Planning to install new flooring in your home? Before you lay down those sleek tiles or luxurious timber, there’s one critical step you can’t skip: levelling your floor. Skipping this step can lead to costly repairs, uneven surfaces, and a flooring disaster. In this article, we’ll explain: Why floor levelling is essential The risks of ignoring it How to do it right What Is Floor Levelling and Why Does It Matter? Floor levelling is the process of creating a smooth, even surface on your subfloor before installing new flooring. Whether you’re choosing tiles, timber, vinyl, or carpet, a level subfloor ensures stability, durability, and a polished look. An uneven floor can cause gaps, cracks, or even complete flooring failure over time. Think of floor levelling as the foundation of your flooring project. Just like you wouldn’t build a house on shaky ground, you shouldn’t install new flooring on an uneven subfloor. According to Flooring.org, over 60% of flooring issues stem from improper subfloor preparation. The Risks of Skipping Floor Levelling Ignoring floor levelling might seem like a time-saver, but it can lead to serious problems. Here are the top risks you face: Cracked Tiles: Uneven surfaces cause tiles to crack under pressure, especially in high-traffic areas. Gaps and Buckling: Timber or laminate floors may develop gaps or buckle if the subfloor isn’t level. Uneven Appearance: An unlevel floor creates visible dips or bumps, ruining the aesthetic of your space. Reduced Lifespan: Flooring materials wear out faster on uneven surfaces, leading to costly replacements. Moisture Issues: Low spots can trap water, causing mould or damage, especially in bathrooms or kitchens. These issues not only affect your home’s appearance but also hit your wallet hard. Repairing damaged flooring can cost thousands, whereas levelling is a small upfront investment. How to Know If Your Floor Needs Levelling Not sure if your floor is uneven? Here are some quick ways to check: Use a Spirit Level: Place a spirit level on different areas of the floor to spot unevenness. Roll a Marble: If a marble rolls across the floor, it’s a sign of slopes or dips. Look for Visual Cues: Check for gaps under skirting boards or uneven transitions between rooms. Feel for Dips: Walk across the floor to detect soft spots or uneven areas. If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to call in a professional. At Elyment Group, our experts can assess your subfloor and recommend the best levelling solution. Types of Floor Levelling Methods There are several ways to level a floor, depending on your subfloor type and flooring material. Here’s a quick overview: Self-Levelling Compound: A liquid mixture that spreads and dries to create a smooth surface. Ideal for concrete subfloors. Plywood Sheets: Used to level wooden subfloors, especially for timber or laminate flooring. Grinding or Sanding: Removes high spots on concrete floors for a flat finish. Floor Patching: Fills in cracks or low spots with a specialised compound. Each method has its pros and cons, so consult a professional to choose the right one for your project. Key Takeaways Levelling your floor is a non-negotiable step for any flooring installation. Here’s what to remember: A level subfloor prevents cracks, gaps, and premature wear. Skipping levelling can lead to costly repairs and an uneven appearance. Simple checks like using a spirit level can reveal if your floor needs work. Professional levelling ensures a flawless finish and long-lasting results. Next Steps for a Perfect Floor Ready to transform your space with new flooring? Don’t risk costly mistakes—start with a level subfloor. Contact the experts at Elyment Group for a free consultation and professional levelling services. Follow us on @ElymentGroup for more home improvement tips, or visit elyment.com.au to learn more. Get Your Floor Ready Now .cta-btn { background: linear-gradient(-45deg, #e67e22, #f39c12, #e67e22); background-size: 300% 300%; animation: gradientFlow 5s ease infinite; color: white; border: none; padding: 12px 24px; border-radius: 5px; cursor: pointer; text-align: center; display: inline-block; margin-top: 20px; font-family: 'Roboto', sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none; transition: transform 0.3s ease, box-shadow 0.3s ease; box-shadow: 0 0 12px rgba(230, 126, 3, 0.5); } .cta-btn:hover { transform: scale(1.08); box-shadow: 0 0 25px rgba(243, 156, 18, 0.8); } @keyframes gradientFlow { 0% { background-position: 0% 50%; } 50% { background-position: 100% 50%; } 100% { background-position: 0% 50%; } }