“Which one should I buy?” is probably the question we hear most often on the phone. When it comes to floor levelling, both DL24 and DL59 are cement-based self leveling compounds. Both flow out flat and both belong to the same Cemimax flooring system. But they are built for very different jobs. Picking the wrong one can cost you either money or performance.
The Short Answer
Use DL24 for standard interior levelling under coverings like vinyl, carpet, tiles or timber in normal traffic areas.
Use DL59 when the floor faces heavy traffic, when you need thicker build-ups or when the levelled surface will be polished and left exposed.
DL24 vs DL59 Side by Side
| Feature | DL24 | DL59 |
|---|---|---|
| Main role | Smoothing compound before floor coverings | High-strength levelling and decorative finishes |
| Thickness | 2 to 5 mm per layer | 1.5 to 40 mm |
| Compressive strength (28 days) | About 20 MPa | About 45 MPa |
| Flexural strength (28 days) | About 6 MPa | About 8 MPa |
| Working time | 20 to 30 minutes | 20 to 30 minutes |
| Can be polished | No | Yes |
| Use area | Interior | Interior and exterior |
| Best for | Homes, offices, classrooms and shops | Malls, warehouses, hospitals and decorative floors |
Four Questions to Ask Before You Choose
1. What is going on top?
If a floor covering will hide the levelling layer, its only job is to be flat, sound and ready for adhesive. DL24 does that well. If nothing is going on top and the compound itself becomes the finished floor, you need the density and smoothness of DL59.
2. How much traffic will the floor carry?
A bedroom or meeting room sees light foot traffic. A supermarket aisle or hospital corridor sees trolleys, beds and carts all day long. The higher compressive strength of DL59 gives you a much bigger safety margin under heavy use.
3. How uneven is the floor?
DL24 is designed for 2 to 5 mm per layer, which covers most everyday corrections. If you are dealing with deeper dips or need to build up to meet a door threshold, DL59 can go up to 40 mm. For very deep areas it can also make sense to lay a screed first and finish with a thin smoothing layer.
4. What are your budget and timeline?
DL24 is the more economical levelling compound Singapore contractors reach for on large areas of standard prep. DL59 costs more per bag but can save time where you would otherwise need several layers or a separate finish. It is also walkable in about 2 hours.
Real-World Scenarios
- Condo renovation with SPC flooring: DL24. The subfloor just needs to be flat so the planks lock together properly.
- Café wanting an industrial cement look: DL59, polished and sealed.
- Office fit-out with broadloom carpet: DL24 under a textile adhesive like Cemimax A300.
- Warehouse aisle or loading area: DL59 for its strength and quick return to service.
- Balcony, patio or covered walkway: DL59. DL24 is for interior use only, while DL59 also works as an external self levelling compound.
- Home with timber flooring over underfloor heating: DL59, which is suited to direct-stick timber and radiant heating.
What About DL30?
We also carry DL30, which sits in the middle of our range. You can read the full breakdown in our DL30 guide. For most of the projects we see though, the decision comes down to DL24 or DL59. If you want the deeper detail on each, see our DL59 guide and DL24 guide.
Flatness Is Judged Closely in Singapore
Floor finishes are one of the items assessed under BCA’s CONQUAS quality scheme. A well-levelled base makes it far easier for the final floor to look and perform the way it should, whether the project is being scored or not.
Whichever You Pick, Prep Is Everything
No self leveling compound can fix a poorly prepared base. Clean the slab, repair cracks, check moisture and prime before you pour. Slabs here often hold more moisture than people expect, so it is worth reading about moisture vapour retarders in Singapore if the building is new.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is DL59 better than DL24?
Not better, just different. DL59 is stronger and can be polished while DL24 is the more economical choice for standard interior prep under floor coverings.
Can I use DL24 in a warehouse?
We do not recommend it for areas with forklifts or heavy trolleys. DL59 is designed for that level of traffic.
How do I work out how many bags I need?
Measure the floor area and average depth. Then check the coverage on the technical data sheet or send the details to our team.
Still unsure which one fits your floor? Get in touch with our team or download our brochure to compare the full range.