Surfaces Preparation
Concrete Leveling / Self-Leveling
Expert installation and craftsmanship, serving the GTA & Ottawa.
Surfaces PreparationSurfaces Preparation
No flooring performs well over an uneven substrate. We use professional-grade self-leveling compounds to fill dips, correct slopes, and achieve a flat surface to within 3/16" over 10 feet — the standard required for most floor coverings.
The substrate is cleaned and primed with the appropriate bonding agent. Self-leveling compound is mixed to specification and poured, guiding it with a smoother tool. After cure, the surface is checked and any high points are ground down.
Where it works & how it’s applied.
Where to Use
- 01Concrete slabs before any flooring
- 02Wood subfloors before tile
- 03Renovation-over-renovation projects
- 04Any substrate failing flatness tolerance
Common Use Cases
- 01Pre-tile leveling
- 02Concrete slab correction before LVP
- 03Old wood subfloor prep for tile
- 04Commercial renovation substrates
Frequently Asked Questions
How much height does self-leveling compound add to the floor?
Self-leveling compound adds only as much as it needs to fill the low spots - typically 1/8" to 1/2" in most applications. Maximum pour depth depends on the product (usually 1" to 1.5" in a single pour). Deep corrections may require multiple pours with cure time between layers. We factor the added height into door clearances and transition planning.
How long does self-leveling compound need to cure before flooring is installed?
Most self-leveling compounds are ready for light foot traffic in 2-4 hours and ready for flooring installation in 16-24 hours. Tile and stone installs can sometimes begin the same day on fast-setting products. We follow manufacturer guidelines precisely because rushing this step leads to adhesion failure in the flooring above.
What is the maximum pour depth in a single application?
Most standard self-leveling compounds can be poured up to 1" to 1.5" in a single application. For deeper corrections, we prime, pour the first layer, allow it to cure, then pour again. Some high-build products allow deeper single pours. The right product depends on the correction depth - we select accordingly.
Can self-leveling compound be used on a wood subfloor?
Yes - but it requires a product specifically formulated for wood subfloors, along with a compatible primer to bond properly. The subfloor must be structurally sound and firmly fastened first - self-leveling compound will crack if the subfloor underneath has any flex or movement. We fasten all squeaky and loose areas before any leveling pour on wood.
