When it comes to floor installation, the ground preparation and acceptance process is just as important as the flooring itself. But do you know which areas need leveling and which don’t? There are various methods available, and choosing the right one for your home can make a big difference in both aesthetics and functionality. If you have the time, it's always a good idea to supervise the workers to ensure everything goes smoothly.
**First, how to check if the floor is uneven**
The first step in floor acceptance is checking for unevenness. You can use a 2-meter straightedge to measure the floor surface. Place the ruler on the floor and check for gaps between the ruler and the ground. If the gap is more than 3mm, it means the floor is not level. If there’s no visible gap, the floor is generally flat enough for installation.
**Second, why a flat floor is essential**
Laying floors on an uneven surface can lead to problems like hollow sounds, broken locks, or an uncomfortable feel underfoot. Whether you're installing solid wood, laminate, or engineered flooring, it's crucial to ensure the subfloor is flat before proceeding. If it's not, you'll need to level the ground first to avoid future issues.
**Third, areas where leveling is not necessary**
Not all parts of your home require leveling. Here are some common exceptions:
1. **Balcony floor**: It's typical for the balcony to be slightly lower than the indoor floor to prevent water from flowing into the house.
2. **Kitchen and bathroom floors**: These areas are usually designed to slope slightly to allow proper drainage, so they don’t need to be leveled with the rest of the house.
3. **Tiled floors vs. wooden floors**: If your living room has tile, it may be higher than the bedroom floor due to the thickness of the tiles. Leveling them could create an unnecessary height difference after installation.
**Fourth, ground leveling methods and things to consider**
There are several ways to level the ground, each with its own pros and cons:
1. **Machine grinding + plaster leveling**: This method doesn't raise the floor height and is cost-effective. It takes about 3 days before wood flooring can be installed.
2. **Cement mortar leveling**: This increases the floor height by around 2 cm and requires about 15 days to dry. It’s a mid-range option.
3. **Self-leveling compound**: This is the most advanced method, used for high-end installations. It levels the floor from the highest point and also takes around 15 days to set.
Keep in mind that leveling the floor affects both your budget and the overall height of the space. It's not always necessary to make the floor perfectly flat—sometimes a slight adjustment is sufficient.
After using cement mortar, it's important to let the floor dry completely before laying any flooring. To check if the floor is dry, place a plastic sheet on the surface. After 24 hours, if there’s no condensation or moisture underneath, the floor is ready for installation.
Understanding these details can help you make informed decisions during your renovation and ensure a smooth, long-lasting finish.
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