Why Floor Levelling and Preparation is Essential for Engineered Timber and Hybrid Vinyl Flooring

Why Floor Levelling and Preparation is Essential for Engineered Timber and Hybrid Vinyl Flooring

When considering the installation of engineered timber or hybrid vinyl flooring, many customers focus on the look and feel of their new floors. However, an often-overlooked but critical aspect of ensuring your floors stand the test of time is proper floor levelling and preparation.

At Crème, we’ve seen firsthand how taking the time to prepare a surface can make all the difference between a floor that lasts and one that develops issues down the track.

A Shift in Manufacturer Guidelines

When engineered timber and hybrid vinyl flooring were first introduced, manufacturers allowed for a “tolerance” of a few millimetres in the subfloor.

Over time, however, it became clear that even slight imperfections could lead to serious problems, such as:
Gapping
Buckling
Uneven wear

When floor preparation is not done properly, customers often end up with a floor that looks and feels far from perfect.

Why Floor Preparation is Worth the Investment

Floor levelling may seem like an unfortunate expense, especially since its benefits are not immediately visible. However, skipping this crucial step is a gamble that often leads to costly repairs or replacements later.

Proper floor preparation ensures:

1. Longevity

A well-prepared subfloor prevents movement, gaps, and warping, significantly extending the life of your flooring.

2. A Flawless Finish

Even the most beautiful flooring won’t look its best if installed over an uneven surface.

3. Manufacturer Warranty Compliance

Many flooring warranties are voided if installation guidelines—including subfloor preparation—are not followed.

A Specialist Skill

Floor levelling for hardwood or rigid vinyl plank flooring is a specialised skill that requires expertise and experience.

At Crème, we pride ourselves on having the knowledge and tools to ensure the job is done right. While the process can take a few days and may require multiple iterations, we know that investing this time is essential for a successful installation.

Beware of Cutting Corners

Unfortunately, not all flooring providers approach floor preparation with the same level of care.

Some stores and installers may:
Cut corners to save time
Recommend alternative products because they lack expertise
Skip subfloor levelling altogether

While these shortcuts might save time and money initially, they often lead to significant problems in the future.

Patience Pays Off

We understand that the preparation process can feel like an unnecessary delay. However, we ask for our customers’ patience, knowing that this crucial step ensures your new flooring will:

Look stunning
Perform beautifully
Last for years to come

At Crème, we take pride in our commitment to excellence. By investing in proper floor levelling and preparation, we provide peace of mind for our customers, knowing that the job has been done right.

Conclusion

While it may be tempting to skip or minimise floor preparation to save time or money, the long-term benefits far outweigh the initial inconvenience.

Proper floor levelling is essential for the durability and appearance of your engineered timber or hybrid vinyl flooring.
✔ Trust the experts at Crème to handle this critical step with the care and precision it deserves.
✔ We guarantee a flawless finish that lasts for years to come.

📍 Visit us at 55 Colbee Court, Phillip
📞 Call us on (02) 6287 1345
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