Best Cheaper Alternative to Self-leveling Compound?

Self-leveling compounds always work best to reinforce your existing concrete construction. This is undoubtedly one of the best concrete leveling methods for most residential and commercial floors. However, the main problem is the higher cost that most users try to avoid.

But wait!

You don’t really need to invest lots of dollars to level your floor. There are many cheaper alternatives to self-leveling compounds that you can use to level your floor. For example, Sand Mix, Portland Cement With Sand Mix, Gypsum-Based Compound, Drywall Compound, and Foam can be used as a replacement for self-leveling compounds. They are cost-effective & also durable that keeps your floor smooth and glossy.

This guide explains Cheaper alternatives to self-leveling compounds, their advantages, disadvantages, and the right application method. Besides, we give you personalized choices for self-leveling compounds according to your project.

So read this guide and find the best cheaper alternatives to self-leveling compounds for your use case.

5 Cheaper alternative to self-leveling compound

Self-leveling compounds are cement mixtures that are used in various DIY projects. Most commonly, they make smooth and flat surfaces over a subfloor. They have a lot of advantages. However, SLC can be costly for an individual.

And, that’s why many homeowners look for a replacement of SLC.

Below are the cheapest alternatives that you can use instead of a self-leveling compound:

Sand Mix

The sand mix should be your first choice when looking for a Cheaper alternative to a self-leveling compound. You can easily find this cement mixture at any nearby hardware store. Sand concrete mix is typically made from sand, cement, and other fibers. 

The main advantage of this compound is it is a cost-effective option for smaller projects. The disadvantage of the sand mix is less durable than traditional self-leveling compounds.

This compound can easily be mixed with water and create a smooth surface. The sand mix is most commonly used in lighter projects where tile installation and laminate flooring are the main tasks. Still, You can use this compound in projects like Patching and resurfacing the damaged concrete surface. You can also use it as bedding material to install bricks or stones.

PROS:

• This versatile self-leveling compound used Patching and resurfacing to set bricks and create a base.
• Easily available in any hardware store
• A cost-effective cement compound 
• The best option for lighter DIY projects
• Sand mix simplifies the mixing process
• Excellent compatibility with existing cement surfaces

CONS:

• Not much suitable for heavy-duty construction
• You may need multi-layering to reach the desired surface
• Improper reinforcement lead to crack over time
• Beginners may find the Mixing and application process is challenging

Portland Cement With Sand Mix

Portland Cement With Sand Mix refers to a mixture of these two compounds. Generally, the experts suggest using a 1:3 ratio while mixing the Portland cement and sand. Still, the ratio of these mixtures depends on the required strength and projects. Constructors use this compound in small patch jobs and medium DIY projects. Portland Cement With Sand Mix creates an excellent paste-like substance that binds materials like bricks, stones, or concrete blocks. 

The advantage of using Portland cement and sand mix is widely available resources, cost-effectiveness, and economic benefit. The disadvantage of this compound is it is only suitable for some types of floors. 

PROS:

• Portland cement and sand mix offers excellent bonding and adhesive properties.
• A cheaper alternative to performing patch jobs and medium projects.
• The mixture prevents cracking or crumbling issues in masonry structures.
• Simple mixing process with water to create a spreadable consistency.
• It makes customization easier for specific projects.

CONS:

• It may need more frequent maintenance and repair than standard self-leveling compounds.
• Only very applicable to some types of floors.
• Proper techniques are required to avoid shrinking problems.
• It tends to absorb moisture and lead to deterioration.

Gypsum-Based Compound

This is another cheaper alternative to self-leveling compounds. Gypsum-Based Compounds are typically made from Gypsum powder and other additives. This cement mixture is primarily used in interior flooring to level or smooth uneven surfaces. Users can expect Quick floor covering by using this compound. Indeed, gypsum cement has a faster drying time than many self-leveling compounds. 

The main advantage of gypsum underlayment is that it applies to different interior flooring. Users can expect a range of floor covering, including laminate, hardwood, and carpet. The disadvantage of this cement mixture is less durability and strength, which makes it challenging in high moisture or heavy traffic areas. 

Still, the Gypsum-Based Compound is easily available in pre-made form. You can create a suitable adhesive base for additional floor finishing using this mixture. 

PROS:

• This compound offers rapid drying time and makes floor covering quicker.
• Easy to comfortable with various interior floor types.
• It shows minimal shrinkage while the compound is drying.
• Easily applicable with smoothing tools.
• Excellent patching compound suitable to fix drywall.
• Good for repairing indoor walls and floors.

CONS;

• It has limited strength and durability than Portland cement and sand
• Highly sensitive to moisture and tend to get frequent water exposure.
• Recommended for thin applications that fix minor casualties on the subfloor.

Drywall Compound

This is another good cheaper alternative you can use instead of self-elevation compounds. Drywall cement, also known as joint compound or mud, is used to level drywall, gypsum board, or ceiling surfaces. Indeed, this paste-like compound is mixed with water to create a creamy texture. 

