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RLA TruLevel Fine Finish is a cement-based skim smoothing compound engineered for rapid internal floor preparation before the installation of resilient and carpet finishes. This rapid-drying underlayment trowels from a true feather edge to 3mm, providing a glass-smooth surface that prevents substrate imperfections from telegraphing through thin vinyl or luxury vinyl tiles.
Certified with GEV Emicode EC1 Plus for ultra-low emissions, it ensures high indoor air quality while meeting the strict requirements of Australian Standard 1884-2021 for resilient floor installations. Specialists can Trowel the compound over concrete, masonry, and timber underlays, achieving a trafficable surface ready for floor coverings in approximately 20 minutes at 20°C.
To ensure a successful Bond, substrates must be structurally sound and free of laitance or curing membranes; porous surfaces should be primed with RLA Universal Primer to control suction. For remedial applications over existing ceramic tiles, a consistent 3mm layer is required to ensure proper adhesive wet-out and prevent delamination.
Do not apply over expansion joints or on substrates with rising damp, as these conditions may trigger reflective cracking or bond failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How soon can I install floorcoverings over TruLevel Fine Finish?
At ~20 °C, most floorcoverings can be installed in approximately 20 minutes once the skim can be walked on without damaging the film. Cooler conditions will extend drying; always confirm set before proceeding.
What thickness can I apply?
Apply from feather edge to 3 mm in a single coat. Over non-absorbent substrates (e.g., ceramic tiles), a consistent 3 mm layer is recommended to ensure adhesive wet-out.
Do I need a primer?
Generally no primer is required. On highly porous substrates, prime with RLA Universal Primer diluted 1:2 with clean water to uniform film before skimming.
What is the coverage?
A 5 kg bag covers approximately 10 m² @ 1 mm. Actual coverage depends on substrate profile and technique.
Can I use it externally?
No. TruLevel Fine Finish is for internal use only. Protect from water during and after cure; do not use on substrates with rising damp.
Applications & Benefits
| Application / Use Case | Key Benefit | Primary Trades |
|---|---|---|
| Feather-edge skim to remove trowel marks | Rapid set for same-day progress | Floor layers, builders |
| Localised levelling before resilient or carpet | Smooth, uniform surface for reliable adhesion | Flooring contractors |
| Bridging grout lines over ceramic tiles | 3 mm skim promotes adhesive wet-out | Remedial contractors |
| Fast repairs in refurb programmes | Cuts downtime and labour drag | Builders, facility maintenance |
Applying RLA TruLevel Fine Finish: Enhanced Protocols & Best Practices
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Surface Preparation
Ensure internal substrates are sound, smooth, dry and clean. Remove weak layers, laitance, contaminants and sharp protrusions; repair defects flush. Verify RH/pH where resilient finishes will be installed (AS 1884:2021).
Mechanical Prep
Grind/abrade to expose a clean, stable surface. Vacuum thoroughly.
Priming (as required)
On porous substrates, roll RLA Universal Primer diluted 1:2 (primer:water) to a continuous film and allow to dry.
Timing: Allow primer to dry; cold conditions lengthen dry time.Pro Tip: Address moisture first — apply a vapour barrier where RH is elevated. -
Mixing
Add powder to water and mix to a lump-free consistency.
Measured Mix
Approx. 1.8 L clean water per 5 kg (about 1:3 water:powder). Mix 3–4 minutes until uniform. Do not over-water.
Batching Tips
Use clean pails and tools. Mix only what you can place within the ~10-minute open time.
Timing: Open time ~10 minutes at 20 °C.Pro Tip: Avoid re-tempering with water; this reduces bond strength. -
Application
Trowel from feather edge to 3 mm in a single coat.
Standard Skim
Apply to required height or incline for localised smoothing. Keep edges tight to blend with adjacent surfaces.
Over Non-Absorbent Tiles
Place a uniform 3 mm layer to achieve adhesive wet-out for subsequent floorcoverings.
Timing: Set in ~20 minutes at 20 °C; cooler weather extends set.Pro Tip: Protect from water during and after curing; internal use only. -
Ready for Floorcoverings
Install most floorcoverings once the skim can be walked on without damage (typically ~20 minutes at 20 °C). Follow adhesive manufacturer’s guidelines.
Foot Traffic
Allow adequate time before general foot traffic; more time in cold conditions.
Timing: Cool temperatures and high humidity extend all times.Pro Tip: Avoid spanning movement or expansion joints; reflective cracking can occur.
Limitations & Safety
Product Limitations
Internal use only; protect from water during and after cure.
Do not apply on substrates with rising damp; treat moisture first with an appropriate moisture vapour barrier.
Do not bridge expansion/movement joints to avoid reflective cracking.
Cold weather extends drying/setting times; plan sequencing accordingly.
Safety & Handling Requirements
Personal Protective Equipment
Avoid dust inhalation; wear a suitable respirator during mixing. Use safety glasses and chemical-resistant gloves; wear protective clothing.
Ventilation Requirements
Use in well-ventilated areas. Avoid creating airborne dust; keep containers closed when not in use.
Fire & Handling Precautions
Do not eat, drink or smoke while using. Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.
Emergency First Aid
Eyes:
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes; remove contact lenses; continue rinsing. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
Skin:
Wash with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing.
Inhaled:
Move to fresh air and rest comfortably.
Swallowed:
Do not induce vomiting; give water and contact a doctor or Poisons Information Centre (AU 13 11 26; NZ 0800 764 766).
Seek medical attention immediately in all cases of serious exposure.
RLA TruLevel Fine Finish Application Guide
Concrete
Surface Preparation
Minimum 14 days old, sound, smooth, dry and clean. Remove laitance, curing agents, contaminants and weak layers by grinding or equivalent. Verify RH/pH per AS 1884:2021.
Primer Requirements
Primer recommended for porous slabs
Prime highly porous concrete with RLA Universal Primer diluted 1:2 (primer:water). Allow to dry to a uniform film.
RLA Universal PrimerMasonry & Concrete Blocks
Surface Preparation
Point flush; repair voids. Ensure surface is clean, stable and free of dust or efflorescence.
Primer Requirements
Primer recommended if very absorbent
Use RLA Universal Primer 1:2 with water to control suction and improve workability.
RLA Universal PrimerMasonite / Hardboard
Surface Preparation
Ensure sheets are structurally fixed, flat and dry. Clean surface; sand lightly to de-gloss if required.
Primer Requirements
Primer optional based on porosity
Prime if suction is high or uniformity is required before skimming.
RLA Universal PrimerTimber Underlays (internal)
Surface Preparation
Securely fasten underlay; sand joints/ridges; vacuum thoroughly. Ensure dry and clean.
Primer Requirements
Primer optional
Prime where needed to control suction and improve trowel glide.
RLA Universal PrimerNon-Absorbent Surfaces (e.g., Ceramic Tiles)
Surface Preparation
Degrease, clean and abrade glazed surfaces; vacuum dust. Ensure firm adhesion of tiles.
Primer Requirements
Primer not typically required
Apply a uniform 3 mm TruLevel Fine Finish layer to ensure adhesive wet-out for subsequent floorcoverings.
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