Achieving a flawless floor starts with a perfectly prepared subfloor. Whether you’re installing tiles, vinyl, or hardwood, using a self-levelling compound ensures a smooth, even surface that enhances durability and aesthetics. This comprehensive guide provides a step-by-step checklist to prepare your subfloor for self-levelling compound, optimised for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals in Australia. We’ll focus on using Mapei’s Self-Leveler Plus, a high-quality product for superior results. Follow these expert tips to ensure your flooring project is a success, and explore how @ElymentGroup can support your next renovation at elyment.com.au. Why Subfloor Preparation Matters An uneven subfloor can lead to issues like creaking, cracking, or premature wear of your flooring. Self-levelling compounds, such as Mapei Self-Leveler Plus, are designed to create a flat, durable base, but their success depends on proper subfloor preparation. By following this checklist, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and ensure a professional-grade finish that complies with Australian standards, such as AS 1884:2021 for floor coverings. Benefits of Proper Preparation Enhanced Durability: A level subfloor prevents stress points that can damage flooring materials. Improved Aesthetics: Eliminates visible dips or humps for a seamless look. Cost Savings: Reduces the need for costly repairs or replacements down the line. Step-by-Step Checklist for Subfloor Preparation Step 1: Assess Your Subfloor Before applying Mapei Self-Leveler Plus, evaluate your subfloor’s condition to identify any issues that need addressing. Inspect for Damage: Check for cracks, rot, or loose boards in wooden subfloors, or spalling and cracks in concrete. Measure Levelness: Use a 2-metre spirit level to detect variations greater than 2–4 mm over 2 metres, indicating unevenness. Test for Moisture: For concrete subfloors, conduct a relative humidity (RH) test per ASTM F2170 to ensure moisture levels are below 75%. High moisture can degrade the compound. Identify Subfloor Type: Determine if you’re working with concrete, plywood, particleboard, or tiles, as Mapei Self-Leveler Plus is suitable for interior concrete, plywood, and other approved surfaces. Pro Tip: For major cracks or structural issues, consult a professional to avoid compromising your flooring installation. Step 2: Clean the Subfloor Thoroughly A clean surface is critical for proper adhesion of Mapei Self-Leveler Plus. Remove Debris: Sweep and vacuum to eliminate dust, dirt, and loose particles. Clear Contaminants: Use a degreaser for oil or grease stains, especially on concrete subfloors. Remove Old Adhesives: Scrape off residual glue or mastic from previous flooring. For stubborn residues, consider a specialist smoothing compound. Repair Cracks and Holes: Fill cracks wider than 3 mm or holes with a high-quality concrete patching compound. Allow it to cure fully. Step 3: Secure and Stabilise the Subfloor Ensure the subfloor is structurally sound to support the self-levelling compound. For Wooden Subfloors: Secure loose boards with screws every 150–200 mm. Replace nails, as they can loosen over time. Seal gaps between plywood sheets with painter’s caulk to prevent compound leakage. Apply a latex primer to prevent moisture absorption, which can cause warping. For Concrete Subfloors: Grind high spots using a concrete grinder with a diamond wheel. Vacuum dust thoroughly. Ensure the slab is fully cured (typically 28 days for new concrete) and free of laitance. Step 4: Prime the Subfloor Priming enhances adhesion and prevents Mapei Self-Leveler Plus from drying too quickly. Choose the Right Primer: Use a Mapei-recommended primer like Mapei Eco Prim T for concrete or plywood. For absorbent surfaces, apply two coats perpendicularly. Apply Evenly: Use a roller or brush to coat the entire surface, ensuring no pooling. Allow it to dry as per manufacturer instructions (typically 1–2 hours). Seal Gaps: For wooden subfloors, use sill sealer or caulk around the perimeter to contain the compound. Step 5: Mix and Apply Mapei Self-Leveler Plus Proper mixing and application are crucial for a smooth, even finish with Mapei Self-Leveler Plus. Follow Manufacturer Instructions: Mapei Self-Leveler Plus is a cement-based compound ideal for thicknesses from 1/8" to 1" in a single pour. Measure water precisely as per the technical sheet. Mix Thoroughly: Use a drill with a mixing paddle to achieve a lump-free consistency. Work quickly, as the compound sets within 20–30 minutes. Pour Strategically: Start at the farthest corner and work towards the exit to avoid stepping on wet compound. Pour in small sections for control. Spread Evenly: Use a gauge rake to distribute the compound to the desired thickness (minimum 3 mm). Smooth with a trowel and use a spiked roller to remove air bubbles. Step 6: Allow Proper Curing Curing time for Mapei Self-Leveler Plus varies based on environmental conditions. Avoid Disturbances: Keep the area free from foot traffic for 24 hours for ceramic tile or stone, and 2–3 days for other floor coverings like vinyl or hardwood. Ensure good ventilation to aid drying. Check for Imperfections: After curing, inspect for uneven spots. Lightly sand or grind minor irregularities with 40–60 grit sandpaper. Verify Readiness: Ensure the surface is fully dry before installing flooring. Use a moisture meter if needed to confirm. Key Takeaways Assess and Clean: Evaluate subfloor condition and remove all debris for optimal adhesion. Stabilise and Prime: Secure loose boards, repair cracks, and apply Mapei Eco Prim T for a strong bond. Apply with Precision: Mix and pour Mapei Self-Leveler Plus carefully, using tools like gauge rakes and spiked rollers for a smooth finish. Cure Properly: Allow 24 hours to 3 days drying time to ensure a durable, level surface ready for flooring. Next Steps for Your Flooring Project Ready to transform your floors? Follow this checklist to prepare your subfloor like a pro using Mapei Self-Leveler Plus. For expert guidance, high-quality materials, or professional installation services, connect with @ElymentGroup on X or visit elyment.com.au. Share your flooring journey with us using #ElymentFlooring! 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