Cement is getting popularity due to its unique features. It is a construction material just like concrete but it flows and settles with ease. The quickly settling property is the main reason why most contractors and homeowners prefer it over other materials. Cement is directly mixed with water and then poured or pumped on the floor. You’ll need a gauge rake to spread it and then it can level itself.
You can buy Self Levelling Cement online or from a local dealer. And although it settles quickly, contractors are often in a hurry to dry it faster. This article provides useful information on how you can dry Self-levelling cement rapidly.
Conditions to keep in Mind for Self-Levelling Cement
Below are some conditions that can you should keep in mind while applying cement. You can get better results and save time by following these conditions.
Applying in a Hot Room
The cement may not settle properly if the room temperature is too hot. It’ll not level itself and you’ll have a soupy mess on your floor. As a result, you have to pour the cement again after cleaning and clearing the previously installed material. So, you shouldn’t install cement into a room that is too hot. It’s better to wait for the temperature inside the room to decrease.
Applying in a Cold Room
The cement may freeze during the application if the room temperature is too cold. The lower temperature of the room will cause the compound to settle quickly. Thus, it may not reach the lower areas and corners of the surface. Although the self-leveling cement will settle, you’ll not have an equal level floor. As a result, you have to remove the previously installed material.
Removing the material from a too-cold room would be a challenge as it would’ve settled. So, you should either wait until the room temperature gets moderate or use floor heaters to raise the temperature.
Follow the Manufacturer’s Advice
Following the manufacturer’s advice can yield the best results when you are applying cement. You should check the guidelines and follow the directions provided by the manufacturer. This is also important because the different manufacturer has different instructions and guidelines for their products. These instructions may include blending, stirring or pouring the material in a specific way.
This will help you work with the material in a good way. That’s why you should prepare and apply the cement as per manufacturer’s guidelines. Following the advice may save time and prevent you from wasting or using the material improperly.
Optimum Drying Time
The optimum drying time for cement also differs from company to company. You should check the installation instruction written on the package to find out the settling time. The ideal settling time for cement is between 2-3 hours. However, the average time ranges from 1 to 6 hours depending on the manufacturer.
You must always provide self-leveling cement sufficient time to settle and dry properly. But bear in mind that cement, like any other material, requires time to achieve strength.
3 Quick Ways to Dry Self Levelling Cement
Here are some quick ways to dry the cement. You can use these tips and tricks in case you need rapid results.
- Avoid Moisture
Before you install cement, make sure the surface is clean and moisture-free. The presence of moisture and humidity can prolong the settling process. Although it is impossible to create perfect conditions, you must try to keep the surface moisture-free. Use fans or heaters to dry the moist area before applying cement.
- Leave It Overnight
It’s better to leave the cement to settle overnight. This will give the material sufficient time and you won’t have to check it after every hour. Plus, the time will past faster as you wouldn’t be hanging around looking at the surface.
- Use Fans
You can use fans if you want cement to settle quickly. However, try not to blow a fan directly towards its surface. Instead, use the one that you usually use for air circulation. A fan that sits above the ground or a ceiling fan is a good option. Avoid using it on a higher speed and use the fan on medium or low speed.
Final Words
Cement is a better construction material that requires less labour and effort. It can flow towards low surface spots and offers an evenly levelled surface. However, you should take apply self-leveling cement after carefully inspecting the floor. Try not to pour it on a moist surface or a room that is too hot or too cold.