Let’s get into the nitty-gritty of self-leveling screed. By now you should know just how important it is to assist in reaching that desired perfect finish. A smooth, level base is absolutely critical whether you are laying tiles, vinyl, or hardwood. That makes your job easier in terms of laying the flooring and guarantees it looks great and lasts for a long time.
Why Self-Leveling Screed is Key
First off, self-leveling screed creates a perfectly flat surface that you would require. It is all about durability and longevity—your flooring will appreciate it. Plus, it helps with proper adhesion; that is, everything stays in place and does not suffer from those irritating moisture problems at a later stage. Imagine if you had an uneven subfloor; then, with a rigid material, such as ceramic tiles or natural stone, you will definitely have cracks, gaps, or lippage. And we don’t even need to talk about the aesthetics—a smooth floor just looks nicer and feels better to the touch.
Application
Preparation
- Clean and Prepare the Subfloor: Sweep away any debris, dirt, and dust. The cleaner the better.
- Crack Repair: The defect could be filled with the appropriate material.
- Priming: A primer ensures that the material will bond with the surface and also provides protection to the screed against any moisture problems.
- Damp-Proof Membrane : This should be done in case dampness is anticipated.
Mixing the Screed:
- Manufacturer’s Instructions are to be followed: Different products have different mixing ratios, so they are to be followed.
- Only Clean Water: The use of clean water alone will prevent any contaminates.
- Mixing: Mechanical mixing will give the best mix. It is highly recommended to use a drill machine with a mixing paddle.
Application:
- Thin Layers: Apply in thin layers, approximately 5-6 mm maximum in one go. Much thicker layers are put up better in multiple passes.
- Tools: A trowel or a screed board can be used to even out the layer.
- Leveling: Straight edge must be used to check high and low spots on the surface.
- Smoothing Finish: After application, smooth it out by running a trowel or float over it.
Curing
- Drying Time Depends on the product and the conditions. Take your time.
- Prevent Cracking Use plastic or hessian that is kept damp.
Finishing Touches
- Sanding for an exceptionally smooth finish.
- Prime Before Flooring Adequate penetration must be achieved for the final floor layer to adhere.
Top Tips
- Protection Always a good idea.
- Small Areas Work in manageable sections.
- Regular Checking Check for evenness regularly.
- Avoid Overworking: It may entrain air bubbles.
- Be Patient: Allow drying before the next step.
Recommended Products
Following are some high-quality products you may wish to consider:
WAKOL Z 610 Levelling Compound
- Dust-reduced, low-tension cement-based.
- Suitable for thicknesses from 1 to 20 mm unextended.
- Ideal for parquet from 2 mm layer thickness.
- Ready for covering in just 6 hours for all types of flooring.
- Chromate low according to REACH.
WAKOL Z 645 Filling Compound
- Stable, cement-based for unevenness and repair.
- Use for layer thicknesses from 1 to 10 mm, extendable up to 50 mm with sand.
- Ready for covering after 3 hours.
- Very easy to model and fast curing.
WAKOL Z 680 Levelling Compound, dust-reduced
- Dust-reduced and self-levelling.
- Suitable for textile and elastic flooring indoors.
- Can be applied with a rakel or pumped.
- Ready for chair castors from a 1mm layer thickness.
What separates an amateur job from a professional finish is the ability to get self-levelling screed right. Much attention should be given to preparation, being precise with your levels, and employing patience in abundance. But stick to the plan, make sure you’re using the correct products, and you’ll end up with a strong, resilient base suitable for any flooring. Happy screeding!