- 1). Use a Portland cement mixture to patch any larger holes in the floor before you begin. Mix the cement with a small amount of water, then use a trowel to fill any holes or cracks. Smooth away any excess material and allow the patches to dry before proceeding.
- 2). Use an expansion tape to build a dam around the room's perimeter. The expansion tape should go right at the baseboards, providing a joint between the wall and the floor topper you will be pouring.
- 3). Use duct tape to protect any receptacles, vents or other objects that could be affected by the concrete.
- 4). Mix your concrete with water. Use a drill with a paddle bit to blend the self-leveling compound according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- 5). Pour the concrete mixture in 1-foot wide strips across the entire length of the floor. Use your concrete rake to spread the mixture if necessary, and use a trowel to push the concrete into any tight spaces. True to its name, the self-leveling concrete will spread evenly across the surface due to gravity.
- 6). Wait 48 hours for the mixture to dry, then apply a concrete sealer across the entire surface using a paint roller. This will give the concrete a slight sheen and protect it from moisture.