Description
ARDEX Feather Finish is a cement based smoothing compound for creating a smooth, permanent surface on internal substrates before floorcoverings such as vinyl, carpet and ceramic tile go down. It is made by ARDEX Australia. The mortar can be applied from a true feather edge up to 3 mm in a single application.
The data sheet states that most floorcoverings can be installed in as little as 15 minutes over concrete, wood, ceramic and quarry tile, without priming or additives.
Technical Specifications
| Product type | Rapid drying, cement based smoothing compound |
|---|---|
| Mixing ratio | 4.8 litres of water to 10 kg of powder, or 1 part water to 2 parts powder by volume |
| Layer thickness | True feather edge up to 3 mm in one application |
| Pot life | Approximately 15 minutes at 23 degrees C |
| Floorcovering after | As soon as it can be walked on without damage, approximately 15 minutes |
| Minimum subfloor temperature | 10 degrees C |
| Packaging | 10 kg and 4.5 kg |
| Shelf life | 12 months unopened, stored dry at 23 degrees C and 50% relative humidity |
Coverage
The data sheet describes coverage and drying time as estimates only, because the thickness applied varies. For a 10 kg unit:
| Application | Coverage per 10 kg |
|---|---|
| At 1 mm thickness | 10 m² |
| Skim coat over concrete | Up to 35 m² |
| Skim coat over plywood | Up to 70 m² |
Where to Use
- Internal floors before vinyl, carpet or ceramic tile
- Smoothing a skim coat over existing surfaces, feathered into the subfloor
When skim coating over non-porous surfaces such as ceramic tiles or vinyl, refer to the adhesive supplier for their recommended installation procedure.
How to Apply
- Prepare the floor. Concrete must be structurally sound, clean and free of dirt, dust, oil, curing and sealing compounds and anything else that could act as a bond breaker. Clean mechanically (shotblasting, diamond grinding or shaving). Acid etching is not acceptable, and do not use solvents or sweeping compounds. Subfloor temperature must not be below 10 degrees C.
- Mix 4.8 litres of water with each 10 kg of powder, always adding the powder to the water. Do not overwater.
- Mix only what can be used immediately, as pot life is approximately 15 minutes at 23 degrees C.
- Apply with a steel trowel using sufficient pressure to fill all defects and feather the product into the subfloor.
- Install floorcoverings once the surface can be walked on without damage, approximately 15 minutes.
Important Notes
- ARDEX describes Feather Finish for internal substrates.
- Concrete floor preparation is recommended, and subfloors should be tested to confirm emissions are below those specified in and conform with AS 1884.
- Do not use as an embossing filler over a cushioned floor thicker than 2 mm or a floor installed using perimeter bonding.
- The data sheet’s safety data states the product causes skin irritation and serious eye damage, is suspected of causing genetic defects, may cause damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure, and may cause allergic skin reactions and respiratory irritation.
- Do not breathe dust or fume. Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. Do not handle until all safety precautions have been read and understood. Wear protective gloves, protective clothing, eye protection and face protection, and wash all exposed areas thoroughly after handling. Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace. First aid from the data sheet: if in eyes, rinse cautiously with water for several minutes, remove contact lenses if present and easy to do, and continue rinsing, then immediately call a poison centre or doctor. If on skin, wash with plenty of water; if irritation or rash occurs, get medical advice, and take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. If inhaled, remove the person to fresh air and keep them comfortable for breathing. If exposed or concerned, get medical advice.
- Further information is in the safety data sheet at ardexaustralia.com.
