Episode 2: Self leveling Concrete Trial & Error: watch before you try it!

[@slowsix2002]

I've watched a dozen "professional's" videos and this one was by far the best. Thank you

[@pencilntools]

Thank you for the kind words! Good luck with your project

[@paullewis252]

This is a great video. It's very helpful that you take the time to explain everything and make suggestions how to improve. Keep up the great work.

[@MrFlyingguy]

watching just before i pour latex in an external courtyard, this was immensely useful to me and i thank you kindly for making this.... best wishes

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for the comment!

[@Kalahari-kia]

I've watched heeps of these videos because I'm planning my DIY floor and I have to say yours is probably the best one so far! I am definitly going to use this list you made! thanks

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for watching! Glad to hear it helps you on your way! The best of luck with your project!

[@paullake1322]

Brilliantly humble - well done i found it informative and funny

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for the comment, glad it provided you some insights. In the video of the actual pour, you can check out the final result. Hope you like it!

[@IntegraDIY]

It’ll never be level if the transitions are from dry to wet pours.. the whole floor must be poured all at once, so the whole surface levels out together. It’s always best to get someone to mix 5 buckets, and while you are pouring those 5 buckets. The person mixing is prepping another 5 buckets ready to go.

[@pencilntools]

Exactly! Please check my video on the actual pour of the complete floor to see my workable setup for DIY enthusiasts.

[@Ccb516lira]

He just testing himself for bigger projects

[@fivestar6015]

You need to use a parallel paddle mixer which has straight "spokes". You are using a "spiral" paddle that is used for paint or very thin material. The parallel paddle is designed so that it does not introduce air into the mixture.

[@pencilntools]

Thank you so much for the tip!

[@LeroyJenkins-nn5go]

Very informative, sometimes showing what not to do is more valuable than showing the right way to do it

[@pulporock]

Excellent little video, well worthwhile for a novice. Well done

[@pencilntools]

Many thanks for the comment. It's always good to learn from each other's mistakes, can save a lot of time.

[@davidhiggins8505]

Excellent video and great information. I watched 10 other videos that didn't show the detail and info that this one did. Thank you.

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for watching, I'm very glad it helped provide some insights. All the best of luck with your project!

[@eddieschelmbauer296]

The only thing you did not do is wet the concrete prior to pouring the self leveling concrete. It’s a must! Nice video.

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for watching and for the feedback! That could indeed improve the adherence!

[@personalexperience3637]

Then what is the point of applying a PVA/acrylic sealer prior to pouring?

[@Travel_Videos]

I used Bostik self levelling compound. Worked brilliantly. No air bubbles, poured great, i would recommend it to anyone.

[@SomeoneCommenting]

"I have a crack anyway, _and I do mean in the concrete_ ..." LOL That air bubbling happened to us when we were applying an epoxy layer in the basement floor too. It sucks to see how such a nice smooth coating ends up later like when you pour your pancake mix in the pan and it starts to show all the bubbles and holes as it heats up. But just like you, we had to accept the results.

[@pencilntools]

It is always a bummer when things don't work out as hoped for. What helps me is to always try-out the full process on a spot that I can cover later on or that is not visible. Surprises will come for sure when dealing with a new product or production process. But as you mentioned, it is best to accept, learn and move on! After all, we are here to learn. Good luck with your future challenges!

[@iwanjirkuw8596]

Thank you for making this video! 🙏

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for watching! Glad it is of use to you!

[@saang.4031]

I Love the video. Your experience is my knowledge to be applied.

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for watching and your kind words. The best of luck with your project!

[@Source212]

first key is to not to work alone in such projects, al least two. one is mixing the concrete, another one is distributing. But before distributing, to prepare more buckets with concrete

[@pencilntools]

Exactly! You will see in my next episode what setup i have used. The 2 pairs of extra (untrained) hands are the minimum for good rotation, for me personally.

[@cedia08]

Thank you for sharing your experience...

[@pencilntools]

My pleasure, good luck with your projects!

[@rangelnedelchev8264]

A very well explained!

[@themonkeydrunken]

Several manufacturers specify an 'egg-beater-type' mixer paddle: the helical spiral mixers entrain air bubbles.

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for the tip 👍

[@betlo87]

Very helpful video my friend. Thank you. Godspeed!

[@pencilntools]

Thanks! Stay awesome!

