When it comes to successful flooring installations, it’s easy to think the underlayment is the star of the show. After all, the self-leveling underlayment (SLU) is what creates the smooth, even surface that installers and end users notice most. But the truth is, a subfloor prep system is only as strong as its foundation—and that means the entire system matters, not just one layer.

1. Primer: Bond Strength That Lasts

Take primers, for example. A dependable primer doesn’t just “stick things together”—it’s the bridge that ensures long-term bond strength between the substrate and your SLU. That’s why Primer P360 has become a trusted choice: its fast-drying, alkali-resistant formula bonds to both porous and non-porous substrates—even in environments with a pH of 14. For compromised or dusty substrates, PrepPro SLV can be used to strengthen and consolidate the surface before topping with a self-leveling underlayment. These aren’t just extra steps—they’re critical measures that protect your installation from bond failure, cracking, or delamination down the road.

PrepPro SLV

Without the right primer, SLUs are at risk of debonding or separating from the substrate. Dependable primers, like Platform P360 and PrepPro SLV, are designed to deliver maximum bond strength in different conditions—whether it’s a clean concrete slab, a high-alkali environment, or a weakened gypsum surface. Choosing the right primer ensures your SLU performs as intended, project after project.

2. Moisture Control: Protecting from the Ground Up

Moisture is one of the most common culprits behind flooring failures. Excess vapor can lead to adhesive breakdown, floor curling, and even mold growth. That’s why moisture mitigation isn’t optional—it’s essential. Products like Skimflow LCB provide a silicate-based barrier that locks out moisture before it reaches the flooring system. Pairing this with the right primer and SLU ensures long-term performance and helps your project pass inspection the first time.

3. Self-Leveling Underlayment: Smooth & Strong

SLUs shine when they’re placed on a properly prepared surface with the right primer and moisture control in place. They create the flat, even substrate installers need, but they depend on the system behind them. When used within the FloorPrep by Dependable system, our SLUs deliver optimal flow, strength, and compatibility for a wide range of floor coverings.

Skimflow LCB

4. System = Warranty Protection

Perhaps the most overlooked benefit of using a complete system is warranty coverage. Manufacturers like Dependable design and test their products to work together, ensuring consistent performance. When all components—primer, moisture control, and SLU—are installed as a system, your project is protected by a full warranty. Mixing products from different manufacturers or skipping steps often voids warranties, leaving contractors responsible for costly replacements.

The Bottom Line

Flooring failures rarely happen because of the SLU alone—they happen when the prep system isn’t complete. By choosing a comprehensive solution from FloorPrep by Dependable, you protect your project from the ground up, improve installation efficiency, and secure peace of mind with full warranty coverage.

Because in flooring, success isn’t just about the surface—it’s about what’s beneath it.

Explore complete subfloor prep systems at floorprep.com.