FINISHING CONSTRUCTION WORKS

LEVEL – I
Based on March 2022, Curriculum Version 1

Module Title: - Lay Smooth and Rough Cement Screeds

Module code: EIS FCW1M 07 0822
Nominal duration: 70Hour

Prepared by: Ministry of Labor and Skill

Aug, 2022
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

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 Table Contents

Unit One: Plan And Prepare ............................................................................................................. 7

1.1 Identify Work Instruction .................................................................................................. 8
1.2 Follow OHS Requirements ................................................................................................ 13
1.3 Identify And Implementing Signage ................................................................................. 14
1.3.1 Generally Construction Site Requires ............................................................................ 14
1.4 Select Tools And Equipment ............................................................................................. 15
1.4.4 Mix Ratio Of Sand-Cement Screed For Floors ............................................................. 23
1.4.5 Material Selection For Sand-Cement Screed................................................................. 23
1.5 Calculating Materials Quantity Requirements.................................................................. 24
1.5.1 Mix Ratio For Sand-Cement Screed .............................................................................. 24
1.5.2 Quantity Of Cement And Sand Calculation In Mortar .............................................. 24
1.6 Prepare Materials And Safely Handled ............................................................................. 26
1.7 Identify Environmental Protection .................................................................................... 30
Self-Check -1 .............................................................................................................................. 31
Unit Two: Prepare And Place Screeds ......................................................................................... 32
2.1 Removing Defective Material ......................................................................................... 33
2.1.1 Cleaning Sand And Cement Screeds.............................................................................. 33
2.2 Prepare Back Grounds To Receive Screeds ..................................................................... 33
2.3 Mix Screed Materials ......................................................................................................... 35
2.4 Install Damp Proof Material .............................................................................................. 39
2.5 Lay, Finishing, Sand And Cement Screed ..................................................................... 44
2.6 Form Drainage Outlets And Skirting ............................................................................... 51
Self-Check 2 .............................................................................................................................. 53
Operation Sheet 2 ..................................................................................................................... 54
LAP Test 2 .............................................................................................................................. 54
Unit Three: - Cleanup Work Area ................................................................................................. 55
3.1 Clean Work Area ................................................................................................................ 56
3.2 Maintaining Plants, Tools And Equipment .................................................................... 60
Self-Check 3 .............................................................................................................................. 61
Participants Of This Module (Training Material) Preparation .............................................. 63

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Acknowledgment

Ministry of Labor and Skills wish to extend thanks and appreciation to the many representatives of
TVET instructors and respective industry experts who donated their time and expertise to the
development of this Teaching, Training and Learning Materials (TTLM).

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 Acronym

1. OHS---------------------------------------------------occupational health and safety

2. EBCS--------------------------------------------Ethiopia building code standard

3. RHC-------------------------------------------- rapid hardening cement

4. LHC ---------------------------------------------low heat of hydration cement

5. OPC ---------------------------------------------Ordinary Portland cement

6. QSC----------------------------------------------Quick setting cement

7. DPC----------------------------------------------Damp Proof Material

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 Introduction

Cement screed floors, other than those in buildings such as warehouses which may be
left exposed, are covered with work instruction and a screed layer. This is a layer of material, usually
a sand and cement mix (sometimes with added fibers and other additives), or a proprietary
flowing screed. Screeds are generally laid to prepare for the installation of a floor covering, such
as tiles, carpet or timber. Standards for screeds are set out in finishing construction. Lay smooth and
rough cement Screeds is the process of striking off the excess concrete and the top surface is brought to
the proper grade or contour. This is done by using straight edge striking off consists of moving the
straight edge across the concrete surface with a sawing motion and advancing faster a short distance with
each movement.
A layer of well compacted material, commonly a mixture of Cement and fine aggregate, that is applied to
a base at the appropriate thickness and that has a surface suitable for receiving a floor finish. Screeds and
toppings are commonly used as a means of providing smooth flat floors in residential, commercial and
Industrial buildings. Toppings may also be used to increase the Structural depth and strength of the base
slab.
This module is designed to meet the industry requirement under the finishing construction work
occupational standard, particularly for the unit of competency: Lay Smooth and Rough Cement
Screeds.

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This module is designed to meet the industry requirement under the finishing construction work
occupational standard, particularly for the unit of competency: Lay Smooth and Rough Cement
Screeds. This module covers the units:-
 Plan and prepare
 Prepare and Place screeds

 Clean up work area

Learning Objective of the Module
 Perform working plan
 Apply place of screed
 Clean work area
Module Instruction
For effective use this modules trainees are expected to follow the following module instruction:-
1. Read the specific objectives of this Learning outcome.

2. Follow the instructions described below 3 to 5.

3. Read the information written in the ―Information Sheets

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 Unit one: plan and prepare
This unit is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the following content
coverage and topics:
 Identify Work instruction
 Follow O H S requirements
 Identify Implementing Signage
 Select tools and equipment
 Calculate material quantity
 Prepare materials and safely handled
 Identify environmental protection
This unit will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes stated in the above unit.
Specifically, upon completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:
 Prepare Work instructions, including plans, specifications, quality requirements and
operational details are obtained, confirmed and applied
 Follow OHS requirements are followed in accordance with safety plans and policies
 Apply Signage/barricade requirements are identified and implemented
 Identify Plant, tools and equipment selected to carry out tasks that are consistent with
the requirements of the job, checked for serviceability and any faults are rectified or
reported prior to commencement
 Perform Material quantity requirements are calculated in accordance with plans and/or
specifications
 Use Resource materials appropriate to the work application are identified, obtained,
prepared, safely handled and located ready for use
 Use Environmental protection requirements are identified for the project in accordance

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1.1 Identify Work instruction
1.1.2 Prepare for work area
To plan and prepare for the work, the following information should be explored and interpreted. It is
strongly recommended that this information is properly recorded. Location of the project. Floor areas
concerned.
Type(s) of screed to be laid, i.e. levelling/wearing, bonded/unbounded/floating, cementations. Relevant
details of the concrete base. Preparation of the base surface to be carried out. Whether a new DPM/C is
needed and how this is to be provided. If the floor is a floating floor, the type and thickness of the
insulation. Mix details of the screed + polymer type and content if the screed is a polymer modified
screed. Design thickness of the screed and minimum thickness to be achieved. Details of services to be
incorporated within the screed. Details of any reinforcement to be included within the screed.
Joint details and locations. Type of surface finish required. Details of curing to be carried out.
Whether the contractor is to provide subsequent temporary protection for the screed surface.
Details of any conformity testing to be carried out by the contractor. The curing period to remove the
curing medium before the time
Plan: -The first step before starting screed & any work is preparation of plan. It also called the drawing
& it contains necessary information about the screed house. A plans is a set of drawings or two-
dimensional diagrams used to describe a place or object, or to communicate building or fabrication
instructions. Usually plans are drawn or printed on paper, but they can take the form of a digital file.
Construction drawings are necessary in most spheres of the building industry, as being the best means of
conveying detailed and often complex information from the designer to all those concerned with the job.
Building trades people should be familiar with the basic principles involved in understanding and reading
drawings correctly.
Mistakes on either side – in design or interpretation of the design – can be costly, as drawings form a
legal part of the contract between architect/client and builder. This applies even on small jobs, where only
goodwill may suffer; for this reason, if a non-contractual drawing or sketch is supplied, it should be kept
for a period of time after completion of the job, in case any queries should arise.

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 1.1.2 Familiarize yourself with the scale of the drawings .
Understanding how large or small certain items are essential when reading engineering drawings. While
most engineering drawings are created in "scale" versions of 1/4-1/8 inches (.55-.275 centimetres) per
foot, other scales may be used for very large creations. Always determine the scale of the drawing before
examining it in detail. If the scale is not obviously evident on the drawing, consult with the engineer who
drew it for clarification.

Fig. 1.1: scale of the drawings

1.1.3 Understand the basic symbols used in the engineering drawings.
As these drawings are done on such a small scale, the use of symbols is often required. While many
symbols exist, understanding a few of the basics can be very helpful when reading engineering drawings.
Some of the most common symbols used in these drawings include rectangles, circles, and triangles. As
with determining the scale, consulting with the engineer who created the drawing can provide great
insight as to the symbols used.

