Finishing floor leveler. How to choose the best self leveling screed. The mixture solidifies on them with a thin film, which

A complete renovation includes the replacement of the flooring. Imminent transformations pose a natural task for consumers, to decide which self-leveling floor screed is better? The traditional version of the cement-sand screed was indispensable a couple of decades ago. Now they turn to him in case of serious damage to the floor. Leveling the base with plywood, chipboard or OSB material is best applied to a wooden surface. But the subsequent finishing in the form of parquet or laminate needs a perfectly even base base. Therefore, choosing a suitable self-leveling leveler for the floor is a responsible task, its competent solution guarantees a long service life of the floor covering.

What are the equalizers, in what conditions are they applicable and what properties do they have, we will understand in detail.

Beneficial uses

If the floor in the room has a small difference in horizontal level and does not contain significant damage, you are unlikely to pick up a better material for processing than a self-leveling leveler. The rover has the following characteristics:

• Fast setting of mortar compared to cement-sand screed. Depending on the thickness of the coating, the composition of the mixture, the manufacturer and the surrounding conditions, the process lasts from 8 to 48 hours.
• After hardening, the leveler forms a durable surface that is resistant to water. Such a floor is not afraid of flooding from above, a screed with a self-leveling mixture will not let moisture through to the lower floor.
• The surface of the floor, made with the help of a leveler, has a perfectly smooth texture. For the installation of further coatings, no additional use of substrates is required.
• The self-levelling mortar is not subject to cracking over time due to the preservation of a certain degree of plasticity.
• Operation in the rooms which are not equipped with heating is possible.

• The weight of the self-leveling compound is significantly lower than the DSP, so even a thick layer does not create an excessive load on the floor.

All these properties ensure the popularity of the use of levelers in the repair of the floor.

Levelers types

To determine which floor leveler is better to purchase, you need to familiarize yourself with their classification. Depending on the constituent components, they are:

• Gypsum or anhydrite. They are light weight and relatively low cost. Among the advantages, plasticity and the possibility of forming a layer up to 100 mm thick are also noted. However, when choosing, one should take into account the inadmissibility of their use in conditions of high humidity (up to 80%)
• cement mortars. Their versatility ensures that they can be used in any conditions without regard to humidity indicators. The permissible layer thickness is 60 mm. Cement-based self-leveling leveler is less plastic, has a greater weight than gypsum compounds and is poorly distributed over the floor surface.

For a dry room where the installation of a warm floor is planned, it is optimal to choose a gypsum leveling agent; the finishing of industrial spaces is carried out exclusively with a cement self-leveling mixture. Depending on the purpose, levelers are:

• Starting. This is a kind of replacement for the CPS. Their sphere is the roughing of the floor, which needs subsequent finishing with materials with a finer fraction. Among the popular coarse grinders, the leading brands are Hercules, Stromix, Plitonite R1, Volma.
• Manufacturers offer special self-leveling compounds to eliminate minor floor flaws or to correct an existing screed.
• To obtain the smoothest surface of the floor, self-leveling finishing levelers are produced. In some cases, they serve as the final layer and do not require hard material in the form of laminate or parquet. To create an original interior, the finishing layer is supplemented with an individual pattern or an interesting ornament.
• There are self-leveling mortars designed to restore the wooden base of the floor. The special fibers that make up the products help to increase adhesion and provide a high-quality screed of a wooden base.

A warning ! Before purchasing the material, it is necessary to study the condition of the floor and determine the number of layers required. For an intact surface, sometimes a thin layer of self-levelling compound is sufficient, but more often it is required to purchase two types of leveling agents - coarse grinding and for final finishing.

Nuances of choice

Studying a wide range of floor levelers, it is sometimes difficult to immediately determine which self-leveling mortar is better. So your actions are:

• Establish factors that affect coverage. Anhydride self-levelling compound is not suitable for bathrooms, kitchens or other damp rooms. Here it is better to finish with a cement composition.
• Learn the components of an equalizer. If the grain size is greater than 1.5 mm, then as a result you will get a standard concrete screed. A self-leveling mixture becomes provided that the fraction size is not more than 0.8 mm.
• Check out the technical specifications. In addition to dry, there are also semi-dry compositions that differ in structure when the solution is mixed. After complete drying, their appearance becomes similar to dry mixes.
• Pay attention to the permissible thickness of 1 layer. Typically, a layer made with a leveling agent does not exceed 3 cm. At a value of 5-8 cm, you are holding an ordinary DSP containing polymers, the purpose of which is to accelerate the hardening process of the solution.
• With the same parameters, give preference to levelers designed for finishing underfloor heating. This will increase the level of thermal insulation in the room.
• It is better not to purchase an expired self-leveling rover. It may lose its properties, and the base of the floor will turn out to be of poor quality.
• If you want to create a durable wear-resistant surface, it is better to opt for two-component polyurethane compounds.

The price of the product is determined by the amount of plasticizers in the self-leveling mixture, their high content ensures the formation of a high-quality floor surface and vice versa.

Advice ! When buying a leveler, pay attention to the warranty period for the operation of self-leveling floors. Between products with a period of 50 and 30 years there will be a significant difference in price, although the quality of the coating differs little.

Flow calculation

Due to the rapid hardening of self-leveling mixtures, it is better to knead such a volume of mortar that is enough to work for 1/3 hour. To prepare the composition, pure water is taken, the temperature range of which is +5 - + 20 ° C. For 1 kg of leveling agent, 130-150 grams of liquid will be needed. Depending on the purpose of the self-leveling composition, the approximate consumption of the material is as follows (based on the finished solution):

• Coarse leveling agent with a layer 1 mm thick is consumed in the amount of 2-2.5 kg per 1 m 2.
• For the finishing mixture, the indicator is 1.5-1.7 kg per 1 m 2 with a millimeter layer.
• On average, the consumption of a self-leveling mortar with a layer of 1 cm is 20 kg per square meter.

Manufacturers overview

The building materials market is saturated with a huge range of levelers for floors from various manufacturers. Among them, you can find a high-quality self-leveling mixture not only from famous brands, but also from unfamiliar companies. Trademarks Bergauf, Plitonite received good recommendations.

At the choice of consumers, Bergauf offers:

• Cement based starter. The self-leveling mortar is characterized by high plasticity, resistance to cracking, no shrinkage, and is the best suited for decorating a warm floor.
• A self-leveling, high-strength leveling agent based on cement. Provides easy leveling, allows you to create a layer up to 5 cm at a time, has high strength and crack resistance.
• Fast curing self-leveling floor, which can be applied manually and with a machine.
• A self-levelling leveler that cures completely within 4-8 hours.
• Other mixtures for various purposes.

Volma brand products deserve attention. It is better to fill deep cracks with Volma Coarse leveling agent, Volma-leveler-Express will allow you to create the perfect finish layer.

It's time for a major overhaul of the floors, and a new coating requires a flat surface. Mixtures of a new generation will help prepare the base. These are special fast-hardening compounds. They fill all the gaps in the concrete and fill the entire floor area evenly and smoothly. They are called so - self-leveling mixtures or leveling for the floor. Such mixtures are an ideal solution when you need to fill the floor with a minimum thickness.

Floor leveler - what is it?

The task of leveling the floor has to be solved during repair work, when the old floor covering is removed and all the irregularities of the concrete base are found. What is a floor leveler? Modern flooring looks very attractive and durable, but one of the conditions for laying it is a flat base. To get out of this situation with minimal loss of time, a screed device on a concrete base will help. And for this, new special mixtures are used - a self-leveling floor leveler.

The main advantage is that the floor compositions harden quickly, literally in 2-5 hours, and you can already walk on them.

And there is also a second name for the mixture, which the manufacturer calls based on the composition of the materials, this is a self-leveling floor. In fact, these are floor leveling compounds that have good fluidity, depending on the composition of the fractions. Therefore, there are many names and purposes. For example, for pouring underfloor heating, it is imperative to choose a special self-leveling floor.

When it comes to the question of whether it is better to choose a floor leveler or a self-leveling floor, it is important to pay attention to the minimum screed thickness indicated on the bag. When you buy a leveler or self-leveling floor in large construction markets or in a Leroy Merlin store, it is important to know in advance what the minimum and maximum floor level differences are. This will help to save a lot and buy a rough and finishing self-leveling floor.

The use of leveling or self-leveling floors

After free access to the concrete base of the floor opens, many problems are revealed. Each of them has its own type of rover. Actually, based on this, all equalizers are divided into two main groups:

• for roughing;
• for fine (finish) finishing.

