Understanding Self-Levelling Application on Timber Floorboards
Applying self-levelling compound directly onto traditional timber floorboards is generally not recommended due to the presence of gaps, uneven steps, and the natural movement of the timber. Skilled domestic floor layers commonly advise over-boarding the existing floor with a minimum of 6mm thick plywood sheets before applying the self-levelling compound. It is important that the original floorboards are securely fixed to the underlying joists prior to over-boarding. This can be achieved by screwing the floorboards down with appropriate wood screws, ensuring stability and reducing movement.
For detailed guidance, refer to our comprehensive article “How to Ply over Floorboards”.
Self-Levelling Over Chipboard Floors
Chipboard floorboards or chipboard flooring sheets are generally suitable for self-levelling compounds, provided they are properly secured. Because chipboard sheets naturally interlock tightly, they tend to eliminate gaps and steps that could hinder a smooth application. Before applying, ensure the chipboard is firmly screwed down and seal any gaps around the perimeter of the room with silicone or expanding foam to prevent leakage of the self-levelling material.
In cases where traditional timber floorboards are used, applying self-levelling compound directly is only feasible if the boards are tightly tongue-and-grooved, glued, and fixed securely to the joists, with no gaps or movement. Typically, this is an unlikely scenario in most real-world situations.
Addressing Gaps Between Floorboards
Gaps between individual floorboards can cause the self-levelling compound to seep through, potentially leading to issues such as dripping through ceilings below. To minimize this, over-boarding with large plywood sheets effectively reduces the number of joints, limiting the points where the compound could escape, and creates a more uniform surface.
Managing Floorboard Steps and Unevenness
Small steps, often up to about 2mm, may exist between floorboards, which can pose challenges during the self-levelling process. These unevenities risk causing protrusions through the finished surface when the compound is poured. Over-boarding with plywood helps in smoothing out these minor differences, resulting in a seamless, level surface with fewer visible joints.
Dealing with Movement of Floorboards
Individual timber floorboards tend to shift slightly when walked upon, which can lead to cracking of the self-levelling compound over time. The solution lies in over-boarding with plywood, which is screwed into all the floorboards to act as a single, unified surface. This approach prevents movement between individual boards, maintaining the integrity of the self-levelling layer.
Screwing Down Floorboards Properly
When securing timber floorboards with wood screws, aim to align the screws with existing fixings. This ensures the screws are anchored into the underlying joists, providing maximum stability and reducing the risk of damaging pipes or other hidden utilities, especially critical in areas like bathrooms.
Applying Self-Levelling Compound on Chipboard Floors
If the chipboard flooring exhibits significant gaps, steps, or cut-outs—particularly where pipe runs or other obstructions exist—it is often best to over-boarding with plywood. This method ensures a smooth, stable base for the self-levelling compound. For more in-depth guidance, see our detailed article “How to Ply over Floorboards”.
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