Should I use a self-leveling product for filling in uneven areas of my floor, or is there a simpler alternative for only specific sections?
Asked by Sundus Njærheim 
6 months ago
Last Updated: June 2, 2024
I’m thinking about putting in LVT flooring, but there are some spots that need to be filled in to make it level. Do you think I should use a self-leveling product, or is there a simpler solution since I don’t need the entire floor to be perfectly level? Also, here’s a picture for you to take a look at.
My floor is in worse shape than that, but the LVT click 5mm handles it well. It might be worth doing some tests, but self-leveling is usually the best option.
Were there ceramic tiles on it previously? If that’s the case, I suggest taking out the remaining tiles and covering the entire floor with luan.
This is really the best solution to level and get a fresh start.
– Trying to level with the current situation will turn into a nightmare you’ll regret starting.
Thank you, ! I had to repair a ceramic tile floor where the tiles were lifting. The easiest solution was to follow through with what I suggested, and it worked out well.
I actually did the same thing once! Using luan for a new floor gives you a really nice and clean start, plus it’s way easier.
Just a quick tip: if you’re working on a concrete floor, consider using a high-quality construction adhesive like Loctite brand or PL 500 for extra strong adhesion when laying down the luan.
I would definitely keep trying. I’ve been there before, working on an old house with layers and layers of flooring. It’s a total nightmare.
Hey Casey! If you need to remove the tiles and get back to the original surface, you can either pop them up with a floor buffer using a special bottom “pad” meant for taking up mortar/thinset, or you can soak them with water to soften and then scrape them. Just a heads up, both methods can get a bit messy!
Simply pour the leveller
The appearance seems a bit loose. Take out the current layers first. Next, add a new layer of underlayment.
I hope it’s somewhat loose… 🥴
Have you tried using a long pry bar or a 2” chisel to remove the shadow lines completely, down to the underlayment/subfloor?
You could cover everything with 1/4 inch plywood. It might still be slightly uneven, though.
I was considering this option or possibly using a wood fiber underlayment
You know, a couple of bags of self leveling cement should get the job done
Rip up the remaining part and begin anew!
Completely remove it down to the subfloor and begin anew. Your future self will appreciate it if you do.
I would recommend going with self leveler for the entire floor instead. It gives a more solid and consistent feel compared to spot patching after removing as much of the existing material as you can.
You should definitely remove that
Rip out the entire floor. If you leave any old material behind, you’ll run into issues down the line.
It seems like a cemented on or nailed down concrete backer board or something… it’s really stuck but I’ll try to remove it!