Other FAQ's

Can I add a reinforcement mesh into the slab?

All our testing has been with a slab made up of NHL binder, fibres and aggregate and the slab performs very well without the need for extra reinforcement.

Stainless steel mesh has been used on certain floors but care must be taken to avoid cracking.

Can I polish limecrete?

Polished Limecrete is not something that we generally advise, although it can be done successfully. It is important that a contractor is used with successful experience in polishing Limecrete (not concrete), who can also provide case studies to support this as the finished floor will be different to that of a polished concrete floor. The use of different aggregates is advised for a polished floor. Polished limecrete will always be softer than concrete.

Can I use a self-levelling screed over limecrete?

Proprietary, off the shelf self-levelling screeds, can be used but it does, of course, compromise the vapour permeability of the Limecrete slab.

Is the slab thickness always 100mm?

Generally, 100mm is the advised thickness and meets the requirement for Building Regulations. This can be less, for example on small floors where thick reclaimed flagstones are to be laid, or more on larger floors for example in churches. In larger floors such as churches where heating pipes/ services are run through the floor, there should be 100mm above the service pipe.

Do I need a decoupling membrane to prevent my tiles from cracking?

If the floor has been excavated and laid correctly and enough time has been allowed for curing then there is no need. (You don’t need movement joints in limecrete as you can do in concrete). If your tile supplier demands one then you can use one.