New build house with energy efficient screed in Llangollen
This project involved the construction of a new, self-sufficient residential property in Llangollen, designed to operate with a strong focus on energy efficiency and long-term performance. A key requirement was the integration of an air source heat pump (ASHP) with an underfloor heating (UFH) system, supported by a Gypsol Zero Laitance (ZL) screed solution capable of maximising heat transfer while enabling a fast construction programme.
Project overview
| Project name | New build Llangollen- full ASHP UFH system |
| Location | Llangollen |
| Project sector | Housing |
| Project size | 172m² |
| Product used | Gypsol Zero Laitance (ZL) |
| End customer | Private homeowner |
| Key partners | Holcim Readymix (Supplier) & Niche Energy Solutions (Installer) |
| Customer goal | Self-sufficient and energy efficient house |
The challenge
The homeowner required a screed solution specifically designed for use with underfloor heating and compatible with a low-energy ASHP system. Fast heat transfer, rapid drying, and minimal follow-on works were critical to maintaining programme efficiency and enabling early installation of the final floor finish.
In addition, the project team required a screed that would perform reliably without introducing unnecessary remedial works, such as surface laitance removal, which can add time and cost to residential builds.
The solution
Gypsol ZL was chosen for this project because it does not require laitance removal. This allowed for faster installation, accelerated drying times and proven performance with UFH systems.
Gypsol ZL offers excellent flow and consistency, while supporting rapid progression to the final floor finish, all while remaining a cement-free, low-carbon solution. A total of 11.3m³ of Gypsol ZL was installed across the 172m² property.
Installation and application
The Gypsol ZL screed arrived on site fully within specification and was laid to a high-quality finish. The material set and cured as expected, with no laitance present on the surface, removing the need for sanding or additional preparation works.
The air source heat pump and underfloor heating system were installed by specialist contractor Niche Energy Solutions. Gypsol ZL was supplied by Holcim Readymix (Eco-Readymix) and was pumped directly into the building and finished using standard dapple techniques to achieve the required surface quality.
Installation time was significantly reduced through the use of Gypsol ZL, with the full installation completed in 1 hour and 20 minutes. The efficient process delivered immediate cost savings, while the enhanced thermal performance of Gypsol screed is expected to generate ongoing energy cost savings over the lifetime of the property through faster and more efficient heat transfer.
Key benefits of using ZL
Gypsol ZL screed combines LKAB Gypsol binder, sand, and water. With a binder made from 98% by-product, ZL achieves an 88% reduction in carbon emissions versus alternative screeds.
Key benefits achieved included:
- Significantly reduced installation time due to the flowing screed system
- With no laitance present, Gypsol ZL screed allows faster drying and hydration, enabling earlier installation of the final floor finishes
- Improved heat transfer performance, supporting the efficiency of the ASHP and UFH system
- Reduced labour and programme costs
Over the lifetime of the property, the enhanced thermal performance of Gypsol screed is expected to deliver considerable energy savings.
Customer and partner feedback
Niche Energy Solutions reported excellent performance from the Gypsol ZL screed, noting that it met expectations in terms of quality, flow, and finish.
The absence of laitance removed the need for surface sanding, allowing installation teams to move directly onto subsequent projects, reducing labour time and associated costs. Want to see more examples of how LKAB Minerals is shaping responsible construction and delivering innovative low carbon solutions? Follow us on LinkedIn for the latest product updates, insights, and success stories.
