Can I apply ARDEX levelling compounds over painted floors? Can I apply ARDEX levelling compounds over painted floors?

Can I apply ARDEX levelling compounds over painted floors?

In general, “no”. A painted floor refers to anything on a floor that resembles paint and can include a variety of finishes ranging from acrylic or chlorinated rubber paints, which are generally used in domestic properties, to epoxy-based coatings more common in industrial locations.

Before applying an ARDEX levelling or smoothing compound we recommend the removal of the “painted finish” to reveal a sound substrate without barriers to adhesion. This is because even though the ARDEX product may adhere to the “paint”, the bond of the “paint” to the substrate may not be strong enough and could lead to a failure in the floor.

In situations where a contractor deems the “painted finish” sound and wishes to apply ARDEX products directly to the “painted finish”, a trial area is always recommended and the contractor is accepting all responsibility that the bond of the “painted finish” is sufficient for the required end-use.