Leveling a concrete base involves several steps to create a smooth, even surface for flooring or other purposes. Here's a detailed guide, incorporating information from the provided reference:
Steps to Level a Concrete Base
1. Preparation is Key
- Clean the floor: Remove all furniture and thoroughly clean the concrete base to eliminate dust, debris, and loose particles. This ensures that the leveling compound adheres correctly.
- Fill in Large Cracks: Before applying any leveling compound, address any large cracks or holes in the concrete. Use a suitable filler or repair compound to fill these imperfections and allow them to fully dry, creating an even base to work on.
2. Identifying and Addressing Uneven Areas
- Mark Uneven Spots: Inspect the concrete floor carefully and identify any high spots or depressions. Use a marker to circle these uneven areas for easy reference during the leveling process.
- Grind Down High Spots: Use a concrete grinder to remove any high spots on the surface, gradually smoothing them to become level with the rest of the floor. This will prevent unnecessary use of leveling compound later on.
3. Applying the Leveling Compound
- Apply Primer: Apply a suitable primer to the entire concrete surface. The primer will help the leveling compound bond effectively with the concrete, preventing issues such as cracking or peeling.
- Allow Primer to Dry: Allow the primer to dry completely, as per the product instructions. This step is important to avoid any issues with the leveling compound application.
- Mix Self-Levelling Compound: Carefully prepare the self-leveling compound according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure it’s thoroughly mixed to a smooth, pourable consistency.
- Spread the Leveling Compound: Pour the mixed compound onto the floor and spread it using a trowel or spreader, working from one area to the next. It will naturally level out to a smooth, flat surface.
4. Additional Steps
- Allow to Cure: Allow the self-leveling compound to dry and cure completely. The drying time will vary depending on the product used.
- Sanding (if necessary): Once fully cured, sand down any residual imperfections, and vacuum all dust away from the levelled base to prepare it for the application of floor coverings.
Summary Table: How to Level a Concrete Base
| Step | Action | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Clean the floor, remove furniture | To ensure proper adhesion |
| 2 | Fill large flooring cracks | To create a more even surface to work with |
| 3 | Mark uneven flooring spots | To identify areas needing attention |
| 4 | Grind down high spots | To eliminate significant irregularities |
| 5 | Apply primer to the floor | To promote better adhesion |
| 6 | Allow the primer to dry | To ensure the primer works effectively |
| 7 | Mix the self-levelling compound | To prepare it for application |
| 8 | Spread the levelling compound | To create a smooth, level surface |