Based on the task, it is necessary to choose a leveler for the floor. They are different both in composition and in properties. The main difference is the minimum thickness of the floor fill.

Rough leveler

To eliminate significant defects - deep pits, rough chips and height differences with the main floor surface, coarse levelers are used. Such dry mixes have a larger fraction. After the dry mix is ​​diluted with water, the floor leveler is ready to be applied in a thick layer.

With the help of such a leveler for the floor, it will not work, to reduce the level of the floor difference to<0>

The basic component in the composition of starting levelers is most often cement. It provides the necessary strength and grip. Recommended for alignment with the main surface. Coarse leveler is not able to lie evenly and smoothly if applied as a base layer.

Before applying the main layer of leveling agent, the starting layer must be completely dry.

Finishing rover

Due to the fact that the starter screed has a coarser infill, it will not give an even and smooth base. For this purpose, there is a finishing leveler, with a finer fraction of materials.

The main advantage of finishing mixtures is that after mixing with water, they are more uniform in composition. After such a mixture is laid on the concrete surface, the floor surface is even and smooth. Which is impossible to achieve with starter mixes.

In terms of its composition, the “finishing” floor leveler is more complex than the starting one, with the use of mineral and polymer additives and has a number of advantages:

• more elastic;
• perfectly smooth floor;
• has increased strength;
• increased resistance to physical influences.

In practice, most often, finishing floor levelers are used immediately. They perfectly fill small defects and level differences. After such leveling of the floor, you can safely do it.

It should be mentioned - when choosing a leveling agent, you need to know that it differs in its properties. For residential premises of the apartment, ordinary mixtures are used, and in the premises of bathrooms, showers and kitchens, special levelers are supposed to be used. They contain special polymer components that are not able to pass water. Therefore, when pouring floors in wet rooms, this factor must be taken into account.

pros

In addition to being easy to prepare and use, floor levelers have a number of advantages:

1. Dries out in a few hours.
2. You can move on a fresh coating immediately after drying.
3. Ease of use.
4. Virtually no shrinkage combined with high wear resistance.
5. The minimum thickness is only 2 mm.
6. The solution can be poured over the insulating film.

Minuses

1. Before pouring, the floor surface must be free of cracks and dust and have small differences.
2. Improper preparation of the floor for pouring - may require the dismantling of the entire coating.
3. Responsibility and sufficient skills of invited workers cause a high cost.

For the installation of coatings on a wooden floor or on plywood, a self-leveling mortar is not used, in such cases it is better to use.

Which is better to choose a leveler for the floor

For different tasks when leveling the floor, there are also different floor levelers on sale. The price depends on the manufacturer and the composition of the mixture.

The line of compositions from the Knauf plant in Krasnogorsk is represented by the Knauf Boden series

Knauf Boden

If the room has a deviation from the plane from 2 mm to 15 mm, Knauf Boden 15 is suitable in packs of 25 kg at a price of 500 rubles. If the differences are more than 22 mm to 80 mm, then Knauf Boden 30 a bag weighing 40 kg worth 420 rubles.

Knauf is the leader in the production of leveling compounds. Their composition is dominated by high-strength gypsum with modifiers. And to improve adhesion to the surface, quartz sand of the smallest fraction is added. This is a self-leveling floor gypsum Knauf Boden 25 layer thickness from 10 mm to 35 mm bag 25 - 40 kg cost from 400 rubles.

Gypsum screed "Knauf Boden 25" is designed for high-quality leveling of floor surfaces and the installation of thin-layer heated screeds up to 35 mm thick.

As you know, gypsum is a natural product and has long been used in construction as a heat-insulating material. Gypsum-based self-levelling mixtures are used for sufficiently thick screeds when installing underfloor heating. Gypsum-based floor levelers, despite their advantages, quick drying, should still be laid on a prepared and dry base.

Advice! For areas filled with a mixture of more than 20 m², provide for the installation of expansion joints.

The Vetonit mixture is good, but it costs a lot more and loses a little to Knauf Boden in quality. The price of one bag depends on the composition of the materials used, but on average from 500 rubles. per bag.

They already contain the necessary additives for screed, with high performance. Thanks to special additives, the base is smooth and quickly ready for use. The only negative is that it is impossible to give the desired color to the composition.

The main advantages of cement-acrylic compositions "Vetonit":

• minimal shrinkage during installation;
• the possibility of using for screeding;
• applied on any basis - both dry and wet;
• in the cold there are no cracks during the operation of the coating;
• compatibility with "warm floor" systems;
• the possibility of walking after 4 hours;
• the minimum period from laying to operation.

But there are also disadvantages: it is the most expensive in its line.

In the top three mixtures from the company "Horizon". Products are packaged in bags of 25 kg from 180 rubles per package.

Varieties of mixtures for floor screed Horizon

The composition is mainly from a cement-sand mixture. It is used for the construction of "warm floor" structures, with a maximum allowable thickness of 10 cm. Paints and varnishes fit well on the surface. Also suitable for finishing floors.

Almost all manufacturers have on sale polymer mixtures based on:

• epoxy resins;
• polyurethane.

The main advantages of polymers:

• have increased strength;
• able to withstand vibration and heavy loads, such as in industrial and warehouse premises;
• easily tolerates sudden changes in temperature;
• the texture of the leveler is smooth, like glass;
• long service life if done correctly.

Spreader consumption for the floor for each manufacturer is calculated based on the mixture per 1 m² with a layer height of 10 mm - 20 kg.

Basic options for selection

Before going to the store for a purchase, it is necessary to make a choice of floor leveler in advance. To do this, you need to answer several questions:

1. What will be the humidity in the room?
2. For what rooms are the future floors being made - for the bedroom or for the bathroom or kitchen?
3. For what kind of work - leveling or finishing coating?
4. The nature of the foundation?
5. What should the floor look like in the end: with the effects of anti-slip, noise absorption or thermal insulation?
6. Is there a decorative floor finish?

Apply self leveling compound

After all the necessary materials have been purchased, you need to take care of additional devices:

• notched spatula;
• needle roller on a long handle;
• mixer;
• container;
• bucket.

Before installing the screed, it is necessary to prepare the base. Remove old paint, dust and oil stains. Prepare the mortar correctly and apply to the prepared substrate by hand or machine. Before you fill the floors with leveling, the base of the floor must be well primed! The result should be a dust-free base ready for pouring. Clean and dry, no wide cracks.

Before filling the floor with a leveling agent, the mixture is kept indoors at a temperature of 10-30°C.

It is not difficult to prepare a self-leveling floor leveler. Simply add water to the mixture, adhering to the attached instructions, and gently mix with a construction mixer until a homogeneous mass is obtained. Let the mixture stand for 5-7 minutes and you can start work.

• the mixture is poured from the container onto the finished base;
• air bubbles on the surface are removed with a spiked roller;
• waiting for the mixture to dry.

If you prepare a large amount of the mixture at once, it is likely that the entire mixture is not used at once, but will dry out in the container. This is due to the fact that literally after 1-2 hours the solution hardens.

Very often, laying flooring requires a level subfloor. Floor leveling is no easy task these days. If earlier the only solution was the installation of a concrete screed, today dry methods, a traditional cement screed, and self-leveling mortars of various types are used to level the floor.

What it is?

Self-levelling floor compounds are a new generation of cement or gypsum-based compounds mixed with fine aggregates and special additives that ensure uniform distribution of the mixture and accelerate its curing. Such mixtures are also called equalizers or levels. Self-leveling floor can be done in any type of premises. Within a day, such a coating can be exploited.

A feature of self-leveling floors is that they are used only as a base base for a top coat. On top of them, you can safely lay linoleum, laminate, parquet or any other floor covering.

Self-levelling floors can be installed on different types of substrates.

The mixture hardens on them with a thin film, which:

• Has a small weight;
• It has good heat and sound insulation characteristics;
• Wear resistant;
• Not a source of dust.

With the help of self-leveling compounds, it is possible to eliminate differences in the height of the base up to 2 cm.

The advantages of this type of mixture also include:

• Good fluidity. The mixture does not need to be specially leveled on the surface of the base;
• Coating evenness. Due to its good fluidity, the mixture spreads evenly over the entire floor, creating an absolutely even base that hides all protrusions and depressions;
• High penetrating power. The mixture fills even the smallest depressions and cracks in the base and adheres well to it;
• Increased strength;
• incombustibility;

• Fast curing and curing. Self-leveling floor dries for two weeks maximum (cement). Quick-drying (gypsum) - and even less;
• No need to reinforce the base and set up beacons;
• Resistance to temperature change;
• The minimum percentage of shrinkage of the base;
• Low cost of the material;
• Variety of types of mixtures from different manufacturers;
• Low labor intensity and simplicity of the process of preparing and pouring the mixture.

