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RLA TruLevel Fine Finish: A Technical Overview
RLA TruLevel Fine Finish is a fast-drying, cement-based smoothing compound formulated to deliver a fine skim finish over internal concrete, masonry, or timber substrates. Designed for use at feather edge up to 3mm thickness, this compound mixes easily with water to create a smooth, lump-free paste. It dries rapidly — ready for vinyl or carpet installation in just 20 minutes at 20°C — making it ideal for tight turnaround projects, punch-list touch-ups, and renovation patching. With excellent flow, zero shrinkage, and high coverage (~10m² per 5 kg at 1mm), it provides a uniform finish that eliminates surface imperfections before adhesive application.
Core Features & Specifications
- Feather-edge to 3mm application in one coat — no layering required
- Walk-on and floorcovering-ready after just 20 minutes at 20°C
- Excellent workability — spreads easily with minimal trowel drag
- Outstanding coverage — approx. 10m² per 5 kg bag at 1mm
- For concrete, masonry, timber, and block substrates
- Internal use only — ideal for commercial fitouts and fast refurbs
- VOC: EC1 Plus — ultra-low emissions for indoor environments
The RLA TruLevel Fine Finish Advantage
- Speeds up flooring installs — ready for adhesive in under half an hour
- Reduces callbacks by eliminating minor substrate defects before they telegraph
- No priming required in most cases — simplifies site workflow
- Perfect for touch-up repairs during late-stage construction
- Compatible with RLA Moisture Seal for high moisture slabs
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast can I install floorcoverings over RLA TruLevel Fine Finish?
RLA TruLevel Fine Finish is walkable and ready for floorcovering installation in as little as 20 minutes at 20°C. This makes it ideal for projects requiring fast turnarounds or minor surface correction before handover.
What is the maximum application thickness for RLA TruLevel Fine Finish?
TruLevel Fine Finish can be applied from feather edge up to 3mm in a single coat. It’s designed for skim finishing, patching and touch-ups — not bulk levelling.
Do I need to use a primer with RLA TruLevel Fine Finish?
In most cases, priming is not required. For highly porous surfaces, dilute RLA Universal Primer (1:2 with water) and apply a thin coat to prevent pinholing or dry-out during application.
Can I use RLA TruLevel Fine Finish on timber or masonite?
Yes. Timber, masonite, and concrete block substrates are all compatible with RLA TruLevel Fine Finish. Ensure all surfaces are dry, stable, and free of contaminants. Use primer if unsure of absorbency.
Can RLA TruLevel Fine Finish be used as a wear surface?
No. TruLevel Fine Finish is not designed to function as a finished surface. It must be covered with a suitable floorcovering such as vinyl, carpet, or resilient sheet material once dry.
What happens if I overwater the mix?
Overwatering reduces strength and bond performance. Always mix using a 1:3 water-to-powder ratio by volume and blend for 3–4 minutes to ensure consistency without bleed or separation.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Feather finishing over concrete slabs | Smooths micro-imperfections and patchy areas before adhesive installation | Tilers, Floorcovering Installers |
| Patching and skimming over damaged screeds | Fills minor dips and holes up to 3mm without shrinkage or drag | Remedial Specialists, Fitout Teams |
| Touch-ups before vinyl, carpet, or linoleum | Fast-drying — ready for adhesive in 20 minutes at 20°C | Vinyl Layers, Flooring Crews |
| Repairing defects in high-visibility zones | Zero trowel marks — finish blends seamlessly into existing substrate | Commercial Fitout Crews, Builders |
| Smoothing timber sheeting before underlayment | Excellent adhesion to timber and fibre cement with proper priming | Cabinetmakers, Joiners, Hybrid Installers |
How to Apply RLA TruLevel Fine Finish
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Step 1: Surface Preparation
Ensure the substrate is dry, sound, and free from dust, grease, coatings, and any contaminants. Mechanically remove laitance and loose debris if needed. If applying to porous surfaces, apply RLA Universal Primer diluted 1:2 with water.
Pro Tip: Concrete substrates must be at least 14 days old and tested for pH and RH before applying coverings.
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Step 2: Mixing
Mix 1 part clean water with 3 parts RLA TruLevel Fine Finish powder. Add powder slowly while mixing with a low-speed drill and paddle for 3–4 minutes to achieve a smooth, lump-free consistency.
Do Not Overwater: Excess water weakens bond strength and increases shrinkage risk.
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Step 3: Application
Apply mixed compound using a steel trowel. Spread from feather edge to a maximum 3mm thickness. Press firmly to achieve good adhesion and a smooth surface. Do not retemper once mix begins to stiffen.
Feather Finish: Use light pressure at edges to blend seamlessly with adjacent surfaces.
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Step 4: Drying & Floorcovering Installation
At 20°C, the surface will be ready for foot traffic and floor coverings after approximately 20 minutes. Ensure surface is dry before adhesive installation.
Temperature Warning: Colder conditions (<10°C) will extend drying times. Warmer temps reduce working time.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Do not apply externally or in wet areas. Internal dry areas only.
Not suitable as a wear surface — must be covered with vinyl, carpet, or similar floor coverings.
Do not apply over movement joints, expansion gaps, or active cracks.
Do not overwater or remix partially set product — discard and mix fresh batch.
Minimum application temperature is +5°C. Avoid use in cold or unventilated areas.
Safety & Handling Requirements
PPE Requirements
Wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Use a P2 respirator if mixing in enclosed spaces.
Ventilation
Use in well-ventilated areas. For indoor settings, maintain airflow during mixing and curing phases.
Fire Safety
Product is non-combustible. Store off-ground in cool, dry conditions. Keep packaging away from ignition sources during storage or disposal.
Emergency First Aid
Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with clean water for 15 minutes. Seek medical advice.
Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing.
Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist.
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and seek medical help immediately.
RLA TruLevel Fine Finish Application Guide by Substrate
Internal Concrete
Surface Preparation
Ensure slab is sound, dry, and free of laitance or curing compounds. Mechanically prepare smooth or contaminated surfaces if necessary.
Primer optional
Use RLA Universal Primer diluted 1:2 if surface is very porous or prone to pinholing.
Timber or Masonite Sheeting
Surface Preparation
Ensure substrate is dry, stable, and securely fixed with no deflection or movement underfoot.
Primer required
Apply RLA Universal Primer diluted 1:2. Allow to dry fully before skimming.
Render, Blockwork, or Cement Sheet
Surface Preparation
Remove dust, laitance, and surface chalk. Sweep or vacuum thoroughly before application.
Primer optional
Use RLA Universal Primer if surface is excessively absorbent or patchy in porosity.
Contaminated Concrete (Adhesive Residue)
Surface Preparation
Mechanically remove all adhesive. Sanding or grinding required. Do not skim over contaminated surfaces.
Primer required after proper cleaning
Apply neat RLA Universal Primer to cleaned substrate. Let dry before applying skim coat.
Moisture-Affected Slabs
Surface Preparation
Test for moisture using hygrometer. If above spec, apply RLA Moisture Seal first.
Moisture seal + primer required
Once moisture seal is cured, apply RLA Universal Primer and allow to dry before skimming.
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