[@jablot5054]

Like the safety shoes.Says it all.

[@pencilntools]

Was thinking about bare foot, would that be too much?

[@loganwalsh]

My first time using self leveler and after watching a ton of videos I decided to give it a shot. Nobody gets everything correct on their first try. I just wish the bags were cheaper. I'm on my 11th bag for this basement pour and I hired help on my first pour. I wish I knew a few things. After two big pour days I still have waves on the main floor and a slope in the bathroom. For some reason my self leveler never self leveled. It just kind of conformed to the existing imperfections. I used the spike roller and squeegee for round 2 and a hand trowel plus spike roller for round 1.for round 3 I'm going all around the basement with a level and marking the low spots to focus on filling those areas. Hope this works

[@pencilntools]

Hi Logan, sorry to read things are not going exactly as planned. It is a challenging job to do, i must say. Hope your next one goes better! Maybe you can try adding a little bit extra water to the compound, so it has a better flow to it. Also, check the follow up video where i show how i did the complete pour with 4 extra helpjng hands. The product sets fast l, so you need all the help you can for a steady supply. Good luck!!!!

[@loganwalsh]

@@pencilntools nobody is perfect so i can't expect to be perfect on my first try! I found this video refreshing since it shows the learning process not just an edited video with all mistakes left out. Each day if we get a little bit better then we made some progress! Thanks for making these videos and showing reality!

[@BillTangy]

Actually very informative and very honest

[@alfonsogonzalez5623]

Great video well explained ; thanks.

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for watching!

[@cryptocomplete]

Do you really need to let it rest after mixing? I know that Thinset needs to rest, but I have not heard any other recommendations for letting self-leveler to rest.

[@pencilntools]

Great question. The compound I used specifically stated to let it rest a bit and give it another thorough mix before applying it. This is to ensure all is properly mixed. But I can imagine there are compounds that don't require this.

[@josh0340]

I knew u was a professional when I saw the flip flops

[@pencilntools]

A well trained eye!

[@josh0340]

@@pencilntoolshaha , next time u latex mate, try Ardex NA with Ardex P51 primer and do the whole room together and u will get no ridges and an incredible finish! I’ve been doing screeding for 6years now … makes a hell of a difference getting a quality screed

[@uthamanco]

Why are there soooo many DIY videos with dudes in flip-flops? I saw one with a guy using a high-speed diamond grinder (prep concrete) and he was wearing...yes...flip flops. 😂😢 Soooo risky and stupid all at the same time.

[@melanies.6030]

​@@uthamancoAnd all the bare skin....all of these caustic alkaline cementous products burn your skin. No shoes, no pants, no gloves, let me guess..no mask?

[@chryssanthistell]

Can this product be used for surfaces that are not covered and there is a lot of rain?

[@pencilntools]

There are compounds that are suitable for outdoors, generally they are more expensive though. If you use the wrong compound and it rains and freezes, it will damage the flooring. If it doesnt freeze, it does no harm.

[@buckdangt3343]

I’m going to make sure I cut and clean my toe nails before I start😂

[@pencilntools]

Love it! Essential for a good result. You deserve a cookie!😂😂

[@kennethcarter5720]

Great information. Thanks

[@pencilntools]

Happy it helps. Thanks for watching

[@vaim5982]

Do you think that I can pour this auto leveling concrete on pieces of the old concrete ? I have to smash it a little to remove trapped air under it. I cannot handle the price for a complete replacement. Thanks

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for your question. If the old concrete is still fixed, you could pour it over it. It can fixate the underground. It depends on the situation however, as it needs to be judged based on your specific scenario. Perhaps a professional in your proximity can have a look at it to provide a more definitive answer. Hope it helps you!

[@pooshiesty]

Amazing video. Very helpful

[@pencilntools]

Many thanks for the comment, glad you find it helpful. The final pour went really well. Video will be up soon!

[@faouzimustapha3513]

How much water did you use?thx

[@pencilntools]

Hi, 5 liters, but I recommend to check the compound instructions. This is different for each brand and the size of the bags. Good luck with your project.

[@abitofeverythin3535]

I bought some and it's gone hard in the bag can it be ground down and used still?

