MAGNESIET ALS ONDERVLOER

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The magnesite floor is a sustainable screed floor based on, among other things, ground wood chips, salt and magnesium.

ADVANTAGES OF MAGNESITE FLOOR

The magnesite floor was widely used between 1920 and 1960. Nowadays, magnesite floors are again popular in renovation construction due to, among other things, their light weight (for example in older buildings where the floor constructions are not allowed to bear much weight). In addition, it has the property that it can absorb height differences and is Co2 neutral.

Wood stores CO2 and this will stay in the screed. The installation therefore emits minimal CO2. The magnesite floor also has a high wear resistance, is fire-resistant and insulates against heat and sound. The magnesite floor is extremely suitable in combination with underfloor heating.

Due to its composition, the magnesite floor cannot be used in wet or humid areas.

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HUMIDITY

The mass of magnesite, consisting of 96% wood fiber and 4% binder, is mixed with water. It is difficult to make a residual moisture measurement with magnesite. The magnesite must be completely dry before the wooden floor can be installed over it.

For the curing/drying process, you can allow an average of 1 week of drying time per cm of floor thickness. Always use the thickest piece of flooring as a handle for the drying process, so this thickness is decisive. Always ensure sufficient ventilation during this drying process.

Be careful with moisture! The magnesite, which consists of salt and sawdust, attracts moisture. Moisture is easily absorbed into the floor, which can mean that it takes longer for the magnesite floor to fully harden. It may therefore be advisable to plaster before applying the floor.

Due to the composition of the magnesite floor, it is necessary to carry out a correct residual moisture measurement. The moisture meters are not designed to determine a residual moisture percentage by means of the resistance. Determining the moisture content in the magnesite subfloor can only be done indicatively using plastic foil.

By hermetically sealing pieces of plastic foil with tape in various places on the magnesite floor, it can be checked after 24 hours whether there are no wet/dark spots visually visible under the plastic in the magnesite floor. In wet/dark places, the floor is not yet dry enough and suitable for installing the wooden floor. The drying process must then be extended.

One of the most important points of attention is keeping the top layer clean, it is a difficult and expensive job to clean the top layer. Therefore, make sure that the floor is kept clean.

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FLATNESS OF THE FLOOR

By pouring the magnesite floor, it is very suitable for leveling floors and eliminating height differences. However, due to the drying process, the floor may shrink and dry unevenly. For the installation of the wooden floor we require 'flatness class 2'.

This means that the floor may have a maximum gradient of 4 mm in height over a length of 2 meters. PLEASE NOTE: it is not important for the installation of the floor that it is level, but that it is flat.

FLOATING OR GLUED INSTALLATION?

On a wooden magnesite floor, a plank floor can be placed floating or glued. We will always fully glue the herringbone or chevron floor to the screed floor. With the floating floor, we will install an intermediate floor (foil) that is separate from the screed floor and can absorb any unevenness.

Please note that with a floating floor, movement is always noticeable when using the floor.

When gluing, the wood magnesite floor may need to be 'sanded open' for sufficient adhesion. Without this pre-treatment, a wood magnesite floor does not have sufficient tensile strength, which can result in an insufficient adhesive bond.

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WOOD MAGNESITE - FLOOR HEATING COMBINATION

The wood magnesite floor is usually used with a wet construction underfloor heating system. This means that the underfloor heating is built from the foundation/construction floor and the wood magnesite screed is poured over it. Further explanation of the wet construction system underfloor heating can be found here.

POINTS TO CONSIDER FOR THE MAGNESITE FLOOR AS A SUBFLOOR

  • Be careful with moisture!
    Residual moisture percentage is difficult to measure - can cause delays in planning
  • Measurement can only be indicative
    Drying time of approximately 1 cm per week (maintain the thickest part of the floor)
  • Good ventilation during the drying process
  • The surface must be 'sanded open' before installation of the wooden floor for the correct adhesive bond.
  • Note the flatness class 2

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a wooden magnesite subfloor?

A wooden magnesite subfloor is a type of subfloor that consists of a mixture of wood chips and magnesite, a mineral known for its strong and insulating properties. It is used as a sturdy and sound-insulating base for wooden floors.

What are the advantages of a wooden magnesite subfloor?

A wooden magnesite subfloor offers several advantages, including:

  • Strength and durability: The mixture of wood chips and magnesite creates a strong and stable base for the wooden floor.
  • Sound Insulation: The magnesite component of the subfloor helps reduce sound transmission, creating a quieter environment.
  • Heat Insulation: Magnesite has good thermal insulation properties, so it can promote heat efficiency.
  • Moisture resistance: Wooden magnesite subfloors are usually resistant to moisture and can help prevent moisture damage to the wooden floor. Please note that if the floor does get wet, it will dry very slowly.

How is a wooden magnesite subfloor installed?

A wooden magnesite subfloor is usually installed by a professional. The mixture of wood chips and magnesite is poured in an even layer on the existing floor. The surface is then smoothed and leveled to create a flat base for the wooden floor.

Can a wooden magnesite subfloor be used with underfloor heating ?

Yes, a wooden magnesite subfloor can be used in combination with underfloor heating systems. Magnesite has good thermal conductivity, which helps distribute heat efficiently throughout the floor.

However, it is important to follow the specific installation requirements and use the correct insulation and control systems for a safe and effective combination of wooden magnesite subfloor and underfloor heating .

Is it necessary to use a moisture barrier?

In some situations it may be necessary to use a moisture barrier with a wooden magnesite subfloor. This depends on the humidity levels and conditions of the room in which the subfloor is being installed.

If there is a risk of moisture, such as in damp basements, a moisture barrier can help to protect the wooden floor against moisture damage.

Can I install a wooden magnesite subfloor myself?

Installing a wooden magnesite subfloor can be complex and requires specific knowledge and experience. It is recommended to have this done by a professional.

A professional installer can use the right techniques, materials and equipment to create a high-quality and durable subfloor for your wooden floor.