Raeco Level-Flex is a two-component flexible repair and topping compound for wood, concrete, and steel floors. Level-Flex consists of a uniform premixed blend of portland cements and graded silica aggregates, mixed with a liquid latex modifier to promote lasting surface adhesion, for renovation and new construction. Level-Flex can be applied from feathered edge to 3/8" (9.53 mm.), for thickness greater than 3/8" use appropriate aggregate. Level-Flex is a fine textured underlayment especially formulated for substrates that have a higher amount of movement. The formulation in the synthetic latex and the dry powder creates a stable base for linoleum, vinyl, carpet and other finished floor products. Level-Flex can be used for horizontal surfaces or radius at wall line, and can be sanded to a smooth finish after the appropriate curing time. Level-Flex contains no gypsum, chlorides, ferrous metals or corrosive agents.
Properties
Flame Spread: 0
Fuel Contribution: 0
Smoke Development: 0
Compatible with most floor adhesives
Sound deadening value due to its resiliency
Fire Retardant
Non-toxic and Corrosion Resistant
Crack resistant - will receive nails without damage to the underlayment
Areas Of Use
Underlayment for all finished floor products
Embossing leveler*
Filling cracks in concrete and wood floors
Residential and Commercial applications
Freeze-thaw resistant
Bonding difficulties due to movement (wood) and adhesion problems (steel, aluminum and gypsum based underlayments)
Areas with varying weather cycle
Packaging
45 lb. bags (20.25 kg.) (40 bags per pallet)
Approximate Coverage
45 lb. bag: 45 s.f. (4.14 s.m.) @ 1/8" (3.18 mm.)
Bulked with #8 Silica sand:
45 lb. bag: 16.88 s.f. (1.55 s.m.) @ 1/2" (12.7 mm.)
For Thickness:
1/2" to 5/8" use #8 silica sand @ 25 lbs.(11.25 kg) per bag
The values presented are typical averages and are intended to serve as a guide only.
Surface Preparation
Surfaces to be covered must be structurally sound, clean and free of dust, oil, grease, sealers, curing compounds, laitance, release agents or other surface contaminants. For smooth surfaces, we recommend mechanical abrasion to achieve an acceptable surface profile. The cleaning and preparation method selected depends on both the sub-floor material and its condition. Acid etching is not recommended. For optimum adhesion, mix Level-Flex powder with the Level-Flex latex to a slurry consistency and brush thoroughly into the area to be covered. Raeco R-2000 may also be used as bonding medium. DO NOT USE LEVEL-FLEX LATEX AS A BONDING AGENT.
Mixing
Raeco Level-Flex is mixed by adding Level-Flex latex at a rate of approximately 1.25 gallons (4.74 liters) of latex for each 45 lb. bag of dry powder. More or less latex may be added to obtain the desired consistency, but do not exceed 2 gallons (7.58 liters) of latex for each 45 lb. bag of Level-Flex powder. The latex should be added to the mixing container first, then the Level-Flex powder, followed by the appropriate aggregate (when used).
Using a mixing paddle (a whip type is recommended) with a low speed drill (400 to 500 rpm), mix thoroughly (2 to 3 minutes) until the powder has been completely dispersed and the mix has acquired a smooth homogeneous texture. Do not add more latex once Level-Flex has started setting up. The pot life of the mix averages approximately 30 minutes and working time 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the temperature. It is recommended to mix only the amount of Level-Flex that can be applied within that amount of time.
Application
Apply the Raeco Level-Flex mixture with a trowel or straight edge, trowel to desired texture on the prepared surface. Do not add or spray latex onto the surface for finishing, it may cause the surface to blister or spall. Rough spots or trowel marks may be sanded off the surface, using a medium to fine grit sandpaper after Level-Flex has set up. Sanding should be accomplished after the appropriate time of curing has occurred, normally 24 hours, or 72 hours for deeper fills. Allow an adequate curing time before applying the finished floor material. Before installing any finished floor product, make sure to follow the adhesive manufacturer’s recommendations.
*Note: Raeco Level-Flex Liquid when mixed with Raeco Feather Spread or Buttercoat Powder presents an excellent embossing leveler, crack filler and smooth finish surfacer.
Limitations
Raeco Level-Flex should only be applied over substrates that are between 40° and 90° F. (4.4° and 32.2° C.) Do not apply in wet areas, and do not allow the mortar to freeze before curing has taken place. Do not allow Level-flex liquid to freeze. When applying Level-Flex to thickness greater than 3/8" (9.53 mm.), bulk the mix with the appropriate type and amount of aggregate (refer to Coverage Section of Data Sheet).
Warning
Raeco Level-Flex contains Portland cement and silica sand. Use of a dust respirator, safety goggles and rubber gloves are recommended. In case of contact with eyes, immediately flush with water and consult a physician. Avoid hazards by following all precautions found in the Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS), product labels and technical literature. Please read this information prior to using product.