Guides and Tips on Proper Leveling of Basement Floor

May 25
09:19

2012

Ma. Theresa Galan

Ma. Theresa Galan

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More often than not, while indulging in a construction project for the basement, you are confronted by a hurdle that you never thought of; uneven flooring. If you want to tile your basement or even carpet it, it is important that the flooring of the basement be completely leveled and have absolutely no inconsistencies.

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Having a level basement floor also ensures that there will be no problems of having water collect in your basement. Leveling the basement flooring is a weekend project that you can do yourself.Steps of Leveling Basement FloorHaving an uneven flooring can be an eyesore and even in the scenario that you intend to leave your basement flooring as it is,Guides and Tips on Proper Leveling of Basement Floor Articles there are chances that you would want to level it, just to make it look more appealing. If you want to learn how to level a basement floor, whether for a construction project or otherwise, then you will need a set of equipment. The things that you will need for the project include a broom, a dustpan, pry bar, hammer, caulking gun, concrete caulk, expansion tape, trowel, leveling compound, bucket, wheelbarrow (optional), stirrer, water, and a rake. The process of leveling a basement floor is slightly time-consuming and not as easy as it sounds. It may, therefore, be a good idea to get some help while working on this home improvement project. Just follow the steps given below to take your project to fruition.
  • The first and foremost step in this process would be to empty the basement completely. If you have been using the furniture as a place to store excess things or even furniture, then remove these objects. You will need the entire space empty to do the work you have taken on.
  • Next, you will need to use the pry bar or the hammer (whichever you are more comfortable with) to remove any boards that have been attached around the perimeter of the room. If you want to reuse these boards, then just remove the nails from the board and set them aside.
  • Before you can start any leveling, you will need to remove all the dust and grime that has gathered in all the time that you have lived there. Sweep the area completely and expel all the dust from the room.
  • The next step is to check the flooring for any cracks or holes. Before you level the flooring, you will need to fill up these cracks. Use a caulking gun with concrete caulk to fill up the cracks. When applying the caulk, remember to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. You will need to remove any excess caulk that is protruding from the surface. Once you have done this, allow the caulk to dry.
  • The next step is to use the expansion tape that you have. This is to create a perimeter around the basement floor. While laying out the expansion tape, ensure that the tape lies at the corner of the floor where the ground and the wall create a ninety degree angle. This helps in strengthening the new surface for the floor.
  • This step will need to you to mix the leveling compound that you have with water, according to the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Ensure that the consistency of the compound is just right and now carefully pour it over the floor in straight lines. Be very careful while doing this.
  • Using the rake that you have, ensure that the self leveling material is smooth and spread it properly removing any inconsistencies. The compound will need several days to dry properly and completely. Therefore, ensure that there is no movement on the floor and no one has access to the basement.

Leveling a basement floor requires quite a bit of hard work, but once you have a level flooring, it is possible to use one of the many basement flooring options to create a flooring that appeals to aesthetic sensibilities. Learning how to level a basement floor is not very difficult but in case you are confused about any of the steps, you can contact a contractor who will be able to help you out.

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