Protruding wastewater pipes through concrete slabs have been one of the building industry's longest-standing safety hazards — causing trip injuries, broken pipes, concrete going down drains, and headaches for every trade on site. The Screed Buddy System is a patented solution that eliminates these problems entirely, allowing concreters to screed and machine-finish an entire slab surface without a single pipe in the way.
What Is the Screed Buddy System?
The Screed Buddy System is a flexible, durable cap that fits over rising PVC DWV wastewater pipes (sanitary pipes) and grout tubes, allowing them to be cut flush to slab level before the concrete pour. Once installed, it:
- Eliminates trip hazards from protruding pipes
- Allows machinery to move freely across the entire slab
- Prevents concrete from going down pipes during the pour
- Self-cleans after the pour and indicates its location on the finished slab surface
- Features an outer lip designed for easy coupling with minimal obstruction
The HDPE and EX-DWV models feature a specially designed 5mm thicker edge that sits on top of the pipe, with pipes cut 10mm below FFL to protect them from heavy machinery.
Key Benefits
Safety
By removing all pipe protrusions from the slab surface, the Screed Buddy System eliminates trip hazards for concreters, plumbers, and all other trades on site — significantly reducing the risk of injuries and compensation claims.
Time and Cost Savings
Installation takes approximately 30 minutes for a standard house with 11–12 waste water pipes. That small upfront investment is quickly recovered through faster screeding, unobstructed helicopter finishing, and no pipe-related delays for other trades.
Better Concrete Finish
With no pipes protruding through the slab, there's no concrete build-up around pipes and no interruptions to the screed or machine finish — delivering a superior, consistent surface quality across the entire pad.
Versatility
Suitable for domestic, commercial, and industrial sites. Can be installed anywhere there are rising pipes from a concrete slab, including multi-storey construction. Custom sizes can be made to order if required.
What You'll Need
- Screed Buddy System caps (correct size for each pipe)
- Levelling device set to Finished Floor Level (FFL)
- Hand saw or angle grinder
- Duct tape or cable ties
- Marker/pencil for pipe marking
Step-by-Step Installation Guide
Step 1 — Identify Pipes to Be Fitted
Walk the slab and identify all wastewater pipes that require a Screed Buddy cap. Plan your cuts before installing the damp proof membrane and mesh where possible — this makes installation easier and safer.
Step 2 — Set Up Your Levelling Device to FFL
Set up your levelling device to the Finished Floor Level (FFL). This is your reference point for all pipe cuts.
Step 3 — Mark Each Pipe at 5mm Below FFL
Take 5mm from your FFL measurement — this accounts for the Screed Buddy cap thickness (approx. 2.5mm) plus a buffer. Carefully mark each pipe at this height.
Note: For HDPE and EX-DWV models, pipes should be cut at 10mm below FFL.
Step 4 — Cut the Pipes
Using a hand saw or angle grinder, cut each pipe accurately and level at the marked height. A clean, level cut ensures the Screed Buddy sits flat and seals correctly.
Step 5 — Select the Correct Screed Buddy Size
Select the correct Screed Buddy cap to suit each pipe diameter. Fitting the caps after mesh is installed is recommended to avoid tearing or cutting the cap during mesh placement.
Step 6 — Fit the Screed Buddy Cap
Push the Screed Buddy firmly down onto the top of the pipe, ensuring it's fully seated with no gaps. Secure it in place with duct tape or a cable tie to prevent movement during the pour.
Step 7 — Verify Height with Levelling Device
Place your levelling device on top of the fitted Screed Buddy and confirm it reads at FFL — or no more than 5mm below FFL. This is the most critical check before pouring.
"The Screed Buddy is now correctly installed and ready for use."
Step 8 — Pour and Finish the Slab
Pour and screed the concrete as normal across the entire slab surface. With no protruding pipes, machinery can move freely and the entire surface can be helicopter finished without interruption. The Screed Buddy self-cleans during the pour and will be visible on the finished slab surface for easy pipe location later.
Pro Tips
- Cut pipes before installing the damp proof membrane and mesh for easier access and a safer working environment
- Fit Screed Buddy caps after mesh is installed to avoid damage to the caps
- Bed pipes at the desired height with cement early in the pour for best results
- Be aware that plumbers removing soil incorrectly can change the FFL on pour day — always re-check heights on the day
- Custom sizes are available to order if standard sizes don't suit your pipe dimensions
Need Screed Buddy System caps or other concrete accessories? Browse our full range of concreting tools and accessories or contact our team for sizing advice.
