Self leveling an uneven fireplace for tiling

[Julie Wood]

I have an old very uneven concrete base which I need to self level then tile. The Everyread self leveling compound says that I should use PVA for bonding. I've seen others comment that you don't need to prime first. Can somebody please give me a definitive answer?
Thanks for reading.

 

[Gazzer]

I would use an SBR primer myself.

 

[The Legend; Phil Hobson RIP]

PVA is a no no in tiling SBR primer is the stuff you need

 

[The Legend; Phil Hobson RIP]

Snap Neale

 

[Julie Wood]

Thanks, just looked it up. Are you saying that I should lay this on existing concrete then put down self leveler then tile?

 

[Gazzer]

That is the way I would do it.

 

[The Legend; Phil Hobson RIP]

Yes dilute the SBR according to manufactures instructions, usually 3:1 with clean water.

 

[Julie Wood]

Thank you kindly. I shall pop out and get some now. Wish me luck, first time tiling a fireplace - scary stuff!!

 

[Julie Wood]

Just so I understand, what is the reason for putting down a primer (SBR) before I put the self leveler?

I understand using it on a surface before tiling but not before self leveling. Excuse my ignorance

 

[Gazzer]

Thank you kindly. I shall pop out and get some now. Wish me luck, first time tiling a fireplace - scary stuff!!

Start small and who knows what you will tile next. If you need anymore help, you know where too come.......best of all its all free advice

 

[The Legend; Phil Hobson RIP]

Two main reasons, bonds the slc to the concrete, and reduces suction in the concrete.

 

[Gazzer]

If you dont the leveller could crack due to drying out too quick. Priming the area will stop that and help the leveller stick better too.

 

[Gazzer]

Two main reasons, bonds the slc to the concrete, and reduces suction in the concrete.

If you dont the leveller could crack due to drying out too quick. Priming the area will stop that and help the leveller stick better too.

Snap same answer, different wording

 

[Julie Wood]

Thanks, comforting to know there is someone out there with all the answers!!

 

[Julie Wood]

Thank you. All makes sense now!!