The floors after a certain period of use need to be repaired and resurfaced. The only solution that can be done is self-leveling. If the concrete floor gets cracked and has varied elevations, then this is the best solution. If you do so, then you will get a new look of the floor again. The concept of self-leveled concrete is the use of polymer- modified cement. This does not require the addition of large volumes of water. The smooth flat surface that is created has very high compressive strength.
What Are The Properties Of Self Leveling Concrete?
The design of the self leveling concrete is such that it has certain properties like:
- The high amount of Flow ability
- Low plastic Viscosity
- Low segregation
- Low bleeding
- Stability
The property that shows low plasticity increases the flow ability and imparts self leveling property. If the mentioned properties can be balanced, you must get well desired and designed self leveling concrete. The low viscosity of the concrete will result in stability issues. Both the low viscosity and the high flow ability is introduced with the help of polymer agents. This helps to maintain stability without even affecting the flow ability.
The viscosity agents prevent the settling down of the aggregates that may cause segregation. It also helps to keep up the cohesiveness of the complete mix. This in turn, would avoid bleeding. The property of high homogeneity is received with the help of self leveling concrete. The flow ability of this type of concrete is greater as compared to the self-compacting concrete.
The self leveling concrete has a particular consistency that is almost similar to pancake batter. Therefore, it can flow smoothly on the required areas of the surface. This mix is easy to pour up to one inch thick surface. It is a very strong compound and cures quickly. It is very common to pour the mix on an entire floor and that too in small spaces. If the areas are larger, then it is poured only in uneven areas. The basement area may have spaces that have tilts on the floor. It is a common practice to just pour in those areas. The self-leveling has also become very common and popular on counter tops.
How To Pour The Cement?
- The floor surface has to be kept clean before you pour the self leveling concrete mix. Once the area is cleaned, you have to find and mark all the low spots. This will ensure that the floor is leveled properly.
- The best way to find which areas require the mix is by pouring five gallons buckets of the mix and start pouring it in the lower parts of the floor. If this job is done quickly, then you can be sure that it will also cure quickly. The mix has to be done with a drill along with mixing tool attachment.
- The idea of self leveling concrete is basically to create a smooth surface. This is done before installing a new floor. The greatest advantage is that it is very durable and aesthetically pleasing to the eyes. The customers want to install a floor that shows a sloping surface.
There are certain precautions that need to be taken. The main thing is that once the cementing is complete, you have to clean the tools quickly as the cement will turn dry. If you are working with wet cement, you should wear sturdy work boots as well as long pants and gloves. The safety glasses are equally important as they will keep you safe from any type of injury. The last thing is that you have to avoid cement on your skin as it may cause you irritation.
