wood's advantages

How to Level a Floor with Plywood

Top tips for leveling your floor with plywood

Plywood Supplier • Picó Plywood • Blog • How to Level Floor with Plywood

Table of Contents for the Article

Introduction: Why Level a Floor with Plywood

When facing an uneven floor, it’s not just an aesthetic issue. Floor irregularities can lead to safety problems, affect the functionality of the space, and even cause long-term damage to coatings and furniture. For this reason, properly leveling the surface is a crucial step in any renovation or interior design project.

Common Problems with Uneven Floors

Floors with unevenness or irregularities can cause various issues:

  • Aesthetic Problems: The undulations and uneven areas are visible to the naked eye, affecting the overall appearance of the space.
  • Safety Risks: Irregular floors increase the likelihood of trips, falls, or accidents, especially in high-traffic areas.
  • Material Damage: An uneven floor can damage the covering installed on top (laminate, vinyl, ceramic), causing cracks, breaks, or shifts.

 

Impact on Functionality: Irregularities make it difficult to install furniture, doors, and other elements, compromising the efficient use of the space.

Advantages of Using Plywood Over Other Methods

Among the various solutions for leveling a floor, plywood stands out as one of the most practical and effective options:

  • Lightweight: Plywood boards offer great strength without adding unnecessary weight to the structure.
  • Ease of Installation: Their simple handling allows for easy cuts and adjustments with basic tools, making the work easier for both professionals and DIYers.
  • Cost-Effective: Compared to more complex solutions (self-leveling compounds, mortar screeds), plywood is more affordable in terms of cost and execution time.

Versatility: It adapts to various types of coverings and can be used in interior design projects, renovations, and home rehabilitation.

Picó Plywood: Your Trusted Plywood Supplier

 At Picó Plywood, we have decades of experience in manufacturing and distributing high-quality plywood boards.

We offer technical solutions tailored to each project, with a specialized catalog of technical plywood ideal for applications like floor leveling. Our commitment to quality, sustainability, and personalized service makes us the perfect partner for professionals in carpentry, construction, and design.

🔗 Discover more about our solutions in Technical Plywood.

Plywood Supplier • Picó Plywood • Blog • How to Level Floor with Plywood

When Is It Recommended to Level a Floor with Plywood?

 Leveling floors with plywood is a practical and efficient solution in many situations. Unlike heavier or more expensive methods, using plywood boards allows for quick, cost-effective leveling without major technical complications. Below, we outline the most common cases where this technique is particularly recommended.

Renovations in Old Homes

Old houses often have uneven floors due to the passage of time, structural movements, or deficiencies in the original construction systems. In these cases, leveling the floor with plywood is an ideal solution to:

  • Correct small imperfections without the need for major works.
  • Maintain lightness in structures that would not support a mortar screed.

 

Prepare the base for the installation of new coverings.

Additionally, it allows for localized adjustments, adapting to the irregular geometry of older spaces.

Installation of Floating Floors, Laminate, or Vinyl

To ensure the correct installation of floating floors, laminate, or vinyl flooring, it’s essential to have a perfectly level base. Plywood provides:

  • A smooth and stable surface.
  • Additional insulation against noise and vibrations.

 

Compatibility with floating installation systems.

Thanks to its ease of cutting and adaptation, it becomes the preferred solution for preparing floors before laying lightweight coverings.

Correction of Small Unevenness (2-5 mm)

When the level differences in the floor range between 2 and 5 mm, using plywood is one of the most efficient ways to level:

  • It avoids the need for unnecessary self-leveling compounds.
  • Allows for precise leveling with less time and cost.

 

Makes it easier to correct specific irregularities in particular areas.

It is the ideal option for renovation projects where a clean, quick, and effective solution is required.

DIY or Professional Projects

 Plywood is perfect for both professional carpenters and builders, as well as DIY (Do It Yourself) enthusiasts looking for accessible and manageable solutions. Its advantages for these types of projects include:

  • Simple installation with basic tools.
  • Professional results without the need for heavy machinery.

 

Versatility to adapt to multiple applications.

Whether in small home renovations or large rehabilitation projects, leveling a floor with plywood is always an option to consider.

Types of Plywood Ideal for Leveling Floors

Choosing the right type of plywood is key to ensuring an optimal result when leveling a floor. Not all boards offer the same performance, so it’s important to understand the differences and select the material based on the intended use, environmental conditions, and the type of covering that will be installed afterward.

Okoumé Plywood: Light and Easy to Machine

Okoumé plywood stands out for its lightness and ease of machining, making it a very suitable option for indoor floor leveling projects:

  • Allows for easy handling even in large formats.
  • Ideal for residential floors, commercial spaces, and areas where quick installation is required.
  • Its uniform surface facilitates the application of finishes or the direct installation of floating floors.

