Jun. 16, 2025
Put simply, self levelling compound (SLC) is a cement-based mixture, which contains aggregates and additives designed to smooth, and flatten a surface.
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Self-levelling compound can also be referred to as self-levelling cement, floor screed or floor levelling compound. It’s designed to level uneven floors before installing a new floor, whether that’s tiles, carpet, vinyl or wood.
There are two main types of self-levelling compounds; latex-based SLC and water-based SLC. As the names suggest, water-based self levelling compound is mixed with water, and the latex-based self levelling compound is powder with a liquid acrylic polymer.
But how does a self-leveling compound level itself out? Well, unfortunately, it's not as exciting as you may think, water always finds “level”. The concrete has a low enough viscosity it still allows water to do its thing, but thick enough to harden into a solid surface.
Floor preparation is key to ensure a successful finish. Sweeping and hoovering the floor thoroughly so the surface is clean and free of debris is the first step. Any loose material left on the surface could comprise the final finish. If you spot any cracks or holes in the floor, these should be filled in beforehand. The Ardex P 10 SR Rapid Hardening Crack Repair Resin Kit is great for helping fill those non structural cracks, it’s easy to use and no mixing equipment is required.
Applying primer will help to ensure the SLC adheres to the surface. Primer can also aid in the flow of the leveller and help with its "self-levelling" properties as a primer can slow the absorption of the moisture from the leveller into the screed. When you purchase a self-leveling compound, there may be a suitable primer mentioned in the instructions and how to apply the primer to the subfloor. If not, our team is always happy to help point you in the right direction to find the perfect.
One of the most popular primers is the Mapei Eco Prim Grip Plus, it’s ready-to-use so no mixing involved, and suitable for both internal and external floors and walls.
After the primer has dried, you’ll need to install an edge framework around the perimeter. This helps to guide and contain the SLC to the specific area.
We’d always recommend following the manufacturer's instructions for the best results. However, typically the process is as follows:
Before you start it’s best to check you have all the correct self levelling tools for the job. Following the manufacturer's instructions, add the SLC and water/latex (dependent on the type of self levelling compound you have chosen). Ensure you mix thoroughly, removing all lumps and it's as smooth as possible. We highly recommend using a paddle mixer for the best results.
Read more: Finding The Best Tool Bags & Tool Boxes
Once you are happy with the consistency, pour the leveller onto the surface. Use a flooring trowel to distribute evenly, working the SLC to the very edge of the framework.
Once the self levelling compound has been distributed evenly, use a pin roller to help release trapped air and level the surface.
Check for any low areas, if you do find any, this will need additional mix being added and troweling/pin rolling again. You will also need to check the manufacturer's instructions that the leveller can be used for multiple layers. Also, it is recommended that the use of a primer is used prior to any additional layers being added.
As per the product instructions, allow it to dry, typically you’ll have to wait for 2-24 hours for the self levelling compound to harden. Once the recommended time has passed, and you are happy to do so, remove the framework.
You can now inspect the leveller to ensure you are happy with the results. If you do notice any imperfections/dips, you can apply more leveller as needed.
How Long Does Self Levelling Compound Take To Dry?
Each self levelling compound will have a different recommended drying time, this can span anywhere between 2-24 hours. For best results always follow the manufacturer's instructions.
What Is The Best Latex SLC?
We have a great blog which covers this in detail, read about the best latex self levelling compounds here.
How To Mix Self-Levelling Compounds?
Mixing self-levelling compound differs with each brand & type, for best results follow manufacturer instructions. In general, once all water/latex is added, you add two-thirds of the powder, then the remaining third once fully mixed, as this will aid in a smooth mixture. We wouldn't recommend adding extra water/latex as this can compromise the mixture, especially with latex as this is designed as a 1 bag - 1 bottle mix.
How Thick Should I Lay Self Leveling Compound?
This is dependent on the type and brand of self levelling compound. For example, the Mapei Ultraplan Maxi Ultra Fast Drying Self Levelling Compound is ideal for thicknesses from 3 to 30mm. Whereas the BAL Level Max All In One Leveller is suitable to 2 - 80mm – one of the largest in the market, so it is very dependent, but to find the perfect self levelling compound feel free to contact our team on .
How Long Until You Can Walk On Self Levelling Compound?
Again, this is very dependable on the type and brand of self levelling compound. The Kerakoll Keralevel Eco LR Rapid Repair Mortar can handle foot traffic after 2 hours, whereas the Tilemaster Fine Flow Free Flowing Heavy Duty Self Levelling Compound can handle light foot traffic after 3 hours.
Can You Use A Self Leveling Compound Outside?
