Understanding Self-Levelling Compound Bag Sizes
Self-levelling compounds are typically available in standard bag sizes, primarily 20kg and 25kg. These sizes are consistent across most reputable brands and are designed to cater to various flooring needs. When planning your project, choosing the right bag size ensures you have adequate material without excess waste.
Standard Bag Sizes Overview
- 20kg Bags: Commonly used when mixing with latex or for smaller projects. These bags are convenient and easy to handle.
- 25kg Bags: Suitable for larger areas, especially when mixing with water. They provide a slightly larger coverage, making them cost-effective for bigger jobs.
Estimating Coverage Based on Material Mixing
For example, when using Arditex NA self-levelling compound in a 20kg bag mixed with latex, it typically covers about 3 square meters at a 5mm thickness. Conversely, if you mix the same compound with water, a 25kg bag generally provides similar coverage, approximately 3 square meters, but this depends on the water-to-compound ratio. Always check the manufacturer’s specifications for precise coverage estimates.
Calculating Room Area (m2)
To determine how much material you’ll need, start by calculating the total floor area of your room. Measure the length and width of the space in meters, then multiply these dimensions to find the area:
Area (m2) = Length (m) x Width (m)
For example, if your room measures 4 meters in length and 4 meters in width, the total area would be:
4m x 4m = 16m2
Ensure your measurements are accurate, as this directly impacts the number of bags you’ll need for a smooth, level floor.
Determining the Number of Bags Required
Let’s take a practical example with a 20kg bag of Arditex NA, which covers approximately 3m2 at a 5mm thickness.
If your room’s area is 24m2, the calculation would be:
- Number of bags = Room area (24m2) / Coverage per bag (3m2)
- = 8 bags
It’s advisable to purchase a few extra bags—say, 2 or 3—to account for minor miscalculations, thicker pours, or unforeseen issues during application. For the example above, buying 10 bags provides a safety margin, ensuring you won’t run out midway through the project.
Adjusting for Thickness Variations
If you plan to pour the self-levelling compound at a greater thickness, such as 10mm instead of 5mm, remember that coverage decreases proportionally. For instance, doubling the thickness from 5mm to 10mm would halve the coverage per bag. Therefore, for thicker pours, increase the number of bags accordingly to ensure complete coverage without shortages.
In summary: Always estimate conservatively, purchase extra material, and double-check measurements to achieve a perfectly smooth, level floor surface. Proper planning ensures a hassle-free application and a professional finish.