Should I DIY or Hire Someone to Level My Basement Floor?

I leveled my basement floor myself, and it was quite the adventure! You'll need a lot of good tools like leveling compound, a mixing drill, a metal screed, and a level. Start by marking high spots with a sharpie and grind them down. It’s helpful to create little markers in low spots using dowels so you know how high to pour the leveling compound. Just remember, it's mostly about the prep work—around 80%! Once prepped, mixing and pouring is quick. Oh, and don't forget to grab a beer once you're done! Take it easy and plan for success!

You can definitely DIY this, but be cautious. If the leveling compound isn't mixed or applied correctly, it could end up making things worse. I’ve done two rooms; the first was a hassle because I didn’t mix properly and had to fix lumps later. The second attempt went smoother since I learned from my mistakes and got a better mixer. Just keep in mind, once you start pouring, you’re on a timer before it all sets! So maybe try a small area first to get the hang of it.

Deciding whether to DIY or hire a pro really depends on your skills and the condition of your floor. If it's uneven (humps and bumps), you're going to want to grind those down first. Also, check if there are drains, since you’ll want the slope to go towards them. You can put LVP on a slightly sloped floor as long as it's flat. If your skill level is low, consulting a friend who does flooring sounds like a smart move!