The Difference Between Cement Self-Leveling and Epoxy Self-Leveling
Release Time:
2016-09-09
Source:
The Difference Between Cement Self-Leveling and Epoxy Self-Leveling
What we need to understand in our daily lives is that a floor must be perfectly level. This is precisely why self-leveling compounds have been developed—to ensure smooth, even surfaces. But then the question arises: how should a self-leveling floor be constructed, and what characteristics define a high-quality self-leveling finish? Regardless of the condition of the existing substrate, a self-leveling floor offers significant visual appeal and can elevate the overall aesthetic of a space. Today, epoxy self-leveling coatings are particularly popular as a complementary option. So what exactly distinguishes cement-based self-leveling from epoxy self-leveling? Let’s take a brief look:
Differences between cement self-leveling and epoxy self-leveling:
1. Cement self-leveling compounds use high-grade cement as the base material and are single-component; water is added during application. Epoxy self-leveling compounds, on the other hand, use saturated epoxy resin as the base material and require a two-component curing agent; virtually no additional additives are used during application.
2. Cement self-leveling compound is applied in a single pass to achieve a finished thickness of 2–4 mm; epoxy self-leveling compound, by contrast, requires multiple coats and results in a final thickness of 3–5 mm.
3. Cement self-leveling compounds are relatively hard; epoxy self-leveling compounds only exhibit hardness after aggregates are added.
4. Cement self-leveling compounds are primarily used for floor repair and decoration, while epoxy self-leveling compounds are employed in environments with extremely stringent cleanliness requirements, such as laboratories, pharmaceutical plants, and electronic/electrical workshops.
5. Cement self-leveling flooring is low-cost; epoxy self-leveling flooring is more expensive per square meter.
As we have seen from the preceding discussion, self-leveling flooring offers significant advantages over other types of flooring. What we need to understand is that self-leveling flooring possesses unique characteristics that set it apart from other options—in terms of quality, price, and various other factors. It is widely recognized as the optimal choice for flooring projects, clearly demonstrating how we should approach its installation and application. In short, self-leveling flooring is an excellent material for interior finishing.
