding mix for this system shall be as described
in 8.5.2.2, except that it is laid over a separating layer (see 8.4.1). The separating layer shall be laid
over a smooth surface, preferably a screed, with 100 mm lapped joints. Once the separating layer is
in position, the bedding mix shall be spread over it, between wooden battens. The bedding shall be
levelled to a depth of 20 mm ± 5 mm, using a draw float drawn across the battens, and using only
sufficient bedding mortar for about 2 h to 3 h work. The application of dry cement or a grout of
cement/water or a cement-based adhesive as described in 8.5.2.2.3 is equally suitable. This form of
bedding might not be suitable for some forms of natural stone of irregular shape or irregular
thickness.
Flooring units that have, where necessary, been dipped in clean water and from which the surface
water has been drained shall then be laid on the mortar with at least a 3 mm joint between the tiles
and shall then be tamped level.
8.5.2.3.2 Grouting shall be carried out as described in 8.5.2.2.4.
8.5.2.4 Bedding by the cement-sand semi-dry mix method
8.5.2.4.1 The bedding mix shall consist of one sack of common cement (grade 32,5 or 42,5) to
115 L to 130 L of concrete sand. The sand shall comply with one of the gradings shown in table 7.
Table 7 — Bedding by the cement-sand semi-dry mix method:

grading limits for bedding sand
1 2 3
Sieve size Percentage passing
mm Grading A Grading B
4,75 90 – 100 90 – 100

