Self-Leveling Toppings
In a Hurry? Preparation and Timing are Everything with Fast-Drying Self-Leveling Toppings
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.”
When cured, these toppings will easily handle compression loads of 6,000 pounds per square inch or more. Will there be heavy foot traffic and moderate forklift traffic? No problem. Small hard loads are another issue; use another product or stick to rubber wheels.
Fast-drying, self-leveling toppings are designed for interior use. Constant exposure to moisture, such as rain and ground sources, can be problematic, so, for exterior applications other products are recommended. Even in interior applications, moisture is an important consideration. Always perform a moisture test first. These products are not going to be a solution to moisture problems; you’ll have to solve those first, though waterproofing membranes can be used.
ARDEX is credited with introducing the first fast-drying, self-leveling topping seven years ago (not to be confused with the self-leveling underlayment the firm introduced in 1978 when it began doing business in the United States). The self-drying technology of the fast-drying, self-leveling topping “means that virtually 100 percent of the water mix is cured internally within the cement matrix,” explains Dave Fabyonic, national accounts manager for ARDEX Engineered Cements in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania. “The benefit that it provides is time saving on the job site — you can apply water-based sealer in as little as 2 to 3 hours following application of the topping.”
For topical color, you can apply stains after 24 hours; though, as a general rule, the longer you can wait before applying the stain the more true a color you’ll get, advises Fabyonic.
Fast-drying, self-leveling products also are available from other manufacturers, such as MAPEI, which introduced its self-curing product six years ago. Products from different manufacturers are not identical, so be sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s directions. Mixing ratios and application recommendations vary. It is also advantageous to use the topping manufacturer’s primer.
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