How should I address the high spot between the installed hardwood and plywood underlayment when prepping for LVP installation in my entryway?
Asked by Brooklyn Johnson 
3 months ago
Last Updated: June 24, 2024
I’m getting ready for LVP installation and I’m dealing with a bit of a dilemma. There’s a high spot between the installed hardwood in our entryway and the new plywood underlayment I just put down in the adjoining room to even things out. I’m not sure if I should use a planer or a belt sander to get rid of the extra height. I’m not too worried about damaging the hardwood since I plan on replacing it eventually. I know it’s a pain to remove hardwood for vinyl, but after weighing all the options, we decided it was the best choice for us.
Use any tool you prefer to even out the floor. If it’s a big space, think about leasing a floor sander and using 60 grit
The manufacturer should provide specifications for the acceptable deviation from level over a specified distance. It seems like you are off by about 3/8 or maybe 1/4 inch within 2 feet. Your choices are to grind down the hump with the tool mentioned before or to use Henry or DAP floor patch/leveling compound to fill in the low spots and get within the manufacturer’s tolerance.
I had the exact same problem, but I fixed it by using floor patch and sanding it down until it was level. It worked really well.
Fill in the wood and sand it down.
I’m not too concerned about the high spot, just make sure to space your flooring properly to avoid any issues. Maybe sand it down a bit if needed.
Forget about the level, focus on finding a flat surface.
I don’t think it’s a big deal as long as the luxury vinyl plank has attached padding.
I’d say leave it as is. That’s actually a really nice transition.
Just hit it with the sander. It’s really not that terrible.
I would probably just throw a carpet over it and call it a day, haha
I’ve been installing LVP for quite some time and I must say it’s not too difficult, just sand down the high spots and you’re good to go.
Gave his approval 👍
There’s probably about half an inch underneath the ends on each side. Can I just sand it down?
Yes, , you may not achieve total flatness but it will improve greatly. It won’t impact the lvp itself, you might only notice it under your feet once it’s in place
You can definitely sand it, maybe try using an orbital sander. Just be prepared with extra sanding pads as levelers can be hard on them. A belt sander may be too strong for the job.
Use a belt sander with 60 grit sandpaper.
Did you consider the height of the existing wood flooring? Is the plywood your finished floor height?
I added plywood to level out the subfloor with the wood so that I can lay the flooring over both.
I think as long as the difference is less than 1/8th of an inch, you should be fine.
A belt sander or even an orbital with 60 or 80 grit can remove it quickly.