2,36 75 – 100 85 – 100
1,18 55 – 90 75 – 100
0,60 35 – 59 60 – 79
0,30 8 – 30 12 – 40
0,15 0 – 15a 0 – 15a
b b
0,075 0 – 5 0 – 5
a
For crushed stone sands, the permissible limit may be increased to
20 %.
b
For crushed stone sands, the permissible limit may be increased to
10 %.
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8.5.2.4.2 A trial mix shall first be batched by mass. In order to achieve the recommended cement
water ratio of about 1:9, the proportion of water in the sand shall be determined beforehand, but if
this is not possible, the correct water content in the mix shall be established by means of the
following tests:
a) when a sample of mortar is squeezed in the hand, the sample shall retain its shape and not
crumble and the hand should be left slightly moist; and
b) when a sample is compacted on the base, no film of water shall form on the surface.
8.5.2.4.3 Mixing should preferably be by means of a mechanical mixer.
The most suitable operating sequence to ensure thorough mixing and to avoid "balling" of the mix is
as follows:
a) set the mixer in motion;
b) pour in a little water;
c) add approximately half the sand;
d) add all the cement;
e) add the remainder of the sand;
f) add the remainder of the predetermined amount of water; and
g) allow mixing to continue for at least a further 5 min.
If the mixer is of the rotating drum type, the drum shall be maintained at an angle of 10° to 12° to
the horizontal throughout the mixing.
8.5.2.4.4 Before the bedding is laid, the base shall be brushed clean and, if there is likely to be
excessive suction, shall be slightly dampened. Separating layers are not necessary and shall be
laid only in the case of special requirements. The finished floor levels shall be established by means
of dots and rules. The mix shall then be spread to a thickness of approximately 10 % to 15 %
exceeding that required for the actual bedding, and it shall be thoroughly compacted by tamping
and drawing off to the required level. No greater area of mix shall be spread than can be compacted
and topped with grout and tiles in one continuous operation.
8.5.2.4.5 A grout consisting of one sack of common cement (grade 32,5 or 42,5) to 35 L of clean
fine sand or of cement or of a suitable proprietary material, after being mixed with water, shall be
allowed to stand for 15 min and then reworked to a thick creamy consistence and immediately
spread and trowelled over the bedding in an even layer of thickness approximately 2 mm. When
cement is used, it might be necessary to add a little extra water when reworking, in order to obtain
the desired consistence.
8.5.2.4.6 The flooring units shall then be placed, and care shall be taken to avoid any corner
depressing the grouted bedding. The units shall be tapped firmly into position; a useful tool for this
purpose is a rubber hammer. The units shall be dry, but to prevent excessive absorption of moisture
from the bedding, it will be necessary first to soak porous units in clean water and to drain off the
surface water before placing them. Units that have uneven or deep back patterns, such as concrete
tiles and some extruded split tiles, shall have the depressions filled with a suitably stiffened grout or
mortar mix, for instance 1 part of cement to 2,5 parts of fine sand, before the units are laid. All units
shall be laid with a joint of width at least 3 mm between units.
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8.5.2.4.7 To ensure a true surface and complete contact between the flooring units and the grouted
bedding, the tiles shall be beaten vigorously with a beater as laying proceeds. Before the tiles are
beaten, a mixture of dry cement and sand shall be brushed into the joint spaces until they are
completely filled. Care shall be taken to ensure that no separation of the cement from the sand
takes place during the brushing. Water shall then be sprinkled liberally over the surface, except in
the case of units laid in grouts consisting of certain proprietary materials, in which case the
manufacturer's instructions shall be followed. When a beating machine is used, beating shall
commence within a period of 0,5 h from the time that the units are laid. Any repositioning of the tiles
shall be performed with a repetition of the beating procedure.
8.5.2.4.8 The recommended thickness of bedding for use in this system is approximately 40 mm. If
the thickness exceeds 70 mm, a mix with aggregates of maximum size 10 mm may be used in the
proportions of one sack of cement: 60 L of dry sand: 70 L of dry coarse aggregates. It is usually
more practicable to lay bedding of thickness exceeding 70 mm in two applications of approximately
equal thickness, the lower one being roughly compacted, but not allowed to stiffen, before the
addition of the upper one. The aggregates and cement shall be accurately batched by mass. In
circumstances where batching by mass is impracticable, cement shall be batched by the whole
sack. Accurate gauging boxes should be used for the aggregates and due allowance should be
made for the bulking of damp sand.
8.5.2.4.9 Grouting as described in 8.5.2.2.4 shall be carried out within 4 h of the completion of the
laying of the flooring units so that the grout can become part of the bedding, thereby ensuring the
security of the whole system. A suitable proprietary grouting material may be used instead of
cement-sand mortar.
8.5.2.5 Bedding in cement-based adhesives (thin-bed method) bonded to the base
A cement-based adhesive can be used, provided that the base is flat and level. The bedding shall
be prepared in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and shall be applied direct to the dry
base as a float not exceeding 5 mm in thickness, into which the dry tiles shall be laid. Alternatively,
the backs of the tiles may be buttered with the mix and the tiles applied direct to the base. The tiles
shall be well tamped down to ensure complete adhesion to the base. The joints between each tile
shall be of width at least 3 mm. Because of the maximum bedding thickness of 5 mm, this method
does not allow flexibility in regulating the level of the finished surface over large areas.
Grouting shall be carried out as described in 8.5.2.2.4.
8.5.2.6 Bedding in rubber latex-cement mortar
Rubber latex-cement mortars can normally be used safely on suspended floors or on floors
