b'TECH TALK How to ensure a successful self-leveling underlayment applicationBy Emily Brunner, Area Technical Specialist, H.B. Fuller Construction ProductsSelf-leveling underlayment is a bit of a mis-nomerbecauseitrequirestheinterventionof a thoughtful installer to ensure the best results. Follow these guidelines to prevent issues in your self-leveling underlayment installation.1. Select a product appropriatecompressivestrengthandflexural fortheinstallation:Knowyourstrength, as well as recommended installation environment and famil- cure times.iarizeyourselfwiththerelevant ASTMstandardsforstrength.A2. Stabilize your substrate: Most commercial floor subject to heavyproductsrequirethatallsurfaces rolling loads will require a higher- arefullystableandstructurally gradeself-levelingunderlaymentsoundpriortotheapplicationof thanafloorinasingle-familyaself-levelingunderlayment.For home. example,woodmustbesecurely Also, it is critical to understandfastenedwithscrew-typeorring-your project timeline and choose ashank nails and adhesive because product that fits within the appro- if it shifts, it could cause cracking. priateschedule.Someproducts mayrequire24-48hourspriorto3. Prepare your substrate: Make installingtile,whileothermoresure to plug all floor openings, gaps premiumproductsarereadytoandcracksandinstalltermina-acceptflooringinaslittleas2-4tion dams to prevent any seepage. hours. Consult product data sheetsConsult with product manufactur-for information on tensile strength,erstodeterminemoisturelimita-74TileLetter | October 2019'