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 Fig.1. 2: Understand the basic symbols
1.1.4 Look for circled numbers.
As discussed previously, engineering drawings are typically done on a scale so small that creating detail
is almost impossible. Because of this, engineers often add circled numbers to certain parts of the
drawings. These circled numbers indicate that the area identified is shown in greater detail on another
page.

Fig.1. 3: indicate that the area identified

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 1.2.4 Identify specific abbreviations.
Abbreviations are a useful tool for engineers. Like symbols, they can indicate shapes, processes, and even
dimensions through a few letters. Some of the most common abbreviations used in engineering drawings
include DP, which stands for depth, and DIA, which stands for diameter.

Fig. 1.4: the most common abbreviations

Fig. 1.1: section plan which shows flooring material.

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Fig. 1.2:- floor plan which shows floor finishing material.

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1.2 Follow OHS requirements
 OH and S requirements are to be in accordance with federal /regional/ legislation and regulations and
may include protective clothing and equipment, use of tools and equipment, work place environment
and safety handling of materials, use of firefighting equipment, use of first aid equipment, hazard
control and hazardous materials and substances.
 Personal protective equipment is to include that prescribed under legislation regulation and work
place policies and practices.
 Safety is the state of being free from danger.
 Before starting any type of work you have to know general safety precautions taken in the work
/safety rule/.
 There are different parts of safety: - personal safety and safety for tools and equipment.
 Personal safety „s are :- safety clothes
 Shoes.
 Helmets.
 Goggles.
 Hand gloves.
 Ear plunge.

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1.3 Identify and implementing Signage
Construction site premise in painting work every working man should be protected against the dangers of
injury sickness or death through safe and healthy working condition, thereby assuming the conservations
of valuable manpower resources and the prevention of loss of damage to lives and properties.

Construction work should be fenced off and suitably signed. This will protect people from site dangers.
For some jobs the workplace will have to be shared. Perhaps the work will be done in an operating mixer.
Agree who has to control each area. Agree what fences, barriers, means of separation or permits to work
are required to keep both construction workers away from hazards created by others and other people
away from hazards created by the concrete work.

1.3.1 Generally Construction site requires

 Complete understanding between the owner and the contractor
 Practical experience in running construction jobs
 Accident prevention as part of advance planning
Protection of workers and the public
 Applicable government standard regulations
Signage/barricade
To defend or block something by building a barricade. It‟s a line of objects placed across a
road, etc.to stop people from getting pass.
Signage is the design or use of signs and symbols to communicate a message to specific group, usually
for the purpose marketing or any kinds of visual graphics.
Barricades and signage that are no longer required are removed as Barricading controls shall be
implemented and authorized as part of barricaded area it shall have its own barricading and label to
identify the hazard.
The identification, isolation, and control of these causes are distance Advance Warning Signs may be
required on any type roadway, but particularly on multi-lane the lines, then barricades or cones shall be
used to channel traffic around the work area. (This includes the driving tools and the implement being
driven).Signage and barriers use when construction is inactive. Contractor is responsible to implement
any requirements specified in the contract. Determine the responsibility of each contractor for lights,
barricades, and warning sign.

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1.4 Select tools and equipment
Plant, tools & equipment‟s are selected to carry out tasks that are consistent with the requirements of the
job. There are different finds of tools and equipment:-
Some of them are: - measuring tools
 marking tools
 levelling tools
 guiding tools
 cutting tools
 trowel
 grouting float
 straightedge
1.4.1 Levelling tools
Spirit level
It is used to control the horizontal and vertical alignment of wall surface and edges. The length is at least
80 to 120cm long. It is made of metal, synthetic material or wood. It has two measuring bubbles: one is
located at mid length is used to check horizontal positions. While the second one, at the end, is used to
check vertical position. This tool requires always to be handled with care and needs to be checked from
time to time weather it is still working accurate or not.

FIG. 1.3.1: Spirit level

Alignment string /masons‟ line/
Alignment string /mason line/, sometimes called, Fish line, is a rope used to transfer horizontal & vertical
alignments or lines, i.e., use to mark base line on the floor or vertical point alignments of wall. In other
words, it is used to align the walling blocks, (stone, bricks, concrete blocks, hydra form etc). It is
available in different thickness & sizes in the market.

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FIG. 1.3.2: Mason line/alignment string
Hose level
It is a transparent PVC hose. It is used to transfer or mark vertical levels on surface of wall when it is
filled with water, but without any air bubbles. The water level in each end of the hose is equal. It is an
instrument to mark equal levels on site. It is very accurate but not eases to handle.

FIG1.3.3: Hose level/water level

Wood float
Used to smooth out concrete surface before the concrete fully cure. It is about 30cm long and 15 cm wide
with a handle. Floating concrete is an operation of concrete finish work after drabbing on bull floating to
remove slight imperfection, fill small holes, level etc. on the surface of concrete.

Fig.1. 3.4: wooden float

Metal float
This does the same as wooden float except that it points a slick on the concrete. You may prefer this for
patios and concrete slabs whenever smooth concrete surfaces are required.

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 Fig.1. 3.5: metallic float
Edge float
It is made of metal like the metal float, but it has bent – over at right angles to the flat part or at one edge.
It is used along the edge of a walk a slab to polish and have, finished look to the work, it makes slightly
rounded edges and border about 10 cm.

Fig.1.3.6: Concrete edging float

Darby
Used for making smooth concrete surface on small area in places where it is difficult for ball float to
reach, which as large slabs where there is constructions of pipes, reinforcement on other types of building
components. It consists of a long flat rectangular piece of wood on aluminium from 7.5cm to 10cmon
wide with a handle on the top.

Fig.1.3.6: -Darby Bull float

It is a large, flat rectangular piece of wood or aluminium usually 20cm wide and 100cm to 150cm long
with a handle of 1.2 m to 4.8m long. It is used to make large area of concrete finishes. It is more
commonly used outdoors where there is enough space to use the long handle.

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Fig.1 3.7:- bull float
Straight edge/Level/
This is a perfectly straight metal/aluminium/ with all long and short edges parallel to its centreline. It is
employed to check straight alignments of walls. Its length ranges from 2m up to 4m. Together with the
sprit level, it can be used to bridge over the point to be checked. A straight edge/Level/ can also be made
from a wooden plank with perfectly parallel edges.

Fig.1 3.8: Straight edge

 Angle / mason square
It is used to measure a right angle (90º) of a corner. Used inlaying masonry units or blocks at corners of
masonry wall.

Fig.1. 3.9: Mason square

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 Measuring tape
A tape measure, also called measuring tape, is a type of flexible ruler used to measure dimensions of
building parts and distances in site. the term “tape measure” refers to a roll-up, self-retracting style tape
measure that‟s designed for carpentry. It is manufactured from steel, plastic or fibre in lengths of 1m,
2m, 3m, 5m, 30m, etc. and 50m. In using tapes for measurements, the two points should be aligned
perfectly. In addition, when long horizontal measurements are needed, care should be taken to avoid sag
on the tape meters.

Fig. 1.3.10: Measuring tape & proper adjustment of measuring tape

 Mortar barrel/ drum
This is used by mason, plasterer, tiller, etc, and serves to prepare small amount of mortar right at the
working place. It is also used as temporary mortar storage, supplied from mixing station, and to control
water ratio of the mix when it gets dry. Always, keep it workable and clean.

Fig.1. 3.11: Mortar drum

 Water Bucket
A Bucket is used to serve small amount of water or material and to take the tools after work.

Fig.1. 1.12: water Bucket

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1.4.2 Measuring tools & equipment
A measuring instrument is a device for measuring a physical quantity. In the physical sciences, quality
assurance, and engineering, measurement is the activity of obtaining and comparing physical quantities
of real-world objects and events. Established standard objects and events are used as units, and the
process of measurement gives a number relating the item under study and the referenced unit of
measurement. Measuring instruments, and formal test methods which define the instrument's use, are the
means by which these relations of numbers are obtained. All measuring instruments are subject to
varying degrees of instrument error and measurement uncertainty.

