Quck answer
Uneven concrete floors can be leveled by following these steps:
1. Assess the extent of the unevenness by placing a level on different areas of the floor.
2. Use a concrete grinder or floor leveling compound to remove high spots and fill in low areas.
3. Clean the floor thoroughly to remove any dust or debris.
4. Apply a self-leveling concrete overlay to create a smooth and level surface.
5. Use a trowel or squeegee to spread the overlay evenly across the floor.
6. Allow the overlay to dry and cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Once the floor is completely dry, it can be finished with your desired flooring material.
Remember to follow safety precautions and consult professionals if needed.
Concrete floors can be a cost-effective and stylish choice. If you are working on a concrete floor and notice that it is not level, there are several options to fix the issue.
An uneven concrete floor can be both unattractive and unsafe. Installing flooring on uneven concrete can lead to buckling and loose boards. By filling in gaps, cracks, and leveling the floor, you can improve the appearance and strengthen the structure of the flooring.
Cleaning the Concrete Floor
Before addressing the unevenness, it is important to thoroughly clean the floor. Remove years of dust, dirt, grime, oil, and grease to ensure that the concrete is ready for any sealant, caulk, or cement you plan to use for repairs.
A mixture of warm water and dishwashing liquid can effectively remove most surface dirt. For tougher stains, a commercial cleaner or degreaser may be necessary. However, avoid using acid-based cleaners like vinegar or lemon juice, as they can damage the concrete surface.
Checking the Evenness of the Concrete Subfloor
Many subfloors tend to be slightly uneven, especially in older homes or those that have settled. However, if you notice cracks wider than a nickel or dips deeper than 3/16 of an inch, it is necessary to level the concrete floor.
To test the evenness of the floor, place a 10-foot long 2×4 board across the surface. If the board leans or has gaps in certain areas, you can identify the uneven spots. Hills and valleys more than 3/16 of an inch can cause issues when installing any type of flooring on top of the concrete.
Leveling the Concrete Subfloor
If there are holes, divots, or deep cracks, these should be filled with a cement mixture. Caulk is not suitable for larger cracks or chips. These larger issues require more extensive work to create a level concrete floor.
Smooth and level the sides and bottom by chipping away with a chisel. Mix a sufficient amount of concrete leveling compound to a thin consistency that is workable. Pour it into the hole or crack, and use a putty knife to smooth it out until it is level with the rest of the floor.
A self-leveling compound can be poured directly onto an uneven concrete floor, typically to a thickness of ¼ inch or more. This helps cover minor cracks and divots, as well as compensate for slight height differences.
Allow the repair material to dry for at least 48 hours before applying a stain, sealant, or paint.