[@pencilntools]

Once this has set, it is best to purchase new bags. The chemical process has already taken place, so the end result will not be as good if good at all. It's a bitter pil to swallow, but it will yield the best results and the most pleasant way to work. Hope it helps

[@pencilntools]

Absolutely right, don’t wear flip flops for this job. Wear rubber boots like i did during the actual installation.

[@ronniesturchio2302]

Thank you

[@rabit29]

How did you get the blue colour it shows before opening

[@ToucanKhamun]

This is just a photoshop to highlight the thumbnail. Although I think with pigment you can colorise the compound as well.

[@bryanbahling2877]

How do you do absorbance test?

[@pencilntools]

Hi Brian, thanks for watching and for your question. The absorbance test can be done with water. If the water forms a droplet on top of the surface, it is sealed enough. Vapor can still pass through but that is good. If the water seeps in, you will see a darker spot forming quite fast, then in my experience it is not sealed enough as air will escape and form bubbles. Let me know if you need more info! Best of luck!

[@bryanbahling2877]

@@pencilntools ahh thank you so much. You have been so helpful! 😊

[@ronniesturchio2302]

Can this be used outdoors?

[@pencilntools]

Dear Ronnie, thanks for watching and your question. There are definitely brands that offer outdoor compounds. The one I used will not work for outdoors as water can seep in during freezing it will break the floor. So please make sure to choose the right compound. Extra tip: Outdoor, in full sun and a lot of wind, it will dry really fast! Choose a cloudy day without rain and little wind (or work in the evening when the sun is already down a bit) and make sure you have enough helping hands to keep pouring continuously, as it will go really fast and once it sets, there is no way of altering the results. Check this one for an easy setup: kzbin.info/www/bejne/noWXhGdniZiepcksi=skc2nUKLRZOxSm8a 3 unexperienced people and we managed well I think! Good luck with your project!

[@2lucaluca2]

Salutary din Quebec ,CANADA. Avem aici la vecinii nostri din Ontario, Cele mai bune piersici dupa Romania . Anu trecut Nectarinu meu .... care de fapt e Un Prun Italian, Ceres si Nevtarin ( pt ca nu sunt albine aici de catzva ani am incercat sa ii ajut sa se polenizeze impreuna). Am dat cu, Cupru Toamna si Primavera inainte sa iasa bobocii insa Aici primavara este mijlocul lui Mai. Am Dat cu Bicarbonat de Potasiu. A onprit un pic dar mi e teama ca nu e de ajuns. Cate tratamente cu bicarbonate de potassium pot face , va rog? si daca pot sa cresc doza de 5 mg la 1 litru? multumesc mult

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for you question, but I think this is for another video ;-)

[@chukwudiprincewill4999]

What powered substance is that? Is it calcium

[@pencilntools]

That is a self level compound based on cement and polymer fillers. Hope it answers your question.

[@steveanderson3942]

All done in flip flops 😮

[@pencilntools]

Don’t copy me! I’m stupid! :-) during the actual pour, I was wearing boots though.

[@MichaelKozia]

Belgium 🇧🇪

[@titusphilip1310441]

When engineer learning to do self levelling cement.too many analysis😂

[@pencilntools]

Can't help it😂

[@a.s.i6364]

What kind of powder do u add ??

[@pencilntools]

It's a self leveling compound you can find in most DIY markets. This was a house brand of a construction super market.

[@Ladosligese]

Gotta ask .. are you Danish ? .. and ty for the video

[@pencilntools]

Hi thanks for watching! No, I'm Belgian 😊

[@jaleynaziller]

you are Belgian!! lovely!

[@pencilntools]

As Belgian as can be;-)

[@a.s.i6364]

Why u don't make roller strep before powering ??

[@pencilntools]

Im not sure what you mean. Can you please rephrase the question so i can help you better?

[@DillioSmithers]

👀Is this a video on how to make this process the most difficult and overly complicated method ever? Pour the whole floor 1 bucket after another and don't stop, jobe done.... Go back to working at McDonald's 😂😂👍😮

[@pencilntools]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂watch the installation video first, then comment.😉

[@honestlyforreal6304]

PLEASE... Do NOT take any of this information as advice or instruction. This video is a perfect example of how to make this process as difficult as possible with terrible results. Just contact a product rep, or installer who can give you the proper instructions. This should have been a 2 hr job.