1.4.3 Measuring Tool

Batching Box: - Used for volume batching of concrete. The standard size of the box is
50cmx40cmx20cm, 50cmx40cmx18cm, 50cmx40cmx16cm its depth can vary depending on the grade of
the concrete to be mixed.

Fig.5.1:

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Batching box
Measuring bucket: - Used to measure quantity of water required for mixing. It can also be used for
talking water which is applicable for mixing and caring purpose.
Safely handled
 Sand
The quality of the sand, i.e. its concrete-making properties, has a large influence on the quality of the
resulting screed. It should be a “concrete” sand – not a “plaster” sand – but the largest particles should
be removed by sieving the sand through a sieve with openings about 5 mm wide to facilitate finishing.
Where possible, the sand should be tested in a laboratory at site beforehand. To produce a mix that is
easy to finish to a smooth surface, it may be necessary to blend two or more sands. Commonly a blend
consisting of 4 parts of crusher sand, sieved as above, and 1 part of clean “plaster” sand, gives good
results.

Fig. 1.4.1: Sand for Floor Screed

 CEMENT
The job to be done will determine the type of cement to select. Cement binds the concrete mix together.
There are a number of types of cement. The most common, used for general construction, is called Type I
Normal Portland cement.

Another variation used in construction is white Portland cement. It is light-colored and used chiefly for
architectural effects. White Portland cement is made from carefully selected raw materials and develops
the same strength as the normal gray colored Portland cement.

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 Fig.1. 4.2: Cement for Screed Floor

Types of cement include:

Type I, Normal Cement (most common)

Type II, Moderate Sulfate Resistance (slow-reacting)
Type III, High Early Strength (fast-setting)
Type IV, Low Heat of Hydration (low heat generation)
Type V, High Sulfate Resistance used to produce special types of concrete.
Type IV is low heat generation for large construction building foundation projects, such as dams to
speeding up construction works.
WATER
In a correctly proportioned concrete mix, only about half of the mixing water is needed to hydrate the
cement. The remainder acts as a lubricant to produce workability. When more water is actually needed
for workability is added, the concrete is diluted, its density is reduced, and it is weakened. If the water is
fit to drink, it is satisfactory to use in concrete. This is not to say that water to be used in concrete must be
completely pure. Impurities in water may cause efflorescence, surface discolorations, corrosion of steel as
well as affecting setting time and strength.
Admixtures
Commercially available admixtures, especially of the water-reducing type, may be used, but preferably
only on the recommendation of the laboratory which tests the sands, and only where adequate control of
dosage on site can be guaranteed.

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1.4.4 Mix Ratio of Sand-Cement Screed for Floors

Mix ratio of sand and cement screed for floor varies based on the intended use of the screed. Added to
that, cement type, grade of aggregate and the method of storage of screed material influence the mix ratio
to a certain extent. Therefore, a suitable type of cement shall be selected, and sand needs to be free of
deleterious materials.
It is reported that for traditional screeds a mix proportion of 1:6 Portland cement: sand/aggregate is a
normal range that is commonly used; mix proportions of 1:4 cement to sand is widely applied.
1.4.5 Material Selection for Sand-Cement Screed
1. Cement
The British Standards set guidance with respect to the types of cement that are best suited for different
kinds of screeds. It is important to choose the specified cement type for best results, as variations in
cement quality can affect the strength development of the screed and its susceptibility to poor curing.
2. Sand
The size and shape of sand can have a considerable impact on the performance and appearance of a
screed. It should be guaranteed that the presence of materials does not exceed the acceptable level. The
size of aggregate is specified based on the function of the screed for instance for normal duty screed,
the maximum size of sand is 4mm. However, for heavy duty screed, the maximum size of aggregate
ranges from 6mm and 10mm.
3. Water
The quantity of water added to the mixture can be adjusted at site. Snowball test can be conducted to
make sure that a suitable amount of water is added to the mixture.

Excess water should be avoided because it reduces strength and increases risk of cracking. A stiff mix
with too little water does not allow full compaction, and the screed may crumble over time.

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1.5 Calculating materials quantity requirements
1.5.1 Mix Ratio for Sand-Cement Screed

The mix ratio varies dependent on the intended use of the screed. In addition to cement type, grade of
aggregate and the method of storage of screed material that also influence mix ratio to a certain extend. It
is reported that, for traditional screeds a mix proportion of 1:6 Portland cement: sand/aggregate is a
normal range that is commonly used. However, mix proportions of 1:4 cement to sand is widely applied
which comply with Ethiopian Building Code and standard (EBCS). Mix ratio should produce a plastic,
easy-working, cohesive mortar of plastering consistence.
1.5.2 Quantity of Cement and Sand Calculation in Mortar
Quantity of cement mortar is required for rate analysis of screed and plaster or estimation of masonry
work for a building or structure. Cement mortar is used in various proportions, i.e. 1:1, 1:2, 1:3, 1:4, 1:6,
1:8 etc.
 Constituents of mortar:-
 Sand, Cement & Water
 Mortar consisting of one part of cement and three part of sand expressed as a ratio of 1:3 is a fixing
material most common used in finishing construction work.
 Whether mixing by hand (shovel) or mixture of cement is essential that when the cement and sand are
added together they are well mixed.
 As the initial set of cement mortar take place after mixing (approximately two hours).
 Mixing should be continued until the batch has a uniform consistency and be thoroughly blended
before water is added.
 In mortar mixing if the ratio of cement and sand increase the strength decrease.
 If the ratio of sand decrease the strength increase. Example:-1:2>1:3>1:4…etc.
- In one bag of cement (50kg) we can use 60 shovel of sand when we are mixing.
One part of cement
 1:3:6 Three part of fine aggregate (sand)
Six part of coarse aggregate (concrete)

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1 x 50kg =50kg cement
3 x 50kg =150kg sand
6 x 50kg = 300kg coarse aggregate
 50kg of cement or one bag of cement is 0.315 in m3.
 35.5 liter of water is used for one bag of cement.
 Fineness mound of sand varies as follow:
 Gravity of sand (FA)= 2.6
 Gravity of cement = 3.15
 Gravity of coarse aggregate = 2.65
 Gravity of water = 35.5
 Volume of slab = 8m x 8m x 0.12m = 7.68m3
 Absolute volume material of cement gravity:
Then: 50 / 3.15 = 16 liter
 Absolute volume material of sand:
150 / 2.65 = 113.2 liter
 Absolute volume material of water:
35.5 / 1 = 35.5 liter
Total volume of water is = 16 liters + 58 liters + 113.2 liters + 35.5 liters = 222.5 liters then we
can convert into m3.
1m3/ x = 1000 liters / 222.5 liters = 222.5m3 /1000 = 0.2225 = 0223m3.
 Density of cement = 1400kg/m3.
 Density of sand = 1840kg/m3
 Density of coarse aggregate = 2250kg/m3

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1.6 Prepare materials and safely handled
Preparing materials
 A mixture of cement + sand is cement mortar.
 A mixture of cement + sand + lime is called compo mortar.
 A mixture of lime + sand is lime mortar.
Selecting material
- The first step in selecting the materials & tools are to identify the characteristics of
all material to be used in that work.
Cement: - can be purchased by weight or by bag.
- It is one of good binding agents in construction.
1. Type of cement: - the commonly type of cement used for most construction application is
Portland cement.
Type B: - High early strength or rapid hardening cement (RHC)
- Maximum strength is obtained in three (3) days. This cement is more fine grained and
contains higher preparation of 3 casio2.
- RHC is used in special where an early strength is required.
Type C: - low heat of hydration cement (LHC)
- Have lower lime content & higher silica and iron content than ordinary Portland cement.
- Used in massive structures like dams.
Type D: - Sulphate resisting cement
Quick setting cement (OSC):- does not contain gypsum and cones quaintly sets and harden within
30 minutes.
- Used at wet areas.
- Used for under water construction.
Ordinary Portland cement (OPC):- used for all types of construction in found ion walls and slabs.
Puzzuolan cement: - is made by mixing puzzuolanic material with opt.
- Used in sea water construction.
- Cement must be fresh dry and free from lumps.
- Cement bags should be stored off the ground on pallets or cover in a water proof site shed or
inside the factory area.

