Last Updated on April 12, 2025 by Kravelv Spiegel
Do you want to level the flooring in your house but are concerned about the price? Don’t worry! Below we’ll discuss some cheaper alternative to self leveling compound that will still leave your floors nice and even. DIYers and those on a tighter financial plan alike will appreciate these choices for the value they provide.
💡Key takeaways:
- Cheaper alternatives to self-leveling compound offer cost-effective options for leveling floors.
- Options include plywood subflooring, floor patching compound, concrete leveling mix, sand and cement mixture, and gypsum-based self-leveling compound.
- Each alternative has its pros and cons, such as affordability, ease of application, and effectiveness for different projects.
- Evaluating current flooring conditions and considering expert advice are crucial before choosing a leveling method.
Cheaper Alternative to Self Leveling Compound in a Glance
| Method | Best For | Cost | Self-Leveling | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plywood Subflooring | Large uneven areas | $ | No | Easy |
| Floor Patching Compound | Small dips/cracks | $$ | No | Easy |
| Concrete Leveling Mix | Concrete floors | $$ | Partially | Medium |
| Sand & Cement Mix | Thick leveling | $ | No | Hard |
| Gypsum Compound | Indoor/wood subfloors | $$ | Yes | Easy |
| Drywall Joint Compound | Tiny imperfections | $ | No | Easy |
| Foam Boards | Light leveling under vinyl | $ | No | Very Easy |
Cheaper Alternative to Self Leveling Compound
Self-leveling compound is commonly used to balance out floors that aren’t perfectly flat. However, the price tag may add up quickly, particularly for bigger regions. Here are some choices to consider if you’re seeking for a cheaper choice:
Plywood Subflooring
Best For: Large, uneven areas with noticeable dips or slopes.
Cost Estimate: $0.50–$1.20 per sq. ft.
You can use plywood subflooring instead of self-leveling compound to smooth out floors that aren’t perfectly flat. To get a flat and even surface, plywood sheets are stacked and installed over the current flooring. Because of its low cost and wide availability, plywood is a practical and affordable flooring leveling option.
DIY Tip: Use construction adhesive between layers for better stability.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Relatively inexpensive compared to self-leveling compound. | Adds height to the floor, which may require adjustments to door heights and transitions. |
| Can be used on various types of existing flooring. | Requires careful planning and measurement to ensure proper installation. |
| Provides a stable and level base for flooring installation. | Not suitable for areas with excessive moisture or water exposure. |
| Easy to install with basic carpentry skills. |
Floor Patching Compound
Best For: Small dips, holes, and cracks in concrete or wooden subfloors.
Cost Estimate: $0.75–$1.50 per sq. ft.
An additional low-cost option that might help you level uneven floors is floor patching compound. Its primary function is to even out the floor by filling up uneven areas. You may obtain a level floor without using self-leveling compound by using floor patching compound, which is simple to use and dries rapidly.
💡DIY Tip: Feather the edges with a putty knife to avoid visible humps after installation.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Affordable and readily available in hardware stores. | Limited effectiveness for major floor leveling projects. |
| Quick-drying, allowing for faster installation of flooring. | May require multiple applications for larger gaps and unevenness. |
| Easy to apply and suitable for small imperfections and cracks. | Not suitable for areas with significant structural issues. |
| Can be used on various types of flooring materials. |
Concrete Leveling Mix
Best For: Concrete subfloors with low-to-medium unevenness.
Cost Estimate: $0.80–$2.00 per sq. ft.
A concrete leveling mix might be a great solution if you’re dealing with slight unevenness or low places. The concrete surface may be smoothed out using this pre-mixed solution, which can be applied with a trowel. Floors may be easily and affordably leveled with concrete leveling mix.
💡DIY Tip: Mix small batches and apply in sections to avoid waste.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective option for minor unevenness and low spots. | Limited effectiveness for major floor leveling projects. |
| Durable and provides a strong base for flooring. | Requires proper mixing and application techniques for best results. |
| Easy to apply using a trowel. | Not suitable for non-concrete surfaces. |
| Can be used on concrete surfaces. |
Sand and Cement Mixture
Best For: Thick leveling over concrete or wood.
Cost Estimate: Around $0.50 per sq. ft.
Before inventing self-leveling compound, builders typically leveled floors using a sand and cement mixture. A leveling mixture that is both economical and effective may be made by mixing sand and cement in the proper amounts. To get the best results from this do-it-yourself approach, you’ll need some knowledge and practice.
💡DIY Tip: Mist the area with water after applying to help it cure slowly and avoid cracking.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Affordable and widely available materials. | Requires experience and skill to achieve desired results. |
| Can be customized based on specific leveling needs. | Time-consuming, as it involves proper mixing and application techniques. |
| Suitable for both small and large areas. | Not suitable for areas with excessive moisture. |
| Provides a stable base for various types of flooring. |
Gypsum-based Self-Leveling Compound
Best For: Indoor use with low moisture exposure.
Cost Estimate: $1.00–$2.50 per sq. ft.
