advice on leveling floor

8 years ago

Hello! We are in the middle of a kitchen remodel and tore up floors this week. it appears the subfloor is uneven due to thickness of the subfloor. The line where it is uneven is right where the tiles had started to crack in the old tile. We have only been here two years so not sure when they were laid but there was hardiback underneath. In order to proceed with the porcelain tile we picked, do we need to use self leveler or do we have to put down new subfloor? Also, do you have thoughts on ditra vs hardi? Is there a solution with the underlay that would fix the problem? Thanks so much!

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Comments (4)

PRO
Creative Tile Eastern CT
8 years ago
Is that subfloor particle board?
Virginia Faddy
Original Author
8 years ago
I am sure this sounds bad but I am not sure. Here is a picture of the label on the wood on one side. The darker side that sits lower is not labeled.
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SJ McCarthy
8 years ago
All the best tile setters prefer to work with Ditra. It is expensive and it works. The uneveness of the two subfloors can be dealt with by your well seasoned/well educated tile setter.

A quick look at the deflection rating for the joists/subfloor system is also in order. It may be that the deflection rating is quite up to snuff. It is always work a quick calculation. Any tile setter worth their salt can do this for you (with payment of course).

It is possible this can be leveled out....it is also possible that you need a new layer of subfloor. It all depends on what is found underneath, the two different sheathing materials, etc, etc, etc, etc.

The old adage still stands: "If in doubt, rip it out".
Virginia Faddy
Original Author
8 years ago
Very helpful, thanks! I think we will just replace it to be safe.