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 Binding materials: - Portland cement, lime, gypsum, adhesive are the binding/cementing
/materials in b/dg construction and engineering work.
Sand: - is sometimes called fine aggregate.
 Consists of sharp edge and particles graded up to 5mm.
 used for volume fliers.
 The size and shape of sand may be angular, circle and etc.
 used in inert materials, in mortars and in concretes.
 Sand can be obtained from river, pit and sea.
 Pit sand is the best as it provides sharp, angular and free from salt sand.
 Sea sand is the worst as it contains harmful salt.
 River sand is more preferable, is very useful for all construction.
Water (H2O):- for mortar mix it should be clean free from salt or industrial wastes.
 Drinkable water is preferred.
Lime (CaO):- lime is in its simple form is an oxide of calcium (CaO).
 It is classified in to three (3).
1. Quick lime (fat lime or rich lime or poor lime).
2. Hydrated lime and
3. Hydraulic lime.
 The raw material for the production of lime for building purpose is lime stone (caco3).
 Lime is used in both building construction and in industries.
 As construction material lime used in producing :-
 lime mortar
 lime plaster
 lime concrete
 white wash
 lime and bricks
 Stabilized soil blocks.
 As industrial material lime is used as :- raw materials for manufacture of glass
- A flux in metallurgical industry.

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 Lime
Gypsum: - is a combination of sulphate of lime with water of crystallization.
 Is slightly soluble in water because of water absorbing and should not be used for exposed
or damp condition.
Selection tools and equipment‟s
 There are different finds of tools and equipment‟s:-
 Some of them are :- measuring tools
 marking tools
 leveling tools
 guiding tools
 cutting tools
 trowel
 grouting float
 bucket
 straightedge
Mortar: - is mixture of cement, sand, coarse aggregate etc.
Properties of mortar
a) workability:- the property of mortar with respect to workability very greatly as it depends up[ on:-
 The property of the cementations material used.
 The ratio of cementations materials to sand.
 The characteristics and grading of the sand
 The proportion of mixing water.
 Workability increases, with increase in the ratio of the binding material and the proportion of the
mixing water.
 Lime mortar is more workable than cement mortar for the same proportion.

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 b) Strength :- strength property of mortar is affected by:-
 Quality of the ingredients.
 The relative proportion of the ingredients.
 The curing method.
 Age.
 For the same proportion cement gives stronger mortar than lime mortar.
 The strength of mortar increases with age.
c) Water tightness: - water tight mortar is required where mortar is to dampness or moisture.
 If the mix is by hand add 10% extra cement to account for loss of strength due to work man ship.
Mix up to it gives uniform color (dry).
 Mixing add water
Add aggregate mix dry
Fineness mound of sand varies as follow:
 Gravity of sand (FA)= 2.6
 Gravity of cement = 3.15
 Gravity of coarse aggregate = 2.65
 Gravity of water = 35.5
 Volume of slab = 8m x 8m x 0.12m = 7.68m3
 Absolute volume material of cement gravity:
Then: 50 / 3.15 = 16 liter
 Absolute volume material of sand:
150 / 2.65 = 113.2 liter
 Absolute volume material of water:
35.5 / 1 = 35.5 liter
Total volume of water is = 16 liters + 58 liters + 113.2 liters + 35.5 liters = 222.5 liters then we
can convert into m3.
1m3/ x = 1000 liters / 222.5 liters = 222.5m3 /1000 = 0.2225 = 0223m3.
 Density of cement = 1400kg/m3.
 Density of sand = 1840kg/m3.
 Density of coarse aggregate = 2250kg/m3.

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1.7 Identify environmental protection
Environmental protection is a practice of protecting the natural environment for the benefit of
both the natural environment and humans. Due to the pressures of population and technology, the
biophysical environment is being degraded, sometimes permanently. Academic institutions now offer
courses, such as environmental studies, environmental management and environmental engineering, that
teach the history and methods of environment protection. Protection of the environment is needed due to
various human activities. Waste production, air pollution, and loss of biodiversity (resulting from the
introduction of invasive species and species extinction) are some of the issues related to environmental
protection.
It is the responsibility of all individuals to comply with environmental regulations and for preventing
pollution of air, land and water. Many thousands of pollution incidents occur each year and each one is
an offence which can result in prosecution as well as environmental damage. Most cases however are
avoidable given careful planning of operations, responsible waste management and suitable facilities to
reduce the risk of spillage - along with simple precautions to deal with any spillages, should they occur.
 Site Drainage Across the site there are generally two types of drains, these are:
 Surface Water or Storm Drains
 Foul or Effluent Drains
In planning and carrying out any work, precautions must be taken to ensure the complete protection of
watercourses and groundwater against pollution. These should include an investigation of past use of the
site to ensure that the operations will not disturb contaminated land, and a survey of the siting and
contents of all storage tanks and pipelines. It is the contractor's responsibility to ensure that all drainage
systems are correctly identified prior to the commencement of works, to avoid the possibility of incorrect
disposal of contaminated water. The drainage systems at Lough borough University are varied depending
on location so advice should be sought prior to the commencement of works.

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Self-Check -1

Directions: Answer all the questions listed below. Use the Answer sheet provided in the next page:
Say true or false
1. The strength of mortar increase with age.
2. In mortar mixing if the ratio of cement and sand decrease the strength increase.
3. Mortar consisting of one part of cement and three part of sand expressed as a ratio of 1:3.
4. Mortar is mixture of cement, sand, coarse aggregate.
5. For the same proportion lime gives stronger mortar than cement mortar.
II: Matching
“A” “B”
1. Gravity of sand a. Workability
2. Gravity of cement b. CaCO 3
3. One bag of cement c. 50kg
4. Properties of mortar d. 2.6
5. Lime stone e. 3.15
f. (FA)

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Unit Two: Prepare and Place screeds

This unit to provide you the necessary information regarding the following content coverage and
topics:
 Remove defective material
 Prepare backgrounds for screed
 Mix
 Install damp proof materials
 Apply cement screed
 drainage outlets
This guide will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes stated in the cover page. Specifically,
upon completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:-
 Remove Defective sand and cement screeds are removed
 Prepare Backgrounds are prepared to receive screeds
 Apply Screeds material are mixed Properly
 Install Damp proof material is installed
 Perform Sand and cement screeds level are laid and finished to contractor‟s working
instructions
 Apply Drainage outlets and skirting are formed according to plan
Learning Instructions:
1. Read the specific objectives of this Learning Guide.
2. Follow the instructions
3. Read the information written in the information “Sheet
4. Accomplish the “Self-check 1, Self-check t 2, and Self-check 3”
5. If you earned a satisfactory evaluation from the “Self-check” proceed to “Operation Sheet 1,
Operation Sheet 2 and Operation Sheet 3 ”
6. Do the “LAP test” (if you are ready).

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Removing defective material
2.1.1 Cleaning sand and cement screeds
Listed below is some important information to help you install your material and to achieve its full
potential.
Sand Cement Screeds
This material has one or more of the following purposes, and requires good site practice and
workmanship: -
 To obtain a defined level
 To carry the final flooring
 To provide a wearing surface
Furthermore, you will need to specify all performance requirements to obtain the appropriate grade of
material and to consider the requisite thickness to be laid; this is related to screed type and service
conditions.
2.1 Prepare back grounds to receive screeds
Introduction
Screeds and toppings are commonly used as a means of providing smooth flat floors in residential,
commercial and industrial buildings. Toppings may also be used to increase the structural depth and
strength of the base slab. The aim of this publication is to provide the information needed by architects,
engineers and contractors for specifying and laying floor screeds and toppings of acceptable quality.
Information is provided on monolithic, bonded and unbounded screeds and toppings
Back grounds preparation:-Which includes:
 Cleaning:-Removing unwanted materials (dust particles) from the area
-Clean the screed to remove any dust & loose materials.
 Leveling:-Filling unleveled surface with mortar after preparing (mixing) compo mortar
 Chiseling: Smooth surface to have good binding with adhesive or mortar against the finishing
construction material
- To made not too smooth surface.
 For screed making the back ground should be smooth, leveled & free from dust particles.
1. Different back grounds require different treatment. Here are some examples of possible back
grounds.
A. Concrete new concrete, old concrete