Yes, if the self levelling compound is suitable for both internal and external environments, it can be used outside. For example, the Ardex A46 Multi-Purpose Concrete Repair Mortar can be used outside to repair damaged concrete, building ramps and levelling a patio. Here are some popular examples of external self levelling compound options:
Ultra Floor Level It Renovate
BAL External Level Out Fast Set Self Levelling Compound
Kerakoll Levelflex External
Larsen Professional SLC External Self Levelling Compound
Read more: Work In Cold Weather: Can You Tile Outside In Cold Weather?
Can You Put Self Levelling Compound On Tiles?
Yes, you can pour self levelling compound on existing tiles. Ensure the surface is prepped and primed before laying it.
To lay leveller you’ll need a number of different self levelling compound tools, this includes; a mixing bucket, a mixer/mixing paddle, a flooring trowel, and a spiked roller.
Pin rollers are used to level the compound and distribute it evenly across the space. They have adjustable pins which can be raised or lowered to follow an uneven floor. Creating a flat surface.
Spiked rollers are used to remove air bubbles from self levelling compounds. Helping to create a smooth and level surface.
Flooring trowels are used to help distribute self levelling compound over subfloor and are great for directing SLC in the right direction.
Floor preparation tools are used to prep your floor for laying self levelling compound, ensuring you get the best finish possible.
Having a clean mixing tub or bucket is important when mixing self levelling compounds. It ensures debris doesn't get trapped in the mixture, resulting in a bumpy/uneven finish.
At Pro Tiler Tools, we stock a wide range of self-levelling compounds, from several popular brands.
Our range of Ardex Self Levelling Compounds are suitable across a wide range of substrates, including concrete, sand and cement screeds, and existing ceramic and natural stone tiles. The Ardex ARDITEX CL PLUS+ Fibre Reinforced Moisture Tolerant Levelling & Smoothing Compound is a popular choice for DIYers and professionals alike. Suitable for internal use, and under damp proof membranes, it is also walkable in as little as 2 hours.
BAL self-levelling compounds are another popular choice, as they have been formulated to create a smooth, flat and level surface quickly and efficiently. BAL’s fast set range can be walked on only after 30 minutes and tiled on after 45 minutes! Perfect for those working on a time crunch.
Kerakoll self-levelling compounds are ideal for use in heavy-traffic areas; commercial buildings, hospitals, and airports etc. The Kerakoll Levelflex Gel Rapid-Setting Fibre Reinforced Self Levelling Compound is fibre-reinforced with gel-technology, and is walkable after just 90 minutes!
Whether you're a professional tiler or a DIY enthusiast, Larsen self-levelling compounds will help you achieve a perfectly level floor. Larsen Professional SLC FAST Ultra-Rapid Setting Fibre Reinforced Self Levelling Compound is one of their most popular products, suitable for both domestic and commercial properties, and able to withstand light foot traffic in 30 minutes.
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Self-Leveling Compound Manufacturer.
Mapei self levelling compounds are known for their quality and performance. One of their most popular SLCs is Mapei Topcem Fast Set Hydraulic Screed Binder, perfect for high traffic areas, fast drying, external and internal use, and suitable for underfloor heating!
Whether you're working on residential renovations or large-scale commercial installations, our Ultra Tile Fix levellers range offers the perfect solution for achieving flawless results. The industry-renowned Ultra Tile Fix Pro Level Two has an advanced formulation, offering rapid setting and exceptional strength, making it the ideal choice for demanding projects. For added reinforcement and flexibility, consider Ultra Tile Fix Pro Level Fibre, specially designed with added fibres for enhanced durability and crack resistance.
The different types of self-leveling compounds include cement-based, gypsum-based, epoxy-based, polyurethane-based, and hybrid formulations. Regarding preparing a smooth, level subfloor for your flooring project, self-leveling compounds can be a game-changer. These specialized products are designed to flow, spread, and level out uneven surfaces, creating a consistently flat foundation for your final flooring installation.
As a homeowner or contractor, you’ll find a range of self-leveling compounds on the market, each with its unique properties and intended applications.
The different types of self-leveling compounds include cement-based, gypsum-based, epoxy-based, polyurethane-based, and hybrid formulations.
Cement-based self-levelers are a type of self-leveling compound that are known for their durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness.
These products are typically composed of a combination of cement, sand, and various additives that give them their unique properties. The cement base provides strength and stability, while the sand and additives help to enhance the flow, workability, and overall performance of the self-leveler.
Some key characteristics of cement-based self-levelers include:
Durability: The cement-based formulation makes these self-levelers highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, making them suitable for a wide range of applications, including residential and light commercial settings.
