Dealing with uneven concrete can be a real problem in any building. Uneven concrete floors can cause trip hazards, make it difficult to install new flooring, and even lead to bigger structural issues if not fixed. At Base Concrete, we’ve helped many customers solve their floor levelling problems. This guide will show you the best solutions for uneven concrete floors and help you choose the right approach for your needs.
Why Do Concrete Floors Become Uneven?
Before looking at solutions, it helps to understand why concrete slabs become uneven in the first place:
- Poor installation: If the concrete wasn’t mixed or poured correctly, it might not set evenly.
- Ground movement: The soil under your concrete slab can shift over time.
- Settling: Buildings naturally settle as they age, which can make floors slope.
- Moisture damage: Water can damage concrete, causing it to crack or sink.
- Wear and tear: Years of use can create dips and worn spots in busy areas.
Finding the root cause is important because it helps determine the best solution. Sometimes, you’ll need to fix the underlying problem before trying to level your concrete floor.
Methods to Level Uneven Concrete Floors
Here are the main ways to level an uneven concrete floor, from simplest to most involved:
1. Self-Levelling Compound
Best for: Minor unevenness (up to about 5mm-10mm)
Self-levelling compound is a cement-based mixture that you pour over your existing uneven concrete. It flows into low spots and creates a smooth, level surface. This level compound is popular because:
- It’s fairly easy to apply
- Works well for small dips and minor unevenness
- Dries quickly (often within 24 hours)
- Creates a smooth finish ready for flooring
The UK-based manufacturer Ardex provides good guidance on using self-levelling compounds for different situations. According to them, proper preparation of the surface is key to success with these products.
2. Grinding
Best for: High spots that need to be reduced
If your floor has bumps or high spots rather than dips, grinding might be the answer:
- Uses special equipment to sand down raised areas of concrete
- Creates a smooth, level surface
- Works well for smaller areas with specific high spots
- Can be dusty (proper extraction equipment is needed)
When using grinding methods, health and safety should be a top priority. Concrete dust can cause serious health problems if inhaled, so proper protection and dust extraction are essential.
3. Floor Screeding
Best for: Major unevenness or preparing for new flooring
At Base Concrete, we specialise in floor screeding services that can transform uneven floors. Screed is a layer of material put over the existing concrete to create a flat surface:
- Works for bigger floor problems
- Makes an excellent base for all types of flooring
- Can work with insulation or underfloor heating
- Comes in different mixes for different needs
Our floor screeding services work well for both homes and businesses throughout Watford, Luton, Hemel Hempstead and nearby areas. We can even deliver screed in small amounts when access is difficult or for smaller jobs.
4. Concrete Resurfacing/Overlay
Best for: Floors that are structurally sound but cosmetically uneven
If your concrete floor is in good condition structurally but has surface imperfections:
- A thin layer of new concrete or polymer-modified overlay is applied
- Creates a fresh, level surface
- Can add decorative finishes at the same time
- Extends the life of your existing floor
Choosing the Right Method for Your Concrete Floor
Selecting the best approach depends on several factors:
Degree of unevenness: Measure the difference between the highest and lowest points of your concrete floor. For minor dips (under 10mm), self-levelling compound might be enough. For more significant issues, screeding or resurfacing might be better.
Floor usage: How will the concrete slab be used? A workshop that will hold heavy machinery needs a different solution than a domestic kitchen.
Timeframe and budget: Some methods are quicker and less expensive than others.
Moisture content: The concrete’s moisture level must be tested before applying any new material. This is crucial for a successful result.
When to Call a Professional
While self-levelling compound can be a DIY project for small areas, most floor levelling tasks benefit from professional expertise. You should definitely call in the experts if:
- The unevenness exceeds 15mm
- You notice structural cracks or signs of subsidence
- There are moisture problems
- The area is large or complex
- You’re planning to install expensive flooring on top
At Base Concrete, our team has the equipment and experience to handle all types of floor levelling projects. Our concrete pumps are particularly useful for delivering material to hard-to-reach areas, saving on labour costs and speeding up progress.
Health & Safety Considerations
Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring professionals, safety matters:
- Proper protective equipment should be used when working with any concrete products
- Ventilation and dust extraction are necessary, especially when grinding
- All waste must be disposed of properly according to UK government regulations for construction waste
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does floor levelling take to dry?
Self-levelling compounds typically dry enough to walk on in 2-4 hours, but need 24-48 hours before adding flooring. Traditional screed takes longer, usually 7 days per 25mm of thickness for full drying, though you can walk on it after 24-48 hours.
Can I level my concrete floor myself?
For small areas with minor uneven concrete, DIY is possible using self-levelling compound. However, for larger areas or significant unevenness, professional equipment and expertise will give better results. Our team at Base Concrete can help assess your needs.
Will levelling a floor fix squeaky floorboards?
Floor levelling alone may not fix squeaky wooden floorboards, as the squeak often comes from boards rubbing against each other or against nails. However, if the squeaks are caused by an uneven concrete level below, then levelling may help.
How much does concrete floor levelling cost?
The cost varies widely depending on the method used, the area size, and the degree of unevenness. Self-levelling compound is the least expensive option for DIY, while professional screeding or resurfacing will cost more but provide a better finish. Contact us for a quote tailored to your specific needs.
Get Expert Help with Your Uneven Concrete Floor
At Base Concrete, we pride ourselves on being a family-run business with helpful and friendly staff. We offer concrete level services, including floor screeding that’s perfect for creating smooth, level surfaces in both homes and businesses.
Our smaller lorries can access tight spaces, and our concrete pumps are ideal for difficult access areas. We can deliver a wide variety of concrete mixes and always aim to leave your site clean and tidy.
Whether you need advice on the best approach for your uneven concrete floor or are ready to book our services, get in touch with Base Concrete today.