You've invested in a self-levelling screed for your Sydney home, expecting a perfectly smooth, flat foundation for your new flooring. But what happens when the result is a landscape of frustrating high and low spots? Don't despair. A flawless floor is still within reach. At Elyment Group, we understand that even the best-laid plans can have a few bumps along the way. This guide will walk you through why these imperfections happen and how to fix them like a pro. Why Do High and Low Spots Appear in Self-Leveling Screed? Ever wondered why your supposedly "self-levelling" screed didn't quite level itself? Several factors can contribute to an uneven finish, especially in the unique conditions of NSW properties. Understanding the cause is the first step to finding the right solution. Incorrect Mixing: A mix that's too thick won't flow properly, leading to high spots. If it's too thin, it can result in a weaker surface with low spots. Subfloor Issues: An overly porous concrete subfloor can absorb water from the screed mix too quickly, preventing it from levelling out correctly. Air Bubbles: Trapped air can create pinholes and craters on the surface. This is often caused by not using a spiked roller during application. Draughts and Temperature: Inconsistent drying conditions, often caused by draughts or direct sunlight, can lead to an uneven finish. The Tools You'll Need for the Job Before you start, gathering the right equipment is crucial for a professional result. Here’s a checklist of what you'll typically need: A long spirit level or straightedge Pencil or chalk for marking A high-quality floor grinder (for high spots) A trowel and float The appropriate self-levelling compound for patching Primer A mixing bucket and paddle mixer Safety gear (gloves, mask, and glasses) Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Your Screed Step 1: Identify the Problem Areas Take your straightedge or spirit level and systematically check the entire floor. Mark any high spots (where the straightedge rocks) and low spots (where you can see a gap underneath the straightedge) with your pencil or chalk. Step 2: Dealing with High Spots High spots, or ridges, need to be brought down to the level of the rest of the floor. For this, a floor grinder is your best friend. Gently grind down the marked high spots, checking your progress frequently with the straightedge until the area is level. Always wear your safety gear during this process to protect yourself from dust and debris. Step 3: Correcting the Low Spots Fixing dips and troughs involves filling them with a fresh layer of self-levelling compound. Here’s how to do it correctly: Clean and Prime: Thoroughly vacuum the low spots to remove all dust and debris. Apply a suitable primer to the area to ensure the new compound adheres properly. Mix a Small Batch: Prepare a small amount of self-levelling compound according to the manufacturer's instructions. A perfect consistency is key. Pour and Feather: Pour the mixture into the low spot and use a trowel to feather the edges, blending it seamlessly with the surrounding floor. DIY vs. Professional Floor Levelling in Sydney: What's the Right Choice for You? While a small dip might seem like an easy DIY fix, larger issues with floor levelling can be complex. Are you weighing up the options? A professional service like Elyment Group offers precision, experience, and the right industrial-grade equipment to guarantee a flawless result, saving you time and potential costly mistakes. For major levelling projects across NSW, trusting an expert is always the best investment. Key Takeaways for a Perfect Floor Preparation is everything. A clean, well-prepped subfloor is non-negotiable. Mix matters. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to the letter for the perfect consistency. Don't rush the process. Allow adequate drying time as specified. When in doubt, call the experts. For a guaranteed perfect finish, especially on larger projects, professional help is invaluable. Ready to achieve that perfectly flat floor you’ve been dreaming of? For expert advice and professional floor levelling services in Sydney and across NSW, contact the team at Elyment Group. Follow us on X @ElymentGroup or visit our website for more information. 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