What tools are necessary/helpful for self-leveling compound?

[lechuan]

A few years ago I applied SLC to a 30 square foot area using LevelQuick RS (Rapid Set). It ended up setting while I was still trying to encourage it to spread evenly, which resulted in a bit of manual fill after.

I'm going to tackle a larger area, about 160 square feet, and I'd like to avoid the mistakes I made the first time around:

1) I bought the LevelQuick ES (Extended Set, with 15 minutes of working time vs 5 minutes with the RS)

2) I'd like to use something better for helping to spread around the SLC. I have seen a few different products:

a) Trowel
b) Spiked Roller
c) Gauge Rake
d) Smoothing Paddle
e) Spiked Shoes

The gauge rake and smoothing paddle let you work standing up, looks easier and faster ( http://youtube.com/watch?v=BY3C8TWkwQw ).

Another video recommends using the spiked roller to release any trapped air bubbles and to blend SLC pours ( http://youtube.com/watch?v=g4auCNQWu-M ).

Does anyone have any experience or suggestions as to which tools to use? I'm a complete amateur, so would like to make this as easy as possible. But, I'd also like to avoid buying these tools if they're not that necessary.

 

[dazlight]

What you laying ontop?
You will be ok with the trowel and spike roller.
Make sure you prime the floor as that will help with the flow of the screed.

 

[lechuan]

Thanks for the feedback dazlight.

I will be placing Trafficmaster Allure Ultra/Clic Vinyl Plank Flooring on top. The specs allow 1/8" difference over 4'. Two of the room's walls are on the edge of the foundation, and parts of the concrete slab have settled about 3/8" below the foundation edge at the point where they meet.

I will prime with the primer recommended for the product.