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 B. Brick work, block work
C. Plaster, render
D. Screed
2.2.2 Preparing the base concrete
2 The base concrete should be prepared in such a way that it is left with a surface that is uniformly hard,
clean, and free of dust, oil or other contamination.
3 Any screeds or toppings applied previously to the base should be removed completely.
4 The laitance on the base concrete should be entirely removed by mechanical scrabbling or scarification
in order to expose cleanly the coarse aggregate. All loose debris, dirt, and dust should be removed
using vacuum equipment.
5 These operations should be delayed until shortly before the screed or topping is laid, in order to
prevent any contamination or accumulation of dirt.
2.2.3 Base-concrete requirements
The concrete on which the screed or topping is to be laid should be hard and strong (i.e. characteristic
strength of at least 20 MPa). Weak, friable concrete is not suitable as a base for a screed or topping as the
achievement of adhesion between such material and the screed or topping is not possible.
The base concrete should be free of random cracking. Floor screeds or toppings are unable to bridge over
cracks in the base and such cracks will in time reflect through the screed or topping. The surface of the
base concrete should be reasonably accurate to the required level so that it is possible to place the screed
or topping to a uniform thickness

Fig. 2.1: floor screed/topping

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2.3 Mix screed materials
Mix ratio of sand and cement screed for floor varies based on the intended use of the screed. Added to
that, cement type, grade of aggregate and the method of storage of screed material influence the mix ratio
to a certain extent. Therefore, a suitable type of cement shall be selected, and sand needs to be free of
toxic materials. Check the mix and adjust when the mix becomes wet enough, use the edges of the shovel
to make imprints in the top of your mixture to test its consistency, creating ridges as you go. A mixture
that is just right should be smooth and consistent – not dry or crumbly. If your mixture looks too runny
and watery, or the ridges collapse very quickly, there‟s too much water in there. Try adding more dry
ingredients to solidify your mix. Getting it right is all about trial and error, so don‟t become too
disheartened if you don‟t get the perfect mix first time around.
Cement mixers can be hired for larger household jobs. A few top tips for effective cement mixing:
machine mixing is preferable and each batch should be mixed for not less than three minutes if this
method is used. With hand mixing, the sand and cement should be mixed without adding water until the
color is uniform. Then only may the water be added, the quantity used being just sufficient to produce a
mix of the desired consistence. Hand mixing should be carried out with shovels on a smooth concrete
floor or a steel plate. Mixing directly on the ground should not be permitted as this results in
contamination of the mix with earth and/or organic matter. 5.4 Placing and compacting Control of levels
Narrow strips of screed mix, laid 3 to 4 m apart and compacted to finished level, should be used as guides
to establish the level of the screed. The screed should be placed and compacted immediately after laying
the guide strips. Where the edge of a guide strip forms a day work joint it should be formed or cut to
produce a vertical joint. Alternatively, and especially for bonded screeds, timber or metal screed battens,
carefully levelled and trued, should be fixed at the correct height for the required thickness of screed. At
day work joints all bedding screed beneath the battens should be cut away to form a vertical joint

1. Make sure the cement mixer is stable and well positioned.

2. Continuously run the mixer once you‟ve started loading
3. Point the drum upwards at a 45-degree angle
4. Start with half your required materials
5. Gradually add water to ensure the mixture doesn‟t get too sloppy

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Don‟t forget to clean the drum of the mixer by using a mixture of sand, aggregates and water, and
running it for a few minutes.
If mixing your own cement mortar or concrete has whet your appetite for some DIY and got you hungry
to revamp your outdoor areas at home, Marshalls have a wealth of guides to inspire you.
We have a selection of comprehensive guides to help you get creative with your outdoor building
projects. Ranging from budget patio ideas for your garden, to garden planning image galleries, we at
Marshalls encourage you to get out there and transform your outdoor spaces.
How to lay a courtyard?
Although we would always recommend getting a professional installer to lay a patio, we have guides
to laying a patio on sand and laying a patio on concrete to help you get started in making a transformation
to your garden How to mix cement to make Mortar or Concrete In this section we will concentrate on the
two types of mixes that utilize cement to bind other components together, to make a robust building
material. Concrete is a complete building material. It can be used to build foundations for walls and other
masonry structures. Ready-made concrete bags are useful for much smaller projects – all you need to do
is add water. Mortar is made of cement and sand – it‟s not as strong as concrete, but is usually used as a
glue-type material – sticking down paving flags for patio projects, for example.
How to mix cement to make a mortar or concrete mix
Cement mixing is a great skill to master and can be applied to a huge range of outdoor building projects
around your home. With the correct tools, materials, safety equipment and a bit of elbow grease, you can
make your own mortar or concrete mix – ready to use for your next job.

For most household jobs you can mix the cement yourself. If you‟re looking at a bigger area or a more
complicated project, it might be worth getting a concrete mixer. Mixing cement is easy and you can do it
in a few quick steps:

1. Prepare equipment and materials

2. Combine sand, cement and water to make a mortar and to make concrete, add aggregates to the
mix.
3. Mix thoroughly until it reaches the right consistency
4. Mix materials to make mortar or cement
5. Get cleaning to prevent hardening

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 6. We‟ll walk you through the things you need to do with our helpful guide and teach you how to
make cement mortar mix or concrete in just five simple steps. Find out more about what you‟ll
need and how to get started with Material .What you‟ll need.

Before you get started, you need to purchase all the materials necessary to make your cement:
 Cement
 Sand
 Water
 Aggregates (if making a concrete mix) don‟t get mortar mix confused with a concrete mix, they
don‟t contain the aggregates necessary to get the correct thickness and strength of concrete.
Mixing a cement mortar or concrete in 5 steps
Step 1: Start measuring your ingredients
Using the manufacturer‟s recommendations, place the cement, sand, (aggregates if making concrete), and
water into separate plastic buckets. For a standard mortar mix this normally on a ratio basis (usually
around 3 or 4 parts building sand to 1 part cement) recommendations vary – but you don‟t want the
mixture to be too wet or too dry. In terms of the ratio for concrete, it depends on what strength you are
trying to achieve, but as a general guide a standard concrete mix would be 1 part cement to 2 parts sand
to 4 parts aggregates. For foundations, a mix of 1 part cement to 3 parts sand to 6 parts aggregates can be
used.Measure around half of the cement, sand and aggregates (for a concrete mix only) you‟re going to
mix. Using half now will prevent the mix from drying out before you get chance to use all of it – you can
mix the other half later.
Tip the sand and aggregates (if making a concrete mix) onto your mixing board or into your container. If
using a board, form a crater in the middle of the pile. Measure out half the cement you‟re using and pour
this into the middle of the crater, which should create a cone-like shape.
Warning. This will kick-up dust when you pour the cement out, so ensure your protective mask or mouth
protector is in place.

Step 2: Begin mixing

It‟s time to start mixing. Using your shovel, mix your ingredients together, working the shovel around the
pile of cement, sand and aggregates (if making concrete mix).There is no specific method here, simply

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turn the pile over around three to four times to evenly mix everything and get a consistent color
throughout your pile.

Step 3: Check the mix and adjust

When the mix becomes wet enough, use the edges of the shovel to make imprints in the top of your
mixture to test its consistency, creating ridges as you go.
A mixture that is just right should be smooth and consistent – not dry or crumbly.
If your mixture looks too runny and watery, or the ridges collapse very quickly, there‟s too much water in
there. Try adding more dry ingredients to solidify your mix.
Getting it right is all about trial and error, so don‟t become too disheartened if you don‟t get the perfect
mix first time around.

Step 4: Get to work

Once you‟re satisfied with your mixture and it has the right consistency and texture, it‟s time to get it to
work. Mortar is normally used for walling and laying paving flags so the mix is simply troweled or
shoveled out of a container.
Concrete may be poured or shoveled into the desired area and then screened if necessary, to get a smooth
even finish.