 

🔗 More Information: Okoumé Plywood from Picó Plywood

Phenolic Plywood: More Resistant to Moisture

For environments with higher exposure to moisture, such as kitchens, bathrooms, or semi-outdoor areas, phenolic plywood is the most recommended option:

  • Offers high moisture resistance and greater durability.
  • Provides a stable base for flooring that requires robust support.
  • Its composition gives it better structural performance against deformation.

 

🔗 More Information: Phenolic Boards from Picó Plywood

Recommended Thicknesses According to Need (6-18 mm)

The thickness of plywood to be used will depend on the unevenness to be corrected and the characteristics of the project:

  • 6-9 mm: for small irregularities (2-3 mm) or as a reinforcement base.
  • 12-15 mm: for more pronounced unevenness (4-5 mm) and greater stability.
  • 18 mm or more: in cases where a very strong base is needed, especially in high-traffic areas.

 

Choosing the right thickness is essential to ensure a leveled, stable, and durable surface.

Criteria for Choosing: Interior/Exterior Use, Traffic, Final Covering Type

Before selecting the type of plywood for leveling floors, it’s important to consider:

  • Location: indoor, covered outdoor, or wet areas.
  • Intensity of use: residential, commercial, or industrial.
  • Type of final covering: hardwood, vinyl, carpet, or technical flooring.

A correct analysis of these factors will help select the board that best suits the project’s needs, optimizing its performance and longevity.

Plywood Supplier • Picó Plywood • Blog • How to Level Floor with Okoume Plywood

Materials and Tools Required

Before starting the floor leveling process with plywood, it is essential to have all the appropriate materials and tools. Choosing quality products will not only make the work easier but will also ensure a durable and professional final result.

List of Basic Materials and Tools

Below are the essential items required for leveling floors with plywood:

  • Plywood boards (Okoumé or phenolic, depending on needs).
  • Wooden battens or metal profiles to create the base structure.
  • High-adhesion mounting adhesives for board fixation.
  • Wood screws or specific anchors.
  • Spirit level or laser level to check correct alignment.
  • Shims or wedges to adjust height differences.
  • Dowels and pegs (if necessary to reinforce the structure).
  • Drill driver, hammer, jigsaw, and cutting tools.
  • Sander or sandpaper to finish surfaces.
  • Personal protective equipment: gloves, goggles, and mask.

Having this equipment ensures precise work and optimizes installation times.

Board Quality Recommendations According to Project

The quality of the plywood is a determining factor in the durability and stability of the leveled floor. Some recommendations based on the type of project:

  • Residential dry projects: Standard quality Okoumé plywood, light and easy to work with.
  • Areas with occasional moisture: Phenolic plywood with WBP glue, more resistant and durable.
  • High-traffic or commercial areas: Thicker boards (15-18 mm) with reinforced structural quality.
  • Technical or industrial installations: High-density and high-mechanical resistance phenolic plywood.

🔗 More Information: Custom Plywood Boards – Picó Plywood


Selecting the quality and characteristics of the board based on the intended use is key to achieving a professional result and avoiding future problems.

Step by Step: How to Level a Floor with Plywood

Leveling a floor with plywood is an accessible process for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts, as long as the proper steps are followed. Below, we explain how to do it efficiently and safely.

Inspection and Preparation of the Floor

The first step is to ensure the surface is clean and free from obstacles:

  • Remove dust, remnants of old adhesives, and any accumulated dirt.
  • Identify and mark areas with visible unevenness or imperfections.
  • Check the moisture level of the floor, especially if it’s a space prone to condensation.

 

Proper preparation is key to ensuring good adhesion and stability of the boards.

Placement of Battens or Leveling Wedges

To correct height differences:

  • Install wooden battens in a grid or parallel lines, fixing them to the floor with dowels and screws.
  • Use leveling wedges or shims under the battens to adjust small height differences (2-5 mm).
  • Ensure a regular distance between the battens (30-40 cm) to avoid flexing of the board.

This base structure is fundamental for achieving firm and level support.

Fixing the Plywood Boards

Once the base is set:

  • Place the plywood boards aligned, leaving expansion gaps (3-5 mm) between them.
  • Fix the boards with wood screws every 20-30 cm along the battens.
  • Optionally, apply mounting adhesive to the bottom to improve the hold.
  • If necessary, use clamps to maintain pressure until the adhesive dries.

Proper fixation prevents unwanted movement and noise later on.

Checking Leveling with Tools

After fixing the boards:

  • Verify the flatness of the surface with a bubble or laser level.
  • Make adjustments if small differences are detected, adding shims or touching up specific points.
  • Ensure there are no areas with “play” or movement.

 

This quality control is crucial before proceeding with the final covering.

Panels for Vehicles, Caravans, or Modular Constructions

Finishing and Preparation for the Final Covering
Finally:

  • Sand the joints and edges to eliminate small irregularities and create a smooth surface.
  • Apply a sealer or primer if a floating floor, vinyl, or similar covering is to be installed.
  • Remove all dust from sanding before placing the covering.

