When choosing and laying flooring, experienced craftsmen pay special attention to the uniform distribution of the material. Even if we are talking about a flooring that is durable and resistant to deformation, even a high-strength laminate loses its qualities during operation on an uneven basis. The idea of self-leveling mixes virtually eliminates the problem of creating a smooth floor with a solid foundation. A traditional screed works on this principle, but its decorative qualities are not so high, so an aesthetic outer layer is required. Perform both functions will allow a decorative self-leveling floor. The finishing self-leveling compound is easily distributed over the target surface, after which it forms a pleasing floor covering. To select the optimal mixture for specific needs, it is worth considering their types in more detail.
Methyl methacrylate compounds
After all, the technology is based on industrial means of creating even and high-strength coatings. The decorative function appeared later, and the use of methyl methacrylic resins allowed technologists to create a self-leveling floor, the universal composition of which is optimally suited for industrial, commercial and public facilities. Such coatingsare used not only indoors, but also in open air conditions.
The combination of methyl methacrylic resins and special additives makes it possible to endow the base of the future coating with special qualities. In particular, modified compositions of this group are offered on the market, designed for operation in freezers and at high temperatures. Such properties expand the areas in which methyl methacrylic self-leveling floor can be used. The universal set of components, however, does not provide the aesthetic properties of the surface required for modern residential buildings.
Epoxy coatings
One can say that this is a new generation of self-leveling floors, which also has fairly high technical and operational characteristics. For example, epoxy flooring can be poured into rooms that involve chemical exposure to acids, s alts, alkalis and active oils. What is especially important, such coatings have no restrictions in terms of the choice of a rough base. The self-levelling mass can be used on a metal surface, and on wood with concrete. Again, an epoxy-based self-leveling finish floor is mainly used in industrial facilities, garages, laboratories, technical rooms, etc. But, unlike methyl methacrylic coatings, such screeds are also allowed for installation in residential premises due to environmental safety. Another thing is that their design qualities leave much to be desired. However, more and more often there are also families of decorativecompositions of this group.
Cement Acrylic Floors
This type of potting compound contains cement, polyacrylate copolymers, and modified fillers. This coating has also been developed for operation in aggressive conditions with abrasive and chemical influences. Unlike previous coatings, this type of self-leveling finish floor is focused on meeting the requirements for mechanical loads. Therefore, the composition can be used in warehouses and car repair shops, where the movement of heavy equipment is expected. In addition, cement-acrylic coatings provide an anti-slip effect due to the matte surface, increasing the safety of people.
Polyurethane compounds
Today, perhaps, this is the most popular type of self-leveling compounds, as it represents floor coverings intended for private construction. Once laid, the user can count on the physical durability of the floor and, most importantly, on the decorative effect. Polyurethane is a rare component that combines practical properties and at the same time allows you to create beautiful surfaces. There are practically no restrictions for use in a private house. If desired, a self-leveling finish floor based on polyurethane can be arranged in the bathroom, kitchen or utility room. The coating will cope with shock mechanical effects, and direct contact with detergentssurvive.
Filling technique
The previous coating should be dismantled and the future base should be cleaned. If obvious defects in the rough surface are observed, then it is better to first arrange the base in the form of a traditional concrete screed. After that, you can start pouring the main composition. Usually, several components are involved in its preparation. The standard set in the package includes a hardener and an active mass - they should be stirred until the consistency of an ordinary oil paint is obtained. The resulting mixture is distributed over the entire area so that a bulk finish floor is formed without pronounced deviations in height. It is possible to stimulate a uniform distribution of mass with the help of a doctor blade - a special brush with a bristle. After that, the floor structure must go through the polymerization stage during the day. Full operation of the coating is possible in 4-5 days.
Sealed floor brands
The construction market is oversaturated with dry mixes for self-leveling coatings. In particular, experts recommend using products from Glims, Vetonit, Ceresit and other manufacturers. Actually, the compositions of these brands differ little from each other in terms of operational properties - almost all of them form durable, wear-resistant and aesthetically pleasing surfaces. But it is important to take into account the modification. For example, the Vetonit 3000 self-leveling floor will ennoble the room with a spectacular layer up to 5 mm high. Such a composition is just right for a residential area. If you want to get high strengthcoating for harsh operating conditions, then the choice should be made in favor of the Glims SS3X modification, which allows you to form layers up to 100 mm high.
Conclusion
Poured flooring is an example of successful flooring competition in opposite segments. On the one hand, such mixtures are similar in characteristics to concrete screeds, which are used in industry and at production facilities. On the other hand, they are optimally suited for a private homeowner. True, in each case it is necessary to use the finishing self-leveling floors that are optimal in composition. Reviews show that self-leveling coatings are beneficial not only for convenient filling, but for unpretentious maintenance. Manufacturers, for example, produce compounds that do not collect dust, are easy to clean and are practically not covered with minor defects. As for the disadvantages, the main one is the difficulty of dismantling. If you have plans to change this coating, you should prepare to work with a puncher and a hammer to eliminate the base.
