We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Home

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are the Best Tips for Leveling a Basement Floor?

Dan Cavallari
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 8,541
Share

Leveling a basement floor is not a terribly difficult job, but it will take several days to do properly. Be sure to research the different products used for leveling a basement floor, and understand that the compound, once dry, will not be able to support a significant amount of weight on its own. Another type of flooring such as tile, wood, or stone is often placed over the finished product to help support the weight of furniture or other heavy objects. When starting the project, be sure to clear out the space completely to allow for an open workspace.

The first step in leveling a basement floor is to clean and properly fill the existing concrete. Caulk can be used to fill in small holes and cracks, and the caulk should be pressed into the hole and flattened at the top to ensure a smooth finish. Let it dry for the amount specified on the product's tube. In the mean time, clean the rest of the concrete by sweeping it thoroughly and getting rid of all debris. Tape the perimeter of the room at the bottom of the walls using expansion tape, which will help form a clean edge when the leveling products are used later on.

When leveling a basement floor, it is helpful to know where the dips in the concrete are located. To identify trouble spots, take a long, straight board that is light enough to handle easily. Place it on the ground and slide it across the floor. Use a marker to mark where gaps exist between the bottom of the board and the top of the concrete. These are the trouble areas that will need leveling. Once these trouble spots have been identified, it is time to mix the leveling compound used for leveling a basement floor.

This compound is actually a type of concrete that is mixed with water, and the solution is thin enough that it will self-level once poured. It will find low spots and pool there, but once it pools, it may be helpful to level the top off with a straight board. Mix the leveling compound in a wheelbarrow or large bucket, and pour the compound across the floor in foot-wide (.3 meter) strips. As the compound pools, one can level it with a board and then leave it to dry. The compound must dry for up to 48 hours before any other flooring material can be built on top of it.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Dan Cavallari
By Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By anon355867 — On Nov 20, 2013

I have tried to use these leveling compounds for my house floor, and now I am really happy about it.

Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari
Dan Cavallari, a talented writer, editor, and project manager, crafts high-quality, engaging, and informative content for various outlets and brands. With a degree in English and certifications in project management, he brings his passion for storytelling and project management expertise to his work, launching and growing successful media projects. His ability to understand and communicate complex topics effectively makes him a valuable asset to any content creation team.
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-best-tips-for-leveling-a-basement-floor.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.