Uneven floors, particularly in older homes, or historic wood floors, are a common occurrence. While they might not be aesthetically pleasing, they can also pose safety hazards and cause furniture to wobble.

But fear not, homeowner!

Fixing uneven wood floors is possible, and the cost can vary greatly depending on the severity of the problem and the chosen repair method.

Root Causes of Uneven Wood Floors

Before diving into costs, it’s crucial to understand the cause of your uneven wood floor.

Common culprits include:

• Moisture damage: Leaky pipes, poor drainage, or high humidity can cause floorboards to warp and cup.
• Foundation issues: Settlement, shifting, or cracks in the foundation can lead to uneven floors throughout the house.
• Damaged joists: Floor joists, the beams supporting the subfloor, can rot or crack due to age, moisture, or insect infestation.
• Improper installation: Uneven subfloors or improper hardwood floor installation can lead to dips and bumps.

Factors Determining the Cost to Fix an Uneven Wood Floor

Once you understand the cause of your uneven wood floor, you can start estimating the repair cost.

Here are the main factors that will influence the price tag:

• Size of the affected area: Fixing a small dip will be significantly cheaper than leveling an entire room.
• Severity of the unevenness: Minor dips require less work compared to significant slopes or sagging floors.
• Type of wood flooring: Hardwood repairs generally cost more than laminate or engineered wood due to the additional sanding and refinishing needed.
• Cause of the unevenness: Addressing foundation issues or replacing joists will be more expensive than fixing minor moisture damage.
• Repair method: Different methods, like sanding, planing, shimming, or jacking, have varying costs and labor requirements.
• Labor costs: Hourly rates for contractors, handymen, and professional hardwood floor experts can differ based on your location and experience level.
• Material costs: The type of materials used (e.g., shims, leveling compound) will impact the overall cost.

Uneven Wood Floor Repair Method Breakdown

Here’s a breakdown of common repair methods:

• Sanding and Refinishing: Suitable for minor unevenness due to wood floor warping or cupping.
• Planing: Involves shaving off wood from high areas. This method is suitable for slightly uneven hardwood floors.
• Shimming: Filling gaps between subfloor and floorboards with wedges. This method is suitable for minor dips and creaks.
• Sistering Joists: Reinforcing existing joists with new ones. This method can be expensive depending on accessibility and joist damage.
• Jacking and Leveling: Lifting the foundation to level the floor. This is a major undertaking requiring professional help.

Additional Uneven Wood Floor Repair Considerations

Here are some additional considerations that may affect the cost of fixing an uneven wood floor:

• Permits and inspections: Depending on the severity of the repair and local regulations, permits and inspections might be required, adding to the cost.
• DIY vs. professional: While some minor repairs might be DIY-able, qualified wood floor professionals should handle complex jobs requiring structural work.

There are ways to save money, as well, including the following:

• Early intervention: Addressing unevenness early prevents further damage and can save money in the long run.
• Comparing quotes: Get estimates from multiple contractors to compare prices and find the best deal.
• DIY for simple repairs: If you’re handy and the repair is minor, consider tackling it yourself.
• Negotiate: Don’t be afraid to negotiate with contractors, especially if you’re getting multiple quotes.

The Cost of Fixing an Uneven Wood Floor

As you can see, many factors will determine the cost to fix an uneven wood floor, from the cause, severity, and solution to whom you ultimately hire or if you choose to tackle the project yourself.

HomeAdvisor.com notes that the national average cost for fixing uneven wood floors is $3 to $60 per square foot.

If you are looking to sanding and refinishing hardwood floors, the website notes that the national average cost is around $0.50 to $8 per square foot, but if it needs to be leveled before refinishing, you can expect to pay an additional $200 to $800.

If your uneven wood floor requires foundation repair, joist repair, or joist replacement, the website found that you’ll likely pay between $40 and $60 per square foot.

So, in the end, the cost to fix an uneven wood floor can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the severity and chosen method.

By understanding the cause, cost factors, and repair options, you can make informed decisions and find a solution that fits your budget.

Remember, early intervention and careful planning can help you save money and restore your floor to its level best.

If you have more questions about fixing uneven wood floors, consider contacting the PA wood floor repair experts at Artisan Wood Floors. Our team can help determine the best course of action based on your unique situation.

Call Artisan Wood Floors today at (215) 515-7355 and ask for Steve!