Any experienced advice on using floor leveler?

Question

I'm leveling a floor for the installation of laminate flooring, but I'm having a few problems, mainly the mixture being too dry or drying too fast. Let me state the learning curve.

The first problem is I've worked with cement which always has a nice working time; floor leveler does like to be worked!

I've learned to fill my bucket with water FIRST and then add the mixture while mixing with a proper mixer and now I'm getting a good mixture that pours well.

I've already had to add 10%-15% more water then the formula on the bag to provide better flow, but the mixture still becomes unworkable within a couple of minutes and I can't feather all the edges to blend with the old areas that are fine.

Here's the question; How do I keep the mixture workable longer?

Answer 1

you don't.  use smaller batches and work them in a pattern.

Answer 2

You must adapt to the product.

Companies who do this regularly have 2 finishers,2 laborers and usually a grout pump. They get the product out of the mixer and then pump it out on the floor. They usually just spread it into the corners as it levels itself.

You need some help for this to work. 2 helpers would be great. 1 to mix the other to carry buckets of mix to you and possibly help you spread it out.

Sometime you have to adapt to the product - This is one of those times.

Answer 3

Hi Mr. Knight,

I usually use a gauged spreader (18" long angle iron with runners on a long handle) to ensure the maximum height if you have valleys and peaks in your floor.  If you are more or less filling an entire area due to it being low in the corner or whatnot, a rake works well to join pours.  I deduce you are using a fast setting (LevelQuik RS perhaps?) SLC, they do have a mixture for typical set times.  Even as a professional, I must have a helper to mix and deliver the RS as I work it into the floor.  To ensure the compound will achieve its full strength and bond ALL directions must be closely followed for mixing and primer application.