How to Use Leveling Cement

Apply leveling cement to give your floor a level surface.

Leveling cement is designed to leave you with a flat, level surface. It is particularly useful when you have an uneven subfloor and you need to level it out before applying a final floor finish such as carpet or tiling. Cement is not the same as concrete, and leveling cement provides no additional structural strength to your floor. Apply leveling cement to your floors to achieve a perfectly flush finish.

Things You'll Need

• Leveling cement
• Latex primer
• Two mixing containers
• Mixing paddle
• Power drill with mixing attachment
• Paintbrush
• Trowel
• Vacuum cleaner
• Safety gloves

Instructions

1. Clean the surface. Vacuum or sweep the area thoroughly.

2. Mix the primer. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the water-to-latex mixing ratio. Use a disposable container and a wooden paddle to mix the primer and water together.

3. Apply the primer. Paint the primer onto the surface using a normal paintbrush, making sure any bumps or holes are covered.

4. Mix the cement. Use the power drill with the mixing attachment to mix the cement quickly and thoroughly. Make sure to get any dry powder stuck to the sides or the bottom of the container. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the water-to-cement mixing ratio. The end result should be the consistency of a thick milkshake.

5. Pour the cement mixture onto each of the lowest points on the floor. Use the trowel to help smooth the cement outward from each puddle until you achieve a level surface. Remember to work quickly; the cement will begin to set in 10 to 15 minutes. Wait 12 hours to let the cement cure before applying any further treatments.

Tips & Warnings

• Never handle cement with bare hands; this can cause chemical burns to the skin. Always wear protective clothing such as gloves when handling cement.

References

• DIYOnline.com: Applying Self-Leveling Underlayment