Self-levelling compound is a cement-based mixture used to smooth and level uneven subfloors before the installation of flooring materials such as tile, hardwood, laminate or carpet. It is a popular choice in construction and renovation projects because it naturally creates a flat, even surface, which is the perfect underlay for the final floor choice.
Here’s how a self-levelling compound works:
Composition:
Self-levelling compounds are typically composed of cement, fine aggregates and other additives. The specific formulation can vary, but the main goal is to create a flowable mixture that can spread and settle evenly across a surface.
Flowability:
The key feature of the self-levelling compound is its ability to flow and spread out evenly across the surface. When prepared correctly, the self-levelling compound becomes a low-viscosity liquid, gravity and surface tension work together to level the compound.
The low viscosity of the self-levelling compound mixture enables it to flow and settle into depressions and irregularities in the subfloor. As it spreads it will naturally fill in low spots or irregularities. The surface tension helps the compound maintain a uniform thickness across the entire area. These characteristics are beneficial, as they address unevenness in the subfloor, preparing the surface for the final finish.
Setting and Curing:
After application, the self-levelling compound sets and cures, our self-levelling compounds can be ready to walk on in as little as 24-48 hours. During this time, it hardens and becomes a solid surface.
Compatibility:
Self-levelling compounds are versatile and can be used on various subfloor materials, including concrete, plywood, and existing tile, as long as the surface is prepared correctly.
It’s important to note that proper surface preparation, including cleaning, priming, and addressing any structural issues, is essential for the correct application of self-levelling compounds.
Want To Buy a Self-levelling Compound?
Established in 2013, Express Liquid Screeds Limited is known as the market leader across the South of England for all things flowing. Including liquid screeds, concrete line pumping and self-levelling compounds. Contact us today for a no-obligation chat about the many benefits our product range can add to your project today!
Laying concrete over a large area is no easy feat. Wet concrete is heavy and extremely difficult to move and manipulate… especially if you aren’t a trained professional! However, it’s important to get it right as this forms the basis of your floor, so you need it to be strong and straight. This is where self-levelling compounds come in.
A self-levelling compound is a polymer-modified cement that has been engineered to offer high-flow characteristics. This means it has great flowability, making it ideal for us in the preparation of laying floor coverings.
Self-levelling compound can be used on a range of substrates, including, concrete, screed, tiles, timber and more.
What Are The Benefits Of Self-Levelling Compounds?
There is a huge range of reasons you should consider self-levelling compounds for your next building work. Here are some of them…
Self-levelling compound doesn’t include the addition of water, which means much less mess
Self-levelling compounds create an extremely smooth surface that is also extremely strong. This means it is the ideal base to lay a range of other flooring on
The strength of self-levelling compounds also means it is strong enough to stand on its own as a flooring option
Not only is it used for levelling concrete, but it can also be laid on top of any non-flexible surfaces – for example, ceramic, tile or plywood
It is much stronger than standard concrete, making it ideal for use when reinforced concrete is needed
Self-levelling compounds are hypoallergenic and easy to clean
It can dry extremely fast, in as little as 24-48 hours, meaning it is great for those project where you are short on time
Want To Know More?
Express Liquid Screeds offer the best possible products when it comes to self-levelling compounds. We have over 10 years of experience in the industry, providing various solutions for a huge range of clients.
If you want to know more about self-levelling compounds, and whether they are right for your next project, just get in touch with our expert team.
Underfloor heating (UFH) is a sustainable and efficient way to heat your home, offering numerous advantages for both comfort and cost savings. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of installing an underfloor heating system as part of your renovation or new-build project.
Invisible’ Heating
Underfloor heating provides an ‘invisible’ heating solution, unlike traditional radiators or heating systems. With UFH, heating elements are discreetly placed beneath your floor, allowing you to create cleaner and more contemporary living spaces, without the burden of clunky radiators on your walls.
Energy Efficiency and Savings
UFH uses energy-efficient technology, which warms objects and people directly rather than just heating the air. This method is up to 40% more efficient than traditional radiator systems, meaning lower energy consumption and reduced heating bills. Installing a UFH system, along with smart controls and apps, could save you hundreds of pounds each year!
Smart Home Compatibility
UFH systems can work in sync with your smart home setup, offering intuitive and automatic heat control. Smart thermostats offer remote heat control through smartphone apps. They can also be linked to other devices like Amazon Echo and Google Home, meaning you can have voice-controlled heating throughout your home.
Design Freedom
Underfloor heating requires no visible pipework, radiators, or chimneys, offering total design freedom. Create spaciousness and simplicity with discrete underfloor heating.
Low Maintenance
UFH systems require little-to-no maintenance once installed, with many products covered by extensive warranties, or even lifetime guarantees.
Compatibility with All Floor Types
Regardless of your chosen floor finish, you’ll be able to find a compatible underfloor heating system. From carpets to stone, laminate to vinyl, underfloor heating can work with all types of floor covering.
Some specific UFH systems are designed for use with tiled floors, preventing damage caused by subfloor movement. Other systems work well with softer floors like carpeting and vinyl.
Easy Installation
Electric UFH systems offer rapid installation times, with some systems being able to be installed in under a day for a regular-sized bathroom. Wet systems, also known as hydronic or water floor heating systems, may take longer and cost more due to the installation process, but they can result in lower running costs.
In conclusion, underfloor heating offers a wide range of benefits, from energy efficiency and cost savings to design freedom and improved air quality. Consider underfloor heating if you are looking for a sustainable and comfortable heating solution for your home or renovation project.
