Topcem and Mapecem are both Mapei screed binders, and both come in a site-mix version and a ready-mixed "Pronto" version. That gives you four products that look similar on the shelf but suit different jobs. The short answer: Topcem when you want a quick-drying screed at a sensible cost, Mapecem when the programme is tight and you need to tile sooner. Pronto versions save you blending sand on site.
The four options at a glance
| Product | What it is | Choose it when |
|---|---|---|
| Topcem | Hydraulic binder, mixed with sand and water on site | Larger areas where cost per square metre matters and a quick-drying screed is enough |
| Topcem Pronto | Ready-mixed quick-drying screed mortar, just add water | You want Topcem performance without sourcing and blending sand |
| Mapecem | Fast-setting, fast-drying binder, mixed with sand on site | The tiler or flooring installer is booked in soon and you can't wait on a standard screed |
| Mapecem Pronto | Ready-mixed fast-setting screed mortar, just add water | The tightest turnaround in the range, with no on-site blending |
Site-mix or Pronto?
The binder versions (Topcem and Mapecem) are mixed with your own sand, so they work out more economical on big floors and let you adjust the mix. The trade-off is consistency: sand grading and moisture vary, and the result depends on getting the ratio right every batch.
The Pronto versions come pre-blended. You pay more per bag, but every mix is the same, there's no sand to order or store, and they suit smaller jobs, upper floors and sites where a sand pile isn't practical.
Topcem or Mapecem?
Both give a controlled-shrinkage screed suitable for bonded, unbonded and floating applications. The difference is speed. Mapecem sets and dries faster, so the next trade can get on sooner. If the floor is going under tiles, timber, vinyl or another moisture-sensitive covering and the schedule is tight, that time saving is usually worth the extra cost.
If there's no rush, Topcem is the more economical choice and still dries far faster than a conventional sand and cement screed.
Before you start
- Check the substrate is sound and clean. For a bonded screed, use Topcem Pronto Slurry as the bonding coat.
- Confirm minimum and maximum thickness for the product on the Mapei technical data sheet.
- Check drying times and moisture readings against the requirements of the floor covering going on top, not just the screed.
- Have a mixer and screed bars ready. We stock mixers, screed bars and straight edges.
Mix ratios, thickness limits and drying times vary by product and conditions. Always refer to the current Mapei technical data sheet before use.
Not sure which one your job needs? Get in touch and we'll help you pick, or browse the full Mapei range. Trade pricing and Australia-wide delivery.