How to Level a Kitchen Floor

When the time comes for a renovation or remodeling project, you may discover that your kitchen floor isn't level. Over time, foot traffic often wears pits and grooves into the floors. Shifts in the earth and foundation problems may cause sagging. Learn to level your kitchen floor so that you can get it in shape for new flooring.

Things You'll Need

• Premixed leveling compound
• Broom
• Mop
• Vacuum
• Squeegee
• Level

Instructions

1. Identify the cause of the unevenness. Inspect the floor, crawlspace (if there is one) and foundation. Repair any foundation problems before moving forward, or your efforts to level the floor will be in vain.

2. Remove tile, hardwood, carpet or other flooring down to the subfloor. Inspect the condition of the subfloor. Mark areas that aren't level with a pencil.

3. Scrub all debris from the floor. Sweep, mop, sweep again and vacuum. The floor must be absolutely clean for the compound to hold.

4. Pour premixed leveling compound into the uneven areas that you've marked. Start in the middle of the kitchen and work your way out towards the edges of the room. Work in one small area at a time to prevent the compound from hardening. Smooth the leveling compound with a squeegee. Work your way around the room to completely level the kitchen floor.

Tips & Warnings

• Premixed leveling compound saves time and money; precautions must be taken to protect against the dust that is kicked up while mixing dry leveling compound.

Resources

• Self-Leveling Compounds
• Leveling Uneven Floors