subjected to vibration and excessive temperature or moisture variations. They are also suitable for
areas subjected to mildly corrosive conditions.
These mortars are made from cement, fine sand and a stabilized emulsion of natural or synthetic
rubber latex and are supplied in the form of a powder together with a liquid. The supplier's
instructions regarding mixing and application shall be closely followed. Some of these mortars have
a short working time and therefore only a small batch shall be mixed at any one time. No batch shall
be retempered by the addition of further liquid.
The base is usually primed with a thin mix of the mortar or primer. Very dry concrete bases shall be
dampened before priming to obtain maximum adhesion.
After the base has been primed, the flooring units shall be buttered with the mortar and then placed
in position, with a joint of width at least 3 mm between units.
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8.5.2.7 Bedding in bituminous compounds
Bituminous compounds consist of mixtures of bitumen emulsion and sand. The emulsion shall
comply with the requirements of SANS 309, SANS 548 or SANS 1260.
The bituminous bedding, which shall consist of 1 part of aqueous bitumen emulsion to 2,5 parts of
soft dry sand, is suitable for fixing clay floor tiles and bricks. The sand shall be added to the bitumen
and mixed to the consistence of ordinary cement mortar and the bituminous compound shall then
be spread over the base, which has previously been primed with a brushing coat of emulsion. The
bedding shall be spread to a thickness of approximately 6 mm to 7 mm and the flooring units shall
then be placed in position, with a joint of width at least 3 mm between units.
8.5.2.8 Bedding in chemical-resistant mortars
The use of chemical-resistant mortars in the laying of flooring units is a very specialized operation
and a specialist's advice shall always be obtained regarding the form of flooring and the mortars
best suited to the service conditions.
8.5.2.9 Bedding in other types of adhesives
The development of adhesives is continuous, and in the absence of long term experience, the
manufacturer's advice shall be followed.
8.5.3 Movement joints
8.5.3.1 General
Whether movement joints are to be provided around the extreme edges of the floor (perimeter
joints) and whether the floor is to be divided into bays (intermediate joints) depends on the
dimensions of the floor, the bedding system and the floor finish material (see 8.5.3.2 and 8.5.3.3).
If perimeter joints are provided, they shall be placed adjacent to all features that interrupt the floor
surface; these features may be structural, such as columns, steps and bases, or they may be
machinery or other equipment fixed to the concrete base.
Where high temperatures are expected as, for instance, around boilers or over floor-heating
installations, an estimate of the temperature range and the corresponding dimensional changes of
the finish shall be made to determine where and whether any additional allowance for movement is
necessary.
Where possible, intermediate joints shall be arranged at points where stresses in the concrete base
are most likely to occur, for example over supporting beams. Where a structural movement joint has
already been provided in a base, a movement joint in the bedded finish shall be positioned
immediately above it.
Intermediate joints can often be arranged to coincide with structural features such as columns and
door openings or can be planned to provide a decorative panelled effect.
In floors that have to withstand hard-rim wheel traffic, the position of movement joints shall, where
practicable, be so planned that they do not occur in the traffic area. Where this is not practicable,
the edges of the joints shall be reinforced with metal sections fixed firmly into the bedding, the
movement joint being formed between the angles (see figure 3).
If flooring is to be subjected to traffic heavier than light pedestrian traffic, joints shall generally not
exceed 10 mm unless protected by metal joint edging. Information on the permissible maximum and
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minimum joint widths shall be obtained from the manufacturer of the particular sealant selected to
fill the joints.
Movement-joint cavities shall extend through the combined thickness of the flooring units and the
bedding mortar or compound and shall be completely filled and sealed after grouting of the normal
joints has taken place. Before the filling and sealing operation, movement-joint cavities shall be
thoroughly cleared of all extraneous matter such as excess grout and dust.
8.5.3.2 Movement joints in clay floor tiling
Movement joints should be provided around the perimeter of all tiled areas and intermediate joints
should be incorporated in large areas and particularly on suspended floors, at centres of about
4,5 m along both the width and length of the floor and over the main supporting walls or beams.
However, when flooring units are laid using a semi-dry mix bedding mortar as described in 8.5.2.4,
it is usually unnecessary to provide perimeter joints in floors of dimension not exceeding 6 m in any
direction, or intermediate joints in large areas at centres not exceeding 9 m. On all suspended floors
and in areas likely to be subjected to violent and substantial changes in temperature or humidity,
perimeter and intermediate joints shall be provided.
8.5.3.3 Movement joints in other floor finishes
When flooring units other than clay floor tiles are being laid using any of the general methods
described in 8.5.2.2 to 8.5.2.9, inclusive, perimeter joints should be provided when the floor area
exceeds 15 m in any direction and intermediate joints in large areas should be spaced not more
than 15 m apart.
8.5.3.4 Selection of materials for movement joints
8.5.3.4.1 Sealants
The choice of the sealant to be used in a joint will depend upon many factors, including the
sealant's extensibility, resistance to chemical attack, resistance to wear, its behaviour during the
passage of time, its resistance to penetration of grit and contamination, its resistance to damage
from cleaning processes and its ease of placing. Whatever the choice, the sealant manufacturer's
advice shall be followed.
A summary of the more important properties of sealants is given in tables 8 and 9. Butyl mastics
