Do You Need to Seal Your Concrete Floor Before Applying Self-Levelling Compound?
When working with cement-based self-levelling compounds, it is generally recommended to apply a sealer to the concrete surface beforehand. This step can be crucial even if the floor appears dusty or unremarkable. Applying a sealer helps improve adhesion and prevents dust from contaminating the compound, leading to a smoother finish. Often, the process involves a quick application of a simple PVA solution using a brush or roller, which acts as an effective primer. This extra step ensures the self-levelling compound bonds properly to the substrate, resulting in a more durable and even surface.
Is Sealing Unnecessary When Using Latex-Based Self-Levelling Compounds?
In contrast, if you opt for a latex-based self-levelling compound, sealing the concrete surface becomes unnecessary. Latex compounds, such as the popular Ardex Na 2-part latex-based levelling mix, are formulated to adhere well without prior sealing. This choice can save you time and effort, streamlining the preparation process. They are versatile and suitable for a broad range of substrates, including:
- Concrete
- cement/sand screeds
- prepared terrazzo
- asphalt surfaces
- bitumen
- floor tiles (including quarry, porcelain, and ceramic)
- internal steel floors
- dampproof membranes
- decoupling membranes
These latex compounds can be applied directly onto these surfaces without the need for primers or sealers, simplifying your workflow and reducing preparation time.
What Exactly Is Self-Levelling Compound?
Self-levelling compound, also known as floor screed or levelling mix, is a specially formulated cementitious material designed to create a flat, smooth subfloor. It is typically applied as a thin layer over uneven surfaces such as concrete slabs or wooden floors, serving as a preparatory layer before installing the final floor covering. The defining feature of self-levelling compounds is their ability to flow and level out by themselves, minimizing the need for extensive manual leveling. While they are termed ‘self-levelling,’ they do have their limits; they flow more like a thick liquid than water, which means large, uneven areas may require some manual assistance to achieve a perfectly flat finish.
Why Choose Self-Levelling Compound?
The primary advantage of using a self-levelling compound is transforming a bumpy, uneven subfloor into a perfectly smooth and stable surface. This is particularly important when installing rigid flooring materials such as tiles, hardwood, or laminate, which cannot tolerate imperfections. An uneven base can cause tiles to crack, floors to squeak, or boards to bounce, compromising the integrity of the finished floor. Conversely, softer finishes like carpets can accommodate minor unevenness without issue. Therefore, a well-prepared, level subfloor ensures a professional-looking, long-lasting finish for your flooring project.
Related Resources and Frequently Asked Questions
If you’re eager to learn more about self-levelling compounds, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of topics to explore:
- How thick can you pour self-levelling compound?
- Can you use self-levelling compound outside?
- Can you apply self-levelling compound over asphalt flooring?
- Is it possible to build up self-levelling compound in layers?
- What type of paint is suitable for self-levelling compound surfaces?
- Can self-levelling compound be used past its expiry date?
- Does self-levelling compound require a spiked roller?
- Can it be applied over chipboard?
- How long does it take for self-levelling compound to dry?
- Is self-levelling compound suitable for application over bitumen?
- Does self-levelling compound crack over time?