Leveling a floor involves prepping the subfloor by cleaning and priming, then applying a self leveling compound, also known as screed, or using underlayment for minor, localised, or wooden floor corrections.
When your floor is uneven, it’s important not to ignore it, as it can worsen and cause avoidable damage down the line.
Regardless of whether an uneven floor causes squeaky floor boards and cracked tiles, or doors that are unable to close, it can have a negative impact on both the aesthetic appearance and performance of your interior space.
Ready to learn how to level a floor properly? Read on as the experienced team at Joseph Parr Northants breaks it down.
Why You Must Level a Subfloor
Before you begin to contemplate the finished surface, you should start by considering what’s underneath. A subfloor is the flooring system’s foundation, so if it is uneven, problems will arise.
Here are some of the issues an uneven subfloor can cause:
Premature wear on the flooring materials
Cracked tiles or separating joints
Gaps, movement, or creaking underfoot
Problems installing laminate, engineered wood, or other types of modern flooring
Using premium sheet materials will help you create a stable floor buildup that will last for several decades.
How to Self Level a Floor
Self levelling is a very popular method when it comes to fixing smaller or moderate imperfections with flooring and is often used on concrete subfloors, but can be applied over suitable timber bases.
How to Level a Concrete Floor
When it comes to levelling concrete flooring, self levelling compound is often the best option. It is a liquid based product that covers the surface and is able to settle into low spots to create a smooth and flat finish. It often comes in bulk bags like this 20kg Bond It Level Master flooring compound.
Here is what the process entails:
A thorough cleaning of the floor to get rid of dust and debris
Prior to levelling, cracks and holes should be repaired
The application of a primer to help the compound bond like Bostik concrete sealers
Spreading the levelling compound evenly using a concrete rake.
Sourcing the correct primers and repair products is vital. Concrete repair, release oil, and flooring help ensure proper adhesion and a strong finish.
How to Level a Floor With Plywood
Levelling a floor with plywood is often the most practical choice for timber subfloors or suspended floors, working brilliantly when there are dips or slopes in the floor.
Plywood sheets are fixed over the existing subfloor in order to create a flat surface and it’s important to find the correct grade and thickness for your specific flooring. Quality options, such as hardwood faced plywood, OSB, and marine ply, offer robustness, stability, and resistance to movement.
Tips for plywood levelling:
Use packers or shims to correct low areas
Stagger sheet joints for added strength
Prevent movement in the future by securing the sheets firmly
Before laying the final flooring, fill the joints and sand if required
How Much Does it Cost to Level a Floor?
The cost of levelling a floor is a common question many have, and the answer will depend on the condition of the existing surface and the type of floor you are installing.
Here are some general things to remember:
The majority of flooring requires no more than a 3mm variation above 2 metres
Thin coverings, such as vinyl or tiles, require a higher level of accuracy
Thicker flooring might be able to tolerate slightly more variation but will still feel the benefits of proper levelling.
For slight unevenness, using a self levelling compound typically runs around £15 to £30 per m², while fixing larger dips with a traditional screed may cost £20 to £40 per m². You’re looking at around £60-100 all in, accounting for supporting tools and accessories to get the job done properly. This might be significantly more depending on surface area and whether you need to use plywood.
Choosing the Right Levelling Method
There isn’t a single solution for flooring levelling, with different types requiring varying methods.
Concrete floors often suit self levelling compounds, whereas timber floors prosper with plywood systems or targeted repairs.
Before you start floor levelling, take into account the type of subfloor, what the final flooring material will be, and the level of unevenness.
Need Advice on How to Level Up An Uneven Floor?
Being able to level a floor is a useful skill to have when it comes to renovation and flooring. Finding the best approach will save time and help you create a floor that lasts for decades.
We can always help point you to the right materials and tools for the job, so if you have any questions regarding floor levelling, please get in touch.