egalisatielaag

Egalisatielaag, or leveling layer, is a preparatory layer applied to a substrate to create a flat, smooth, and even surface before installing finishing floors or surfaces. It is designed to compensate for undulations, pits, and irregularities in the base, improving the performance and appearance of subsequent layers.

The term is used in construction, flooring, and civil engineering to describe a thin to moderate-thickness layer that provides a uniform base for tiles, parquet, carpet, resin floors, or countertops. Common systems include cement-based screeds, gypsum-based leveling compounds, and self-leveling underlayments. In outdoor or structural contexts, asphaltic or epoxy leveling layers may be used.

Materials and thickness can vary widely depending on the substrate and finished surface. Levelling compounds may range from a few millimeters to several centimeters in thickness. Interior applications often rely on cement- or gypsum-based products, while specific environments may require moisture barriers, primers, or sealants as part of the system. Self-leveling compounds use their own flow to seek a flat plane, reducing manual troweling, whereas traditional screeds are spread and leveled by skill and experience.

Application generally involves substrate preparation (cleaning, repairing major defects, and moisture management), priming, mixing of the leveling compound, and placement by pour, pump, or trowel. Proper curing and environmental control are important to prevent warping, cracking, or adhesion failures.

Egalisatielagen are related to underlayment, screeds, self-leveling compounds, and tile or floor finishes, serving to ensure flatness, better adhesion, and longer service life for subsequent layers.