How to Level a Floor for Ceramic Tile

When laying ceramic tile on a floor, it is imperative that the floor be perfectly level. Ceramic tile will easily break if it is stepped on without being properly bonded to the subfloor, with the cause being a void in the floor due to its not being level. Self-leveling underlayment is one of the quickest methods to use for underlayment under ceramic tile. It self-levels, which makes installation easier---and it won't break your pocketbook.

Things You'll Need

• Broom and mop
• Soap and water
• Underlayment primer
• Self-leveling compound
• Water
• Squeegee or broom

Instructions

1. Clean the subfloor thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt, grease or other debris.

2. Prime the entire floor with an underlayment primer. Improperly primed floors will not allow the self-leveling compound to adhere to the subfloor.

3. Mix the self-leveling compound mortar with water following the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid beating too much air into the mixture, and mix only a quantity that can be applied within the next 10 minutes.

4. Pour the self-leveling compound onto the subfloor. Spread it with a broom, squeegee or other spreading device. The highest point in your floor should receive 1/8-inch of cover, while the coverage over the rest of the floor will depend on how out-of-level it is. The compound will automatically adjust to level the floor.

5. Cover the subfloor with ceramic tile only after 12 to 24 hours have passed since pouring the self-leveling compound. Although foot traffic is allowed after 2 to 4 hours, the compound needs this additional time to properly cure.

Tips & Warnings

• Protect the compound from freezing for at least 12 hours.

• Apply the compound only if the temperature exceeds 40 degrees F.

References

• Edison Coatings: Self-Leveling, Self-Smoothing Polymer Modified Cementitious Toppings
• Akona Manufacturing: Self-Leveling Floor Underlayment Cement