[@sosalty701]

That’s a waste of primer, the self leveling concrete sticks to itself without anything needed

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for watching and excellent comment. The primer is not for adhesion only. It is to fixate the underground and above all, to prevent the self level compound from drying too quickly. This will be very detrimental for the strength of the compound as it is cement based. It also reduces the open time of the compound, meaning you will have to work even faster to blend in two batches. Also, if the underground is not sealed properly, you will get air bubbles in the end result. You can actually see that during the video. And I'm not talking about the air mixed in the compound but air escaping from the underground. Hope it helps.

[@whoshatwat]

This is the worst thing I have ever seen. Is it a how not to video? Firstly the floor should be clear, scraped, brushed and hole and cracks filled. Buckets and tools should be wet for easy cleaning. Add water, mixer/whisk then powder, mix as bag instructs as most products advise differently. Start against the back wall and pour the full width if possible, leave a wet edge ALWAYS to accept next mix. Roll the next mix into the first mix before it STARTS to go off, be careful when rolling not to spray it up the walls or all over your shoes, which only an idiot would not be wearing. Continue repeating this until you reach an opening you can escape from. It’s a 45min pour, 2hr start to finish job. It should all be the same colour with no massive ripples in between mixes. How long did this disaster take in your world? If you have a day job please stick to it, if not, get one maybe digging holes in the desert or even filling holes in there. Next week he’ll be showing us how to remove your own appendix.

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for visiting my channel. I’m sorry to read that my title and thumbnail description was not clear enough, so I will elaborate. It states: self levelling concrete. TRIAL and ERROR. Trial and error is a process through which one TRIES out something new. This could be a new material, process, product brand,…. With the goal to (hopefully) learn from the mistakes that inevitably come with new processes. (No matter how expert one thinks he or she his) Reading installation guides one can find anywhere on the web is easy, doing the actual installation is different in that guides cannot teach you all variables that come with the specific project. For example: I tried 2 different brands and found out one brand (very cheap) was not giving good results whereas the other one was a lot better (a bit more expensive too, unfortunately) and easier to work with. I learned about the impact of water to compound ratio (the ratio indicated a between x & y), what to look for when priming the underground, what happens when it’s not done correctly, how the roller works and feels and how important good ventilation is in the room I was working in. (Without a fan on one corner, open windows didn’t do the trick and gave me a white layer of alkaline salts that crystallised from the water) Had I just followed the process you can read on the bag, or see in product videos, it would have cost me a lot of money and stress afterwards, as the learnings would come during the actual installation, which is too late when working with a fast setting compound. Since I had too much depth to fill in in some spots (including cracks) I had a perfect opportunity to test all this, and to make the starting point a bit more level, which also helped for the volume calculation. (The floor was indeed prepped by cleaning and scraping as instructed) The final part of the title states: before you try it. This means it is geared towards DIY people who want to try working with this compound and have little experience with potential variables. So they can learn from my mistakes and hopefully save stress and money down the road. You can see in the follow up video how I did the actual installation (in the next episode). For a first timer, I’m very pleased with the result. Would a pro do a better job? Sure! But that’s not the point, the goal is that everybody can learn here. One last thing: staying polite can save some shame in the future:-)

[@toroguy7]

Your comments are very Ill received. If you have a cogent argument, make it, but there is absolutely no excuse for the insults or tangible frustration you expressed. I myself am very handy, but I failed when laying this compound on my first attempt. I was relieved to see this video as it and others like it helped me identify where I could improve. I will be reattempting to apply the levering compound today and while at it will incorporate the spike roller that only two videos mentioned. Mr. Pencil and Tools if you are reading this, please continue to do what you are doing as it is helpful, and by the way the manner you replied to "People call me" (Although I doubt, they do) was a reflection of your intelligence and proper upbringing. Cheers!

[@pencilntools]

@jose jimenez thank you so much for the support and kind words! I wish you all the best for your upcoming projects and hope all goes well! Enjoy the learning process, and never give up. That is the only way one could fail.

[@brianherald5756]

🤣🤣

[@Grunt300z]

Look everyone. He knows everything about everything. I bet he is such a cool guy. Where is your KZbin video to show how the greatest flooring levelers such as yourself do it?

[@Travel_Videos]

I used Bostik self levelling compound. Worked brilliantly. No air bubbles, poured great, i would recommend it to anyone.

[@pencilntools]

Thanks for sharing!

[@kt3833]

how thick do you have to pour to make it flow?