Versatility: Cement-based self-levelers can be used on a variety of subfloor types, including concrete, wood, and even existing floor coverings, making them a flexible choice for many projects.
Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to some other types of self-leveling compounds, cement-based products are generally more cost-effective, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious projects.
Easy Application: Cement-based self-levelers are known for their good flow and workability, allowing for easy application and a smooth, level finish.
Due to these attributes, cement-based self-levelers are often the go-to choice for many residential and light commercial flooring projects, where a durable, cost-effective, and versatile self-leveling solution is required.
Gypsum-based self-levelers are a type of self-leveling compound that are primarily composed of gypsum rather than cement. These products offer a few key advantages over their cement-based counterparts. Firstly, they are known for providing a smoother, more uniform finish to the subfloor compared to cement-based formulations. This can be beneficial in achieving a seamless, high-end look, particularly in interior, low-traffic applications such as residential bedrooms or office spaces where a pristine subfloor finish is the primary goal.
Also, gypsum-based self-levelers typically have quicker drying times than cement-based options, allowing for faster project completion. This faster drying time is another factor that makes gypsum-based self-levelers better suited for interior, light-duty environments where the subfloor needs to be ready for finishing quickly.
While gypsum-based self-levelers may not offer the same level of durability and versatility as cement-based products, they excel in providing a refined, high-quality subfloor surface in the right applications. Contractors and homeowners should carefully consider the specific needs of their project when deciding between gypsum-based or cement-based self-leveling compounds to ensure the best possible outcome.
Epoxy-based self-levelers are a type of self-leveling compound that are formulated with epoxy resins as their primary binding agent. These products are known for their exceptional performance characteristics, making them well-suited for commercial and industrial applications.
The epoxy-based composition of these self-levelers offers exceptional chemical resistance, allowing them to withstand exposure to a wide range of chemicals, oils, and other potentially damaging substances. This makes them an ideal choice for environments where the subfloor may be subject to spills or exposure to harsh chemicals, such as in manufacturing facilities, warehouses, or commercial kitchens.
In addition to their chemical resistance, epoxy-based self-levelers also provide a high degree of durability and wear resistance. They can withstand heavy foot traffic, the movement of equipment, and other types of heavy-duty use without compromising the integrity of the subfloor. This makes them a popular choice for commercial and industrial settings where the flooring needs to be able to stand up to demanding conditions.
Another benefit of epoxy-based self-levelers is their moisture resistance. These products can be used in damp or humid environments without the risk of degradation or damage, making them a versatile option for a variety of project types.
Polyurethane-based self-levelers are a type of self-leveling compound that utilizes polyurethane as the primary binder. Unlike other self-leveler types, polyurethane-based formulations offer added flexibility, allowing the material to better accommodate minor subfloor movement or substrate deflection without cracking or delaminating.
These self-levelers exhibit a higher degree of moisture tolerance compared to some other formulations, making them a smart choice for damp environments or areas prone to moisture exposure. Polyurethane-based self-levelers’ flexible and moisture-resistant properties allow them to be used in a wider range of applications, including residential, commercial, and even some industrial settings.
This adaptability makes them a valuable option for projects where a more forgiving, impact-resistant, and moisture-tolerant subfloor surface is required, such as in areas with potential for subfloor movement, damp conditions, or the possibility of heavy impacts on the flooring.
Hybrid self-levelers are a type of self-leveling compound that combines two or more different binder technologies to create a product that leverages the strengths of multiple formulations. The goal of hybrid self-levelers is to provide a more versatile and high-performing solution compared to traditional single-binder self-levelers.
The key advantage of hybrid self-levelers is their ability to deliver a tailored set of performance characteristics that may not be achievable through a single-binder approach. This allows contractors and specifiers to select a self-leveling compound optimized for the specific demands of the project at hand. As the self-leveler market continues to evolve, hybrid formulations are becoming increasingly common, allowing for innovative solutions that combine the best attributes of multiple binder technologies.
When choosing a self-leveling compound for a flooring project, you should consider substrate conditions, traffic levels, thickness requirements, chemical exposure, and curing time.
1. Substrate Conditions: The condition and composition of the existing subfloor or substrate are critical considerations. Self-leveling compounds need to be compatible with the substrate material, whether concrete, wood, or another surface. Factors like moisture levels, porosity, and existing coatings or contaminants must be evaluated to determine the appropriate self-leveler.
For high-traffic commercial or industrial environments, the self-leveler needs to be able to withstand heavy foot traffic, rolling loads, and potential impacts. These types of spaces, such as retail stores, warehouses, or manufacturing facilities, require a more robust and durable self-leveling compound.
