There’s a unique kind of sinking feeling that comes with a DIY project gone wrong. When it comes to floor levelling, that feeling can be quite literal. An uneven, cracked, or poorly bonded floor isn't just an eyesore; it's a foundational flaw that can derail your entire renovation project. Whether you’ve attempted a DIY job that didn’t quite pan out or hired a less-than-reputable contractor, you’re now facing a critical question: should you repair it or tear it all out and start again? For Sydney homeowners, the answer involves a careful calculation of both cost and consequence. Why Did My Floor Levelling Fail? Understanding the Common Culprits Before you can estimate the cost of a fix, it’s crucial to understand what went wrong. Most failed levelling jobs in Sydney can be traced back to a few common mistakes: Inadequate Subfloor Preparation: The concrete slab wasn't properly cleaned, grinded, or primed. Dust, grease, or old adhesive residues are the arch-nemeses of a strong bond. Incorrect Mixing Ratio: Too much water creates a weak, brittle compound that will crack under pressure. Too little, and it won’t flow and self-level correctly. Ignoring the Primer: In Sydney's humid climate, unprimed concrete can suck moisture from the levelling compound too quickly, leading to a weak, dusty, and unbonded surface. Exceeding the Recommended Thickness: Every levelling compound has a maximum thickness. Pouring too much at once can lead to cracks and instability. The Big Decision: Repair or Redo? When a Repair Might Be Possible Minor issues can sometimes be salvaged. If you're dealing with a few small cracks or a slightly uneven patch, a professional might be able to: Grind Down High Spots: A concrete grinder can smooth out localised bumps. Apply a Skim Coat: For very minor imperfections, a thin layer of a finishing compound might suffice. However, these are temporary fixes and are only suitable for the most minor of flaws. Why a Complete Redo is Often the Only Solution In most cases of a failed levelling job, a complete redo is the only way to guarantee a long-lasting, professional result. Here’s why: Compromised Structural Integrity: A poorly mixed or bonded levelling compound is fundamentally weak. Any new flooring laid on top will be prone to cracking and movement. Hidden Voids and Air Pockets: These can create weak spots that will eventually lead to failure. Peace of Mind: Starting fresh ensures a flawless foundation for your expensive new floor coverings, be it timber, tiles, or vinyl. Estimating the Cost of a Redo in Sydney So, what's the damage? The cost of redoing a failed floor levelling job in Sydney can be broken down into two main parts: 1. The Cost of Removal Before you can lay a new foundation, you have to get rid of the old one. This involves mechanically removing the failed levelling compound. This is a labour-intensive process that can cost anywhere from $20 to $50 per square metre in the Sydney area, depending on the thickness and how difficult it is to remove. 2. The Cost of Professional Floor Levelling Once the subfloor is exposed and properly prepared, the new levelling compound can be applied. In Sydney, you can expect to pay between $40 and $65 per square metre for a professional floor levelling service. This price typically includes: Concrete Grinding and Cleaning: To ensure a perfect, dust-free surface. High-Quality Primer: To guarantee a strong bond. Professional-Grade Self-Levelling Compound: Applied to the correct thickness and specifications. For a standard 50-square-metre living area, the total cost to redo a failed job could range from $3,000 to $5,750, plus any costs for disposal of the old material. Key Takeaways: Don't Let a Bad Foundation Sink Your Renovation A failed floor levelling job is more than a cosmetic issue; it's a structural one. In most cases, a complete redo is the only way to ensure a lasting result. When budgeting for a fix, remember to factor in the cost of removal as well as the new application. Hiring a professional from the start is the most cost-effective way to get a flawless, level floor. At Elyment Group, we specialise in professional floor preparation and levelling across Sydney and NSW. We've seen the costly results of DIY jobs and corner-cutting contractors. Don't risk your renovation on an uneven foundation. For an obligation-free quote and expert advice, get in touch with our team today. 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