Concrete Floors, Self-Leveling Toppings
Fast-drying, self-leveling products are often the product of choice when leveling and topping new construction concrete floors — or resurfacing old concrete floors.
by Susan Brimo-Cox
, fast-drying, self-leveling toppings can be the ideal solution, but don't be lured into thinking that time-saving equates with easy-to-use. In truth, the stakes are raised when these products are employed.
Fast-drying, self-leveling products are often the product of choice when leveling and topping new construction concrete floors — or resurfacing old concrete floors — in a fast-track environment, such as malls, retail spaces, restaurants, hotels, casinos, museums, showrooms and warehouses. But these products have advantages and disadvantages.
"These products are wonderful — excellent for quick turnaround jobs," exclaims Mark Donaldson, owner of Skookum Floors USA Ltd. in Seattle, Washington. "They allow you to turn over jobs a lot quicker; allow you to get in and out within three days." But they are not for the novice. "We definitely recommend manufacturer training," he says. Technique and properly trained manpower is essential.
Fast-drying, self-leveling toppings need a solid, rigid substrate. Concrete substrates are recommended. "A self-leveling topping is only as good as the substrate it's put on," cautions Matthew Casto, vice president of technical services at Bomanite Corp. in Madera, California. "It is not advisable to put [these toppings] over any material that has flex, though some do."
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