When people think about new flooring, they often focus on what’s visible—color, finish, material. But what’s under your floor is just as important. At Western Floors Inc., we know that proper floor leveling is key to a successful, long-lasting installation—especially in older homes across Chicopee, Holyoke, and South Hadley, where uneven subfloors are common.

1. What Is Floor Leveling?

Floor leveling is the process of correcting uneven spots or slopes in your subfloor before installing new flooring. We typically use a self-leveling compound, which spreads across dips or depressions to create a smooth, even surface.

Think of it as the foundation your floor needs to perform its best—without it, even the most expensive floors can fail.

2. Why Is It So Important?

Uneven subfloors lead to:

• Visible gaps or seams

• Creaking or bouncing in certain areas

• Click-lock vinyl or laminate separating over time

• Cracks in tile or grout

• Premature wear and tear

In one Holyoke project, we were called in after another installer skipped leveling. Within six months, their luxury vinyl plank had separated and lifted in multiple areas. We had to remove it, level the floor, and reinstall it properly—doubling the cost for the homeowner.

3. How We Identify Leveling Needs

During your in-home estimate, our team checks for:

• Height differences across rooms

• Subfloor dips or humps

• Moisture damage or deflection

• Slab cracks in concrete homes (common in Chicopee and West Springfield)

Using tools like laser levels and straightedges, we map out problem areas and recommend the right solution—whether it’s a self-leveling compound or full subfloor repair.

4. What Types of Flooring Require Leveling?

While all floors benefit from a flat base, some types demand it:

• Luxury Vinyl Plank (LVP): Click-lock styles require a near-perfect surface to prevent gaps or bounce

• Tile: Even a slight slope can cause uneven grout lines and eventual cracking

• Engineered Hardwood: Poor leveling affects how the planks lock or glue into place

• Laminate: Will flex and wear unevenly if not fully supported

5. Older Homes Need Extra Care

In historic homes around South Hadley or Holyoke, it's common to find sagging joists or patched floors under carpet or linoleum. These imperfections must be corrected to protect your investment. We’ve worked in dozens of homes with 50+ years of wear, and leveling made all the difference in the finished result.

Get It Done Right the First Time

At Western Floors, we never cut corners. Our commitment to quality starts beneath the surface—literally. We use professional self-leveling systems and honest assessments to ensure your new floors look great and last.

Planning a project in Western Massachusetts? Let’s make sure your foundation is solid from the start.