How to Level a Concrete Floor

Concrete floors are extremely durable, however even the hardiest of floors can develop problems. One of the most common complaints is that the concrete has settled unevenly, or there are dips in the surface. This is problematic if you wish to install new flooring, as it needs to be laid evenly. Leveling concrete isn’t a particularly hard job, however you do need a fair amount of strength to lift and carry materials. You’ll also have to rent specialized equipment. If you don’t feel confident in your abilities, you of course have the option of hiring a contractor to complete the job.

Leveling a Concrete Floor

  1. Remove furniture and baseboards
  2. Sweep and clean the area. Use a mop and a mild cleaner, or a power washer if needed. Wait until it’s completely dry before going onto the next step
  3. Mark any areas that are visibly uneven with chalk, distinguishing between dips and high areas
  4. Mix a batch of concrete and use it to fill in the holes. Try to make it as even as possible and leave to dry
  5. Rent a concrete grinder if needed, grinding down any high spots whilst wearing the correct safety protection. Clean and allow to dry
  6. Add protection to any doorways (such as a strip of wood) so nothing leaks where it shouldn’t
  7. Use a self-leveling concrete primer – usually two coats are needed but check the instructions. Allow to dry
  8. Next mix self-leveling concrete resurfacer, ensuring to add dry mix to water. Mix as directed (usually with a paddle attached to a power drill) to the right consistency.
  9. Pour resurfacer starting at one end of the room, evenly and carefully. Pour across the narrowest width of the room steadily with a little overlap, ensuring you don’t get trapped in the process. It set quickly and needs to all be done at once, so ensue to make enough or have someone on resurfacer duty just in case
  10. Allow to set for at least two days