A great self-levelling finish starts with prep. Pumpable self-levelling screeds are common in UK renovations (flattening floors, smoothing subfloors, even encasing UFH), but if the base isn’t stable, clean and primed, you risk poor bonding, cracks and failed finishes.
1) Inspect and repair the subfloor
Check the whole area for movement, damage and weak spots.
- Concrete / existing screed: remove dust, laitance and any weak top layer (sanding/shot-blasting if needed).
- Tiled floors: secure or lift loose tiles (if ~20%+ are loose, removing all is usually safer).
- Timber floors: don’t pour directly onto wood. Fix loose boards, then install a rigid carrier board and often a decoupling layer to reduce flex.
Fill cracks, holes and dips with a suitable repair mortar so the leveller isn’t poured onto voids or unstable areas.
2) Clean thoroughly, then prime
Self-levelling won’t bond to dust, grease or adhesive residue. Sweep, scrape and vacuum properly, then remove any paint flakes, oil or glue with the correct cleaner.
Prime using the right type for the surface:
- Absorbent floors (concrete / sand-cement): acrylic or SBR primer to seal the surface and stop it sucking water from the mix.
- Non-absorbent floors (glazed tiles / sealed screed): a grit/bond primer to create grip.
Apply evenly and let it dry fully (often overnight), especially in humid conditions.
3) Edge strip and set levels
Fit a perimeter foam strip to create an expansion gap and stop the mix pushing tight to walls. Mark your finished height using a laser level or level guides so the pour stays consistent.
4) Mix, pour and cure (brief)
Follow the manufacturer’s water ratio exactly. Pour from the far end, use a spiked roller to remove air, keep the room around 18–20°C, and avoid draughts/sun. Leave it undisturbed for at least 24 hours (often longer).
Why LMA: 15+ years’ experience, clear communication, tidy prep, and floors finished to last with fast surveys and straightforward quotes.
Contact LMA Floorscreeding today for a free survey and quote. Let us take the guesswork out of your project so you can enjoy a perfect, level floor with confidence.