Introduction
If you want to install any kind of floor, you should have as level ground as possible. If it’s not level, the new floor might not sit well or it might crack from the joints. Then, when you try to place furniture in the room, those can’t be placed perfectly on the uneven ground.
To ensure a successful flooring installation, it’s essential to understand the importance of a level substrate. Not only does a level floor enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space, but it also contributes to the durability and longevity of the flooring material you choose. An uneven floor can lead to various problems, such as tile cracking, laminate warping, and carpet wear.
For these reasons, it’s good to know how to use floor leveler on the concrete floor, or self-leveling compound in other words as these are most often marketed. A self-leveling compound is a high-flow compound, and once it’s mixed and poured, gravity will make it flat. This compound can be a real game-changer, especially if you are dealing with significant height variances across a floor surface.
Understanding Self-Leveling Compound
Before diving into the practical steps, it is essential to understand what a self-leveling compound is and how it works. Self-leveling compounds are specially formulated materials designed to create a smooth and level surface on floors. They are typically made with polymers and additives that enhance their flow and adhesion properties. When mixed with water, these compounds become a pourable liquid that self-levels due to its weight and viscosity.
One of the primary advantages of using self-leveling compounds is their ability to fill in low spots and create a flat surface without extensive manual labor. This ease of use makes it a preferred choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. Moreover, these compounds can be used over various substrates, including concrete, wood, and even tiles, making them versatile for different flooring projects.
Using Self-Leveling Compound on Different Surfaces
All the floors in the house can be uneven. It might be like that since the pouring of concrete, or maybe the floor has been ground too heavily at some point. There are so many reasons that it’s pointless to list them.
That being said, you can use self-leveling compound over new concrete as well as old concrete. You just need to roughen the surface so it will adhere well. The same goes for old concrete as well.
With the compound, all the concrete surfaces can be made as level as possible. It’s a good combination if you want to install electric floor heating, for example. Electric heating systems often require a level surface to function effectively and safely.
These compounds aren’t only for concrete surfaces. You can even use cement-based self-leveling compound on wood subfloor to make it more flat or even ceramic tiles. If you don’t want to remove old flooring when you build a new one, it’s one way to take a shortcut. Just make sure the existing surface is clean and free of any debris that might hinder the adhesion of the new layer.
How to Prep Floor for Self-Leveling Compound
Now, how to level an uneven concrete floor? It all starts with preparation, like every other good concrete project. Proper preparation is critical, as it sets the foundation for successful application and long-lasting results.
Before you begin, gather all necessary tools and materials to ensure a smooth workflow. You will need a mixing bucket, a trowel, a paint roller, and a vacuum cleaner for dust removal. Having everything on hand will minimize interruptions during the process.
Step 1: The self leveling compound needs to adhere, so the first thing we should do is fix the floor if it’s damaged. Here is a guide on how to fix concrete cracks. Ensuring a solid base will prevent further issues down the line, such as cracks or unevenness in your new surface.
Step 2: If there is something to be fixed, you will probably clean the floors while doing that. It’s recommended so the fixes will adhere to the floor. If you have a wooden subfloor, go through the screw holes, cracks, and joints with a caulking gun and some elastic fixing compound. It won’t crack so easily when the ground shifts.
If your floors are OK, then you need to take this step and clean the floors thoroughly with a vacuum. As dust-free as possible. Dust and debris can severely impact the bonding strength of the self-leveling compound, so this step cannot be overlooked.
Step 3: Now you should spread self-leveling concrete primer on the floor. You can do that with a thin-haired paint roller or one-time-use paint roller. Applying a primer helps to increase the adhesion of the self-leveling compound and can help prevent air bubbles from forming underneath.
Start by doing the borders around the room with a paintbrush. After the borders are done, use the roller to spread the primer across the entire floor surface. Start from one wall and in typewriter fashion move to another end. This method ensures even coverage and minimizes the risk of missing spots.
With concrete floors, this might not be necessary always, but if the manufacturer label of the self-leveling compound says to use it, I would. Wooden subfloors I would always primer. A well-prepared surface will lead to a more successful outcome.
Don’t primer yourself into a corner; it’s essential to plan your movements so that you don’t get trapped in an area without an exit.
How to Use Self-Leveling Compound
It’s time to learn how to use self-leveling floor compound. There are many ways to spread it, but I’ll explain how I do it to achieve the best results.
You need a big bucket where you can mix 2 bags of self-leveling compound, a hand trowel, and something to spread it on the floor. I prefer a trowel with a long shaft so I can spread it while I stand. The best thing is, the self-leveling compound is so liquid it doesn’t have to be troweled to the ground. This can save time and reduce physical strain.
Step 4: Mix 1-2 bags of self-leveling compound in the bucket. First, measure water for the amount you will be mixing and then mix half of the compound with it. Following the manufacturer’s instructions for water ratios is essential for optimal results, as too much or too little can affect the performance of the compound.
Soon place the rest of the compound into the water and mix it for the time it says on the manufacturer label. Usually, these need to stand wetting for 3-5 minutes before the final mix. This allows the compound to hydrate properly, which is crucial for achieving the desired consistency.
Step 5: Pour the self-leveling compound into the ground. You will see it’s almost like thick water in there. Pouring in sections can help manage the flow and spread of the compound, especially in larger areas.