The thickness of the applied layer of the self-levelling mixture is usually from one to 10 mm. In some cases, a layer of 50 mm is allowed.

Despite the abundance of advantages, self-leveling floors have certain disadvantages:

• The thinner the layer thickness, the lower the strength of the floors;
• Such floors are difficult to dismantle;
• Due to the liquid structure of the mixture, it is impossible to make sloped bases with it.

In what cases are necessary?

Self-levelling mortar is used when:

• Quickly and inexpensively, it is necessary to update the base of the floor;
• Leveling of the base of the floor with slight irregularities is required;
• Leveling of the base is required due to the presence of height differences (up to 1-2 cm);
• The subfloor needs to be smooth.

Kinds

Dry mixes for self-leveling floors are divided into several types.

For the main ingredient:

• Cement. Mixtures of this kind are used in different rooms, including wet ones. Cement mixtures are poured in a layer from 2 to 50 mm. Self-levelling cement-based floors have higher strength and wear resistance, adhere well to the base, practically do not crack, practically do not shrink. But the use of cement levelers is more expensive and they gain final strength only after 20 days;
• anhydride. These are gypsum-based materials. Due to the fact that gypsum absorbs moisture well, such mixtures can only be used in dry rooms. Such a floor is poured with a thickness of 2 to 11 mm. Its main advantage is the speed of drying.

By type of polymerizable binder:

• Polyurethane. Such mixtures for the filler floor have increased elasticity and resistance to low temperatures. Such coatings are best suited for areas where there is increased traffic (warehouses, offices, trading floors);

• Epoxy. The composition of such levels includes epoxy resins, due to which the floor acquires increased strength characteristics and resistance to temperature extremes, moisture and the effects of various chemicals. Epoxy levelers are commonly used for floors in catering establishments, chemical plants, car washes;

• Epoxy polyurethane. Such mixtures combine the properties of the above two levels and are used at facilities with a continuous flow of people (metro, train stations, etc.);

• Methyl methacrylate. Floors with such a binder have an increased hardening rate. Such a level can be applied with a layer of almost any thickness, and this must be done quickly due to the presence of a strong odor that disappears when the mixture hardens;

• Cement-acrylic. Floors from such mixtures are obtained with a somewhat rough surface, and therefore such mixtures are used in rooms where floors are subject to increased safety requirements (saunas, swimming pools, entrance groups).

By appointment:

• Rough mixture. Such compounds are used when it is required to hide rather large irregularities in the floor. Levels of this type are applied with a 5-6 mm layer;
• Finishing mix. Used as a final floor finish. A layer of such a leveling agent is applied with a thickness of no more than 4 mm on a floor previously leveled with a coarse mixture to give it greater evenness and smoothness. The finishing composition is applied only after the final drying of the bottom layer of the screed. In some cases, such a base is not even covered with a laminate, linoleum or other coating. Such a floor can be decorated with any patterns or ornaments;
• Fast curing compound. It is used when work on leveling the subfloor needs to be carried out as soon as possible. Such levels can be applied both in a thin and rather thick layer, depending on the degree of unevenness of the base;

• Special mixtures used only to seal depressions or cracks in the base of the floor. A feature of such mixtures is increased adhesion to the base of the floor;
• Solutions for the restoration of wooden floors. Such compositions contain special fibers that improve adhesion, thereby providing a reliable screed.

Rating

Today, the construction market is replete with various brands of self-leveling compounds. The leading position due to its practicality and quality is occupied by the composition of Knauf "Boden". It consists of specially purified fine gypsum, quartz sand, various polymers and other additives.

The use of such a self-leveling mixture provides increased reliability and strength of the floor base. This type of screed can be used when installing heated floors, since the gypsum component helps to keep the heat in the room.

Under this brand, mixtures are produced that are used for the device:

• rough initial foundation. The mixture has good plasticity, does not shrink, cracks do not form on the finished base;
• self-leveling floor with increased strength. The mixture is well leveled and does not form cracks. The maximum layer thickness is 5 cm;
• self-leveling floor, which hardens in the shortest possible time.

Products also have high technical characteristics Vetonit, which, due to the inclusion of original additives in its composition, has good fluidity, resistance to cracking and dries quickly (for example, Vetonit "Vaatery Plus"). All levels of this brand are used to create only a rough base.

Self-leveling mixtures have the best value for money "Horizon". The main use of mixtures of this brand is the finish coating. The maximum layer of such a screed should not exceed 10 mm. Floors made using these mixtures are characterized by high levels of evenness, resistance to moisture, and quick drying (6 hours). They can be laid on any coating, from porcelain stoneware to linoleum.

It is also possible to use such a floor without the use of floor coverings.

Self-leveling compounds are widely used in Russia Ceresit, which are used for different types of bases - concrete, wooden. Particularly noteworthy is the mixture "Ceresit Moment Flat Floor", which allows you to level differences in height up to 8 cm. The composition of the mixture includes both gypsum and cement. The composition can be used in different rooms for the construction of a rough base. If you need to perform floor leveling work in the shortest possible time, then the Ceresit CN-83 mixture is suitable for such purposes. The level quickly hardens and is very resistant to moisture.

A floor made using such a mixture can be used as a finishing floor even in places where there is increased traffic.

Consumer interest is also attracted by the mixture "Nivelir-Express" from brand "Volma", which allows you to create a smooth finish, eliminating height differences up to 1 cm. It is used in any premises. To fill cavities and cracks, it is recommended to use a mixture of "Volma Rough".

Also on the market you can find self-leveling mixtures "Bolars", Ivsil, "Prospectors", "Plitonit", "Alfapol", which also collect positive consumer reviews.

Calculations

• Room area;
• The thickness of the layer of the poured mixture;
• The density of the leveling mixture.

Before starting the calculations, it is assumed that for pouring 1 sq. m base 1 mm thick requires 1 liter of water.

So, for example, if you need to level the floor in a room of 10 square meters. with a level layer thickness of 7 mm, 70 liters of water are needed (1l * 7 mm * 10 sq.m.).

Next, the density of the mixture is entered into the calculation, which is indicated on the packaging without fail. The amount of water obtained in the previous calculation must be corrected for the actual density of the leveling mixture. If the density of the level is, for example, 1.4 kg / l, then the required amount of solution will be 1.4 * 70 \u003d 98 liters.

You can do it easier. On the packaging with a self-leveling mixture, the manufacturer indicates the consumption of the composition per 1 m2 of a 1 mm thick floor. This value is multiplied by the area of ​​the room and the thickness of the pouring layer in mm. The result will be the consumption of the mixture for the entire room.

It is not at all difficult to arrange a self-leveling screed in an apartment with your own hands. You just need to buy a self-leveling mixture, having previously calculated the required amount and prepare the necessary fixtures and tools for work.

The following tools are required to fill the level:

• A container in which the solution will be mixed. Its volume should be sufficient to mix about 25 kg of the mixture in it at a time. At the same time, it should be convenient for mixing and pouring the solution;
• Mixer for mixing the solution. For the same purposes, you can use an electric drill, providing it with a special nozzle, or a puncher. It is impossible to knead the leveling solution manually, since it will not be possible to achieve the required level of quality of the mixture, and, accordingly, the final result. It has been established that the strength of the self-leveling floor, the mortar for which is kneaded by hand, is reduced by almost a third;

• Brush or roller to apply the primer;
• Spatula with a wide spatula for spreading the mixture;
• Needle roller to remove air from the flooded screed;
• Level to accurately position the beacons;
• Lighthouses.

Before proceeding directly to pouring a self-leveling mixture, it is necessary to carefully prepare the base on which it will be made.

First you need to remove all construction debris with a construction vacuum cleaner or at least a broom. Wet surfaces must be dried. If there are traces of varnishes, paints, other oil products on the base, then it must be degreased, otherwise a sufficient level of adhesion of the base and screed will not be ensured, which will reduce the resource of the poured floor.

After cleaning the base, proceed to its primer. This stage is necessary to increase the water resistance of the poured base and improve its adhesion to the screed. It is better to take primers of the same brand as the leveling mixture.

The next stage of preparatory work is the installation of beacons. First you need to find out where the highest point of the base is. Using the level, a small area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe solution is poured over it. Further along the entire perimeter of the room, the level of the future floor is marked. Beacons are fixed with the same solution that will be poured. They should be fixed on the same composition that will be used as the main coating.