Step 5: Get cleaning

As soon as you‟ve finished, get cleaning. This step should be done as quickly possible, as you want to
ensure the mortar or concrete mix doesn‟t dry on the tools you‟ve been using and damage them.
Use a power washer or hosepipe to clean excess mortar or concrete mix off your mixing board and tools,
scrubbing them with your stiff bristle brush.
Always take care to responsibly dispose of the run-off from your cleaning.
Using a cement mixer?
Cement mixers can be hired for larger household jobs. A few top tips for effective cement mixing:
Make sure the cement mixer is stable and well positioned.
Continuously run the mixer once you‟ve started loading
Point the drum upwards at a 45-degree angle
Start with half your required materials

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Gradually add water to ensure the mixture doesn‟t get too sloppy
Don‟t forget to clean the drum of the mixer by using a mixture of sand, aggregates and water, and
running it for a few minutes.
If mixing your own cement mortar or concrete has whet your appetite for some DIY and got you hungry
to revamp your outdoor areas at home, Marshalls have a wealth of guides to inspire you.
We have a selection of comprehensive guides to help you get creative with your outdoor building
projects.

2.4 Install damp proof material

Introduction

One of the basic requirements of a building is that it should remain dry or free from moisture passing
through walls, roofs or floors. Dampness is the presence of hygroscopic or gravitational moisture. It leads
to unhygienic conditions affecting badly the health and comfort of the inhabitants. It also seriously
deteriorates the stability of the building. Damp prevention is, therefore, one of the important items of
building design.
2.4.1 Damp Proof Course/Material (DPC/M)

Damp proof course (DPC) is generally applied at basement levels which restricts the movement of
moisture through walls and floors. Selection of materials for damp proof course and its various methods
of applications in buildings is discussed.

2.4.2 Materials for Damp Proof Course (DPC)

Properties of Materials for DPC: An effective damp proofing material should have the following
properties;

 It should be impervious.
 It should be strong and durable, and should be capable of withstanding both dead as well as
live loads without damage.
 It should be dimensionally stable.
 It should be free from deliquescent salts like sulphates, chlorides and nitrates.
Types of Materials for Damp Proof Course: The materials commonly used to check dampness can be
divided into the following three categories:

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  Flexible Materials: Materials like bitumen felts (which may be hessian based or fiber/glass
fiber based), plastic sheeting (polythene sheets) etc.
 Semi-rigid Materials: Materials like mastic, asphalt, or combination of layers.
 Rigid Materials: Materials like first class bricks, stones, slate, concrete etc.

2.4.3 Selection of Materials for Damp Proof Course in Buildings

The choice of material to function as an effective damp proof course requires a judicious selection. It
depends upon the climate and atmospheric conditions, nature of structure and the situation where DPC is
to be provided.

Fig.2. 4.1: applying DPM/C

The points to be kept in view while making selection of DPC materials are briefly discussed below:

DPC above ground level

For DPC above ground level with wall thickness generally not exceeding 40 cm, any one of the type of
materials mentioned above may be used. Cement concrete is however commonly adopted material for
DPC at plinth level, 38 to 50mm thick layer of cement concrete M15 (1:2:4 mix) serves the purpose
under normal conditions.

In case of damp and humid atmosphere, richer mix of concrete would be used. The concrete is further
made dense by adding water proofing materials like Puddle, Imperious, Water lock etc. in its ingredients
during the process of mixing. It is used to apply two coats of hot bitumen over the third surface of the
concrete DPC.

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  DPC Material for floors, roofs etc.

For greater wall thickness or where DPC is to be laid over large areas such as floors, roofs, etc., the
choice is limited to flexible materials which provide lesser number of joints like mastic, asphalt, bitumen
felts, plastic sheets etc.

The felts when used should be properly bonded to the surface with bitumen and laid with joints properly
lapped and sealed.

 DPC Material for situations where differential thermal movements occur

In parapet walls and other such situations, materials like mastic, asphalt, bitumen felts and metal (copper
or lead) are recommended.

It is important to ensure that the DPC material is flexible so as to avoid any damage or puncture of the
material due to differential thermal movement between the material of the roof and the parapet.

 DPC material for Cavity Walls

In cavity wall construction, like cavity over the door or window should be bridged by flexible material
like bitumen felt, strips or lead etc.

 Methods of Damp Proof Course Installation in Construction

 General principles to be observed while laying damp proof course are:

 The DPC should cover full thickness of walls excluding rendering.
 The mortar bed upon which the DPC is to be laid should be made level, even and free from
projections. Uneven base is likely to cause damage to DPC.
 When a horizontal DPC is to be continued up a vertical face a cement concrete fillet 75mm in
radius should be provided at the junction prior to the treatment.
 DPC should be placed in correct relation to other DPC so as to ensure complete and continuous
barrier to the passage of water from floors, walls or roof.

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 Figure2.4.2: Air Drain

Figure 2.4.3: Damp Proof Course Treatment for basement on untrained soils

Figure 2.4.4: Plan of building showing DPC

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 Figure 2.4.5: Damp Proof Course Treatment for Basement in Damp Soil

Figure 2.4.6: Asphalt tanking for basement

Fig. 1.4.7: Damp Proof Course for Flooring Fig. 1.4.8: Damp Proof Course for Internal Walls

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2.5 Lay, finishing, sand and cement screed
Laying sand and cement screeds

 Screed
Concrete screed is a construction element laid in a range of thickness whose purpose is to bring the
installation surface of the concrete flooring to the design height and to provide a surface suitable for
installing the specified flooring.
Surface finish
Screeds the surface of the screed should be finished according to the type of wearing surface
or flooring that is to be laid. For mastic asphalt, wood block and strip, and some textile floor coverings, a
non-slip finish is appropriate, while thin sheet and tile floor coverings usually require a smoother, steel
trowelled surface. If a designer specifies the use of a thin sheet or tile floor, then the use of a smoothing
compound needs to be specified in certain circumstances.
Toppings the surface of the topping should be finished to meet the abrasion requirements of the facility.
Specifying tolerances in levels and surface regularity When specifying departure from datum
and surface regularity, taking into account the types and thicknesses of the flooring and the screed or
topping, the designer needs to consider: -the finished floor surface; • the screed/topping/direct finished
slab surface; the base slab to receive a screed or topping
 What is the word screed mean?
The word screed actually means “an accurately leveled strip” of material laid on the wall or floor
covering & to get the covering level we must introduce some screeds.
Also screed is a layer of well compacted material, commonly a mixture of cement & sand that is applied
to a base at the appropriate thickness and that has a surface suitable for receiving a floor finish.
- Floor screeds: - or toppings are unable to bridge over cracks in the base & such cracks will in
time reflect through the screed or toppings.
The screed thickness should be not less than 25mm or more than 50mm.The minimum thickness of a
bonded topping at any part should be 35mm.

Screed in concrete construction is a flat board used to smoothen the concrete after it has been placed over
a surface. Properties and composition of screed in construction is discussed.

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Screeds are made from pre-blended mortar which is mixed with cementations‟ binders or anhydrite-based
binders. They are set as guides for straight edges which helps in bringing the surface of the floor of
concrete to the desired elevation.

The screed must be sufficiently rigid in nature. This helps them to resist the stresses and the distortion
that is caused during the spreading and leveling of the floor topping. The metal strips or the pipe spaced
not more than 10 feet apart make effective screeds.

Types of screeds and toppings

In this publication three types of screeds and toppings are discussed:

 Monolithic screeds and toppings which are applied to the floor while the concrete in the base is
still in a plastic state.
 Bonded screeds and toppings which are applied to hardened concrete floors.
 Unbounded screeds and toppings which are used when it is impossible to ensure a good bond
between floor and screed or topping.
In this case the screed or topping is separated from the floor by insulation boards or an impervious
membrane.
While all three types have many characteristics in common, they also differ in some important ways.
 Monolithic screeds and toppings
As defined above, these are screeds and toppings that are applied at the time when the underlying concrete
floor is placed.
Screed thickness should be approximately 25 mm but not less than 15 mm or more than 40 mm. The
minimum thickness of a monolithic topping at any part should be 20 mm. The actual thickness required
may depend on structural requirements. In some circumstances, the design thickness of a topping may
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 stresses.
In attempting to achieve good adhesion between screed/topping and base concrete, it is important to take
cognizance of the phenomenon of bleeding of fresh concrete.
Bleeding causes water to accumulate on the top surface of the fresh concrete and the presence of this water
layer may impair adhesion unless suitably dealt with.