Step 6: Spread it evenly on the floor with the trowel. There should be instructions on how thick a layer you can do with the compound on the bag. It’s important to adhere to these guidelines, as applying a layer that’s too thick can lead to issues with drying and curing.
I usually refer to that and play it by eye when I spread it all around the floor with the trowel. Now if you need to be more exact, you should use markers around the floor that tell you the height the compound needs to be. This can be especially useful in large rooms or areas with multiple levels.
Step 7: Repeat steps 1-3 until the whole floor is covered with the self-leveling compound. Here it’s good to work in typewriter fashion as well, always pouring more near the just-poured surface so it will mix well with the older compound on the ground. This method can help create a seamless finish without lines or uneven spots.
Cheaper Alternative for Self-Leveling Compound
If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to self-leveling compound, it might be hard to find. Different floor compounds can be used as well, but making the floor flat with them will take some skill that many might not have. Additionally, you may need to invest more time into achieving the desired flatness.
When I work with balconies, I check the low parts of the floor with a level and mark them with a circle. After that, I’ll make some floor compounds and fill the puddle spots and screed them level with the rest of the ground. This approach can save time and money, but it requires a keen eye for detail and a steady hand.
After the low parts have been filled, I’ll do the whole floor with a thin layer of floor compound. A notched trowel can be good here, as it allows for even distribution of the compound. The notches create grooves that help the compound adhere better to the base surface.
You pour the floor compound and spread it with a notched trowel. After that, you turn the straight edge down and smooth the surface. Now you have an even layer of floor compound everywhere. While this method may not produce results as flat as self-leveling compound, it can still yield satisfactory results with the right technique and materials.
How to Fix Self-Leveling Compound Mistakes
Sometimes you meet with a self-leveling compound failure. It’s quite possible that someone has mixed a fast-curing product with a slower-curing one, or the process has been left halfway. Or you might notice that the self-leveling compound is not flat. Understanding how to troubleshoot and correct these issues is essential for any DIY enthusiast.
Uneven Floor After Compound
If the floor is left in a mess, not flat and uneven, you might need to grind some of it off before doing it again. If the situation is not that bad, a grinding stone will work well enough to get the high parts flat. It’s important to take your time with this step to avoid further damage to the underlying surface.
If it’s done with a fast-curing compound, grinding it might be quite hard as it cures quite hard. If the floor is no good, you might need to do it again. Sometimes, starting fresh is the only way to ensure a smooth and level surface.
Dust and Flaking
If the just-done self-leveling compound is turning to dust under your feet or flaking, it’s a sign of too much water in the self-leveling compound when the work was done. It’s important to refer to the manufacturer labels because, when it’s liquid, it’s hard to tell if there is enough water or too much. This can compromise the integrity of the finished surface, leading to further complications.
That kind of floor has to be ground away as well and be redone. Taking care to mix your materials according to the manufacturer’s instructions is crucial to avoid these kinds of issues in the future.
Additional Tips for Success
To maximize the effectiveness of your self-leveling compound project, consider these additional tips:
- Temperature Control: The ideal temperature for applying self-leveling compound is between 50°F and 85°F (10°C to 29°C). If the temperature is too low, the compound may not cure properly, and if it’s too high, it may dry too quickly.
- Humidity Levels: Pay attention to humidity levels in your workspace. High humidity can prolong the drying time, while low humidity can cause the compound to set too quickly. It’s best to work in a controlled environment if possible.
- Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on mixing, application, and drying times. Each product may have unique requirements that are critical for optimal performance.
- Test Small Areas: If you’re uncertain about the results, consider testing the self-leveling compound on a small area first. This approach allows you to evaluate its performance before committing to a larger application.
- Use a Squeegee: For larger areas, a squeegee can help spread the compound more evenly and efficiently than a trowel, especially for achieving a smooth finish.
When to Call a Professional
While many homeowners can successfully use self-leveling compound, there are scenarios where it might be best to call in a professional. If you encounter extensive damage to your subfloor or if the project scope exceeds your skill level, seeking expert help can save you time and ensure a quality finish.
Additionally, if you plan to install high-end flooring materials, such as hardwood or luxury vinyl, a professional may provide the precision needed for these investments. They can assess your space, recommend the best products, and execute the project with expertise, giving you peace of mind.
Conclusion
You should know how to use floor leveler now. It’s simple, but perfect execution needs some planning. The mistakes can be easily avoided like that as well. By taking the time to prepare your surface and follow the steps carefully, you can achieve a level floor that enhances the overall look and functionality of your space.
Make sure, if you’re a beginner, that you don’t get the fast-curing floor compound. It will cure really fast, and if you’re not familiar with it, it will cure on your hands, and the floor won’t be good. This can lead to frustration and potentially costly repairs.
The slow-curing ones are a lot easier to handle, even when they cure for some days. I’d rather use them myself as well if I’m not in a hurry. Patience is key in flooring projects, and the results will be worth the extra time invested.
Successfully leveling a floor with self-leveling compound can significantly enhance your home’s functionality and appearance. By understanding the process and following the steps outlined above, you can tackle this project with confidence. Remember, preparation is key, and taking your time will lead to a smoother floor that stands the test of time.
Whether you are laying down new flooring or preparing an old surface, the use of self-leveling compounds allows for versatility and ease. Embrace the process, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help when needed. With the right approach and a bit of patience, you’ll achieve the perfect level floor that serves as the foundation for your beautiful space.