How to level a Tile Floor. Installing a new floor covering isn’t always easy, but at least with the right material, a good covering can be generally much easier than many other surface types.
If the old material is still strong and can be maintained, it’s probably not worth tearing off to place the new surface directly on top of it unless you have a specific need or desire in doing so.
In that case, any number of different materials can be fitted over even the strongest floors. Whenever possible though.
We recommend using our floor leveling compound which will harden underneath your chosen covering to make sure that it stays in place for years to come.
How to level a Tile Floor
To create a smooth installation, lay down the board on top of tiled surfaces, paying attention to uneven spots.
Now with a rubber mallet, proceed to beat the board over the installation area to drive the tiles another inch further into the mortar.
Paying attention to what areas require more pressure and which do not, can even out different elevation levels and textures in your finished grout installation.
Removing the baseboard
By creating a gap between the baseboard and subfloor, you can move forward with leveling compound installation.
Using a prybar to loosen the baseboard’s attaching screws without damaging your walls is an effective method for losing weight from the area.
When it comes time to install new flooring, bringing the boards and trim back to their original location isn’t necessary if you choose to cover them up with some nice new wall-to-floor tile.
Remove loose tiles
Walk around the room and look for any loose or damaged floor tiles. Remove them and leave the space open for filling with the compound. Remove any broken pieces.
Examine all of the grout lines between floor tiles to check for looseness. If there are any removed or loosened grouts, use a chisel and hammer to replace them back into place.
Wait overnight before polishing floor tiles that have been re-grouted.
Clean up any dirt or debris
To start, grab your push broom and dust mop to sweep away any surface dust or dirt. Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to remove any loose particles.
Next, spray the surface with tile cleaner mixed with warm water and use a nylon scrub brush to give the tiles a deep cleaning but be sure to do this while they’re still wet so that you don’t cause any cracking (which can happen if grout joins are dry when you clean them).
Once you’ve completed this step, rinse the floor one more time with clean water, then use another damp cloth in order to absorb any standing liquid.
At this point, all you have left is to allow the tiles to air-dry completely before using them again.
Mix the self-leveling compound
Put the self-leveling compound in a large bucket. Add up to the halfway point of water and mix the compound with a drill using a mixing attachment.
Once mixed, add more water to the self-leveling compound until it reaches pancake batter consistency.
Spread the compound on the floor
Carefully pour being careful not to spill the compound onto the floor over the tiles, beginning at the end of the room furthest from a door and working your way towards it.
Spread out the compound with a steel trowel, creating a layer about 1/4-inch thick over the tiles. (This step is rather tricky since this has to be done quickly.)
Let the compound cure
You should let your compound cure for 48 hours before proceeding. You do not want to step onto a wet compound or newly installed flooring until that time has passed.
How to level floors for tile, get it ready for tile
Related Guides