Problems with Levellers Drying in Colder Weather?

As snow and sub-zero temperatures embrace Britain, plans are being implemented to deal with the challenges that severe weather can bring. Road gritting teams are out in force, highways, street cleaning and park staff are being drafted in to help clear the snow and ice and the public are being advised to take extra care and time making their journeys and to wrap up warm, in an effort to mitigate its impact.

The flooring industry is heavily affected too by the cold weather due to reduced daylight hours, transport difficulties, poor site conditions and even unreasonable expectations from clients.

Internally used cementitious floor levelling compounds, as with all cement based materials, are affected by cold temperatures, resulting in extended setting times.

Whilst UltraFloor can’t control the weather, we can ensure that we provide you with the help and support you need to make the best use of our products during the cold snap as proper preparation, adjustment and reaction to the season will certainly influence the success of a job. So when you can’t get ideal conditions, we can offer products to help you keep the installation programme down to a minimum.

Bags and bottles should be stored in conditions of 5°C and above prior to mixing. If the smoothing compound is required to be mixed with water, please consider your water source and its temperature – bringing the water as close as possible to 20°C by using the hot tap or a water butt is highly recommended.

The mixing and installation of the smoothing compound should be carried out in ambient conditions of least 5°C. The mixing of a smoothing compound involves combining the powder with either water or latex liquid. Thereafter, the product will begin to hydrate and cure, however the rate of this reaction decreases in colder environments. To prevent this from happening, we advise you keep temperatures above 5°C during the curing stages by using radiant heat systems that does not introduce moisture. Choosing the right product for the job will help sustain an uninterrupted work flow.

UltraFloor recommends the use of Level IT Super30 or Level IT Flex, as both of these two part levelling compounds contain a special blend of cements that remain effective at lower temperatures and provide a rapid set time keeping downtime to a minimum.

For further information on UltraFloor Level IT Super30 or Level IT Flex, or for technical advice on getting to work in winter, visit www.ultra-floor.co.uk or call 01827 254402.