and other forms of soft sticky mastics are not suitable for use in the jointing of flooring units.
8.5.3.4.2 Filler materials
From an economic and a functional viewpoint, it is usually advisable to fill joints partially with filler
material before topping up to the final level with the more expensive sealant.
The filler material in the lower part of a joint cavity shall be compatible with the sealant being used
and, in general, shall be compressible, shall support the sealant and shall not produce a bituminous
or oily residue. In particular, it should assist the sealant in carrying traffic loads and its
compressibility shall be such that, when the joint closes, the sealant is not forced out. Suitable
materials include cellular rubber and plastics such as cellular polyethylene, caulking cotton,
untarred oakum and certain types of fibreboard.
The more elastic sealants shall not stick to the filler material, since the ability of the sealant to
accommodate movement will be reduced by any restriction of its underface. Where this danger is
present, an additional barrier such as polyethylene film shall be applied between the filler material
and the sealant.
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48
Table 8 ― A guide on the resistance of sealants to various liquids and solutions
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20
Resistance to
Oxidizing acids Other acids Alkalis Solvents Oils and greases
Sealant Animal Chlori-
Fatty Sul- Chlo- Sugar Sea Common Flexi-
Concen- Concen- Concen- and Water Milk nated
Diluted Diluted acids Diluted fates ri- Other Mineral solutions
water
water salt bility
trated trated trated vege-
nated
table
Bitumen
P F F G F-G F-G F-G G P P P P VG G P G G G Plastic
compounds
Polysulfide Very
P P P F F G G G P F-G F-G G G G G G G G
rubber resilient
Silicone Very
P G P G G G G G P F G F-G VG VG VG VG VG VG
rubber resilient
Very
Polyurethane P P F F G P P P G F G G VG G G VG VG VG
resilient
Epoxy/ Very
F F P F P G G F G G G VG G G G G G G
polysulfide resilient
NOTE The information given in the table is subject to confirmation by the manufacturer of any particular sealant.
VP = very poor
P = poor
F = fair
F-G = fair/good
G = good
VG = very good
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
Table 9 — Summary of properties of sealants
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
Curing time
Butt joint
before
Type of Hardness movement Method of Joint Colours
serviceable Remarks
sealant IRHDa tolerance application suitability available
for traffic
%
h
Chemically
Expansion
cured. Rate of
Polysulfides Gun or and Range of
15 to 40 2 to 4 20 cure depends
(two part) cold-poured contraction colours
mainly on
joints
temperature.
Epoxy
Chemically
polysulfide
Black, cured. Rate of
and Gun or Expansion
70 to 90 1 2 to 5 grey and cure depends
flexibilized cold-poured joints only
white on tempera-
epoxy (two
ture.
part)
Expansion
Black,
Polyurethanes Gun or and As two-part
15 to 50 2 to 4 20 grey and
(two part) cold-poured contraction polysulfide
white
joints
Expansion Soft and
Rubber
and thermoplastic;
bitumen (one 60 to 90 5 to 10 Hot-poured Black
contraction tends to track
part)
joints from joints.
Expansion
Silicone
and Range of Chemically
rubber (one 10 to 50 2 to 4 20 Gun
contraction colours cured.
part)
joints
NOTE The properties given in the table are subject to confirmation by the manufacturer of any particular sealant.
a
International rubber hardness degrees (in accordance with ISO 48).
Amdt 1
8.5.3.4.3 Preformed strips
Preformed strips are suitable for use in stress-relieving or compression joints where a watertight
seal is not critical. Materials such as cork, cork/rubber compounds and rubber-bitumen strips are
suitable for use in light traffic areas. Materials such as PVC or synthetic rubber strips are suitable
for use in areas subjected to heavier traffic. Strips shall be inserted between the flooring units as
they are laid. Strips are fitted to the combined depth of the floor covering and bedding and are
keyed into the bedding material either by the shape of the strip section or by means of nails driven
through the strip into the bedding material. Where the floor shall subsequently be ground off to a
level surface, care shall be taken to select materials that will not smear or be damaged by this
process. Sponge rubbers and rubber-bitumen strips are unsuitable for use in this situation.
8.5.4 Maturing and polishing of terrazzo units
After terrazzo units have been laid and grouted, the floor shall be kept damp for a period of 3 d
before the final polishing takes place, in order to produce a fine grit finish.
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8.5.5 Stair treads
Stair treads shall be solidly bedded using the appropriate mortar, as for the flooring. Risers of any
natural material shall be fixed by means of copper cramps. Where a protective coating of shellac or
bitumen paint is broken to provide holes for the cramps, the coating shall be made good before the
units are fixed. The back filling should be reduced in strength to provide a cushion effect against
damaging blows. Where a fine finish is required for marble treads, slip-resistant inserts such as
carborundum-filled grooves cut parallel and just behind the nosing shall be provided. These inserts
contribute to safety by outlining the edges of treads and the termination of stairs, making them more
visible when the floor is of an identical material.
8.5.6 Protection
In ideal circumstances, all work above floor level should be complete and all equipment installed
before floor laying starts. If this is not possible, the finished and partly finished flooring shall be
protected against damage or contamination from subsequent operations. During the floor laying
operation, the areas being laid shall be accessible to no one but the floor layers. Completed flooring
shall also not be subjected to traffic until the bedding has stiffened and sufficient bond has
developed between the bedding and the finish to preclude any likelihood of disturbance of the finish.
As a general rule, light pedestrian traffic may be allowed over a finished floor (preferably grouted)
4 d from the completion of laying; heavier traffic shall be excluded for 14 d after laying.
The floor finish shall at all times be kept clean and free from cement and plaster droppings and from