The solution for the device of self-leveling floors is prepared in strict accordance with the manufacturer's instructions. As a rule, about 7 liters of water are required for 25 kg of dry matter. First, pour the mixture into a mixing container, and then add the required amount of water. After that, using a mixer, a homogeneous mixture is prepared for pouring the floor. Stir at low speed for at least 5 minutes. The mixture is then allowed to stand for 5 minutes and stirred again for 3 minutes. After that, they get to work.

Pour the solution, starting from the corner of the room, gradually and evenly filling the entire space of the floor with a solution. You can help distribute the solution with a wide spatula.

During operation, it is important to ensure that there are no drafts in the room, and the temperature of the leveled base does not fall below 5-10 degrees. After pouring, air is removed from the solution using a long-handled aeration roller.

Bulk mixtures are divided into two large groups:

Draft, with the help of which the base is prepared for laying finishing floor coverings (linoleum, parquet, parquet board, laminate, vinyl tile, carpet and others);

Ready self-leveling floor for laying finishing coatings.

Decorative, which create a thin polymer film with a pattern on the surface. They are also called floors with a 3D effect or liquid linoleum.

Decorative bulk floors with 3D effect.

Both categories are often confused or attempted to be combined. However, this is a big mistake, since they differ not only in purpose, but also in composition. The first are dry mineral mixtures based on a binder with various fillers and additives. The second are liquid ready-made formulations based on epoxy, polyurethane, methyl methacrylate and other polymer resins. In this review, we will consider the compositions of the first type, as the most popular.

Self-leveling mixtures are multicomponent compositions that are designed for leveling various types of bases (concrete, wood, cement-sand, anhydrite, gypsum screed) for laying coatings. Perfect for repairing defects such as bumps, drops, cracks. When mixing with water, plastic solutions are formed with a short pot life - no more than 1 hour. Because of this, it is necessary to work with the material quickly and as accurately as possible.

Alignment of base defects with self-leveling floor.

Self-leveling floors are classified according to the following criteria:

By scope are produced:

• Compositions for interior work;
• Compositions for external use;
• Universal, used indoors and outdoors.

Composition exist:

• Cement high-strength. Can be used to form a full-fledged screed. Permissible layer thickness - from 2 to 10 cm;
• Cement-gypsum, combining the strength of cement and the speed of setting of gypsum. As a rule, a layer of 4-6 cm is formed from them;
• Gypsum thin-layer (up to 4 cm).

By application method. The degree of plasticity of the solution depends on this factor. Distinguish:

Thus, before buying, you need to decide on three questions:

Where will the self leveling compound be used?

Preference should be given to a highly specialized product, since its composition is better worked out for temperature and humidity conditions. For example, self-leveling compositions for outdoor use contain special frost-resistant additives that prevent cracking of the finished coating.

What result is required from self-leveling floors?

If the goal is to hide defects, then it is enough to purchase low-cost thin-layer mixtures. To form a new durable layer, it is worth choosing more expensive compositions based on a cement binder.

How will the solution be applied?

Manually it is more convenient to work with liquid compositions, while machine application requires a fixed viscosity and spreadability.

Having decided on the answers, you will easily understand which product to choose.

Best or worst: self-leveling floors rating

Self-leveling compositions are available from almost all manufacturers of ready-made dry mixes. We analyzed the characteristics declared by the factories, customer reviews, and compiled our top 5 materials for leveling the bases.

Knauf Tribon

The first, but as practice shows, is not the best product. This is a universal gypsum-cement mixture for interior work, the advantages of which are:

• High level of adhesion to mineral and wooden substrates;
• Technological passage - 6 hours after application;
• Laying of coatings is possible after 7 days;
• Improves the soundproofing properties of floors;
• Can be used on heated screeds;
• Layer thickness - 10-60 mm;
• Price - an average of 280 rubles. per bag 30 kg.

What is the shortcoming noted by most buyers? Little mobility. The bulk solution is characterized by excessive density, so it is very difficult to work manually. After curing, a fairly even coating is obtained, it is better to choose it for slight leveling of floor defects. Suitable for laying such capricious base coatings as laminate, linoleum, LVT and others.

Volma Leveler Express

Non-shrinking gypsum mix of universal type for indoor use. Works on all types of mineral bases (concrete, cement, anhydride and other types of screeds). The manufacturer declared the following characteristics of self-leveling self-leveling floor:

• High level of mortar mobility, due to which it is better leveled;
• Technological passage is allowed after 4-6 hours;
• Laying of coatings - not earlier than after 7-10 days;
• Allowed to use with the system "warm floors";
• Layer thickness - 10-100 mm;
• Price - 250 rubles. per bag 20 kg.

All gypsum mixtures dry longer than cement ones, so it is advisable to give the base more time to set strength - at least 14 days.

Self-leveling floor from the Russian Volma plant is suitable for almost all types of decorative coatings, from ceramics to parquet. It is undesirable to use in damp rooms and places with a high level of mechanical stress (production shops, garages, etc.).

Bergauf "Boden" series

The German-Russian company offers a whole range of floor leveling products. These are cement, cement-gypsum and gypsum compositions for outdoor and indoor use.

To choose one thing, you need to be a professional. Particularly interesting is the material that is designed specifically for inexperienced craftsmen - Bergauf Easy Boden. This is a universal self-leveling floor based on a complex binder to eliminate drops and other defects in the base. Basic parameters:

• Shrink-resistant crack-resistant composition;
• Technological passage - after 4-8 hours;
• Laying of coatings - not earlier than after 7 days;
• Can be used for heated screeds;
• Layer thickness - 6-50 mm;
• Price - 370 rubles. per bag 25 kg.

It is used in rooms with a normal level of humidity for any floor coverings: linoleum, carpet, parquet, laminate, vinyl tiles, etc. According to the masters, the mixture is very demanding on the amount of water. If the instructions are not followed, the finished solution may exfoliate.

Ceresit "CN" series

The Henkel Bautechnik product range also includes an impressive range of floor leveling products. At the same time, it cannot be said that any material is better or worse, the areas and methods of their application are different. For example, consider Ceresit CN175, declared by the manufacturer as 2 in 1 - a self-leveling floor and a finishing leveler.

Ceresit 175 is a universal cement-gypsum composition that can be used both for leveling and for forming a “floating” type screed (that is, independent of the base). A particular advantage is the ability to use on weak, crumbling concrete. Advantages of the mixture:

• Shrink-resistant, crack-resistant;
• Technological passage - after 6-8 hours;
• Laying decorative coatings - after 7-10 days;
• Layer thickness - 3-60 mm;
• Price - 400 rubles per bag of 20 kg.

With such an impressive number of pluses, potential buyers are scared away by the overestimated, in the opinion of many, cost. In addition, the packaging is reduced compared to others, which accordingly increases the cost of the final cost of the material.

Bolars SV-210

The Russian company BOLARS® also offers a wide range of floor leveling materials. In assortment plaster and cement mixes. Compositions for screed are presented in a separate segment.

Beginners and professionals, of course, will be interested in the self-leveling quick-hardening gypsum floor SV-210. The product can be used for preliminary and final leveling. Another important plus is that the material is ideal for residential and public buildings with a high level of mechanical stress (up to 200 kg / cm2). The manufacturer does not recommend using the material in damp basements, garages; there are special cement mixes for this.

The main characteristics of the self-leveling floor:

• Shrinkage and crack resistance;
• High mobility;
• Technological passage - after 3 hours;
• Can be used with the "warm floors" system;
• Laying of finishing coatings - after 7 days;
• Layer thickness - 2-100 mm;
• Price - 470 rubles per bag of 25 kg.

Compared to other products, the cost of CB-120 is much higher. But in terms of properties, the material is noticeably superior. According to the reviews of the masters, the solution has good spreadability and is easy to use. In the minuses - the mandatory use of a large number of beacons.

Summing up, we note that with strict adherence to the instructions, any self-leveling floor will show excellent results. The main thing is not to try to save on quality by purchasing cheap fakes or analogues.

Advice! If you need repairmen, there is a very convenient service for their selection. Just send in the form below a detailed description of the work to be done and you will receive offers with prices from construction teams and firms by mail. You can see reviews of each of them and photos with examples of work. It's FREE and there's no obligation.

There are more than a dozen manufacturers of mixtures and compositions for self-leveling floors in the Russian Federation alone. And how among all this variety to choose the right option? Which self-leveling floor will really be better than the rest? We have taken the liberty of introducing you to the most popular compositions. After all, it is obvious that the materials that are in demand are simply obliged to meet the highest expectations! All prices here and below are for comparison purposes only.

What to look for when choosing?

In order for you to 100% understand the whole variety of mixtures for self-leveling floors, we have summarized all the available data in one huge table - not every reader will find the strength to read it completely. But are you a stubborn person?

