How to Level a Basement Floor

Many homeowners begin a construction project or other do-it-yourself task in a basement or garage, only to realize that they are unable to complete the job due to an uneven basement floor. Concrete basement floors tend to settle out easily because of their proximity to the foundation of the house and the natural tendency of the materials. Before you can add tile or carpetting to you basement floor, considering releveling the surface. This will help to make your basement more accessible for a variety of at-home projects, and it will also prevent water and ice from collecting in your basement. Best of all, this task is relatively easy and can be done with inexpensive materials.

Step 1 - Collect Your Materials

Before you begin to level your basement floor, ensure that you've collected the proper materials for the job. Gather the following items:

• Self-leveling compound (available at hardware stores)
• Concrete trowel or rake
• Concrete caulk and caulking gun with trowel
• Bucket or wheelbarrow and stirring rod
• Broom and dustpan
• Expansion tape

The amount of caulk and self-leveling compound will depend upon the size of your concrete floor. A specialist at a hardware store will be able to provide an appropriate estimation based upon the square footage of your basement.

Step 2 - Clean Off the Floor

Remove all boxes, furniture and other objects from the floor of your basement. Having done that, sweep all debris out of the area and collect it in a dustpan for removal.

Step 3 - Fill Holes

If your concrete floor has cracks or chips, use a caulking gun with concrete caulk to repair any abnormalities. Follow the instructions according to the caulk manufacturer for application, and be careful to properly trowel off any excess caulk that protrudes from the surface of the concrete. Allow for plenty of time for the caulk to dry.

Step 4 - Seal Off the Perimeter with Expansion Tape

Use expansion tape to lay out a perimeter around the basement floor. Ideally, the tape should lie at the corner of the concrete floor, where the ground meets the wall at a right angle. This tape is helpful both in leveling out the compound in the next step and in strengthening the new surface of the floor.

Step 5 - Mix and Pour Your Self-Leveling Material

Using a wheelbarrow or large bucket, mix your self-leveling material according to the instructions. In most cases, manufacturers will advise mixing the material with water and stirring it carefully. Having mixed the compound to the appropriate consistency, carefully pour it as evenly as possible in straight lines along the entire surface of the concrete floor.

Step 6 - Finishing Up

Use a concrete trowel or rake to clear out any inconsistencies in the self-leveling material and to spread it around. As the name suggests, this material will create a level surface with the help of gravity. Be sure to allow several days for the compound to dry completely, and ensure that no pets or children have access to the basement during this time.

Creating a level basement floor is a simple task, but it may require significant amounts of work, particularly if your basement is especially cluttered or dirty. If you have any questions regarding the application of the self-leveling material, consult with a hardware store.