all materials likely to cause stains. For any work carried out above the flooring that involves
permanent staining materials, such as oils, grease and paint, the floor shall be temporarily covered.
If equipment likely to cause damage has to be moved, any parts in contact with the floor surface
shall be padded; sliding of equipment over the floor surface shall not be allowed. When heavy
equipment has to be moved over the floor finish, special precautions shall be taken, for example, by
using timber planking, to ensure that the equipment, moving tackle or planking does not abrade the
floor surface.
Where none of the hazards mentioned are likely to exist, a layer of white non-staining sawdust
should provide adequate protection. Polished marble floors are particularly susceptible to
disfigurement and shall be temporarily boarded over to protect them from damage by subsequent
operations. Stair finishings, especially nosings, are vulnerable to damage and shall be protected by
means of temporary casings.
8.6 Skirtings
Where skirtings and edge margins of a material other than that of the floor finish are provided, they
shall be formed before the finish is laid.
8.7 Maintenance
8.7.1 General
8.7.1.1 Efflorescence
Efflorescence is a white deposit that develops on the floor surface as the floor dries out. It is due to
the crystallization of soluble salts, transported by moisture from the bedding or base. It is
aggravated if excessively damp conditions follow installation, or if there is a prolonged delay in
drying. The deposit disappears with washing with clean water but can reappear after drying.
Efflorescence diminishes with progressive washing and the most effective treatment is to increase
the frequency of washing until the deposit formation ceases. Persistent efflorescence arises from
rising moisture where damp-proofing has been inadequate.
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8.7.1.2 Residual cement film
During the first few months after having been laid, some flooring units might exhibit a film that is
insoluble in water. This generally arises from portland cement and can only be removed by
treatment with appropriate acids or an abrasive, depending on the type of flooring. Such treatment
can, if wrongly applied, cause further damage and shall only be carried out after adequate
consultation with the contractor and, if necessary, with the manufacturer of the floor finish.
8.7.1.3 Surface sealing materials
Except for special situations (see 8.7.2.3), surface sealing is not necessary and is not
recommended. Excessive application or use of an unsuitable sealer can cause a patchy
appearance of the floor surface, particularly outside the main traffic areas, and it might not be
removable by normal washing or scouring. In this event, advice should be sought from the
manufacturer of the sealing materials and possibly from the manufacturer of the floor finish, to
determine the most suitable method of dealing with the problem.
8.7.1.4 Cleaning agents
With the exception of terrazzo tiles (see 8.7.2.3), all flooring units are effectively cleaned by normal
washing or scrubbing with warm water and a neutral sulfate-free detergent. Whichever cleaning aid
is used, it shall be completely removed by final rinsing with clean water. When a cleaning aid is
being selected, care shall be taken to avoid the risk of damage to adjacent fixtures and wall
finishes.
8.7.1.5 All floor surfaces
The use of unsuitable cleaning agents on floors can lead to salt contamination of adjacent walls and
cause consequential damage to the stone, paint or plaster.
8.7.2 Particular floor finishes
8.7.2.1 Clay tiles and bricks
Clay tiles and bricks require little maintenance and are easily kept clean by sweeping and then
washing with warm water to which a soapless detergent has been added. They are not damaged by
the occasional use of scouring powder, pumice block or bleach to remove particularly stubborn
blemishes. Household soaps are not recommended since they tend to leave a slippery scum,
particularly in regions where the water is hard. The application of linseed oil or polishes is also not
recommended since they are not absorbed into the surface and tend to make the tiles slippery and
difficult to clean.
8.7.2.2 Concrete tiles and cast stone
Brushing and washing is normally sufficient to keep concrete tiles and cast stone floors clean.
8.7.2.3 Terrazzo tiles
Terrazzo tiles require little maintenance. Generally, scrubbing with soap and water is recommended
to maintain the surface in good condition, care being taken to remove soap residue. Although
terrazzo tiling has a high resistance to oil staining, it is not completely impervious to oil penetration.
There are, however, certain proprietary treatments available for the removal of oil stains.
Resistance to staining can be increased by the use of certain sealants; the manufacturer's advice
shall be sought on proprietary treatments and sealants. Disinfectants with a phenol or cresol base
will stain the tiling. Fine abrasive powders may occasionally be used to remove stubborn marks, but
are not recommended for regular maintenance.
51
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
8.7.2.4 Natural stone (sandstone, limestone)
Natural stone floors require little maintenance. Sandstone and limestone floors shall be cleaned
with water, aided, where necessary, by an appropriate grade of neutral, sulfate-free pumice powder
or a neutral, sulfate-free detergent. Soda, soda-ash, and alkaline or sulfate-containing cleaning
agents or scouring powders shall not be used.
8.7.2.5 Natural stone (granite, marble, slate and quartzite)
Generally, thorough cleaning with water is all that is necessary to remove face dirt from granite,
marble, slate and quartzite. A neutral sulfate-free detergent may be used, if required, and then
thoroughly rinsed off with clean water to prevent the flooring from becoming slippery. Soda, soda-
ash and alkaline or sulfate-containing cleaning agents or scouring powders shall not be used.
8.7.3 Maintenance instructions
A floor finish can be damaged if it is used incorrectly or is not properly maintained because of
inadequate initial instruction. Personnel responsible for maintenance should be given detailed
instructions regarding cleaning and shall be warned of the particular risks likely to arise from
misuse.
9 Mosaic tile finishes

