Advantages of Gypsum-Based Self-Leveling Flooring
Release Time:
2020-07-03
Source:
Gypsum-based self-leveling compound
Advantages of Gypsum-Based Self-Leveling Flooring
Gypsum-based self-leveling mortar is a dry-mix mortar specially formulated in the factory by blending gypsum binder, specialized aggregates, and a variety of architectural chemical additives to achieve uniform mixing. It is an ideal material for precise floor leveling and can serve as a leveling underlayment for various floor finishes or be applied directly as the finished flooring surface. Originating in Europe in the 1960s, gypsum-based self-leveling mortar now accounts for a substantial share of the European floor-mortar market. China began research and development of this product in the 1980s, and in 2007 the country promulgated and implemented the corresponding product standard JC/T 1023–2007, “Gypsum-Based Self-Leveling Mortar.”
Gypsum-based self-leveling mortar uses gypsum as its primary cementitious material and features self-leveling properties, offering numerous advantages:
1. Used as a leveling and covering layer for underfloor heating, it offers excellent thermal insulation (underfloor heating can achieve energy savings of approximately 20% compared with other heating systems; with the use of zone-specific temperature control, these savings can increase to as much as 40%). Unlike cement-sand screeds, it does not develop cracks or blistering due to thermal expansion and contraction. Moreover, after hardening, gypsum-based self-leveling mortar creates a resilient floor surface that feels warm and comfortable underfoot and also provides sound-insulating properties. In terms of strength stability and thermal stability, gypsum-based self-leveling mortar outperforms traditional cement-sand screeds, making it the preferred material for underfloor heating systems.
2. Under identical conditions, the shrinkage of cement-based self-leveling mortar is significantly higher than that of gypsum-based self-leveling mortar. By 28 days, the shrinkage of cement-based self-leveling mortar is approximately 1.17 mm/m. As time progresses, the shrinkage increases to about 1.3 mm/m after 90 days; in contrast, the shrinkage of gypsum-based self-leveling mortar remains around 0.19 mm/m. Consequently, the excessively high shrinkage of cement-based self-leveling mortar can lead to cracking. In contrast, gypsum-based self-leveling mortar exhibits essentially stable thermal performance at 50°C, with shrinkage values and flexural and compressive strengths remaining virtually unchanged between 28 days and 194 days.
3. The inherent porosity of gypsum materials contributes to sound insulation and thermal insulation. Gypsum-based self-leveling mortar has a low density, which helps reduce the structural load of buildings; it is free of harmful substances such as casein and VOCs, emits no ammonia, and significantly raises the environmental standards for interior finishing, making it an eco-friendly, energy-saving product. As a floor leveling compound, gypsum-based self-leveling mortar offers advantages that other materials cannot match, serving as a key alternative to cement and helping to reduce carbon emissions. This not only delivers social benefits in terms of energy conservation and emission reduction but also yields economic benefits.
4. Floors constructed with gypsum-based self-leveling mortar exhibit precise dimensions, exceptional levelness, and are free from hollows and cracks; the application process is effortless and efficient, significantly reducing construction time (allowing foot traffic just one day after installation, thereby shortening the overall renovation schedule); moreover, pump-delivery methods can be used, accelerating the installation process by 5 to 10 times compared with traditional flooring materials. This innovative flooring installation technique also reduces floor thickness, creating a more spacious and open interior environment.
5. During installation, the use of a self-leveling underlayment system makes it easy to meet flooring installation requirements. It provides a stable substrate with a service life of at least 50 years, ensures exceptional floor flatness, and guarantees that the joints between floorboards lie in the same plane after installation. This protects the surface finish and extends the service life of the flooring material.
6. Excellent visual appeal: Self-leveling screeds deliver outstanding floor leveling, resulting in a more aesthetically pleasing finished floor. The smooth, even substrate ensures that the flooring achieves a near-mirror-like finish, providing a visually stunning experience.
Shandong Xindadi’s high-thickness self-leveling mortar is a flagship product strongly recommended in support of green and energy-saving policies, and has already been widely deployed across Shandong, Beijing, Shanghai, Nanjing, Anhui, and other regions. Market adoption is expected to surge next year. Xindadi remains committed to selecting premium auxiliary materials that deliver superior quality, outstanding performance, environmental friendliness, and strong economic benefits. Shandong Xindadi Group warmly invites interested partners from across the country to join us!