Varieties of compositions for self-leveling floors

Selection criterion	Types of self-leveling floor	Description
Binder material*	polyurethane	A mixture for polyurethane self-leveling floors is prepared on the basis of a urethane prepolymer with a hardener and additives. It spreads well over the base, the coating is elastic, withstands vibrations and temperature changes. It is used as a finishing layer, when adding acrylic paint, you can create an interesting decorative coating. At the same time, the use of such compositions is possible only for high quality bases.
	epoxy	A mixture for epoxy self-leveling floors is prepared on the basis of epoxy resin with a hardener and additives. A smooth glossy surface, similar to glass, is created with the help of such compounds. The coating is resistant to abrasion, aggressive media and water, but does not tolerate strong impacts. With its help, the so-called 3D (3D) floors are created, among other things.
	methyl methacrylate (MMA)	Composition based on methacrylic acid methyl ester. It has a high polymerization rate and is used not so much for leveling, but to increase the durability, water resistance, chemical resistance and impact protection of concrete substrates. Forms a polymer concrete coating. It is applied on industrial objects and in places of the increased passableness. Compounds are difficult to use, toxic, dangerous, harden very quickly, expensive.
	acrylic-cement	The polymer composition with the addition of cement combines the properties of the first and second, i.e. provides an even plane, resistance to low temperatures and the ability to pour a thick layer without the risk of peeling and cracking. Such compositions are adapted for use at industrial facilities, but the pouring technology itself requires highly skilled workers.
	polyurethane-cement	A polymer mixture that provides a layer that combines the properties of polyurethane and cement self-leveling floors. Those. this is a very durable coating, non-slip, abrasion resistant. In addition, it can be applied on inclined planes without the risk of wave formation.
	cement	A mixture based on cement and other additives, which is used primarily for tiling, as well as other materials. Differs in high hardness and long term of curing.
	gypsum	Based on gypsum and other fillers for leveling the floor in dry rooms with subsequent finishing of the coating. It dries quickly, but the surface is highly abraded. Does this floor need to be primed before tiling? Necessarily! This must be done for all mineral coatings.
Floor thickness	thin-layer	Layer up to 1 mm. For finishing.
	self leveling	Layer 4-5 mm. To form the main plane.
	highly filled	Layer more than 5 mm. For leveling the surface and creating decorative effects.
Accounting for the location of the work plane	in an apartment (in a house)	If we consider the self-leveling floor as an independent coating, then solutions based on epoxy resins with or without acrylic dye, but with a substrate made of canvas with a pattern, are suitable for the home. In all other cases, the use of either cement or gypsum compositions is relevant.
	on the street	Such a coating must be frost-resistant, withstand exposure to high temperatures, sudden temperature changes and exposure to moisture. It is possible to use cement, polyurethane and acrylic-cement self-leveling floors. Based on manufacturer's recommendations.
	In bathroom	For subsequent tiling, compositions based on mineral binders are suitable: cement or complex (on cement and gypsum). As independent coatings, polyurethane and epoxy compounds can be used (with dyes or to create a 3D effect).
	in the bath	In this situation, the solution, as with the bathroom, only the requirements for compliance with the technology are even higher. It is advisable to completely abandon gypsum compositions, despite the fact that they will be shielded from a wet room with tiles. The construct is determined by the specific base material: different compositions must be used for wooden and concrete floors.
	in the toilet	It is appropriate to use polymer compositions to create self-sufficient coatings: they stirred, poured, quickly leveled, and in a day you can walk on the floor. Under tiles, it is traditionally better to use mixtures on a mineral binder, such as gypsum or cement.
	in the kitchen	In the kitchen, use polyurethane or epoxy compounds with the addition of acrylic dye. So you can create a seamless, perfectly smooth surface of the desired color. If subsequent coating is intended for laminate, linoleum or the like, then the use of cement-based or gypsum-based compositions can be considered. In this case, you need to build on the cost, consumption of materials and the time available for work.
	on the balcony	Any polymer compositions are suitable, it is advisable to choose options with a matte surface so that the floor is not slippery. Cement-based formulations can also be used and it is desirable to avoid gypsum mixtures.
	in the garage	For a garage, it is appropriate to use polyurethane self-leveling floors with a layer of 5 mm or more, i.e. self leveling. Polyurethane-cement compounds or just cement mixtures are suitable.
	in stock	The best solution is to form a protective layer with a solution of methyl methacrylate. This will create a durable thin coating. Preliminary leveling of the base is necessary, because. MMA hardens quickly and will not allow you to create a perfectly flat plane with it. Cement, epoxy and polyurethane compounds are also used.
	in gym	You can consider the use of almost any polymer solutions, depending on the initial state of the floor surface in the gym. As an option, a thin-layer polyurethane coating, polyurethane-cement. Or cement - for subsequent finishing.
Accounting for base material	on a wooden base (wooden floor, boards, old parquet)	It is necessary to install a floating reinforced screed from 40 mm based on cement and sand (in most cases), unless otherwise provided by the manufacturer of the mixture.
	on plywood
	on penoplex
	on a warm water floor	Any mineral mixtures, polymers are best used as a finishing layer.
	on a concrete screed (on concrete)	Any.
	for bitumen	It is recommended to remove the old material, because its presence increases the risk of cracks in the floor and the need to redo the work again. Another option is a floating screed, as for wooden bases.
	on hardboard
	on old tiles
Accounting for the type of finish coating	under the tile	If in a wet room, then on a cement basis or a complex binder. If dry - any self-leveling floor on a mineral binder.
	under the laminate	Gypsum or cement, you can also polymer, but you need to look at the cost - in most cases it will not be practical.
	under linoleum
Coating drying speed	0.5-1 h	We are talking about the time after which you can walk on the coating, but do not apply finishing materials, if any. MMA dries fastest. The gypsum floor can be used already in the first 2-4 hours. The polyurethane solution reaches the required conditions in 16-20 hours, epoxy - from a day, cement - from two. Completely dry such floors in 7-28 days.
	2-6 h
	16-24 hours
	24-48 hours
Mixture consumption	It can be from 0.8 to 2 kg per sq. m. with a layer of 1 mm. Most of all, the consumption of cement mixture, but it is also the cheapest.

* By and large, we will only be interested in cement, gypsum, polyurethane and epoxy compounds. Everything else is of limited use.

TOP 10 compositions for finishing under the coating

Starting to dive into the topic of self-leveling floors, you will come across a situation where there will be a lot more materials for simply leveling for subsequent finishing than just decorative coatings. Those. in fact, we are talking about abandoning the use of a classic screed, pour out the solution, quickly level it and that's it. And this is a very convenient solution!

1. Prospectors Thick - from 230 rubles. (25 kg)

Cement-based self-levelling screed is used for leveling concrete bases, cement screed, etc. with large level shifts. Already from the name it is clear that the solution manifests itself best when creating thick-layer coatings. The use of this material is justified in any premises, subject to subsequent finishing. The material is characterized by increased consumption, the layer is quite heavy, but this is offset by the durability and low hygroscopicity of the mixture. We recommend using this composition in the bathroom and garage, as well as outdoors under a canopy.

The main characteristics of the mixture Prospectors Thick

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for internal (any humidity) and external works
Styling temperature	5…30 °C
astringent	mineral, cement
Layer thickness	30-80 mm
Compressive strength	20 MPa
Colour	grey
Solution pot life	40 min
Hardening time *	2 days
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.7 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 15.6 rubles
	14.7 m²
	from 312.8 rubles

2. Prospectors Fast-hardening - from 270 rubles. (25 kg)

For living quarters, in the kitchen or in the hallway, it is more convenient to use a gypsum-based mixture, such as. The solution turns out to be quite mobile, and for 40 minutes it can be rolled out over a large area, obtaining a flat plane. A feature of all gypsum mixtures is that you can walk on the coating after a few hours, and for working on large areas, it becomes possible to use mechanized pouring. In this case, according to the assurances of the manufacturers, 4 hours is enough. This is a fairly popular mixture used by professional finishers.

The main characteristics of the mixture Prospectors Quick-hardening

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for interior work (normal humidity)
Styling temperature	5…30 °C
astringent	mineral, gypsum
Layer thickness	5-100 mm
Compressive strength	15 MPa
Colour	light gray
Solution pot life	40 min
Hardening time	4 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.4 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 15.2 rubles
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	17.8 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 304 rub.

Would you like to learn more about the possibilities of this material and see the result obtained with its help? Then be sure to watch the next video.