9.1 General
A mosaic tile finish is decorative and is available in a variety of shapes and colours. It is laid in
cement mortar, or in an adhesive, on a screed that has a surface that is plane to a close tolerance.
(Since the tiles are thin in comparison with other types of tiles, any unevenness in the screed will
show on the surface of the finish, especially if an adhesive is used as the bonding agent).
9.2 Materials
Mosaic tiles are normally supplied mounted, face down, on a temporary backing of paper that is
attached with water-soluble glue, or mounted, face up, on a permanent backing of open-textured
hessian. There is no national standard that covers these tiles, and the advice of the supplier of the
tiles should be sought concerning their suitability for the purposes envisaged.
9.3 Laying of mosaic tiles

Mosaic tiles shall only be laid by specialists in this field and, since fixing techniques vary with
individual specialists, no details are offered.
9.4 Traffic
Where mosaic tiles are laid on a bedding of cement mortar, the mortar shall be allowed to harden
undisturbed for at least 4 d before any light traffic is permitted on the finish. Where the tiles are fixed
in an adhesive, the instructions of the manufacturer of the adhesive used should be followed.
9.5 Maintenance
Mosaic tile surfaces shall be washed with warm water to which a soapless detergent has been
added, and shall then be mopped.
52
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
Annex A
(informative)
A chart for estimating the loss of surface moisture from