Beyond just traffic levels, the intended use of the space can also influence the necessary performance characteristics of the self-leveler. For example, in areas that may be exposed to chemicals, oils, or other potentially damaging substances, such as commercial kitchens or laboratories, the self-leveler should have superior chemical resistance to prevent degradation or discoloration.
Some self-levelers are best suited for thin applications, typically ranging from 1/8 to 1/2 inch, while others can be applied in thicker builds, up to 1-2 inches or more, to address more substantial substrate irregularities or larger voids.
The self-leveler’s ability to maintain a smooth, uniform surface finish, regardless of the applied thickness, is crucial. Inconsistencies or imperfections in the surface finish can negatively impact the final floor appearance.
Thicker self-leveling applications may require specialized equipment and installation techniques, such as larger pumps or mixing apparatus, to ensure a consistent and well-blended mixture. The curing time and drying rates may also differ for thicker builds compared to thinner applications.
Spaces like commercial kitchens, laboratories, manufacturing facilities, automotive repair shops, and pharmaceutical production areas are examples where chemical exposure is a significant concern. Self-levelers with poor chemical resistance may degrade, discolor, or break down prematurely when exposed to these harsh chemicals, compromising the integrity and longevity of the flooring system.
In contrast, self-levelers with more basic cement or calcium-based compositions may be more susceptible to chemical attack, leading to surface deterioration, pitting, or other visual and structural issues over time.
The curing time of a self-leveling compound directly impacts the timeline and workflow of the flooring installation project. Faster-curing self-levelers can allow for quicker turnaround times and faster access to the finished floor, which is especially beneficial in commercial or high-traffic settings where downtime is limited.
Some self-levelers cure and dry within hours, while others may take a full day or longer to fully cure. The curing time can be influenced by factors such as the product’s formulation, the thickness of the application, and environmental conditions like temperature and humidity. Selecting a self-leveler with an appropriate curing time is essential for ensuring the project stays on schedule and meets the client’s timeline requirements.
When choosing a self-leveling compound, evaluate the expertise and reputation of the self-leveling company or flooring professionals you plan to work with. Look for a provider with extensive experience in projects similar to yours, whether commercial, industrial, or residential. This ensures they have the necessary knowledge and skills to deliver a high-quality installation that meets your specific requirements.
Also, it’s important to select a self-leveling company with a proven track record of quality workmanship, reliable service, and a commitment to addressing any issues that may arise during or after the installation process. The availability of warranties or guarantees offered by the self-leveling company can also provide an extra layer of assurance and peace of mind should any unforeseen challenges occur.
Southside Concrete Polishing is a reputable company that offers a wide range of self-leveling compound solutions and expert installation services. Our team of experienced professionals can assist you in selecting the right product and provide a seamless installation process tailored to your project’s needs. You can reach out to us to discuss your self-leveling compound requirements and receive a personalized recommendation and quote.
You would use a rapid-setting self-leveler when you need a quick turnaround, such as in renovation projects or commercial spaces that need to be back in service quickly. The rapid-setting nature of these products allows for a much faster curing time compared to standard self-leveling compounds, enabling you to get the floor ready for the next stage of the project in a shorter timeframe.
To ensure proper mixing and application of self-leveling compounds, you must adhere to the manufacturer’s instructions, use the correct equipment, and have experienced installers performing the work.
Carefully following the manufacturer’s guidelines for mixing ratios, water addition, and mixing time is essential to achieving the desired consistency and performance of the self-leveling compound. Using the recommended mixing equipment, such as a drill-mounted paddle mixer, helps to thoroughly blend the components and minimize the introduction of air bubbles.
Yes, some self-leveling compounds can be colored or customized to achieve specific aesthetic goals. Manufacturers often offer the ability to tint the self-leveling product with pigments or add decorative aggregates to the mix.
Tinting the self-leveling compound allows you to match or complement the space’s desired color scheme, providing design flexibility. The addition of decorative aggregates, such as colored quartz or metallic flakes, can also create unique visual effects and textures within the finished floor.
Yes, in many cases, self-leveling compounds can be used over existing flooring materials, but it is important to properly prepare the surface and ensure compatibility with the existing flooring.
Before applying a self-leveling compound over an existing floor, it is crucial to thoroughly inspect the condition of the existing flooring and ensure it is well-bonded to the substrate. Any loose, damaged, or unsuitable flooring materials should be removed.
The surface of the existing flooring must also be properly prepared, often by mechanical means such as grinding or shot blasting, to create a rough, porous profile that will allow the self-leveling compound to adhere effectively. Applying a suitable primer or bonding agent may also be necessary to ensure a strong bond between the self-leveling compound and the existing floor.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of Self Leveling Compound Basecoat Primer. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.
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