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  Laying screed/topping stages:
Either immediately the concrete has been compacted and leveled off or before bleed water appears on the
surface (“immediate placing”); or after bleeding of the concrete has ceased and bleed Water has
evaporated or has been removed completely by mopping up (“delayed placing”).
Immediate placing requires careful timing but has the advantage that no preparation of the concrete
surface is required.
Timing of delayed placing is not as critical but the surface of the concrete does require some preparation:
laitance should be loosened by light brushing, with a wire brush or a brush with stiff bristles, and
thoroughly removed by sweeping, or preferably, by vacuum cleaning. Delayed placing should however be
done within an hour or two after the end of the bleeding period.
 Bonded screeds & toppings
As defined previously, bonded screeds and toppings are applied to hardened concrete. The hardened
concrete is also known as the base concrete. Screed thickness should be not less than 25 mm or more than
50 mm. The minimum thickness of a bonded topping at any part should be 35 mm. The actual thickness
required may depend on structural requirements.

Fig.4.1: Bonded Screed Floor

 Unbounded screeds and Toppings Screeds

Where screeds are, or have to be laid on a damp-proofing membrane or separating layer, the minimum
thickness of the screed should be at least 50 mm. Where they are laid on a compressible layer, such as
insulation boards, the minimum thickness should be at least 70 mm.

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 Fig.4.2: Unbounded Screed Floors

 Laying
After screed battens surrounding the panels on which the topping is to be applied have been attached to
the prepared base and the bonding agent has been applied as described above, the topping should be
spread, compacted, screed and bull floated as for a concrete floor.

 Method of laying cement screed

 Assessing the surface of the base
The base surface onto which the screed is to be bonded should be well cured, sound and durable. This can
be checked by drawing a steel nail or other sharp steel across the surface. If the surface crumbles or dusts,
then mechanical preparation may be required.

Fig. 4.3: assessing the surface of the base

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 2.6 Calculating the materials
Estimation of materials required can be calculated by PPC Builder‟s app are multiply the length (in
meters) by width (in meters) to calculate the area of the floor and multiply this by the thickness of the
screed (in mm) to calculate the volume of screed mix required in liters. (Length x Width x Depth =
Volume3)
As a guide, 1bag of surebuild cement mixed with 2 wheelbarrows clean, coarse sand and water will yield
110 liters, which is sufficient to screed 4.4m 2 at 25mm thick.

Fig. 4.4: estimating materials required

 Preparing the base

The entire base should be prepared to result in a rough surface, suitable for bonding. Use a chipping
hammer, pick or other suitable equipment to break the surface, remove mortar, plaster, paint etc.
remember, the entire surface must be roughened to ensure a good bond. If the surface of the base was
wood floated or struck rough, mechanical preparation may not be necessary.
Clean the entire surface with a stiff bristled brush or broom, sprinkling clean water as you work to keep
the dust to a minimum.
Fix 30mm wide soft-board, closed-cell foam or polystyrene strips to the perimeter walls to isolate the
screed.
Wet the prepared surface with clean water for at least l hour before applying the bond coat‟

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 Fig. 4.5: a) roughening the surface

Fig. 4.5: b) cleaning the surface and sprinkling water

Fig.4.5: c) fixing strips fig. 4.5: d) wetting the prepared surface

Fig. 4.5: preparation of the base

 Preparing the screed mix

Either use a mechanical mixer or a wheelbarrow and shovel to mix. Mix 1part sure build cement with 4
parts clean, coarse sand (1:4) with sufficient water until a plastic consistence similar to cement plaster is
achieved. Excess water should be avoided as this will reduce the strength and will increase the risk of
cracking. A stiff mix with too little water will not allow full compaction, and the screed may crumble
over time.

Fig. 4.6: screed mix preparation

 Preparing and applying the bonding slurry

Mix 2 parts water with 5 parts surebuild cement until a smooth, thick slurry of paint consistancy is
achieved. An acrylic bonding agent may be added in accordance with the manufacturer‟s instructions to
assist with bonding to the base.

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Fig.2. 5.1: a) bonding slurry mix ratio fig. 2.5.1: b) acrylic bonding agent

Remove excess water from the prepared surface and using a stiff bristled brush or broom. Scrub the
bonding slurry into the surface immediately ahead of the screed mix placement.
The screed mix mist be cast onto the wet bonding slurry within 10 to 15 minutes.

Fif. 4.7: c) cleaning excess water by brush or broom.

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2.7 Form drainage outlets and skirting
Patios, paths and drives are built with a slight slope (or 'fall') that lets any surface water drain away. But
sometimes, it might not be enough simply to let the water drain onto a lawn or planted bed (particularly if
you have a large paved surface or live in an area with heavy clay soil). In these cases you may well need to
build a drainage channel to collect the surface water, and direct it to a dispersal point which leads to an
existing surface water drain or into a soak away.

An easy way to create a drainage channel along its edge is by molding a concrete strip using a length of
plastic guttering.
Top tip - Drainage in the middle of a patio you can fit a drainage channel in the center of a paved area. The
paving either side should slope towards the channel edges and the channel should have a fall of 1 in 80.

fig.2.7.1: drainage
Put a length of timber the required distance from the paved surface (in this case, slightly wider than the
guttering used to mold the channel). Then hammer in wooden pegs at intervals and nail them to the timber.
The channel should run at right-angles to the fall of the paving. Use a one-meter-long straightedge and a
12.5mm shim to set a fall of 1 in 80 along the drainage channel.

Fig.2.7.2: guttering timber mold

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Next, mix some concrete using four parts mixed aggregate to one-part cement. Then fill the channel with
the concrete to a level slightly lower than the edge of the timber, and smooth it with a float.

Fig. 2.7.3: filling the channel with concrete

Press the guttering into the wet concrete to leave a clear imprint. After this, remove the guttering and
smooth any ridges in the concrete. Use a spirit level to make sure the fall is set at the correct angle.

Fig. 2.7.4: pressing the guttering into wet concrete

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Self-Check 2
Directions: Answer all the questions listed below;-
1. What is the purpose of cleaning sand and cement screeds? (5 points)
2. What are the base concrete requirements? (5 points)
3. What is Damp Proofing Material/Course? (3 points)
4. What are properties of materials for DPC/M? (5 points)
5. List types of Materials for Damp Proof Course/ Material. (5 points

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 Operation Sheet 2

 Perform all forming drainage outlets and skirting steps.

1 Steps to be followed while forming drainage outlets and skirting are:
Step 1: Put a length of timber the required distance from the paved surface
Step 2: Mix 1:4 concrete and fill the channel slightly lower than the edge of the timber.
Step 3: Press the guttering into the wet concrete to leave a clear imprint
Step 4: Remove the guttering and smooth any ridges in the concrete
Step 5: Use a spirit level to make sure the fall is set at the correct angle.
LAP Test 2
Name: _____________________________ Date: ________________
Time started: ________________________ Time finished: ________________
Instructions: Given necessary templates, tools and materials you are required to perform the
following tasks within 1 hours.

Task 1: Install DPM

Task 1: Lay sand and cement screeds

Task 1: Form drainage outlets and skirting

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Unit three: - Cleanup work area
This learning guide is developed to provide you the necessary information regarding the
following content coverage and topics:
3.1 Clear working area
3.2 Maintaining, store tools and equipment‟s
This guide will also assist you to attain the learning outcomes stated in the cover page.
Specifically, upon completion of this learning guide, you will be able to:
 Clean work area
 Maintain tools and equipment

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3.1 Clean work area
What is the purpose cleaning?
 Cleaning is necessary for everything & at working place.
 After completing the work we have to wash the:-
 Tools
 Materials & Equipment‟s by using cleaning tools.