concrete in various weather conditions
Figure A.1 — Effect of concrete and air temperatures, relative humidity

and wind velocity on the rate of evaporation of surface moisture from concrete
53
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
Annex B
(informative)
Recommended method for the assessment

of levels and surface flatness
B.1 Levels
Check the datum levels by means of standard surveying methods.
B.2 Surface flatness

Check the surface flatness by measuring the deviation of the surface from a straight line of length
3 m joining two points on the surface. Use a straight edge of length 3 m, the ends of which are
supported on blocks of identical thickness placed over each of the two points. Measure the
distances of the surface from the underside of the straight edge by means of a slip gauge or other
suitable accurate measuring device, and check that they lie within the permitted tolerance range
(see table 4).
54
SANS 10109-2:2013
Edition 3.1
Bibliography
Standards
ACI 305R, Hot weather concreting.
SANS 92, Bituminous roofing felt.
SANS 248, Bituminous damp-proof courses.
SANS 298, Mastic asphalt for damp-proof courses and tanking.
SANS 731-1, Road markings – Part 1: Single-pack solvent-borne paints.
SANS 952-1, Polyolefin film for damp-proofing and waterproofing in buildings – Part 1:
Monofilament and co-extruded products. Amdt 1
SANS 952-2, Polyolefin film for damp-proofing and waterproofing in buildings – Part 2: Laminated
(non-woven) products. Amdt 1
SANS 10021, The waterproofing of buildings (including damp-proofing and vapour barrier
installation).
SANS 10070, The installation of resilient thermoplastic and similar flexible floor covering materials.
SANS 10124, The application of soil insecticides for the protection of buildings.
Other publication
DAVIS, DE. and ALEXANDER, MG. Properties of aggregates in concrete. 2nd ed., parts 1 and 2.
Johannesburg: Hippo, Anglo-Alpha, 1994.
© SABS
55
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SABS – Standards Division
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National Standards. This objective is incorporated in the Standards Act, 2008 (Act No. 8 of 2008).
Amendments and Revisions
South African National Standards are updated by amendment or revision. Users of South African
National Standards should ensure that they possess the latest amendments or editions.
The SABS continuously strives to improve the quality of its products and services and would
therefore be grateful if anyone finding an inaccuracy or ambiguity while using this standard would
inform the secretary of the technical committee responsible, the identity of which can be found in
the foreword.
The SABS offers an individual notification service, which ensures that subscribers automatically
receive notification regarding amendments and revisions to South African National Standards.
Tel: +27 (0) 12 428 6883 Fax: +27 (0) 12 428 6928 E-mail: [email protected]
Buying Standards
Contact the Sales Office for South African and international standards, which are available in both
electronic and hard copy format.
South African National Standards are also available online from the SABS website
http://www.sabs.co.za
Information on Standards
The Standards Information Centre provides a wide range of standards-related information on both
national and international standards. The Centre also offers an individual updating service called
INFOPLUS, which ensures that subscribers automatically receive notification regarding
amendments to, and revisions of, international standards.
Tel: +27 (0) 12 428 7911 / 0861 27 7227 Fax: +27 (0) 12 428 6928 E-mail: [email protected]
Copyright
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copyright. Unless exemption has been granted, no extract may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval
system or transmitted in any form or by any means without prior written permission from the SABS
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Details and advice can be obtained from the Manager – Standards Sales and Information Services.

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© SABS.

SOUTH AFRICAN NATIONAL STANDARD

Part 2: Finishes to concrete floors

Published by SABS Standards Division

This document was published in February 2013.

This document supersedes SANS 10109-2:2004 (edition 3).

Part 1: Bases to concrete floors.

Part 2: Finishes to concrete floors.

Annexes A and B are for information only.

2 Normative references .............................................................................................................. 3

4 Basic considerations ............................................................................................................... 7

5 Floor finishes (general) .......................................................................................................... 9

6 Cement-based finishes ........................................................................................................... 12

6.1 Wear resistance ............................................................................................................. 12

7 Bitumen emulsion-cement finishes ........................................................................................ 36

8.1 General .......................................................................................................................... 37

9 Mosaic tile finishes .................................................................................................................. 52

Annex B (informative) Recommended method for the assessment of levels and

This page is intentionally left blank

NOTE Bases of floors are covered in SANS 10109-1.

ISO 48, Rubber, vulcanized or thermoplastic – Determination of hardness (hardness between

SANS 227, Burnt clay masonry units.

SANS 285, Calcium silicate masonry units.

SANS 309, Anionic bitumen road emulsions.

SANS 523, Limes for use in buildings.

SANS 541, Precast concrete paving slabs.

SANS 548, Cationic bitumen road emulsions.

SANS 1024, Welded steel fabric for reinforcement of concrete.

SANS 1058, Concrete paving blocks.

SANS 1083, Aggregates from natural sources – Aggregates for concrete.

SANS 1260, Invert bitumen emulsion.

SANS 1449, Ceramic wall and floor tiles.

SANS 1491-2, Portland cement extenders – Part 2: Fly ash. Amdt 1

SANS 5861-3, Concrete tests – Making and curing of test specimens.

SANS 5863, Concrete tests – Compressive strength of hardened concrete.

SANS 10109-1, Concrete floors – Part 1: Bases to concrete floors.

Figure 1 — Layers in a concrete floor on the ground

Figure 2 — Layers in a suspended concrete floor

4.2 Exchange of information

b) those conditions of contract that might affect the particular work;

e) the type of finish;

f) the number of layers;

g) the thickness of the floor and of the finish;

j) the type of damp-proofing or insulation, or both;

l) the treatment of skirtings;

n) the type of surface finish of the base, screed or topping;

o) any special requirements related to underfloor heating;

q) the date for the completion of preliminary work;

s) details of any compliance testing required.

4.3 Time schedule

4.4 Construction considerations

4.5 Zone marking on finish

5 Floor finishes (general)

a) concrete and screed finishes:

2) plain concrete topping;

b) seamless organic-based finishes: bitumen emulsion-cement; and

c) finishes laid in the form of units:

1) burnt clay bricks;

2) coloured burnt clay tiles and natural stone floor tiles;