Choosing the Right Self-Levelling Compound for Upper Floors
If you’re planning to work on an upper floor, it is highly recommended to opt for a flexible self-levelling compound. Upper floors often experience more movement and stress, which can cause inflexible compounds to crack over time. Unless your building is a high-rise flat or has solid concrete floors, flexibility becomes crucial to ensure durability and a smooth finish.
Conventional suspended timber floors are naturally prone to slight movements. Using an inflexible cement-based self-levelling compound on such surfaces can lead to cracking and flaking, compromising the integrity of your floor. Instead, select a flexible self-levelling compound that includes latex. The latex additive ensures that the compound remains slightly flexible even after curing, accommodating minor movements and preventing cracks.
Recommended Product
For optimal results, consider using an Ultra Level 2 -Part Self Levelling Compound with Latex, available at approximately £19.50. This product promotes flexibility and adhesion, making it ideal for upper-floor applications.
Note: Always ensure you purchase a product suitable for your specific subfloor conditions. Read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully for best results.
Preparation of the Subfloor
Before applying the self-levelling compound, check your subfloor for loose floorboards. Any loose or creaky boards should be securely fastened to the underlying joists to ensure stability. If your floorboards have large gaps or uneven steps between them, it is advisable to overboard the entire surface with a 6mm plywood sheet. This provides a flat, stable base for the self-levelling compound and enhances the overall finish.
For detailed guidance, refer to our comprehensive “How to Overboard a Timber Floor” article.
Calculating the Required Quantity of Self-Levelling Compound
Typically, a 20kg bag of self-levelling compound covers approximately 2.5m2 at a thickness of 5mm. To determine how much you’ll need for your project, measure the area of your room and decide on the desired thickness of the pour.
- Room Area (m2) = Length (m) x Width (m)
- Bags Required = Total Area (m2) / 2.5 (coverage per bag at 5mm)
For example, a room measuring 4m by 4m has an area of 16m2. The calculation would be:
- 16m2 / 2.5 = 6.4 bags
In this case, it’s wise to purchase at least 7 bags to account for slight variations in thickness and potential over-pouring. Having a few extra bags ensures you won’t run out mid-project, which can cause uneven ridges or inconsistencies in the floor surface.
Always consider buying a couple of additional bags to guarantee you have enough material for the entire application, especially if you plan to pour the compound thicker or encounter unforeseen issues. This foresight will save time and prevent frustration during your flooring project.