Can You Self level Over Quarry Tiles?
Quarry tiles have been a popular flooring option for many years due to their durability and easy maintenance.
However, one drawback to using quarry tiles is that they can be difficult to keep perfectly level. This can be a problem if you are looking for a seamless look in your flooring design.
So, can you self-level over Quarry tiles? Yes, you can self-level over quarry tiles but you have to follow the proper guide and have to consider some points before doing it as explained in this article.
In this post, we will explore some of the methods that can be used to self-level Quarry tiles.
We will also discuss the pros and cons of each approach so that you can make an informed decision about which method is best for your needs.
So, if you are considering installing quarry tiles in your home, read on for some helpful tips!
Why do we need to self-level over quarry tiles?
Quarry tiles are not level by default. This is because they have a curved appearance and it can be difficult to produce them in a perfectly flat pattern. This means that the tiles tend to look “uneven” when laid side by side on top of each other, even if they are all level.
Self-Leveling Compound
You can achieve an appearance of seamless integration between your flooring and the rest of your home design if you use self-leveling compounds to fill in any existing gaps between the quarry tiles that you are using and the floor underneath.
Types of Self Leveling Compound and Their Impact on Quarry Tiles
There are several different self-leveling compounds that you can use to level over quarry tiles, each of which will provide a slightly different result. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular options:
Acrylic Fortifier
This is a water-based product that is designed specifically for application on top of quarry tiles. It can be applied with an acrylic brush or a high-speed grinder. It is relatively easy to apply and it levels perfectly almost every time.
But keep in mind that it must be used within approximately 30 minutes of being mixed so that it has enough time to dry before the product starts to harden. This can be a problem if you are working by yourself.
If there is a delay of any kind, the product may start to harden before you can finish applying it. In addition, it is relatively expensive, as an entire 5-gallon bucket costs around $150.
Concrete Topping
This is another water-based compound that can be used for self-leveling over quarry tiles. It is not specifically made for this purpose, but it is frequently used in such situations.
Concrete topping can be applied with a squeegee or trowel and it is easy to apply within the required time frame. It is not as durable as a standard acrylic fortifier and may need to be topped with a concrete sealant when the self-leveling compound has dried.
Concrete Slurry
A concrete slurry can also be used for leveling over quarry tiles. It is ideal for use with large floor areas because it is easy to apply and it can be graded with a squeegee, trowel, or drag mat. It is also easy to work with and clean up afterward.
However, it can take 24-48 hours (or even longer) for the slurry to dry properly and it may need an additional sealant applied after drying has been achieved.
Resin-based Leveling Compounds
This type of compound can be used to level over quarry tiles. It is similar to a concrete slurry in that has the ability to be applied by both hand and machine, which makes it versatile enough for most applications where self-leveling compounds are required.
Which self-leveling Compound is best for quarry tiles?
There is no clear winner when it comes to the best self-leveling compound for quarry tiles.
Acrylic Fortifier is one of the most expensive choices when compared to Concrete Topping and Concrete Slurry. But compared to the application time required for concrete topping and concrete slurry, acrylic fortifier is the best choice in my opinion.
How to carry out the process of leveling over Quarry Tiles?
The process of applying self-leveling compounds to your tiles can be tricky, especially if you are doing it on your own. There are several steps that must be taken in order to achieve the best results, so let’s take a closer look at the method:
Step 1 -Preparation Before anything can be done
You must prepare your floor and work area by marking the tiles so that you know which areas need to be leveled and which areas can remain untouched.
Step 2 – Sealing
Once all of the necessary tiles have been marked off, it is important to seal them using a concrete sealant. This step will allow the leveling compound to adhere to the tiles much more easily.
Step 3 – Applying the Self-Leveling Compound
After allowing the sealant to dry, you can apply the leveling compound using either a squeegee or trowel. Try not to get any product on areas that are not being leveled because it will create ridges when it dries, which will need to be smoothed out after the process has been completed.
Step 4 – Clean-up
Once you have applied all of the leveling compounds within the marked-off areas, any product that you have accidentally spilled on tiles can be wiped away with a wet rag.
It is a good idea to fill in any low spots by hand if possible. This reduces the chances of creating ridges when applying the leveling compound.
Once you have finished, allow at least 24 hours for the product to dry fully before walking on it or leaning over it with a mop or broom.
Step 5 – Grading
Once the self-leveling compound has dried, you will need to grade it using a squeegee or trowel. You can use a drag mat or a wet rag to smooth out any ridges that may have been created during the previous step.
Step 6 – Finishing
Finally, you must apply a concrete sealant over the leveling compound so that it can be walked on and cleaned with ease. This process is necessary to protect the compound, which will help it to perform better for longer.
If you do not seal the product, then dirt and dust may become trapped underneath the self-leveling compound will cause discoloration or dark spots on your tiles. This can be especially true with quarry tiles because of their porous nature.
The benefits of self-leveling over quarry tiles
There are a number of benefits to using self-leveling compounds when leveling over quarry tiles. These benefits can include:
- A quick and easy installation process
- The ability to level uneven surfaces
- The ability to fill in minor cracks and gaps
- A smooth, flat surface that is ready for immediate use
- The ability to achieve a high level of finish
- The ability to resist staining and fading over time
- A durable surface that can withstand heavy traffic and regular use.
As you can see, there are many reasons why self-leveling compounds should be considered when leveling over quarry tiles. By taking the time to do it properly, you can create a durable and long-lasting surface that will look great for years to come.
Should You Self-level Over Quarry Tiles?
There are a number of factors to consider when deciding whether or not self-leveling is the right choice for your quarry tiles. Some of the most important factors include:
- The condition of your tiles
- The type of surface that you are trying to achieve
- The amount of time and effort that you are willing to put into the project
Overall, self-leveling can be a great option for leveling quarry tiles, but it is important to weigh all of the pros and cons before making a decision. By taking the time to do so, you can be sure that you are making the best possible choice for your needs.
Conclusion
There is no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to leveling over quarry tiles. However, with a bit of preparation and the right products, you can do it yourself and achieve great results. it’s not only an easy process but also has a number of advantages. Remember to always read the instructions carefully before starting any project!