3. Founding Skorline FK45R - from 280 rubles. (20 kg)

The mixture is made on the basis of a mineral binder with polymer additives and is intended for indoor use with normal humidity. Allows you to correct serious flaws in the base - the maximum layer thickness determined by the manufacturer is 100 mm. The mixture is designed for concrete and cement-sand surfaces, including for pouring "warm floor" systems. The main advantage is the speed with which the coating hardens - after 2 hours you can walk on it. Tiles can be laid after 3 days, other finishes - after 7 days, the operation of the base with a warm floor is recommended only after 28 days.

The main characteristics of the mixture Osnovit Skorline FK45R

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for interior work
Styling temperature	5…40 °C
astringent	mineral, complex
Layer thickness	2-100 mm
Compressive strength	15 MPa
Colour	light gray
Solution pot life	40 min
Hardening time	2 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.3 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 18.2 rubles
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	15.3 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 364 rubles

A small video from the manufacturer, which contains not only advertising, but also useful information about the characteristics and technology of using the mixture Found Skorline FK45R.

4. Unis Horizon Universal Quick-hardening - from 270 rubles. (20 kg)

Cement is used as a binder for the Eunice Horizon Universal Fast-hardening mixture, which means that the material is suitable for use in any premises, even wet ones. A successful combination of components determines the high speed of hardening - despite the type of binder, you can walk on the floor after 3 hours. Suitable for pouring on any base that is not subject to bending: concrete slab, cement screed, gypsum coating. It can be used for any finishing materials, as well as for underfloor heating. Like any cement mixture, it has a significant consumption, but this is largely offset by the affordable price and technical characteristics.

The main characteristics of the mixture Eunice Horizon Universal Fast-hardening

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose
Styling temperature	5…40 °C
astringent	mineral, cement
Layer thickness	2-100 mm
Compressive strength	15 MPa
Colour	grey
Solution pot life	30 min
Hardening time	3 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.6 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 21.6 rubles
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	12.5 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 432 rubles

In a short video from the manufacturing company, it is proposed to familiarize yourself not only with the possibilities of the Eunice self-leveling floor, but also with the entire cycle of work.

5. Volma-Nivelir express - from 240 rubles. (20 kg)

With the Volma-Nivelir Express mixture, you can get a solution with excellent mobility and a fairly long pot life. Despite the consistency of the solution, the layer formed by it hardens rather quickly - you can walk on it after 6 hours, and after a week you can start finishing. Well, one of the most important advantages: this mixture can be used in the bathroom, toilet, kitchen and other rooms.

The main characteristics of the mixture Volma-Nivelir Express

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for interior work (in rooms of any type)
Styling temperature	5…30 °C
astringent	mineral, complex
Layer thickness	5-100 mm
Compressive strength	15 MPa
Colour	white
Solution pot life	60 min
Hardening time	4-6 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.25 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 15 rub.
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	16 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 300 rub.

We offer you to watch a short video-advertising from the manufacturer. Obviously, you should not expect any negative from the branded video.

And now directly to the practice of using the mixture + there is a small comparison with the Prospectors mixture.

6. Bergauf Easy Boden - from 340 rubles. (25 kg)

If there is an inexplicable desire to use a material with a "German" name, then it is quite possible to consider floor mix. Cement is used as a binder, which means that the self-leveling floor can be poured not only in the living room, but also in the bathroom. Like many similar compounds, it can be applied manually or mechanically, on a concrete or other rigid base, as well as a "warm floor". For any finish, from tiles to parquet.

The main characteristics of the mixture Bergauf Easy Boden

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for interior work (in rooms of any type)
Styling temperature	5…25 °C
astringent	mineral, cement
Layer thickness	6-50 mm
Compressive strength	12.5 MPa
Colour	light gray
Solution pot life	30 min
Hardening time	4-8 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.5 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 20.4 rubles
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	16.6 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 408 rubles

This type of self-leveling floor is poured a little more slowly. Manufacturers focus on the ease of use of the solution and the ability to save money by refusing the services of employees.

7. Knauf-Tribon - from 320 rubles. (30 kg)

This material was included in our list not by chance. The fact is that the manufacturer claims the possibility of using the mixture when pouring not only concrete, but also wooden bases, because. has high bending strength. A mixture of Portland cement and gypsum is used as a binder, the coating is suitable for dry and wet rooms, subject to additional finishing. The solution is characterized by high viability, which allows covering large areas at a time. You can walk on a flooded plane after 6 hours, and after a day - and completely load it. For all types of premises!

The main characteristics of the mixture Knauf Tribon

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose
Styling temperature	5…35 °C
astringent	mineral, cement+gypsum
Layer thickness	10-60 mm
Compressive strength	15 MPa
Colour	light gray
Solution pot life	60 min
Hardening time	6 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.7 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 18.1 rubles
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	17.6 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 362 rubles

What is the solution in action, including when pouring over wooden bases - in a small video from the manufacturer.

8. Perfecta Lightlayer - from 270 rubles. (20 kg)

The special feature of the mixture is the combination of low consumption, fiber reinforcement and versatility. With all this, the material already hardens in 2 hours to a state in which you can walk on the floor. But more importantly, you have the opportunity to create a layer whose thickness is in the range from 1 to 100 mm, i.e. in terms of properties, it is somewhat reminiscent of the finishing composition. Designed for application on all types of bases with a strength of more than 10 MPa (concrete, gypsum) with subsequent finishing with any floor coverings.

The main characteristics of the mixture Perfecta Lightsloy

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for interior work (in any premises)
Styling temperature	5…30 °C
astringent	mineral, cement+gypsum
Layer thickness	1-100mm
Compressive strength	15 MPa
Colour	light gray
Solution pot life	60 min
Hardening time	2 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.2 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 16.2 rubles
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	16.6 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 324 rubles

9. BOLARS Finishing SV-1010 - from 340 rubles. (20 kg)

A mixture based on cement Bolars Finishing SV-1010 is used as a finishing layer for final leveling. Although it is thin-layered, high compressive strength is ensured, and after 6 hours the surface can be walked on. But the most remarkable thing is that the composition can be used for any type of premises, as well as for outdoor work. A properly prepared solution spreads well over the surface, while its viability is low - skill is needed to create a perfectly even coating.

The main characteristics of the mixture BOLARS Finish SV-1010

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for interior and exterior works (for finishing)
Styling temperature	5…30 °C
astringent	mineral, cement
Layer thickness	0.1-10mm
Compressive strength	20 MPa
Colour	grey
Solution pot life	30 min
Hardening time	6 h
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.6 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 27.2 rubles
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	12.5 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 544 rubles

10. Weber.Vetonit 3000 - from 580 rubles. (20 kg)

More economical Weber. Vetonit 3000 (but not the price) than the predecessor of Vetonit 3000 allows you to apply the solution literally on the shir. The finished coating is not afraid of moisture, which means that the material is ideal for any interior work. It dries pretty quickly - the result of the work can be assessed in a matter of hours. A great option for large rooms, where the deviation from the geometry immediately catches the eye. Of the technological features, it is necessary to note the narrow temperature range of application of the solution.

The main characteristics of the mixture Vetonit 3000

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for interior work (in any premises)
Styling temperature	10…25 °C
astringent	mineral, cement
Layer thickness	0-5 mm
Compressive strength	20 MPa
Colour	grey
Solution pot life	30 min
Hardening time	3-4 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.5 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 43.5 rubles
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	13.3 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 870 rubles

In the video below, you can evaluate how the prepared Vetonit 3000 solution behaves.

Editor's Choice

We analyzed the most interesting parameters of the mixtures presented and summarized everything in a small table.

Summary table for self-leveling floors for subsequent finishing

Mixture name	For any premises	Layer thickness, mm	Viability, min	Hardening time, h	Consumption at a layer of 1 mm, kg/m²	Price for a layer of 1 mm, rub./m²
+	30-80	40	48	1,7	15,6
—	5-100	40	4	1,4	15,2
	—	2-100	40	2	1,3	18,2
Unis Horizon Universal Fast Hardening	+	2-100	30	3	1,6	21,6
Volma-Nivelir express	+	5-100	60	4-6	1,25	15
+	6-50	30	4-8	1,5	20,4
+	10-60	60	6	1,7	18,1
	+	1-100	60	2	1,2	16,2
BOLARS Finishing SV-1010	+	0,1-10	30	6	1,6	27,2
weber.vetonit 3000	+	0-5	30	3-4	1,5	43,5

For ordinary rooms, we recommend using the inexpensive Osnovit Skorline FK45R mixture. It is characterized by a wide range of coating thicknesses and a viability that allows even a beginner to cope with the mortar. For all other cases, you can choose between Volma-Nivelir Express and Perfekta Lightlayer - affordable materials with low consumption. Perfect for bathrooms, toilets, kitchens and more.

