How to Level a Floor Before Installing Vinyl Floor Tiles
Checking the Floor
Vinyl floor tiles are more affordable versions of ceramic tile, providing the same look and aesthetic without the actual price tag. Although they are less durable, the installation methods are very similar to ceramic tile, including the importance of a flat and level surface so that the tiles don’t have lip-page against each other. Sometimes this means leveling a floor prior to the installation to ensure the integrity of the finish installation.
Sanding the Floor
Sand the floor down if you are working with a plywood or particle board subfloor. A belt sander is the easiest method if you are dealing with only slight humps, although multiple passes may be needed to level out a larger high point. If you have excessive warping in the floor you may need to use a large floor grinder, which require two hands to operate as you stand and walk behind the machine, similar to a floor buffer but with a sanding pad attached.
Concrete Warping
Similar to how you can grind down a wooden floor, you will need to do the same thing for concrete warping. A 4-inch or 8-inch angle grinder can be used with a cup-wheel attachment designed to grind out high spots in concrete. You can also use the large, commercial grinder for open areas that have a lot of grinding required. Always be sure to wear a respirator, not a dust mask, when grinding concrete, because while a dust mask can help against sawdust, it is not sufficient for concrete dust.
Self-Leveling Compound
Fill the low points with a self-leveling compound for the quickest, dust-free work around. This can be used for both concrete or wood applications. Self-leveling compound is a cement-based mixture that is applied in a near liquid state. Clean the floor area to be filled with a broom or vacuum and dampen it with a wet sponge to avoid rapid drying. Pour the solution into the low spots on floors and then give it a quick trowel with a metal trowel to move the liquid where you need it and then gravity does the rest. The material is designed to settle into low spots and allow gravity to naturally level things out. It’s not a perfect method, which is why you need to push the material around with a flat trowel to ensure it fills all your voids.