When compared to other types of self-leveling compound, those made with gypsum tend to be less costly. Manufacturers create these compounds to smooth out imperfections and provide a flat surface on which to lay flooring. Self-leveling compounds made with gypsum have excellent flowability and are simple to work with, making them a smart choice for homes on a tight budget.
💡DIY Tip: Always prime the surface first—gypsum can bond poorly if applied directly.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| More affordable compared to other self-leveling compounds. | Not as widely available as traditional self-leveling compounds. |
| Easy to work with and provides good flowability. | Limited effectiveness for major floor leveling projects. |
| Suitable for various types of flooring materials. | Requires proper mixing and application techniques. |
| Can be used for both small and large areas. |
Also Read: Gypcrete vs Concrete
Floor Leveling Underlayment
Best For: Lightweight leveling under laminate or vinyl floors.
Cost Estimate: $0.50–$1.00 per sq. ft.
Another cheaper alternative to self-leveling compound is floor leveling underlayment, which you apply as a thin layer of material over the existing floor to create a smooth and level surface. This option is easy to install and suitable for minor imperfections, providing a cost-effective solution for leveling floors.
💡DIY Tip: Combine with plywood or patching for better results on more uneven surfaces.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Cost-effective solution for leveling floors. | Limited effectiveness for major floor leveling projects. |
| Easy to install, requiring minimal preparation. | May not be suitable for significant height adjustments. |
| Suitable for minor imperfections and unevenness. | Requires proper surface preparation for optimal results. |
| Provides a smooth and level surface for flooring installation. | Not as durable as some other leveling methods. |
Drywall Joint Compound
Best For: Tiny dips or seams in wood or concrete.
Cost Estimate: Around $0.30–$0.60 per sq. ft.
Joint compound isn’t designed for flooring but can work in a pinch for small imperfections.
💡DIY Tip: Seal it with a floor primer before installing any flooring over it.
| PROS | CONS |
|---|---|
| Extremely cheap | Not durable under heavy traffic |
| Easy to apply and sand | Not water-resistant |
How to Choose the Right One
- Tiny dips only? Go with joint compound or floor patching.
- Wavy concrete? Use concrete leveling mix or sand and cement.
- Subfloor’s a mess? Layer plywood and foam board for a flat surface.
- Wet areas? Avoid gypsum and joint compound completely.
Safety and Prep Tips
- Clean the Floor First: Always sweep and vacuum before applying anything.
- Check for Moisture: Use a moisture meter. Damp concrete can ruin your leveling.
- Prime If Needed: Some compounds require a primer to bond well.
- Wear Protection: Use gloves, a dust mask, and goggles when mixing or sanding.
FAQs about Cheaper Alternatives to Self Leveling Compound
Can I use plywood subflooring over any type of existing flooring?
You can install plywood subflooring over most surfaces, including concrete, wood, and vinyl. However, before installing the plywood subflooring, it is necessary to confirm that the current floor is structurally solid and free of dampness or other concerns.
How long does it take for floor patching compound to dry?
Depending on the product and the circumstances, the drying time for floor patching compound might range from a few hours to a few days. Drying time for the compound is typically about 24 hours. However, always be sure to check the product’s packaging for further instructions.
Is sand and cement mixture suitable for large areas?
Even though you can use a sand-and-cement combination to level enormous areas, doing so successfully requires careful preparation and execution. When working on a large project, it’s wise to bring in experts to help you out. They have the experience and tools necessary to efficiently complete large-scale leveling jobs.
Can gypsum-based self-leveling compounds be used for all types of flooring?
Self-leveling compounds made with gypsum may be used on a wide variety of floors, from tile and vinyl to hardwood and laminate. Check the manufacturer’s instructions to be sure it will work with your floor, though. Certain flooring materials may need for specialist leveling chemicals.
Are these alternatives as effective as self-leveling compound?
Although manufacturers created self-leveling compound for this purpose, you can still use the aforementioned options effectively if you apply them properly. You must evaluate the state of your floors, the degree of unevenness, and the needs of your flooring material before making a decision. A flooring expert’s advice can guide you toward the best option.
Can I combine different leveling methods?
When one leveling technique doesn’t quite cut it, another may. For instance, you might patch a plywood subfloor installed in heavily uneven places with floor patching compound to hide the patchwork. Using this method, you may tailor the leveling procedure to the unique requirements of each room in your house.
Final Words
It is not necessary to spend a lot of money to get a flat floor. You may save money without sacrificing quality by looking at alternatives to self-leveling compound. There are benefits and drawbacks to each possible choice, from plywood subflooring to floor patching compound to concrete leveling mix to sand and cement combination to gypsum-based self-leveling compound. Before making any changes to your flooring, it’s important to evaluate its current state, get the advice of experts if necessary, and read and adhere to any manufacturer’s recommendations.
Now that you have this information, you can make a well-informed decision and level your floors without spending a fortune. Without breaking the bank, you may level and smooth out those bumpy floors and install the flooring of your choice.
