Self-leveling cement any thought

Feb 12, 2025
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I just wanted to share with you my experience on my recent project using self-leveling cement on our basement that has a very noticeable lump in the middle section. This lump is caused by a poorly executed interior-perimeter drain installation. Matter of fact, it even has a drop of 1.5” over 3’ near the sump pump! Can you imagine? Lol. The area is approx. 300sqft.
 
Same with my basement. The key takeaway here is to prep the area accordingly. By prepping, meaning vacuum the area thoroughly, sealed all visible caulk then clean again thoroughly, and used a quality primer. Lastly, use a bubble level for leveling uneven spots.
 
I remember using LevelQuik RS 50lb. bags when I leveled mine. Mixed it with roughly 6q of cold water to get a slightly gooey consistency. If you’re lucky, have someone to help you with mixing while you pour, you’ll manage to finish quicker and more efficiently.
 
I remember using LevelQuik RS 50lb. bags when I leveled mine. Mixed it with roughly 6q of cold water to get a slightly gooey consistency. If you’re lucky, have someone to help you with mixing while you pour, you’ll manage to finish quicker and more efficiently.
Yes, I agree! I did have a helping hand and used the exact product. We also finished it in no time. We got a wonderful result, just off level for about 1/6”.
 
Self-leveling cement is a nightmare for me ☹ I used it once but didn’t get the water to cement ratio right, it ended up too thick that caused uneven spots
 
I remember using LevelQuik RS 50lb. bags when I leveled mine. Mixed it with roughly 6q of cold water to get a slightly gooey consistency. If you’re lucky, have someone to help you with mixing while you pour, you’ll manage to finish quicker and more efficiently.
Yeah, LevelQuick product is great! I used it in my bathroom renovation, prepped up thoroughly by sealing and priming. The result was flawless and tiling over them is very easy.
 
I need an advice about my basement floor that has hairline cracks. After I use some primer, the cracks appeared, can caulking them beforehand help?
 
I need an advice about my basement floor that has hairline cracks. After I use some primer, the cracks appeared, can caulking them beforehand help?
I also experienced this, after applying primer, the hairline cracks become visible. Then, I applied caulking to all of the visible cracks and smoothed them all out. Lastly, I poured the SLC and there’s no more issue after.
 
My biggest mistake was skipping the priming and would haunt me later. Primer was necessary to the SLC to adhere properly. The main thing I learned here is to follow instructions carefully.
 
Better get quick before the mixture set fast. Always have a helper and be prepared with your essential tools. Lastly, make sure that your mixture ratio is leaning towards more water, but never overdo it.