TOP 6 mixtures without the need for finishing - fill and forget!

With the help of self-leveling floors, you can create a truly durable coating that is resistant to abrasion, impact loads, and aggressive chemicals. Such floors are relevant in industry, warehouses, etc. objects. They are expensive, but the result is simply phenomenal!

11. Politek (PU-2340) - from 10650 rubles. (30 kg)

The Polytech System plant has been producing mixtures for polymer self-leveling floors since 2005. Production facilities are located in the city of Kosterevo (Vladimir region), products are stored in Moscow. Delivery is carried out throughout Russia. Resins and hardeners from certified suppliers from Germany and Korea are used in the production.

To obtain a heavy-duty self-leveling floor, PoliTek System offers a two-component composition based on polyurethane - PolyTek PU-2340. The material allows within 24 hours to create a seamless thin-layer coating with high rates of plasticity, resistance to abrasion, and aggressive substances.

It is especially important to quickly achieve maximum strength. At an air temperature of 20 °C, after 12 hours after application, the layer is able to withstand pedestrian traffic, after 3 days - light traffic, after a week - full traffic.

Main characteristics of Politek PU-2340

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for garages, warehouses, hospitals, public buildings and industrial plants
Styling temperature	5-30°C
astringent	polymer, polyurethane
Layer thickness	1-2 mm
Tensile strength	7 MPa
Colour	tinted according to RAL K7 K5 CLASSIC
Solution pot life	40 min
Hardening time
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.5 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 533 rub.
	20 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 10650 rub.

12. GLIMS HEAVY DUTY HD drymix - from 1500 rubles. (25 kg) + Hd disp - from 1000 rubles. (4.5 kg)

An expensive but highly durable industrial floor can be poured with GLIMS HEAVY DUTY two-component mix. This coating has high compressive and bending strength, so it is ideal for workshops, warehouses, parking lots, garages, etc. objects where there are heavy loads on the floor and serious requirements are placed on the coating. The solution can be tinted at your discretion, so that it can be not only strong, but also a decorative coating.

Main characteristics of Glims HEAVY DUTY HD drymix

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for industrial facilities
Styling temperature	not lower than 10 °C
astringent	mineral, cement
Layer thickness	5-12 mm
Compressive strength	55 MPa
Colour	grey, tinted
Solution pot life	20-25 min
Hardening time	24 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	2 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 169.5 rubles.
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	14.7 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 3390 rub.

13. Weber.Vetonit 4655 Industry Flow Rapid - from 2000 rubles. (25 kg)

At any industrial site with heavy traffic, where there is a need for a resistant thin coating, a mixture can help out. Such a coating can withstand a full load already a week after pouring! But this imposes some restrictions on the time of using the solution - its viability does not tolerate errors and is some 15 minutes. But you can walk on such a floor after 2-4 hours, and the cost of the material looks more advantageous compared to the previous position.

Key features of weber.vetonit 4655 Industry Flow Rapid

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for industrial facilities
Styling temperature	10-25°C
astringent	mineral, cement
Layer thickness	2-20mm
Compressive strength	40 MPa
Colour	grey
Solution pot life	15 minutes
Hardening time	2-4 h
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.7 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 136 rubles
Area per 1 bag with a layer thickness of 1 mm	14.7 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 2720 rub.

14. ilmax 6650 - from 550 rubles. (25 kg)

If we are not talking about catastrophically large loads, then you can save a lot by using the possibilities of a mixture for self-leveling industrial floors. Perfectly suitable, for example, for covering the floor in the garage, because. the composition is adapted exclusively for internal work. Firstly, such a solution can be applied in a rather thick layer, hiding even serious irregularities in the base coat. Secondly, it is much cheaper than the above predecessors! Another thing is that such material is not available everywhere.

15. Monopol 5 - from 9500 (30.6 kg)

If all previous materials had a cement binder in their composition and, accordingly, the coating turned out to be uniformly matte, then Monopol 5 is a polymer material with a semi-matt surface. For its preparation, three components are needed: epoxy resin, dye and hardener - which are mixed immediately before pouring the floor. And its nature does not at all make the coating less hard, judge for yourself: after a week, the compressive strength reaches 64 MPa!

Main characteristics of the mixture Monopol 5

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose
Styling temperature	15-30°C
astringent	polymer, epoxy resin
Layer thickness	2-3
Compressive strength	64 MPa
Colour	tinted
Solution pot life	15 minutes
Hardening time	72 h
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	2 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 620.9 rubles
Area per 1 package with a layer thickness of 1 mm	15.4 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 12418 rub.

16. Teping Floor 205 PU - from 5600 rubles. (12 kg)

Polyurethane self-leveling floor - a two-component composition that allows you to create a durable plastic coating that normally perceives shock, vibration loads in conditions of sudden temperature changes. The material is intended for interior work in public places and industrial facilities. A great option for an unheated warehouse or garage. By default, it forms a glossy coating, but the technology allows mixing quartz sand in order to obtain a visible texture and save the main mixture.

Main characteristics of the Teping® mixture Pol 205 PU

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for industrial and civil facilities
Styling temperature	10-30°C
astringent	polymer, polyurethane
Layer thickness	1-3mm
Compressive strength	75 MPa
Colour	grey, tinted
Solution pot life	25 min
Hardening time	24 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.6 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 746.7 rubles
Area per 1 package with a layer thickness of 1 mm	7.5 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 14933 rub.

What have we chosen?

We compared essentially different products, so we have three leaders at once. And to make it clearer, all the interesting characteristics are summarized in a table.

Mixture name	Layer thickness, mm	Viability, min	Hardening time, h	Consumption at a layer of 1 mm, kg/m²	Price for a layer of 1 mm, rub./m²	What is suitable for
Politek PU-2340	1-2	20	from 10	1,5	533	For industrial facilities, warehouses, parking lots.
GLIMS HEAVY DUTY	5-12	20-25	24	2	169,5
weber.vetonit 4655 Industry Flow Rapid	2-20	15	2-4	1,7	136
ilmax 6650	5-50	20-2 5	4	1,8	39,6	For garages, workshops, balconies, cellars.
Monopol 5	2-3	15	72	2	620,9	For chemical industries and civil facilities.
1-3	25	24	1,6	746,7

TOP 6 mixtures for decorative finishing - not only durable, but also beautiful!

Self-leveling floors can be not only perfectly flat, strong and durable. They also often become one of the main elements of interior design - the area they occupy obliges to be dominant!

17. EpoxyTek (EP-2331) - from 11,100 rubles. (30 kg)

Another interesting composition from PoliTek Systems is EpoxyTek (EP-2331) epoxy-based self-leveling floor. This two-component composition can be used inside any premises where increased requirements are placed on the strength and appearance of the floor covering. The material is tinted in bulk according to the RAL color chart, used to create 3D floors.

The EP-2331 layer quickly hardens. It will take 5 to 10 days to reach maximum strength.

Main characteristics of EpoxyTek (EP-2331)

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	in apartments, private houses and public buildings as a wear-resistant decorative coating
Styling temperature	5-30°C
astringent	polymer, epoxy resin
Layer thickness	1-2 mm
Compressive strength	81 MPa
Colour	tinted according to RAL
Solution pot life	20 minutes
Hardening time	10 hours to 10 days depending on load and temperature
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.5 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 592 rub.
Area per 1 package with a layer thickness of 1 mm	20 m2
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 11840 rub.

18. Krasko Polymerstone-2 - from 7800 rubles. (20 kg)

To apply a thin durable coating with a glossy surface, or, as it is also called "liquid linoleum", you can use a two-component polyurethane solution Krasko Polymerstone-2. With all its excellent mechanical qualities, it is perfectly tinted and can become part of any modern interior in an apartment or house. Often it is used to obtain perfectly flat surfaces in public places with high traffic. Quite quickly for such a composition it gains strength, can compete in cost with similar foreign-made products.

The main characteristics of the Krasko Polymerstone-2 mixture

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for all indoor areas
Styling temperature	from 5 °C
astringent	polymer, polyurethane
Layer thickness	2-3 mm
Compressive strength	60 MPa
Colour	grey, tinted
Solution pot life	40 min
Hardening time	24 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.5 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 585 rub.
Area per 1 package with a layer thickness of 1 mm	13.3 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 11700 rub.

What does it look like according to the manufacturer? Watch a short video!

