Installing Levelling Compounds in Extreme Temperatures

Levelling compounds rely on precise chemical reactions to achieve their designed strength and performance. Extreme temperatures – whether hot or cold – can speed up, slow down or even halt those reactions, with serious consequences for the finished floor.

In this article, ARDEX Technical Services Advisor John Werlemann discusses how high and low temperatures affect levelling compounds and what installers can do to stay in control all year round.

How temperature affects levelling compounds

All cement-based levelling compounds cure via chemical reactions. These reactions are temperature-dependent:

– In high temperatures, molecules move faster. Reactions speed up and products can set much more quickly than expected.
– In low temperatures, everything slows down. Below about 5°C, the hydration reaction basically stops and the product may never cure properly until temperatures rise again.

Understanding this relationship is essential for planning when and how to install levelling systems.

Challenges in hot conditions

In very warm weather or hot internal environments, installers can face:

– Greatly reduced working time – The compound may start to stiffen before it can be properly spread and finished.
– Increased risk of trowel marks and poor flow – Because the product thickens too quickly.
– Potential for cracking or surface defects – If the surface dries too rapidly while the body of the material is still curing.

To manage these risks in hot conditions:

– Aim to install levellers in the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon.
– Cool the mixing water – Bringing the water down to a little above fridge temperature can significantly improve working time.
– Store bags of compound out of direct sun to avoid pre-heating the powder.

These simple steps help buy vital extra minutes of workability so the installed surface can be finished correctly.

Challenges in cold conditions

Cold environments introduce a different set of issues:

– Extended curing times – Levelling compounds may remain soft or sensitive to damage for much longer.
– Delayed readiness for coverings – Floor finishes installed too early can trap moisture or be laid over under-strength substrates.
– Risk of incomplete curing – At temperatures below about 5°C, the hydration reaction can virtually stop.

To improve outcomes in cold conditions:

– Use heaters or air-conditioning to lift internal temperatures, where safe and practical.
– Target installation for the warmest part of the day when working outdoors.
– Never install levelling compounds when the substrate or ambient temperature is below 5°C.

Attempting to rush work in very cold conditions usually results in weak or compromised floors that may require costly remediation.

Assessing conditions before you start

Before mixing the first batch, John recommends taking a few minutes to assess:

– Ambient temperature – Inside the room or area.
– Substrate temperature – Which can lag behind air temperature, especially on large slabs.
– Air movement and humidity – Strong draughts can cool surfaces or accelerate drying at the surface.

With this information, installers can make informed decisions about when to pour, whether to adjust water temperature and whether to use temporary heating or cooling measures.

Support and guidance

Installers are not on their own when tackling difficult conditions. ARDEX provides:

– Detailed technical datasheets for each levelling compound, including recommended temperature ranges.
– Technical bulletins with seasonal tips and detailed guidance.
– A Technical Services hotline where installers can discuss specific site conditions and get tailored advice.

Reaching out early, before problems occur, is far better than calling after a compromised floor has already been laid.

Key reminders for extreme conditions

To keep levelling work on track throughout the year:

– Recognise that temperature directly controls setting and curing speed.
– Avoid levelling when temperatures are below 5°C.
– Adjust work practices – timing, water temperature, and environmental controls – to suit the conditions.
– Use ARDEX technical resources and hotline support whenever you’re unsure.

By planning ahead and respecting the temperature limitations of each product, installers can achieve consistent, high-quality levelling results in both summer heat and winter cold.

ARDEX Technical Hotline: 1800 224 070

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