Self leveling concrete over an existing concrete floor
Table of Contents
Can You Use Self-Leveling Compound on an Existing Concrete Floor?
Yes, the self leveling compound can be used to create a smooth and even surface on existing concrete floors. It is a mixture of cement, water, and other additives that fills low spots, levels bumps, and fills cracks to provide a uniform base for new flooring.
However, the existing floor must be structurally safe before using a self leveling compound. Any significant cracks or damage require repair before application.
The surface should be adequately prepared to ensure it’s free from dust or debris and contaminants for proper adhesion capabilities.
Table of Contents
how do you prepare old concrete for self leveling concrete
Proper preparation of an existing concrete surface is crucial in achieving a smooth and level finish when dealing with self-leveling concrete, particularly with sunken slabs or floors that have trip hazards.
To ensure a successful outcome, you must follow these necessary steps.
First, thoroughly clean the surface by utilizing a broom, vacuum cleaner, or pressure washer to eliminate dirt, debris, and loose material.
It’s also vital to remove traces of grease or oil that can negatively affect the bonding between existing and new layers of concrete.
Inspect your existing concrete for any damages, such as cracks or holes, as they can cause unevenness in the final finish.
Repair them adequately using repair products designed for such surfaces before applying a self leveling compound.
After conducting these repairs, the next step requires you to roughen up the smooth surface by either grinding it down or shot blasting it to create some profile on the surface of your old concrete floor.
By creating this texture on your floor with appropriate equipment and machinery, you reduce delamination probabilities while increasing mechanical bonding capabilities with self leveling compound, resulting in a longer-lasting yet safer floor due to lesser chances of trip hazards caused by uneven heights.
Follow these primary instructions carefully for every old surface requiring rejuvenation before applying self-leveling compounds
when you shouldn’t use a self leveling compound on an existing concrete
Self leveling compound is a commonly used solution for fixing sunken slabs or releveling concrete floors. However, it may not always be the best choice. Firstly, if an existing concrete surface is too damaged or deteriorated, using self leveling compound will not yield appropriate results.
In such cases, removing the old concrete entirely and starting fresh with a new pour may be a better alternative.
Another consideration before using self leveling compounds is when there are trip hazards in the area due to significant variations in height or grade changes.
Applying self leveling compound in these circumstances may not address the underlying problem and can create additional height variations leading to further issues.
It is also necessary to evaluate whether adding self leveling compound makes sense if applying coatings or finishes on newly leveled floor surfaces such as epoxy.
Many coatings require a porous surface to adhere correctly; hence, non-porous layers of self-leveling compound applied over existing floors might lead to insufficient coating adhesion.
Consider shot-blasting or grinding as greater alternatives to leveling methods in situations like these.
Carefully assessing an existing concrete surface before deciding whether a self leveling compound is suitable for your project would help you make informed decisions on your project’s most appropriate approach.
what happens if you don’t prime before self leveling concrete
Priming is an essential step before applying any self-leveling compound to existing concrete floors.
Without priming, the self-leveling compound can fail catastrophically due to a weak bond and porous surface.
Skipping the primer means compromising two crucial steps, including creating a smooth surface and ensuring adhesion, leading to eventual cracking or delamination of the leveling compound.
Unprimed surfaces host dust, oil stains, and other contaminants that hamper the proper adhesion of self-leveling compounds to concrete surfaces.
The lack of adhesion can cause significant long-term damage because the material will fail to bond correctly.
Shortcutting the priming process will only exacerbate potential issues down the line, causing unstable foundations that lead to re-leveling and tripping hazards from sunken slabs caused by improper bonding.
Always remember that evergreen rules apply primers to ensure proper adhesion with existing concrete floors while providing an even smooth surface for successful self-leveler application rules no one should break!
Do I need to seal existing concrete before using self leveling compound
Sealing existing concrete before using self leveling compound is not always necessary, but it can provide several benefits.
One of the most significant benefits of sealing existing concrete is that it reduces the amount of moisture absorbed by the substrate.
When a self leveling compound is poured over unsealed concrete, it can draw moisture out of the substrate, which can affect its ability to cure properly and bond to the surface.
Another benefit of sealing existing concrete before using self leveling compound is that it creates a smooth surface for better bonding.
Sealed surfaces are less porous and more uniform in texture, which allows self leveling compounds to flow more easily and create a more level surface.
Additionally, sealing the floor helps prevent trip hazards by filling in any cracks or gaps in the substrate.
When deciding whether to seal an existing concrete floor before installing self leveling compound, there are several factors to consider.
The age and condition of the slab are critical factors because older slabs may be more porous and prone to moisture issues that could affect the curing process.
Also, if there are any sunken slabs or uneven spots on the floor, releveling may be necessary before applying any sealant or self leveling compound.
While not always necessary in all cases, sealing an existing concrete floor before applying self leveling compound can provide several benefits when done properly.
It helps reduce moisture absorption from substrates and create a smoother surface, while also preventing trip hazards by filling in cracks or gaps in uneven surfaces.
Consider these factors carefully when deciding whether to seal your floor before applying leveling compounds for the best results.
Conclusion
Self leveling concrete compound is a great option for many situations where you want to level out an existing concrete floor. However, it is essential to prepare the old surface correctly before applying the compound.
This includes cleaning, patching any holes or cracks, and priming the surface with a suitable primer. If you have sunken slabs or trip hazards, self leveling compounds can help remedy these issues quickly and efficiently.
The compound can also provide a smooth surface for new flooring installations or improve the aesthetics of your existing concrete floors. There are some situations where you should not use self leveling compound on an existing concrete floor.
For example, if there are deep structural issues with the foundation or if there is excessive moisture present in the concrete. In these cases, it’s best to consult with a professional contractor who can assess the situation and recommend appropriate solutions such as releveling or replacing the entire slab.
Over the past five years, I have developed a deep understanding of the complexities involved in working with self-leveling concrete, and I'm here to provide practical advice and valuable insights for readers and enthusiasts alike.
- Self-leveling Concrete Hairline Cracks - July 7, 2023
- Can You Pour Self leveling Concrete Over An Existing Floor - June 8, 2023
- Self-Leveling Concrete: The Complete Guide - April 26, 2023