19. Arturo EP2500 - from 24400 rubles. (25 kg)

- far from the cheapest material from Holland, which allows you to get a seamless glossy finish in almost any color. It can be used for everything from kitchens and bathrooms to kindergartens and industrial premises. To increase the thickness of the layer, it is possible to add quartz sand. This measure will also create a non-slip surface. Complete drying under normal conditions - a week.

Main characteristics of Arturo EP2500 mixture

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for interior work (any premises)
Styling temperature	15-30°C
astringent	polymer, epoxy resin
Layer thickness	1-5 mm
Compressive strength	90 MPa
Colour	tinted
Solution pot life	20 minutes
Hardening time	16-24 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.6 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 1561.6 rubles.
Area per 1 package with a layer thickness of 1 mm	15.6 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 31232 rub.

20. Remmers Epoxy OS Color - from 30,700 rubles. (25 kg)

For all their high cost, polymer compositions are very popular in the construction of modern industrial and warehouse facilities. After all, the use of such materials as allows you to forget about the need for repairs for several years, provide the surface with the necessary properties of resistance to abrasion and at the same time create a perfectly even base. The solution will also be used when installing a high-quality floor in a garage or in a gym - not to mention ordinary rooms in an apartment or house.

Key Features of Remmers Epoxy OS Color Blend

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for industrial and warehouse premises
Styling temperature	10-30°C
astringent	polymer, epoxy resin
Layer thickness	2-5 mm
Compressive strength	60-80
Colour	tinted
Solution pot life	25 min
Hardening time	24 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.6 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 1965 rub.
Area per 1 package with a layer thickness of 1 mm	15.6 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 39300 rub.

21. Tikkurila Novopox LP - from 7700 (10 l)

If you are looking for something suitable for floors in unheated rooms (for example, you need a high-quality self-leveling floor on a balcony or in a basement), then the Finnish composition Tikkurila Novopox LP can help. This epoxy coating is designed specifically for concrete substrates and allows you not only to protect the concrete from the external environment, but also to create a beautiful glossy surface in one of dozens of colors.

The main characteristics of the mixture Tikkurila Novopoks LP

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for concrete bases in unheated rooms
Styling temperature	over 10 °C
astringent	polymer, epoxy resin
Layer thickness	0.3-2mm
Compressive strength	60-80
Colour	tinted
Solution pot life	15 minutes
Hardening time	24 hours
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1 l/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 770 rubles
Area per 1 package with a layer thickness of 1 mm	10 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 15400 rub.

22. Elakor-ED - from 11900 rubles. (35 kg)

Transparent tinted composition, like many other materials based on epoxy resin, allows you to create a wear-resistant coating. Relatively affordable cost allows you to use it for finishing apartments. For example, they often seal decorative elements (sequins, chips) or canvases to create a 3D effect. Excellent alternative to foreign analogues!

The main characteristics of the mixture Elakor-ED

Parameter	Meaning
Purpose	for interior decoration of premises of any type or under a canopy
Styling temperature	5-25°C
astringent	polymer, epoxy resin
Layer thickness	1.5-5mm
Compressive strength	60-80
Colour	tinted
Solution pot life	30 min
Hardening time	72 h
Mixture consumption at a layer of 1 mm	1.6 kg/m²
Price per m² with a thickness of 1 mm	from 544 rubles
Area per 1 package with a layer thickness of 1 mm	21.8 m²
The cost of material for pouring 20 m² (thickness 1 mm)	from 10880 rub.

Our choice

In fact, everything corny rests on the cost of the material. All polymer floors that are commercially available are produced using the same technologies. There is a difference in technical characteristics, but it is not as noticeable as the difference in price. Our choice - EpoxyTech (EP-2331) and for glossy wear-resistant coatings and 3d floors, Krasko Polymerstone-2 for coating "liquid linoleum".

Cost of work

Everything that we have rated above is just material. We must not forget that finishers highly value their work, often no less than the solutions used. Actually, this is what you need to build on: pouring 1 sq. m surface 1 mm layer costs from 70 to 100% of the cost of the material needed to create such a coating. Add here the need for milling the base, impregnation, dust removal, grinding, and the turnkey price will triple the cost of the material.

Tools and materials

The list of tools includes equipment for mixing the mortar (we do not consider it because of its versatility), its distribution over the surface, leveling the coating, and much more. What is needed for a self-leveling floor in your particular case?

Squeegee

Squeegee (squeegee) is a special notched trowel with a blade of steel (for mineral coatings) or rubber (for polymer coatings). You can do without such a tool, but when it is necessary to distribute a layer of solution over a large area, it is more convenient not to find it. This is due to the fact that the size of the teeth allows you to achieve the desired layer thickness in a short period of time. This is especially true for solutions with low viability and mobility, as well as in the case of thin-layer coatings.

The cost of a doctor blade depends on the material used, the width of the tool, and the presence of regulators to change the thickness of the self-leveling floor layer. So, a wooden squeegee 56 cm wide with a steel removable blade will cost about 3-4.5 thousand rubles. A steel product with two regulators will cost more - in the region of 4-6 thousand rubles. Well, if there is a need to vary the layer over a wide range, then a professional tool with six regulators can already cost 8-11 thousand rubles. Prices for doctor blades for working with polymer compositions are usually higher by 2-3 thousand rubles, due to the significant cost of a replaceable rubber sheet.

Needle roller

The needle roller is an indispensable thing. Because when the mixture is mixed with water and subsequently mixed, the solution is saturated with air, then this air remains there even after the floor is poured, subsequently forming pores. All this negatively affects the technical characteristics of the material. Using a roller, it is possible to quickly and easily remove air by simply rolling it over the already poured mass. By the way, with the help of this tool, even the distribution of material over the entire area is ensured.

The price depends on the width of the roller, the length of the handle and other options. One of the most affordable models with a width of 24 cm will cost you only 200-280 rubles, a width of 35 cm - around 300-400 rubles, a size of 60 cm - somewhere around 450-600 rubles.

Paint steppers

Despite its name, self-levelling flooring cannot simply be poured and allowed to dry. After all, at least in order to walk on it with a spiked roller, you need to stomp on the mixture. Despite the fact that in many videos "professionals" walk in ordinary boots, according to the technology it is necessary to use special sandals - paint shoes. This device is in the form of attached soles with spikes. Thanks to the latter, it is possible to avoid the formation of irregularities.

The cost of footwear is low, and its use for large pouring areas is fully justified - 600-800 rubles.

The damper edge tape is necessary to compensate for the expansion of the layer of the hardening mixture. The tape is made of foamed polyethylene and is attached around the perimeter of the room, thereby creating the necessary margin to increase the volume of the floor and prevent the formation of cracks.

It is sold in the form of rolls of 20, 25, 50 m. The cost depends on the width, thickness, length, the presence or absence of an adhesive layer. For example, prices for a roll of tape 20 m long, 50 mm wide and 8 mm thick start around 70-100 rubles. The same edge tape, but with an adhesive layer, will cost 160-300 rubles. In practice, the savings are not worth it to give up the convenience of using a material that does not require additional manipulations for fixing to the wall.

Benchmarks for installing beacons by level

The benchmark is a movable steel structure, which is used in tandem with the same device and allows you to set the beacons on the level. The solution is rather unpopular - the cost of such devices ranges from 700 to 1000 rubles. In addition, it is difficult to find them - it is easier to do something similar on your own.

Another thing is that professionals have long abandoned benchmarks in favor of using a laser level. It's much more convenient and more accurate. Issue price - from 3 thousand rubles.

About other materials that may be useful

• Chips (flocs). They are dried pieces of multi-colored paint that look spectacular in a transparent layer of epoxy or polyurethane self-leveling floor. The cost varies between 1000-1500 rubles. per kg. Consumption depends on the technology and varies from 20-80 g to 700 g per sq. m. Or in rubles it is about 20-200 rubles. up to 700-1000 rubles. per sq. m. The decision, to be honest, is not for everyone.
• Lacquers and paints. Usually, nothing is added to polymer compositions, unless this is due to some unusual design project. On mineral self-leveling floors, you can apply paint intended for concrete floors - the choice here is huge.

Just a couple of words about 3D floors

In search of information about self-leveling floors in principle, you will repeatedly come across proposals for the manufacture of so-called 3D coatings. The bottom line is to perfectly align the base, print the canvas with a pattern, smooth it and stick it, apply a layer of transparent epoxy on top. The result looks impressive, the cost of work is high - from 4000-6000 rubles / m². As photo wallpapers were popular at one time, so today such 3D floors. We recommend that you refrain from such experiments in favor of monochrome solutions, because, as practice shows, if the pattern is too complex and does not fit perfectly into the design, it will dominate the interior, and its very presence will lead to increased fatigue.