Cleanliness is both the abstract state of being clean and free from dirt, and the process of achieving and
maintaining that state. Cleanliness may be endowed with a moral quality, as indicated by the aphorism
"cleanliness is next to godliness," and may be regarded as contributing to other ideals such as health and
beauty. In emphasizing an ongoing procedure or set of habits for the purpose of maintenance and
prevention, the concept of cleanliness differs from purity, which is a physical, moral, or ritual state of
freedom from pollutants. Whereas purity is usually a quality of an individual or substance, cleanliness
has a social Dimension, or implies a system of interactions. "Cleanliness," observed Jacob Burckhardt,
"is indispensable to our modern notion of social perfection." A household or workplace may be said to
exhibit cleanliness, but not ordinarily purity; cleanliness also would be a characteristic of the people who
maintain cleanness or prevent dirtying. On a practical level, cleanliness is thus related to hygiene and
disease prevention. Washing is one way of achieving physical cleanliness, usually with water and often
some kind of soap or detergent. Procedures of cleanliness are of utmost importance in many forms of
manufacturing.

Disposing, reusing and recycling waste materials

Reuse and recycling of waste construction materials is one component of a larger holistic practice called
sustainable or green building construction. The efficient use of resources is a fundamental tenet of green
building construction. This means reducing, reusing, and recycling most if not all materials that remain
after a construction or renovation project. Many building materials can be reused or recycled. Reusing
and recycling materials salvaged from demolition and building sites depends on:
 local recycling facilities

 market demand

 quality and condition of materials and components

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  time available for salvage

 Emphasis put on reuse and recycling.

Materials that can generally be recycled from construction sites include:

 steel from reinforcing, wire, containers, and so on

 concrete, which can be broken down and recycled as base course in driveways and footpaths

 aluminum

 plastics – grade 1 (PET) and 2 (HDPE)

 paper and cardboard

 untreated timber, which can be used as firewood or mulched

 topsoil

 Paint. Manufacturers/retailers should take back unwanted paint and paint containers.

Materials that can generally be recycled from deconstruction/demolition sites include:

 site works and vegetation – asphalt paving, chain link fencing, timber fencing, trees

 concrete – in situ and precast concrete

 masonry – concrete blocks and decorative concrete, paving stones, bricks,

 metals – reinforcing steel (rebar), structural steel, steel roofing including flashings and spouting,
zinc roofing, interior metal wall studs, cast iron, aluminum, copper including flashings, spouting,
claddings and pipework, lead, electrical, plumbing fixtures

 timber – hardwood flooring, laminated beams, truss joists, treated and untreated timbers/posts,
joinery, untreated timber generally, engineered timber panels

 terracotta tiles

 electrical wiring

 wool carpet

 Plastics – grade 1 (PET) and 2 (HDPE).

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Components that can readily be reused include:

 stairs
 timber – hardwood flooring, weatherboards, laminated beams, truss joists, treated and untreated
framing, timbers/posts, native timber components
 thermal insulation – fiberglass, wool and polyester insulation, polystyrene sheets
 carpet and carpet tiles
 plumbing fixtures – baths, sinks, toilets, taps, service equipment, hot water heaters
 electrical fittings – light fittings, switches, thermostats
 linings and finishing – architraves, skirting‟s, wood paneling, specialty wood fittings, joinery
 doors and windows – metal and timber doors, mechanical closures, panic hardware, aluminum
windows, steel windows, sealed glass units, unframed glass mirrors, store fronts, skylights, glass
from windows and doors, timber and metal from frames
 clay and concrete roof tiles
 metal wall and roof claddings
 PVC and metal spouting.
Hazardous materials

Hazardous materials must be disposed of appropriately. Check the requirements for removal and disposal
of hazardous waste for your local area.

Hazardous wastes from the demolition of buildings may include:

 fluorescent light ballasts manufactured before 1978 – contain PCBs

 fluorescent lamps – contain mercury
 refrigeration and air conditioning equipment – contain refrigerants made using CFCs
 batteries – contain lead, mercury and acid
 roof and wall claddings, pipe insulation, some vinyl flooring, textured ceilings and roofing
membrane sheets containing asbestos fibers
 Lead or materials that contain lead such as flashings, paint, bath and basin wastes.
When cleaning up, materials such as cement, sand, paint and other liquids and solvents, must not be
released into the storm water or sewerage disposal systems. This should be included in the demolition
specification.

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Requirements for recycled or reused materials

The economic value of reusing and recycling. Factors include the:

 cost of transport
 cost of skip hire
 value of material
 weight/amount of material
 Number of contaminants.
And you should find out:

 material type
 acceptable and unacceptable levels of contamination
 acceptable and unacceptable levels of damage
 quantities accepted
 transportation requirements
 required documentation including waste tracking forms
 Sorting and handling requirements for each material type.
Things to check for concrete

 Types of concrete and rubble accepted.

 Size of concrete pieces.
 Amount of preprocessing.
 Acceptable levels of bricks and tiles.
 Acceptable amount of contamination from materials such as glass, metal, soil.
Some concretes products are too hard-wearing on crushing machines and some concretes are too soft to
meet reuse specifications after crushing,

Things to check for metal

 Types of metal accepted.

 Contamination tolerances from materials such as plastics and leftover product in containers.
Things to check for plasterboard
 Whether demolition board is acceptable.
 Minimum and maximum sizes of chip or powder particles.

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  Contamination tolerances from materials such as screws, nails, paint and glues.
 Moisture tolerances. Minimum and maximum quantities.
Maintaining plants, tools and equipment
3.5.1 Plants, Tools and Equipment Maintenance
Construction tools and equipment suffer a lot of wear and tear. Hence, it is important to maintain them
regularly. This will help increase the service life as well as the performance of the equipment.
Precautionary maintenance of tools and equipment will also help reduce unwanted expenses related to
broken or faulty equipment. Small problems generally lead to bigger issues if left unattended. Perform all
cleaning and repair work as soon as you see any signs of damage or neglect. This will keep your
instruments from failing you at crucial moments.

2.2. Common type’s maintenance

1. Preventive maintenance: Equipment is maintained before any fault occur or the equipment to be in
working condition. It's to maintain a level of certain service on equipment, programming or configuration
if required and done by maintenance department.

2. Periodic Maintenance: The basic maintenance of equipment by its user or operator. It consists of data
collection, visual inspection, cleaning, lubrication, re tightening of screws for which only a brief training
is required and.

3. Corrective maintenance: It is to correct the defect to be found in the equipment and are corrected by
the maintenance department.

Clean the construction tools and equipment after each day's work. While a thorough cleaning is not
required each day, a general wipe-down and removal of the heaviest construction dirt is key to extending
the life of the tools.

Lubricate air tools and pneumatic equipment before each day's use. Condensation in the airline creates an
environment for corrosion inside pneumatic tools. Coating the internal components of these tools with
air-tool oil will displace the moisture and prevent tool corrosion

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Self-Check 3

Directions: Answer all the questions listed below. Use the Answer sheet provided in the next page:
1. Write at least three materials that can be recycled from deconstruction/demolition: (3 points)

2. List out building components that can readily be reused at least five components. (5 points)

3. Concrete can be recycled as _______________ and _________________. (2 points)

4. Is the purpose cleaning?
5. After cleaning the tools we have to
6. What is the use of brush in construction?
7. What is the use of sponge?
8. Write an example of reused materials.

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 Reference
1. ttlm eisbbc2 m13 ttlm 0919v1
2. http://www.level.org.nz/material-use/minimising-waste/reuse-and-recycling/
3. https://www.ccohs.ca/oshanswers/hsprograms/house.html
4. https://www.wikihow.com/Maintain-Construction-Tools
5. http://www.fao.org/3/x5744e/x5744e08.htm
6. https://theconstructor.org
7. https://civilseek.com/category/construction/
8. https://geniebelt.com/blog/blueprints

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 Participants of this Module (training material) preparation
N Name Qualific Field of Study Organization/ Mobile E-mail
o ation Institution number
(Level)
1 YONANNES MSC Construction Sebet Poly 091332814 Yohannese44@gmail.co
TADESSE Technology Technic College 4 m
2 FIKADU GIRMA BSC Construction Ethio italy Poly 097528484 Fikegirma13@Gmail.co
Technology Technic 3 m
College
3 ABDULMENAN MSC Urban Planning General wingate 092177917 Abmuha1@gmail.com
MHABA and Development poly technic 9
college
4 LAKEW GIRMA BSC Construction a/mpoly tecnic 091685267 Lakewgir8@gmail.com
management college 4
5 JAMEL BSC Construction 092122898 jemalabdulahi@gmail.c
ABDULAHI technology 6 om

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