 

A well-done finish will prolong the floor’s lifespan and improve the aesthetic result.

Plywood Supplier • Picó Plywood • Blog • How to Level Floor with Phenolic Plywood

Professional Tips for a Perfect Result

Leveling a floor with plywood might seem like a simple process, but to achieve a professional and durable finish, it is essential to consider some key details. These tips will help you avoid mistakes and maximize the quality of your project.

Avoid Common Mistakes

Among the most common mistakes when leveling floors with plywood, the following stand out:

  • Poor gluing or insufficient fixation: It is essential to use the right adhesives and ensure that the screws are well distributed and properly screwed into the battens.

  • Not leaving expansion gaps: A common mistake is installing the boards without leaving space for expansion. Leaving 3-5 mm gaps between pieces prevents deformation issues caused by changes in temperature or humidity.
  • Ignoring moisture in the base: Working on a floor with residual moisture can cause swelling and damage to the plywood. Always check this aspect before installation.

 

Paying attention to these details will ensure a leveled, stable floor without surprises in the medium term.

Importance of Using Certified and Quality Plywood

The type of board used directly impacts the durability and performance of the floor:

  • Choosing certified plywood (such as FSC® or equivalent) ensures that the material comes from sustainable sources and meets quality standards.
  • Industrial-grade boards, such as those offered by Picó Plywood, guarantee higher mechanical resistance, better dimensional stability, and ease of work.

 

Investing in good material is key to avoiding deformation, noise, or premature wear.

🔗 More Information: FSC Certifications and Sustainability – Picó Plywood.

When It’s Better to Hire a Professional

Although this process is feasible for DIY projects, in certain cases, it is advisable to hire a specialized installer:

  • Large surfaces or floors with significant irregularities.
  • Installations in humid spaces or areas with heavy use.
  • Projects requiring millimeter precision for technical or high aesthetic floors.

 

A professional will bring the experience and tools necessary to guarantee an impeccable and long-lasting result.

Conclusion: Why Choose Picó Plywood for Your Leveling Projects

Leveling a floor with plywood is an excellent choice for both domestic and professional projects. With advantages like lightness, ease of handling, and strength, plywood offers an effective and durable solution to achieve a leveled floor, perfectly prepared for the final covering.

Summary of Plywood Advantages for Leveling

  • Lightness and Strength: Plywood, especially Okoumé or phenolic plywood, allows you to create a firm and stable base without adding unnecessary weight to the structure.
  • Easy to Work and Handle: Ideal for both DIY projects and professional work, due to its versatility in cutting and fixing.
  • Durability and Stability: Plywood provides a solid solution that is resistant to moisture and temperature changes, making it suitable even for floors in more demanding environments.

Added Value of Picó Plywood

At Picó Plywood, we offer more than just high-quality boards for leveling. As a specialized supplier, we provide personalized technical advice to help you choose the ideal plywood based on your needs and specifications. Additionally, we maintain a permanent stock of certified products and offer customization options so you can get boards cut to size according to the characteristics of your project.
 

With our extensive experience in the industry, we guarantee the quality and reliability of our products, supported by sustainability certifications such as FSC®.

Request Your Quote or Consult with Our Experts

 If you’re ready to level your floor efficiently and with the best quality materials, Picó Plywood is your best option. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a personalized quote or to speak with our plywood experts.


🔗 More Information and Contact: Contact and Product Catalog – Picó Plywood.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is it recommended to level a floor with plywood if there is moisture?

Yes, it is possible to level a floor with plywood in moisture-prone areas, but it is crucial to choose the right type. Phenolic plywood is highly resistant to moisture and provides an ideal solution for floors in damp areas, such as bathrooms or basements. If moisture is a significant factor in your project, make sure to select plywood with specific properties to resist it.

What thickness of plywood is best for leveling an uneven floor?

The ideal thickness depends on the degree of floor irregularity. For small imperfections (2 to 5 mm), plywood thickness of 6 to 9 mm is usually sufficient. However, if the unevenness is more pronounced, it is recommended to use thicker plywood, such as 12 to 18 mm, to ensure greater stability and strength.


🔗 Suggested Link: Blog on «Uses of Plywood.»

Can I install vinyl or parquet directly over plywood?

Yes, you can install vinyl or parquet directly over plywood, provided that the surface is leveled, clean, and well-prepared. It is essential to ensure that the plywood is properly fixed and free of irregularities to guarantee the durability and stability of the final covering.

How much does it cost to level a floor with plywood?

The cost of leveling a floor with plywood varies depending on the type of plywood chosen, the size of the area to be leveled, and the complexity of the work. Generally, the cost can range from X to Y per square meter. It is advisable to request a personalized quote from a specialized supplier like Picó Plywood for an accurate estimate.

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