Not every floor needs a heavy-duty, polishable topping. Most renovation and fit-out jobs in Singapore simply need a flat, sound surface so the vinyl, carpet, tiles or timber on top can be laid properly. That is where a dependable self levelling compound like Cemimax DL24 earns its place on site.
DL24 is one of the products our customers reorder most often. It is easy to work with, sets quickly and gives a consistent result at a sensible price. Here is what you need to know before you use it.
What Is DL24?
DL24 is a cement and polymer based smoothing compound for interior subfloors. It is made to correct uneven concrete or screed before a floor covering goes down. The result is a uniform surface that flooring adhesives can bond to properly.
Think of it as the layer nobody sees. Once the job is done DL24 is hidden, but you will definitely notice if it was skipped. Uneven subfloors show through thin vinyl, leave hollow spots under tiles and make timber boards rock or squeak.
DL24 Specifications
- Application thickness: 2 mm to 5 mm per layer
- Coverage: approximately 1.7 kg of powder per mm per m²
- Compressive strength: about 20 MPa at 28 days
- Flexural strength: about 6 MPa at 28 days
- Working time: 20 to 30 minutes
- VOC level: below 0.5 mg/m³
- Shelf life: 12 months
A quick coverage example: levelling a 20 m² bedroom at 3 mm needs roughly 1.7 × 3 × 20 = 102 kg of powder. Always add a little extra for wastage and low spots you did not spot during the survey.
Where to Use DL24
- Concrete floors and cement screeds
- Existing mineral subfloors that need correcting
- Renovation jobs where old flooring has been removed
- Preparation for resilient, wood or tile floors
- Any interior area that needs a uniform surface for adhesive bonding
It suits homes, offices, shops and classrooms with normal foot traffic. DL24 can be applied by hand or by pump, so it works for a single bedroom as well as an entire office floor.
Why Contractors Like Using It
It is quick. DL24 is fast-setting, which shortens the gap between levelling and floor installation. On tight renovation timelines that makes a real difference.
It flows well. The mix spreads evenly without much effort. You get a smooth surface without endless trowelling.
It is economical. For standard interior work you do not need to pay for the extra strength of a high-performance floor levelling compound.
How to Apply DL24 Step by Step
Check and clean the subfloor
Good subfloor preparation is half the job. The base must be clean, dry and structurally sound with no dust, grease, cracks or loose particles. Grind off weak surface layers. If you find larger cracks or holes, repair them first. Our guide on repairing cracked or uneven concrete floors walks you through that.
Prime the surface
Apply the recommended primer such as Cemimax DP80 or DP101 and make sure it is fully dry before pouring. Priming stops the concrete from drawing water out of the compound. It also helps prevent pinholes.
Mix to the right consistency
Mix DL24 with clean water until it is smooth and even. Stick to the water ratio on the DL24 technical data sheet. Extra water might make pouring easier but it weakens the finished layer.
Pour and spread
Pour onto the primed floor and spread with a trowel to the thickness you need. Stay within 2 to 5 mm per layer.
De-aerate
Run a spike roller across the surface to release air bubbles and blend the pour together.
Let it dry
Allow the compound to dry fully before any adhesive or flooring goes down. Drying time depends on thickness, temperature and ventilation. In Singapore that means humidity plays a big part, so good airflow really helps.
DL24 or Something Stronger?
If the area will carry heavy loads, forklifts or constant trolley traffic, look at DL59 instead. The same goes for floors where the levelling layer will be the visible finish. Our DL59 guide explains why. For standard interior prep under a floor covering, DL24 is usually the smarter and more cost-effective choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
How thick can I apply DL24?
DL24 is designed for 2 to 5 mm per layer. For deeper corrections, a stronger compound like DL59 or a screed may be more suitable.
Do I need a primer before DL24?
Yes. Priming controls suction from the concrete and improves bond. Let the primer dry fully before pouring.
Can DL24 be left as the finished floor?
No. DL24 is a preparation layer meant to sit under vinyl, carpet, tiles or timber. For an exposed finish, use DL59.
Planning a job and not sure how many bags to order? Send us your floor area and we will help you work it out.