Drywall cement contains gypsum powder, water, and other additives. This ready-to-apply powder easily fixes joints between drywall boards, smooths uneven surfaces, and is used in patching tasks also. 

The advantage of this compound is its easy availability and quick solution for simple DIY projects. In contrast, the disadvantage of drywall cement is less durability than the above self-leveling compounds.

PROS:

• Seamless blending with water makes it easy to use.
• Used for various purposes like a joint filling, patching, leveling surface, and others
• It comes as ready to mix form
• A cost-effective solution and easily available in hardware shops.

CONS:

• It has a longer drying time than many self-leveling compounds.
• It does not hold heavy pressure 
• Drywall dust tends to pass through your breath and causes health issues.

Foam

Our final Cheaper alternative to the self-leveling compound is foam powder. Generally, this is a mixture of polystyrene foam beads, binding agents, and other fibers. Many people used foam as a floor leveling material. Manufacturers suggest using foam compounds for simple gap-filling and leveling uneven surfaces. 

This compound has lightweight characteristics making it easier to handle on a structure. The advantage of foam compounds is the thermal and acoustic properties of the floor. So users can enjoy some insulation benefits after leveling the floor. A disadvantage of foam compound is low strength and not applicable for heavy loads or uneven floors. 

PROS:

• The foam compound is much lighter, making it easy to apply and transport.
• Create a decent base for flooring installation.
• Faster project completion for quick drying properties.
• Offer good thermal and Acoustic Insulation.
• Reduce the overall weight of the structure. 

CONS:

• Limited load-carrying capacity.
• Not applicable to all uneven floors.
• It also has limited moisture resistance capabilities.

Which self-leveling compound alternative is best for you?

Now, which self-leveling compound is best suited for your task? The simple answer is it depends. Each alternative has different characteristics and offers almost similar DIY benefits. Still, only some compounds are better in some conditions. So the following are below. 

Sand mix

This compound is a mixture of sand, cement, and other additives. The sand mix creates a good-quality adhesion for patching and repairing tasks. This compound is also used as a thin topping on surfaces, making Topping and Resurfacing tasks easier. 

• You can use sand mix for laminating double-layer systems.
• Adhering gypsum panels
• Fixing and repairing cracked and uneven surface
• Creates solid subfloor for ceramic tile installation
• Repairing cracks on the chimney crown

Portland Cement and Sand

The combination of Portland cement and sand offers good construction benefits in DIY projects. Mixing them with water allows you to create good quality concrete used in sidewalks and many structural applications. Depending on the project, you can adjust the ratio and make a more durable paste. 

• Ideal to use on garden edges.
• Fill joints on floor, wall, ceiling
• Repair shower bases.
• Used in toilet pan bedding.

Gypsum-based Compound

Gypsum plaster is ideal for drywall and ceiling repair. This is a powder of gypsum and other additives. Users can mix the compound with water and create a good adhesive for gaps or uneven surfaces. 

• Best for finishing drywall joints, holes, screws, and holes.
• Nonstructural filling and repairing.
• Fix Roof edges and ceiling boards.

Drywall compound

This compound is also good at repairing drywall and fixing gaps in gypsum walls. The coating may have a slower drying time than the gypsum-based compound. Still, the drywall cement is good at joints and corners in drywall installation.

• It enhances soundproofing capabilities in walls and joints.
• Suitable cement for creative projects.
• Good at Walls, ceilings, and painted woodwork

Foam

This self-leveling compound is good for interior floors and expensive areas of your room. Foam cement provides excellent thermal and Acoustic Insulation for homes. You can use them on clean and sensitive surfaces.

• Apply on hard to reach surfaces.
• Ideal for lighter projects like simple gap filling or repair.

Can you make your own self-leveling compound?

Yes, you can make your self-leveling compound at home. But it’s crucial to understand the required elements for the project. You need sand, cement, and plasticizer compounds in the process. So check out the below points 

• First, prepare 1 part cement to 4 find triple wash sand.
• Then add three tablespoons of plasticizer into the mixture.
• Now combine the mixture with clean water and thoroughly move the compounds for a few minutes.
• Pour it starting from the corner.
• Apply the self-leveling chemical, and you are done.

FAQs On Cheapter Alternative To Self-Leveling Compound

Conclusion

So above is a detailed guide about Cheaper alternatives to self-leveling compounds. As mentioned, the sand mix is the first best option you can try for your project.

However, according to your need, you can also go for gypsum compound, drywall, or foam cement. Each self-leveling alternative has different characteristics and benefits for DIY projects. For example, gypsum compounds are good for repairing and fixing drywall joints and corners.

On the other hand, foam cement is used in interior flooring and expensive areas of your room. So read our complete guide carefully and seek professional help to finalize your self-leveling compound.