How to Level an Uneven Subfloor? 6 Tips To Follow

Subfloors are the foundation of any home. They support all of the weight from above and should be level across to prevent damage to your home. But if you have an uneven subfloor, it can lead to problems with your air conditioning or heating system, as well as structural issues that can cost a lot of money to fix. Luckily, there are ways you can level out an uneven subfloor on your own!

1. Remove the Old Floor

When leveling a floor, you should always start with removing any old tiles and other debris. If your subfloor is uneven or has significant gaps between the boards, leveling will be more difficult. It could create issues in appearance once the new adhesive is applied to install ceramic tile. 

Several different types of tools can be used for this process, such as hammers and prybars. However, using an electric saw like a circular saw will often save time when compared to other methods requiring less energy because no force needs to be exerted by hand while operating. You can save on circular saw-through coupons.

2. Add Support

One of the most important things to remember when leveling a subfloor is that you will need to use some support underneath. It can be achieved by renting or buying shims that are long thin boards inserted into gaps between floorboards. 

Wood blocks may also work, but they tend not to provide as much support as shims and could lead to later problems. 

It’s generally recommended that you don’t skimp on this step because it could cause tiles to crack over time from an uneven surface area. 

Also, ensure all surfaces have been cleared off before adding new supports, so no debris gets mixed in with your adhesive for installation purposes!

3. Add Adhesive

Many different types of adhesives can be used for this process. However, it is recommended to use a solvent-based adhesive. These will clean up with water which allows you to continue working if there happen to be any dripping or messes while applying the tiles after leveling. 

You should always follow instructions on how long each layer needs to dry before adding another one. Depending on type and temperature, the drying time varies, but usually, no more than 30 minutes per coat should suffice. 

So multiple layers may not need much waiting time in between. It’s also essential when using an adhesive like this that all surfaces have been cleared off beforehand. You can check for deals on solvent-based adhesive through coupons. 

4. Use a Level

When leveling an uneven subfloor, you should always make sure to use some level, whether for checking purposes or even while applying adhesive. It will ensure that the new tiles are installed correctly, preventing future cracks if your surfaces aren’t perfectly aligned with each other! 

It can also help give you time to remove excess adhesives before they dry because different types have varying drying times, so not all need much waiting in between coats.

5. Allow to Dry

After completing all of your leveling and applying adhesive, you must give time for everything to dry thoroughly. It will depend on the type of adhesive used and other factors such as humidity levels. 

If any glue is left over after this step, there could be issues with tiles sticking together or even breaking, so make sure no debris gets mixed into new adhesive before thoroughly drying!

6. Install Tiles

After everything has dried, it’s time to install your new tiles! Continue working from one sheet into the next until the entire floor is completed. Remember that angles and corners might require extra work since they don’t follow the same layout as walls where joists meet studs beneath.

Fill gaps with wood filler if needed before sanding for best final results. It helps create a seamless look when everything is finished! Check for offers on wood filler for savings.

Summing Up

Many people are surprised to find out that the plywood subfloor under their house is not level. If you have ever experienced this, then you know how frustrating it can be. Luckily, there are some easy ways to fix an uneven subfloor. Follow our guide in this regard for a quick fix. You can also check for tips to maintain a brick floor for further help.