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Self levelling compounds and DPC's

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Xavier X | 15:22 Mon 04th Sep 2006 | Home & Garden
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I have a quarry tiled floor in my kitchen which I'm looking to replace. I had a damp survey done which pointed out that there was either some dampness in the floor or, alternatively, the floor was 'sweating'. I'm assuming that after ripping up the existing tiles I'll need to use a self-levelling compound so that I've got a flat surface on which to re-tile, however, being dead tight:
1) Would the compound provide the equivilent of a damp proof membrane?
2) Could I mix iron or copper filings to the compound to produce a decent looking floor which would remove the need to re-tile or would this prevent the compound from bonding?
3) Would the compound be strong enough to withstand day to day use?
4) It seems like an easy enough job, but is there anything I should be aware of before starting?
All answers will be gratefully received, many thanks in advance.

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First question would be what's the subfloor made of? If it's wood over wood joists, the dampness is probably coming from the basement or whatever is underneath. Very little can be done to completly eliminate this problem without solving the source of the moisture. If it's a solid concrete floor over which the tile had been layed, then a product we have here in the U.S. and an equivalent should be available in the U.K. is Aqua-Seal. It can be brushed on the concrete and new tile can then be layed per typical processes...Can't help you with the balance of the question, however... By the way, here's a link for the Aqua-Seal...
http://www.aquasealusa.com/basement-products.h tm

Best of luck!
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Thanks Clanad, I'll have a look. For clarity, and in case anyone can help with the rest of the question, it's a concrete floor.
Here in the UK there's a product called 'G4' that's widely used on concrete floors where damp is penetrating. It's a poyurathane resin that cures hard through moisture in the air and is painted on like a varnish. It will seal the concrete, but won't stand up too well by itself to foot traffic, so is better with a layer of something over it. Before re-tiling, for example, apply a coating of PVA on top. Ask about 'G4', and any builder's merchant will know what you mean.

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