Cement self-leveling is a high-tech, environmentally friendly product with a complex technical process. This dry-mix powder material, composed of multiple active ingredients, has broad applications. It is widely used in industrial settings such as factories, workshops, warehouses, and commercial spaces like shopping malls, exhibition halls, gyms, and hospitals. Additionally, it is suitable for residential spaces, including homes, villas, and cozy small areas. Cement self-leveling can serve as both a surface layer for decoration and a wear-resistant base layer.
Types of Cement Self-Leveling
Cement self-leveling can be categorized into two main types:
- Base Layer Self-Leveling: Used beneath wooden floors, vinyl flooring, and carpets. It generally has lower performance requirements.
- Surface Layer Self-Leveling: Applied directly as a floor finish or as a base for floor coatings. This type has higher technical requirements due to its direct exposure and wear.
Performance Characteristics
Cement self-leveling is distinguished by several key features:
- High-Quality Ingredients: Made with solvent-free epoxy resin, high-quality curing agents, and conductive powders.
- Smooth and Aesthetic Finish: Provides a mirror-like surface that is visually appealing.
- Durability: Resistant to wear, pressure, and impact, with a degree of elasticity.
Construction Process
The construction of cement self-leveling requires careful attention to detail. Here is an overview of the standard process:
- Surface Preparation: Remove dust and loose material from the substrate.
- Application of Primer: Apply an interface agent evenly (water-based primer is recommended for residential use).
- Laying Copper Wire and Grooving: Required for industrial applications but not typically needed in home renovation.
- Application of Epoxy Conductive Middle Coat: This step is also generally omitted in residential settings.
- Sanding and Vacuuming: Complete the sanding process before applying the self-leveling compound.
- Application of Self-Leveling Epoxy Top Coat: Apply 1-2 coats with a trowel (epoxy paint is not typically used in residential projects).
Storage and Application Considerations
To ensure optimal performance and safety during the application of cement self-leveling, the following precautions should be observed:
- Storage: Keep in a dry, well-ventilated area at room temperature.
- Safety: Avoid direct contact with skin and eyes.
- Mixing: After thoroughly mixing the two components, let the mixture sit for a few minutes. Use within one hour.
- Temperature and Humidity: For conditions below 10°C or humidity above 85%, choose a product suitable for low-temperature and high-humidity environments.
- Curing Time: Allow three days before pedestrian traffic and five days before vehicle traffic.
Surface Standards for Residential Flooring
When evaluating the flatness of residential floors, the following standards apply:
- Flatness Deviation ≤ 3mm: The floor is considered acceptable.
- Flatness Deviation > 3mm in 2m²: The floor is uneven.
- Flatness Deviation ≥ 5-10mm in 2-3m²: The floor is severely uneven.
To check the flatness, use a 2m straightedge; the maximum allowable error is 3mm. The leveling layer should be firmly bonded to the base, with no hollow areas, cracks, peeling, or sanding issues.
Best Practices for Cement Self-Leveling
- Pipeline Coverage: For floors with pipelines, use cement mortar for leveling to conceal the pipes effectively.
- Surface Preparation: Ensure the floor is free of significant protrusions. Use a grinder to smooth out any raised areas, as they can affect the self-leveling compound’s flatness and strength.
- Primer Application: Apply a primer after grinding to ensure a tight bond between the self-leveling compound and the substrate.
- Manual Assistance: While the self-leveling compound flows naturally, manual spreading and smoothing are necessary to avoid uneven areas and hollow spots.
Drying Verification Method
To verify whether the leveling layer is completely dry, place a plastic sheet on the floor and weigh down the edges. Check for moisture or condensation under the sheet the next morning. The absence of moisture indicates that the floor is sufficiently dry.